Skipping the States? Why Vancouver is Canada’s Best City Break in 2025

With the U.S. exchange rate making American travel more expensive than ever, now is the perfect time to keep your travel dollars in Canada. Instead of dealing with border hassles and inflated U.S. prices, why not experience one of the most dynamic, food-forward, and naturally beautiful cities in the country? Vancouver offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and stunning landscapes, all within an easy flight from Toronto.

The Exchange Rate Advantage: Why Keep Your Money in Canada?

As of 2025, the exchange rate sits at $1 USD to $1.44 CAD, meaning Canadians are paying significantly more for everything from hotels to meals when travelling south of the border. A vacation to New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles now comes with a hefty price tag, especially once you factor in tipping culture, additional fees, and travel costs. Staying in Canada keeps your money strong while supporting Canadian businesses and offering world-class experiences at local prices.

A Seamless, Stress-Free Getaway

Beyond the financial advantage, Vancouver is also one of the easiest destinations to reach from Ontario. Dozens of direct flights depart daily from Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, making it a simple, stress-free trip. Unlike U.S. city breaks, there’s no border hassle, no customs delays, and no worrying about international health insurance or mobile data charges. Those are big wins. Almost as big as Team Canada’s win over Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off last month. 

From City to Rainforest in 30 Minutes

Vancouver offers something no American city can—a seamless transition from a bustling, world-class oceanside downtown to a peaceful, rainforest-covered mountainside in less than 30 minutes. You can go from a Michelin-starred dinner to walking amongst 100-year-old cedar trees before the sun sets.

The city’s unique geography means visitors don’t have to choose between a vibrant urban experience and a nature escape—it’s all within reach. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, with its breathtaking suspension bridge and treetop adventure course, is just a short, free shuttle ride from downtown. Stanley Park, the city’s crown jewel, offers kilometres of trails, beaches, and waterfront views without ever having to leave the city.

A Food Scene That Rivals Any U.S. City

Vancouver’s culinary scene has been gaining international recognition, often surpassing U.S. cities known for food. The city is home to the only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in Canada, iDen & Quanjude, where the famous Peking Duck is a must-try.

Seafood lovers will appreciate Boulevard, which was awarded Best Seafood Restaurant in Vancouver by Vancouver Magazine. Dishes like the charcoal-grilled sablefish and seared scallops with red curry have set the standard for Pacific Northwest cuisine.

For a more casual but equally memorable experience, Blue Water Café continues to impress with its impeccable seafood and near-psychic service. Judges from Vancouver Magazine called it “perfect execution”, with one noting that their swordfish was exquisitely cooked.

Beyond fine dining, Vancouver’s food scene offers legendary casual eats that hold their own against any U.S. city. Whether it’s Japadog’s creative street food or Granville Island Public Market’s fresh-baked goods (try Lee’s Donuts’ iconic honey dip), Vancouver delivers bold flavours at every level.

A Hub for Culture, Sports, and Entertainment

Vancouver delivers on arts, sports, and entertainment in ways that rival the biggest U.S. destinations. The city has embraced its reputation as Hollywood North, with major film and TV productions happening year-round. Visitors can take a studio tour, visit famous filming locations, or attend the Vancouver International Film Festival in October.

Sports fans will feel at home at a Canucks game in Rogers Arena or a Whitecaps match at BC Place. Vancouver’s theatre and arts scene continues to thrive, with performances at the Orpheum, the Arts Club Theatre, and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

A Travel Experience Rooted in Canadian Pride

There’s also a larger story to tell here—one of national pride and the importance of supporting Canadian businesses, artists, and tourism. With rising costs in the U.S. and the strength of the American dollar making travel abroad more expensive for Canadians, there’s no better time to explore Canada. Vancouver offers a distinctly Canadian experience, one that showcases the country’s Pacific identity, from Indigenous art and culture to a thriving creative scene and world-class dining. It’s a small, beautiful corner of a country we’re all proud to call home. 

The Best City Break in Canada for 2025: Vancouver, BC

Why cross the border for an overpriced getaway when Vancouver offers big-city energy, incredible food, and a direct connection to nature, all in one place? With a better exchange rate, seamless travel, and uniquely Canadian experiences, this is the ultimate city break for Ontarians in 2025. It’s time to skip the States and head west to Vancity.