Landing in Vancouver just minutes after a 4.8 earthquake set the tone for an eventful overnight stay. Add in a steady drizzle, and it was quintessential winter weather in Vancouver.
Staying in the Heart of Downtown
I checked into Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites, my first experience at a Delta Hotel, a Marriott brand. The price was right, and the location was perfect. My spacious suite on the top floor (2313) gave me a great view of the city. I would 100% book this hotel again because of its location, good price point, and helpful staff.
A Rain-Soaked Walk to a World’s Top 50 Bar
Despite the rain, I braved the walk to one of my favorite cocktail spots in the world, The Keefer Bar in Chinatown. It’s also ranked as a top 50 bar in the world. The bar was packed, and I didn’t have a reservation. Maybe it was my drowned-rat look, but the super friendly manager found me a stand-up table in the bar. Moments after I ordered, a spot opened at the bar and they quickly moved me to a seat.
I went with the Keefer 75, their signature cocktail. Light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. It’s a must-try.
Keefer 75 Recipe:
• 22ml Dragonfruit Beefeater Gin
• 15ml Lavender Syrup
• 15ml Lemon Juice
• 60ml Sparkling Wine
The steamed buns are off the charts at Keefer Bar if you want a bite to eat while sipping one of their craft cocktails.
Room Service with a View
Originally I was going to walk to my other top spot in Vancouver – Blue Water Cafe for my favorite sushi in North America, but with the rain getting heavier, I ubered back to the hotel. I delighted in some hotel snacks that were delivered to my room. I ordered room service and watched the city lights twinkle on a rainy night in the city. The ahi and avocado toast from Stock & Supply in the hotel is delicious.
Morning Coffee at Revolver
The next morning, I headed to Revolver Coffee, a specialty brew bar. It was already busy at 8:30 a.m., but I snagged a window seat and enjoyed an oat milk latte with a cheddar and chive scone. A lovely couple next to me struck up a conversation—they split their time between Vancouver and a remote cabin in the interior of British Columbia. They confirmed what I suspected: Revolver serves the best coffee in the city.
They also suggested:
• Nemesis
Exploring Gastown & the Steam Clock
No visit to Vancouver is complete without a stroll through Gastown. The historic streets, lined with unique shops and restaurants, led me to the famous Gastown Steam Clock. The world’s first steam-powered clock, it chimes every 15 minutes and runs on steam from the city’s underground heating system.
A Rainy Walk Along the Waterfront
Before heading back to my hotel, I walked to Canada Place for sweeping views of Vancouver Harbour. Even with the drizzle, the sight of seaplanes taking off and cruise ships docked at the port was a perfect way to end my whirlwind visit.
One night in Vancouver wasn’t enough—but it was just enough to make me want to return. Rain or not, adding a night or two in the city is worth it if you have a layover in Vancouver.