Vancouver

Vancouver is a major city in British Columbia, Canada, situated on the Pacific coast in the province's southwestern corner. It lies at the north end of Burrard Inlet along the Strait of Georgia and is framed by the Coast Mountains. The city is the core of the Metro Vancouver region and is known for its natural setting and planning.

The area has long been inhabited by the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. European settlement began in the 19th century, and Vancouver was incorporated as a city in 1886. It developed as a major port and railway terminus and grew rapidly. It is one of Canada’s most ethnically diverse urban centers.

Vancouver has a diversified economy with strengths in trade and transportation, film and television production, technology, tourism, and education. The Port of Vancouver is Canada’s busiest by cargo tonnage. The city’s film industry, known as Hollywood North, includes events such as the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and Whistler.

Notable places include Stanley Park, Granville Island, Canada Place, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. Downtown Vancouver, Gastown, Yaletown, and Kitsilano are among its well-known neighborhoods. The climate is temperate marine, with mild, wet winters and relatively dry summers. Public transit is extensive, featuring the SkyTrain and buses; Vancouver International Airport (YVR) serves the region.

Higher education institutions include the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. Vancouver frequently ranks highly for quality of life and sustainability, and it is known for outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.