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Vancouver: Great Values

Vancouver's broad range of activities – from outdoorsy to artsy – is matched by an equally wide array of price tags. Sure, you’ll find plenty of upscale accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and costly adventures, but Vancouver also offers great deals – everything from authentic Chinese gardens to sprawling parks – for value-conscious travelers. Here, we zero in on the inexpensive, yet unforgettable, attractions, restaurants, hotels, and shops that deliver the biggest bang for your buck.

Stanley Park Adored by locals, Stanley Park covers 1,000 acres of Vancouver’s downtown peninsula. Trails, totem poles, pebbly beaches, an open-air pool, teahouses, and snack shacks account for its draw. West End; Accessible from Beach Ave. or Georgia St.; 604-257-8400
beach | family | landmark | things to do | swimming | editor pick

Stepho's Souvlaki Greek Taverna Gargantuan helpings of great Greek food (roasted lamb, souvlaki) at inconsequential prices account for the interminable lines of locals and visitors that grow outside this Davie Street den. Arrive before 4pm to avoid a long wait. West End; 1124 Davie St.; 604-683-2555
family | budget | restaurant

The Buchan Hotel Athletic types (mountain bikers, skiers, and snowboarders) frequent this quiet West End gem, drawn by its proximity to Stanley Park’s trails, the Sea Wall, and the Lion’s Gate Bridge over to the North Shore’s mountains, as well as its sports equipment lockers for housing bikes and gear. West End; 1906 Haro St.; 604-685-5354; www.buchanhotel.com
hotel | budget

The Meridien at 910 Beach The Meridien is a small, elegant, all-suite hotel a mere thirty seconds walk from False Creek and ferries to Granville Island. Well-equipped kitchens contain stoves and dishwashers, ideal for nights you decide to use those fresh ingredients from Granville Island market. West End; 910 Beach Ave.; 604-609-5100; www.910beach.com
family | hotel | moderate | views

Times Square Suites Times Square Suites is an increasingly popular collection of forty-two furnished suites and apartments in the vibrant heart of the West End, within a five minutes’ walk of Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, and Robson’s shops and restaurants. West End; 200-1821 Robson St.; 604-684-2223; www.timessquaresuites.com
family | hotel | moderate