Immerse yourself in a North American Rain Forest

Located at the Northshore Rainforest in Vancouver is 27 acres of pure nature called Capilano Suspension Bridge Park; it's a real treat for anyone who loves nature, fresh air and some adventure. It's only a 30 minute drive from Downtown Vancouver (there's a free shuttle too) and I recommend it for solo travelers, couples and families alike. The park has several reasons to visit: 

•     The Suspension Bridge is 250 feet above the Capilano River and it stretches a whopping 450 feet. It has been crossed by millions of people since 1889.
•     Cliffwalk is a series of suspended cliffside bridges, platforms and stairs and provides a nice view of the Capilano River. It will definitely get your adrenaline pumping.   
•    Treetops Adventure is a series of viewing platforms and 7 suspension bridges that take you deep into the rain forest and the 1300 year old trees. It’s quiet and gorgeous and really makes you feel a part of nature.
•     Story Center and Totem Park have murals and artifacts chronicling the history of the Bridge and Vancouver, complete with original colorful totem poles from the 1930’s.
•     Holiday ‘Canyon Lights’ is a winter celebration of light. From November 30^th 2013 until January 4^th 2014, the entire park and bridges are covered with magical twinkle lights and the celebration includes live music, glass ornament blowing and gingerbread cookie decorating.

 

 How to Save Money When Visiting Capilano

  

If you want to buy tickets online you can go here. Adults are $34.95 and they offer a discount for AAA Members. There are discounts for seniors, children and students as well. If you’re a BC resident, with the purchase of one ticket you get a free annual pass and 15% off admission for your guests.

Depending on your agenda, you could save some money if you book through Expedia. They offer a 5 hour tour of Vancouver’s most popular attractions including Gastown, Stanley Park, Granville Island, Cleveland Dam and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Those tickets are $91.85/adult and $50.10/child.

From May until the end of September, there is a first come-first serve free Shuttle that runs daily from Downtown Vancouver to the park from 9am until 4pm. The shuttles have about 8 different pickup locations and it's workable on any schedule with runs every 15 minutes.

The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is an alternate option; it's another suspension bridge in North Vancouver (a 15 minute drive from Capilano), but this one is free. It's shorter and lower than the Capilano Suspension Bridge and there is no cliff walk, but it's certainly a money-saving option and usually less visitors.

Where to Stay When Visiting Vancouver

Vancouver is a more expensive city than most, but one of the best hotels you'll find is the Sylvia Hotel. Located in a 1912 designated heritage building just next door to Stanley Park, it has gorgeous views of the English Bay. Compare their direct booking rate vs Expedia to find the best deal.   

Alternatively, B&Bs are perfect for couples and solo travelers. Both the Thistle Down House B&B in Capilano and the West End Guest House near downtown come very highly recommended and are cheaper than hotels in the city (with breakfast!).