A whirlwind 24-hour jaunt through Vancouver, BC, with Sip Magazine’s Publisher, Kristin Ackerman Bacon, unfolded like a curated dream. Vancouver is a perennial favorite, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, five-star dining, and award-winning distilleries. It’s one of my favorite places to visit, especially given its proximity to Seattle. With just one night out in Vancouver, follow this itinerary to savor the crème de la crème of eats, drinks, and stays. Vancouver captivates and consistently delivers an unparalleled experience – even with just a few hours to kill.
Where to Stay: Auberge Vancouver Hotel
Start your Vancouver adventure by checking into the Auberge Vancouver Hotel. Located steps away from the iconic waterfront, this boutique property offers stunning views of the Burrard Inlet and Stanley Park. Its central location ensures you’re never far from your next stop.
Address: 837 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
Website: aubergevancouver.com
1. Lunch: Miku Vancouver
After settling in, walk just a block over to Miku Vancouver, renowned for its exceptional sushi and curated local wine selection. Enjoy their signature Aburi sushi—a style of flame-seared sushi—and sip on a glass of BC’s finest wine while enjoying panoramic views of the waterfront. Wines from Fort Berens Estate Winery, Laughing Stock, and Martin’s Lane are standouts on the menu. This mid-day stop will set the bar high for the rest of the day.
Address: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver, BC
Website: mikurestaurant.com
2. Happy Hour: The Woods Spirit Co. & Sons of Vancouver
For an early evening pick-me-up, head over to The Woods Spirit Co., a cozy local distillery specializing in Canadian-made Amaro and other handcrafted spirits like their delicious Limoncello and Barrel-aged Nocino. The intimate tasting room is the perfect place to start your adventure into Vancouver’s burgeoning spirits scene.
And just a block away, visit Sons of Vancouver, a lively distillery most nights but if you happen to stop by on a Sunday, enjoy a Tropical-themed cocktail and some Island vibes. Don’t forget to pick up their Limited Edition Barrel Aged Amaretto—a must for mixing up your own classic cocktails back home. Seating is limited so worth getting there early in your best Hawaiian attire.
The Woods Spirit Co.
Address: 1450 Rupert St, North Vancouver, BC
Website: thewoodsspiritco.com
Sons of Vancouver
Address: 1431 Crown St, North Vancouver, BC
Website: sonsofvancouver.ca
3. Dinner: Tacos at La Taqueria
For dinner, visit La Taqueria on Hastings St, a vibrant spot known for authentic tacos with a Vancouver twist. Enjoy dishes like crispy carnitas and Al Pastor, crafted from traditional recipes with local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. The food is vibrant and delicious, perfect for pairing with their rotating tap of signature margaritas and cocktail specials. Don’t miss out—this iconic spot might be moving soon!
Address: 322 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
Website: lataqueria.com
4. Evening Gin Tasting: Odd Society Spirits
For those who appreciate expertly crafted gin, Odd Society Spirits is the place to be. Treat yourself to a tasting flight showcasing their range of spirits or savor one of their signature cocktails in this intimate tasting room. A must-try is their Strawberry Gimlet with the glorious Wallflower Strawberry Gin infused with BC strawberries, or try their award-winning Wallflower Oaken Gin aged for several months in oaken whisky barrels. Heaven!
Address: 1725 Powell St, Vancouver, BC
Website: oddsocietyspirits.com
5. Popups: Prophecy Bar
Located in the iconic Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Prophecy Bar is an alluring venue perfect for a later-evening bite. This dark and mysterious space hosts popups featuring celebrity bartenders, musicians, and more from around the globe. Pair a small plate with a gorgeously crafted cocktail to keep the night buzzing.
Address: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Website: prophecybar.com
6. Nightcap: The Keefer Bar
End your night in style at The Keefer Bar, a quintessential Vancouver spot for incredible craft cocktails. Known for its innovative mixologists and otherworldy cocktail menu, each cocktail here is a work of art. For a memorable experience, ask the bartender to craft you a unique drink tailored to your tastes—everyone walks away happy.
Address: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC
Website: thekeeferbar.com