Winding around Kitsilano Point towards Kits Beach, waterfront Vanier Park is more a host than a destination. Home to three museums, it's also the venue for the tents of the annual Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival. It's also a popular picnic spot: bring takeout from Granville Island (a 10-minute stroll away via the seawall) and watch the kite flyers.
If you want to avoid the sweaty crush in English Bay during the Celebration of Light fireworks event, bring your blanket and spread it out here. You'll have great views of the aerial shenanigans among a far more convivial and family-friendly crowd.
