Hi, Tink: I lived in Vancouver area for 40 years (until 2 years ago) and used to go the the suspension bridge when it was almost free. However, since then they have added a lot of neat things in the park like Tree Top Adventure and Cliff Walk, so, as an outdoor adventure it is probably worth the money.

If you are that far "up the hill" at the Capilano Suspension bridge I recommend going farther up to the Grouse Mtn Gondola terminus and take the gondola to the top...about 4,000 feet up overlooking Vancouver and Vancouver Island.There is also a 5 star restaurant on top and seeing the lights of the city come on as the sun sets while you eat dinner is spectacular. There is even a even a Zip-line up there! I think return ride on the gondola is about $40 each. I think that you can purchase packages: search on Grouse Mountain Vancouver.

Both these places are accessible by city buses - (Bus 236 from Lonsdale Quay which is a Seabus ride across Burrard Inlet from the Cruise Ship Port leaving every 1/2 hour).

Susan

Tink...the Capilano Suspension Bridge is also fun!
We also love going to Stanley Park every time we go to Vancouver

Thank you so much Cecros for your help and excellent advice.  We definitely will do Stanley Park. We want to explore the gay area, too. 

 Do you not recommend the footbridge then? We thought that sounded pretty neat, even with the charge (a bit over $70 for the two of us).

Im sure my Palate is not as skilled as yours , although I would love a job like that!!!  One wine that comes to mind is Burrowing Owl. can be difficult to get but it is yummy

   Im off to pride today but will get back with more info 

I'm a food and wine writer. Any suggestions on not to be missed food? It can be anything from food trucks to elegant restaurants. I was very excited to see a Japadog stand right outside our hotel :-)

Colleen

 I would still recommend Stanley park for a number of reasons, In terms of photography  there are  endless things   from herrons (they're nesting area is about 5 blocks from where I live|   lost lagoon has lots of birds, raccoons and skunks   If you take the trails the scenery would be like being in a forest huge trees, wildlife , etc.  Of course if you go to a place in the park like prospect point you will have wonderful views, if you google prospect point  Stanley park  pics you will see what I mean 

The other reason I suggest the park is its proximity to  the the west end,  (  lots of ethnic foods, gay area, little sisters bookstore  gay book store, restaurants  Gay bars and where I live  lol) Coal harbour, Yale town  (trendy areas , along water  good food and walking,  Sea wall )

 Also from the sea wall its good to take the little ferry  to Granville island. I often do that with my out of town company.

I've lived in Vancouver for over  20 years  so feel free to ask me what you may be interested in :)

Sorry, meant to include that we are thinking that we'd like to go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge "park," too.  There are several things there that look very interesting.

 Hoping that the weather is ok! We don't mind cool/cold but rain tends to make photography more challenging than it's worth. LOL. (We are amateurs, for certain)! 

We like many things... love to walk, are very into cooking and trying new food, love the water, that sort of thing.  LOVE birds, particularly raptors/birds of prey, photography... (hence the seeking outdoor things to do).

 I've done a pretty good search on what is available, and there is MUCH to do! Now, I'm interested in opinions about the options from those who have been there, or know someone who has.

 Thanks for all replies and comments! 

It depends what you like doing,  I would recommend  for sure Stanley park http://vancouver.about.com/od/beachesparks/tp/stanleypark.htm

http://www.tourismvancouver.com/do/explore/stanley-park-complete-guide/.

 Granville island  is also good.  you can take the little ferry quite easly from the sea wall at the Aquatic center

http://www.granvilleisland.com/discover-island 

what are you interested in ?

Here are 2 sites I found about Vancouver and what to do:

http://www.tourismvancouver.com/do/explore/sightseeing/10_first_time_experiences/

http://www.amtrakcascades.com/vancouverbc.htm

Hope this helps !

Have been searching the 'net for info on Vancouver. We'll be there a couple days before to explore and enjoy the city.

 Stanley Park is described as a not miss, and there is the opportunity to rent bicycles and ride through the park.

 Has anyone done this?

 Any other recommendations for "be sure not to miss" when in Vancouver? (We've read about G-ville Island, and the suspended foot bridge, etc.).

All info appreciated!