Economists have said that Vancouver is the most expensive city for residents, but there are a number of wonderful things for locals and tourists to do here for free. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to go or what to do, which is why we have compiled a list of the best free things to do in Vancouver.

Nature is free

You do not need to have money to appreciate the beauty of nature. Visit Stanley Park to see exactly what we are talking about. The Lost Lagoon Nature House is absolutely free to visit and is a great place to see the areas flora and fauna. Wildlife exhibitions are held here on a regular basis and for a donation of five dollars, you can take part in the bird watching walks through the park

Nature lovers have to go and see Chinatown, where you can visit Dr Sun Yat-Sen Park for no fee at all. This is the place to be if you want to discover the tranquillity that Chinese people exude. There are lily ponds, terracotta-topped buildings and super bright neon koi fish. It is a fabulous place to escape to and just relax.

Pop over to the Gordon Macmillan Southam Observatory on a Saturday to marvel at the universe. Situated in the Kitsilano neighbourhood, this is a great place to take the kids. Guides will point out the highlights of the night skies through a giant telescope. Lynn canyon Ecology centre takes visitors into the regional rainforest, the parks woodland trails will lead you to a suspension bridge and the scenery here is spectacular to say the least.

Free activities

If you have nothing to do on a Sunday afternoon, why don’t you go down to Robson Square to take part in free salsa lessons? If you still have energy after dancing half of the afternoon away, then you could take a hike on the grouse Grind hiking trail. This popular attraction starts by the parking lot at the base of Grouse Mountain and takes you through 2.9km of natures best.

There are a number of attractions and shows that take place at the top of the mountain such as lumberjack shows and wildlife enclosures. The only bad part of the trail is the fact that it is a one-way only trail, which means that you have to pay the $10 to take the gondola back down.

Complimentary history

There are a number of places for history lovers to visit in Vancouver. One such place is the Roundhouse Community Centre where you will find the Engine 374 Pavilion. The Hastings Mill Store Museum is another place that is packed full of amazing history. If you go down to the Christ church Cathedral, the huge stained glass windows will overwhelm you. If you have kids with you, then you need to go to the Variety Kids Waterpark. The park is totally free and is filled with pipes, sprinklers and slides for the little ones to enjoy.