Eat Your Way Through the Big Apple with these 15 Food Tours in NYC

As the US’s most densely populated city, it should come as no surprise that NYC’s guided tours number in the thousands.

From history to street art to cigar lounges to true crime, there’s an intriguing trail of crumbs to follow when it comes to just about interest.

And speaking of trails of crumbs, one of your top priorities when you visit the Big Apple should be food. While many visitors arrive with a handy list of trending restaurants and longstanding local haunts to explore, even the best recommendations will only help you graze NYC’s very unique culinary identity.

Ready to take a bite out of local culture with the best food tours in NYC? I’ve picked the crème of the crop (okay, I’ll stop with all the food puns) for you to explore. They’re highly rated by travelers and are neighborhood-specific, offering an in-depth tour that you’ll remember for years to come.

15 food tours in NYC: the final list

The Original Greenwich Food & Cultural Tour Since 1999
Union Square Donut Tour
NYC Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour
NYC: The Story of Lower East Side’s Food Culture
Hell’s Kitchen Guided Food Tour
NYC Chinatown Food and History Walking Tour
Flavors of Flushing: Exploring New York’s Biggest Chinatown
Upper East Side Food Tour
The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food & Culture Tour by bus
Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour NYC
The United Kitchens in the Borough of Global Eats
New York Sandwich Tour
New York City Food Cart Walking Tour
NYC: Bar, Lounge, and Rooftop Nightlife Tour

Guide to the best food tours in NYC

The Original Greenwich Food & Cultural Tour Since 1999

Food, culture, and a look at New York City’s most interesting 19^th-century factoids from a true culture-cuisine diehard. It’s not just great eats—it’s taking a bite out of history.

Union Square Donut Tour

Can’t tell your Italian bomboloni from other desserts from master bakers? Consider this your crash course in soft and sweet treats found inside donut emporiums. When you’re done, kick back at the dog park in Union Square. It’s my favorite spot to people-watch (and dog-watch) in the city.

NYC Dinner Cruise with Live Music

Don’t just see the NYC skyline. Cruise around it while you enjoy either a five-course meal or a VIP-level six-course meal. Just know that only the VIP dinner comes with (two) free alcoholic drinks.

Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour

Sample the tastiest bites in the Chelsea Market before you wander up to the High Line and back down to experience the Meatpacking District. Along the way, you’ll get to traverse two of NYC’s coolest neighborhoods – and its beloved High Line Park.

NYC: The Story of Lower East Side’s Food Culture

Sure, LES is one of the city’s most notorious neighborhoods. But this passionate tour guide knows where to find its most unknown and off-the-radar eateries and homegrown restaurants, bringing you deeper into the fold of New York City’s edgiest area. While eating like a royal, of course.

Hell’s Kitchen Guided Food Tour

Welcome to your crash course in the best bites in Hell’s Kitchen, a neighborhood that has transformed over the last two decades. Expect many small bites to eat along with a few history lessons on the area.

NYC Chinatown Food and History Walking Tour

Take a bite out of one of the oldest and coolest Chinatowns in the world. Not only do you get a few quick lessons in history and culture, but you can also sample some of the city’s most iconic dishes. (I’m talking about Peking duck. Do not leave without sampling the Peking duck.)

Flavors of Flushing: Exploring New York’s Biggest Chinatown

When someone brings up Chinatown in New York City, most people think about Manhattan’s large neighborhood. In reality, NYC is home to nine Chinatowns – and the largest is located in Queens. If you want a more comprehensive look at Chinese food in New York City, go on both tours.

Upper East Side Food Tour

Bagels, cannolis, dumplings, and fresh, massive New York slices – expect all the classics on this Upper East Side tour. Along the way, you’ll get to cruise through one of the city’s most prestigious and high-class neighborhoods.

The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food & Culture Tour by bus

Don’t just confine yourself to Manhattan when you go on food tours in NYC. Head into Brooklyn to sample some of its most iconic eateries. While you’re there, you can check out some of the city’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, from DUMBO to Greenpoint.

Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour NYC

When you’re stomach is full and you’re ready to start drinking your way through the Big Apple, book this speakeasy tour. Not only can you learn about the city’s extensive history during the brief Prohibition era, but you can also sample some of its favorite Prohibition-era drinks.

The United Kitchens in the Borough of Global Eats

As mentioned in the section on Queen’s Chinatown, you won’t find all of NYC’s best eats in Manhattan. And if diversity is high on your priority list, you probably shouldn’t focus your food tours on the city. Instead, you need to go to Queens to eat your way around the US’s most diverse district with this expansive food tour.

New York Sandwich Tour

Who knew sandwiches had their own separate history in New York City’s food scene? Learn about the best breaded bites in NYC at this East Village walking tour.

New York City Food Cart Walking Tour

Pro tip: if you head to NYC and you don’t try out the chicken and rice from one of its Halal food stalls, you’ve missed out. Big time. But if you sign up for this food tour, you’ll get to sample and learn about why food stalls are so important. Plus, you get to try a lot more than that famous chicken and rice meal.

NYC: Bar, Lounge, and Rooftop Nightlife Tour

From historic bars to rooftop lounges, Manhattan’s skyline (and its fancy cocktail lists) becomes your oyster on this food tour. As with the speakeasy tour, you’ll also get to learn a bit about New York City’s nightlife scene and its most beloved bars, lounges, and drinks.

10 Trip-Worthy US Lakes You Haven’t Heard of Before

Mother Nature didn’t take a day off when she made America.

Our natural wonders are insanely varied. On the West Coast alone, you can find one of the driest places in the world at Death Valley—along with one of the US’s only rainforests, the Hoh Rainforest in Washington State. And that’s just one part of the country.

Even when it comes to natural features like lakes, our domestic travel options are larger than life.

From Lake Havasu to Lake Tahoe to Crater Lake, most Americans can rattle off a few big names. Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie are also top-of-mind for anyone who lives by the Great Lakes region.

But what about those lesser-known lakes? While the major watering holes fill up for summer visits (often months in advance), one of the best ways to nail your lakeside vacation is to simply skip out on those well-known locations. Instead, head to one of the smaller, less-known US lakes that you might not have heard of before.

Below, you can find my top ten picks for gorgeous lakes that aren’t overbooked for summer.

The top 10 list at a glance

Lake Willoughby (VT)
Lake City (FL)
Jenny Lake (WY)
Lake Cushman (WA)
Tenaya Lake (CA)
Caddo Lake (TX, LA)
Flathead Lake (MT)
Grand Lake (CO)
Table Rock Lake (MO, AR)
Lake Santeetlah (NC)

US lakes you haven’t heard of before

Lake Willoughby (VT)

View of the clear waters of Lake Willoughby between Mount Pisgah and Mount Hur from the South Beach (Getty)

Surrounded by the grand Willoughby Forest and its famous Mounts Pisgah and Hor, Lake Willoughby is a hidden gem. Sheltered by dramatic cliffs and forests on all sides, it’s regularly mentioned in New England travel content that focuses on nature. Why it hasn’t become a well-known quantity nationwide is beyond me. (Want to visit? Book one of these amazing Lake Willoughby rentals.)

Lake City (FL)

I covered Lake City as one of Florida’s coolest hidden gem locations—and like the name suggests, it’s got a few crystal-clear bodies of water tucked away in its forests. Technically, they aren’t lakes, but the Ichetucknee Springs (pictured above) and Wes Skiles Peacock Springs are the stuff of magical, storybook summers. Think: bright blue water sheltered beneath ripe green forests.

Jenny Lake (WY)

Jenny Lake is a glacial lake inside Grand Teton National Park. While it’s a bit outside casual driving range for many Americans, it can and should be your focal stop when visiting Grand Teton. You can get out on the lake by booking a boat cruise or simply enjoy the view from the looped 8-mile Jenny Lake Trail.

Lake Cushman (WA)

Lake Cushman & the Olympic Mountains in Washington state (Getty)

Right on the southwestern edge of Olympic National Park, Lake Cushman is a major hiking, fishing, and camping spot. While it’ll fill up for major holidays like Labor Day and Memorial Day, it’s otherwise one of the region’s quietest lakeside escapes, as many parts of the lake are private property. The best place to stay is in nearby Hoodsport.

Tenaya Lake (CA)

You can find Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park right off the Tioga Pass Road. It’s a high-altitude lake with jaw-dropping granite domes on three sides of the lake. It’s open for swimming, hiking, kayaking, and canoeing, which you can do from the east or west side of the lake. Just watch out for crowds in summer when Yosemite fills up.

Caddo Lake (TX, LA)

USA, Texas, Caddo Lake State Park (Getty)

Is it a swamp? Is it part of the Atchafalaya Basin? Or is it really a lake? Technically, it’s a cypress bayou, but you can get out on Caddo Lake just like you would most others on this list—via kayak, canoe, or boat. There’s no swimming on account of those sharp-toothed gators, but I promise it’s worth it. In exchange, you have tons of wildlife sightings, from owls to beavers to bobcats.

Flathead Lake (MT)

Looking across Flathead Lake from the Western Side, with the beautiful Swan Range in view (Getty)

This massive lake is rimmed by national and state parks, along with small towns, letting you disappear into the Rockies without a care in the world. Depending on whether you want a calm day by the water or an adventure that involves, say, speedboating, you can choose which site to visit. Oh, and the western region of the lake is known for its vineyards, while the east is known for its cherry orchards. Talk about a dreamy American summer.

Grand Lake (CO)

Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest body of water, which is fed by tributaries from Rocky Mountain National Park. Its waters are cool, like similar glacial lakes. As an added bonus, this lake is a dual threat, as it includes the historic village of Grand Lake—an amazing small town with big charm.

Table Rock Lake (MO, AR)

Table Rock mountain tinged with pink at sunrise over misty lake (Getty)

Skip the Lake of the Ozarks and head to Table Rock Lake instead. This massive lake, fed from a manmade dam, is renowned for its vast coastlines, large marinas, and great fishing opportunities. It’s also a major recreational area for travelers who like to camp, hike, canoe, and boat.

Santeetlah Lake (NC)

Colorful autumn cloudscape and landscape reflections on Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina (Getty)

Surrounded almost entirely by the 1.3-million-acre Nantahala National Forest, Lake Santeetlah is a quiet lake known mostly by locals. Similar to Table Rock Lake, it was formed by a manmade dam on the nearby Cheoah River. That means one thing: great fishing abounds! There are also plenty of campsites around Lake Santeetlah, but they’re primitive, meaning no bathrooms.

Marriott Luxury Hotels: Inside All 6 Brands

It’s been a busy century for Marriott.

Since the hotel chain was founded in 1928, it’s grown from a humble hospitality company known as Hot Shoppes, Inc. to become the world’s largest hotel company in terms of sheer room count. With 36 hotel brands under its belt and one timeshare, Marriott International has a mind-blowing room count of over 1.7 million.

Forget how many rooms that is—even Marriott’s list of over 35 hotel brands is pretty staggering. And while you can probably name a few of its most popular brands, from AC Hotels to Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, you might now know about a few others. Moxy Hotels and Westin Hotels & Resorts surprised me, for example.

And while I’ve always associated Marriott with affordable and mid-range hotels, it has some hugely impressive and upscale brands on its roster.

Ready to take a closer look at Marriott luxury hotels? Meet its six brands.

6 Marriott luxury hotel brands

EDITION

Billed as a ‘unique collection of luxury boutique hotels’, the goal of EDITION is to give travelers a highly curated and lifestyle-chic stay. So far, EDITION has 21 properties in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, with plans to nearly double that number in the coming years.

But there’s more than style and high design at play; expect top-tier service at an Edition hotel, as staff are trained in the art of five-star treatment.

I also have great news for any Marriott Bonvoy members—you can use your Bonvoy perks for an EDITION stay. In fact, you can use them for all six luxury hotel brands, making Marriott a stand-out compared to other multinational hotel chains.

JW Marriott Hotels

View of the Great Room at the famous JW Marriott Grosvenor House London

Welcome to the Old Guard in Marriott’s luxury brand portfolio, which was established back in 1984. With JW Marriott, you can stay at some of the company’s flashiest and most iconic hotels, from the JW Marriott Macau in China to its well-known Grosvenor House in London.

If you’ve got Marriott Bonvoy points burning a hole in your back pocket, you’ll get plenty of bang for your (free) buck at a JW Marriott. You can use those points to book a stay at one of the brand’s 125 properties, which are found in 38 countries worldwide.

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts

St. Regis officially began with the 1904 completion of John Jacob Astor’s St. Regis New York Hotel—but the brand went on a long journey before joining the Marriott portfolio in 2016. Despite St. Regis’s many owners, the brand still retains its high-society atmosphere and luxury trappings.

But know that some of its 58 properties around the world are modern projects with sleek, stylish design, like the St. Regis Red Sea. As with all other Marriott luxury hotel brands, you can use your Bonvoy points to save on hotel stays.

The Luxury Collection

Similar to EDITION, you can expect more contemporary and chic boutique stays with The Luxury Collection. The goal is to give travelers a stylish landing pad near a city’s most popular sites, letting them truly feel immersed and engaged with their destination. Once again, expect a gorgeous design and boosted customer service.

With 37 properties in Asia and 47 in Europe, Marriott’s Luxury Collection should be your focus if you’ve got Bonvoy points you want to use on a trip to either continent. Some of its newest openings include ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and the Hotel Du Couvent in Nice, France.

The Ritz-Carlton

Similar to St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton has an established reputation—and association with life’s more opulent experiences. Today, you can find 108 Ritz-Carlton hotels around the world, with properties in 30 countries, and another 46 properties set to open soon.

If you want legacy, look no further. A handful of Ritz-Carlton properties around the world are multi-year award winners in the hospitality industry. I’d check out the ‘all butler hotel’ in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the flashy Nile Ritz-Carlton.

W Hotels

As one of the youngest luxury brands by Marriott, W Hotels focuses on modern, upscale stays—along with some residential projects. According to Marriott, around 30% of all W Hotels include residential apartments. You can usually pick these properties out thanks to their commanding and hyper-modern architecture.

It’s also the smallest luxury brand in Marriott’s portfolio, with only around 60 properties around the world. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn’t funnel my Bonvoy points at a W Hotel—even Marriott’s less-luxury focused brands like Autograph or Sonder appeal more to me. But that’s just my personal tastes on style, ambiance, and boutique elements.

Military Space-A Flights: The Wildest Way to Fly for Free

When someone brings up the military and travel, the topic usually revolves around museums and experiences adjacent to the armed forces.

Maybe you’re looking for the best military museums in New England or WWII sites in France. Maybe you’re more focused on hotels with military-inspired activities, like flight simulators.

But that’s just one side of the coin.

For active and retired military members, there is a surprisingly long and involved list of travel opportunities. Off the top of my head, I can think of two.

The first is travel deals that are offered only to active and retired military members. The second are the Armed Forces Recreation Centers, located around the world and open only to military members.

But there’s another insane offer on the table for active and retired military members, along with their families and dependents. Ever heard of Military Space-A travel? It’s a way for members and their families to get free passes (with some minor fees) to board military aircraft heading between hubs.

From flying for free in the fuselage to nabbing a seat on a commercial military plane, military space-A travel is (respectfully) one of the craziest forms of travel I’ve ever researched.

I mean, how else would an average Joe or Jane end up flying at 35,000 feet in the cargo deck of a KC-135 Stratotanker?

What are military Space-A flights?

The aircrew of a Boeing C-17 Globemaster military transport aircraft, which is due to take part in the Royal Air Force flypast on May 5, during events marking the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, check the aircraft’s cargo bay at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire. Picture date: Wednesday April 30, 2025. (Photo by Ben Birchall/PA Images via Getty Images)

Space-A stands for Space-Available and is a program that’s unique to the Department of Defense. As with other military-focused deals, the goal is to allow military personnel and their families to access passenger and cargo planes that aren’t at capacity.

It’s a win-win, giving military personnel and families added travel perks while filling up seats. (Or cargo holds and fuselages, as we’ll see.)

How does military space-A travel work?

BRUNSWICK, ME – SEPTEMBER 5: Crowds gather around the C-5 Galaxy plane during the Great State of Maine Airshow at Brunswick Landing in Brunswick, ME on Saturday, September 5, 2015. (Photo by Whitney Hayward/Portland Press Herald via Getty Images

Space-A flights cover a range of military aircraft, all of which are part of military operations and are subject to a mission. That being said, many have open seats when traveling in at least one direction. The military will open up seats to military members based on priority.

Priority is based on status within the military and reason for travel, meaning an active duty member’s family can’t use Space-A travel to plan a trip. Instead, dependents and family members can request tickets for specific upcoming Space-A flights. Once again, flights are subject to change based on the mission, meaning family members should be flexible if requesting seats.

Again, seat allocations are based on priority categorizations, which cover six different groups. And while the tickets are usually free, you might pay up to $30 for box meals and other minor charges.

What are the flights actually like?

16 May 2024, Rhineland-Palatinate, Spangdahlem: Soldiers prepare a US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker for take-off at Spangdahlem Airbase. The Stratotanker can be used to refuel NATO fighter jets in the air. Photo: Boris Roessler/dpa (Photo by Boris Roessler/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Here’s where it gets interesting. There are 16 different aircraft that are eligible for Space-A flights. The most common are the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster, C-40 Clipper, C-130 Hercules, KC-10 Extender, and the KC-135 Stratotanker.

Only two of those aircraft are close to the traditional commercial vessels that travelers are used to flying in. That’s the C-40 Clipper, which is based on a Boeing 737, and the KC-10 Extender, based on a DC-1-30 commercial prototype.

The other four options are all military vessels without those familiar rows of seats. The most insane is the KC-135 Stratotanker. It’s an aircraft that’s prepared for in-flight re-tanking, meaning you might get a front-row seat to one of the craziest aircraft maneuvers in the world.

If you want a closer look at how military Space-A flights work, I suggest taking a look at this series from @saltyvagabonds on Instagram, which includes footage of the real-life flights that active duty members and their families can take.

It’s a great way to see if this might be a viable form of transportation if you’re related to an active military member or otherwise qualify for Space-A flights. For the rest of us, it’s just wildly interesting.

6 Cool Side Quests & Day Trips Around Yellowstone National Park

It’s a trek to get to Yellowstone National Park.

And even then, the adventure has only just begun.

Yellowstone National Park spans almost 3,500 square miles. That’s a mammoth undertaking, especially for visitors who want to explore the major spots, like Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful, Gibbon Falls, and Undine Falls. Those who want to get off the beaten path in the Northeast section of the park are in for even more work.

That being said, the wonders of Yellowstone are absolutely worth the homework.

And those who do a little more research can even find unforgettable activities worth pursuing outside the park’s boundaries. Though most of Yellowstone is in Wyoming, portions also dip into Montana and Idaho.

Here’s why that matters: regardless of which entrance you choose to enter Yellowstone, you might be exiting from another. And both of those points might put you close to other gorgeous, interesting, and awesome side quests.

Ready to take a closer look at the coolest day trips around Yellowstone National park? Here’s what to keep on your radar.

6 day trips around Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming Whiskey Distillery (Kirby, Wyoming)

A look inside the distillery (Courtesy of Wyoming Whiskey Distillery)

If you love whiskey, make sure to stop by Wyoming’s very first legal distillery. Wyoming Whiskey Distillery ages its whiskey in high elevation, which means for added exposure to the state’s extreme temperatures.

According to the distillery, that yields a bourbon that truly captures the Wild West’s boldness. As an added perk, they offer a National Parks Series, which consists of limited edition bottles whose profits partly benefit Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton.

Stops on the Montana Dinosaur Trail (Bozeman & Harlowton, Montana)

Museum of the Rockies and its resident T. Rex (Courtesy of Montana Dinosaur Trail)

Did you know that Montana is home to some of the US’s most intact dinosaur remains and expansive archaeological sites? If you’ll be heading north or northwest around Yellowstone National Park, you can stop at two great museums on the Montana Dinosaur Trail.

The first is the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, Montana. It’s a Smithsonian Affiliate with the most intact T. rex skeleton in the world. (His name is Big Al!)

The next is the Upper Musselshell Museum in Harlowton. It’s home to an avaceratops, sort of like a triceratops, named Ava. Plus, they have ancient sea creatures that you can check out.

Cooke City Museum (Cooke City, Montana)

If you love a small town, you might already have Cooke City, Colter Pass, and Silver Gate on your radar. These charming towns are some of the best places to stop when you’re leaving or entering Yellowstone National Park, letting you unwind after your adventure.

But if you head to Cooke City, don’t miss out on the local museum.

Founded in 2015, Cooke City Museum has dozens of artefacts across its nine exhibits, covering mining, the famous Beartooth Highway, schooling, women in the area, and more. The focus is overwhelmingly on history, letting you delve into the town’s past, along with the region’s settler history.

Wildlife Along the Rockies Gallery (Silver Gate, Montana)

Even if you’re not a fan of wildlife photography, a trip to Yellowstone National Park wouldn’t be complete without visiting Wildlife Along the Rockies in Silver Gate. This under-the-radar gallery is hard to learn about online, but it’s a famous stop in the area.

The gallery owners are wildlife photographers who have captured jaw-dropping scenes from nature. In fact, their work has been printed in National Geographic multiple times. Prints are reasonably priced and a wonderful gift for anyone who wants to remember their trip to Yellowstone.

Catch a Rodeo in Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming, USA – June 25, 2013: Two cowboys chasing with their horses a bull, trying to catch the bull with their lasso. Rodeo Arena at Cody Stampede in the town of Cody, Wyoming, USA. (Getty)

In case you haven’t heard, Cody, Wyoming, is often dubbed the Cowboy Capital of the United States. That’s thanks to Buffalo Bill Cody, who partly founded the town in 1896. Today, you can head to Cody for a front-row seat at one of the most popular rodeos in the United States.

If you want to take that cowboy spirit even further, you can book a stay at one of Cody’s popular dude ranches. Regardless of your experience or comfort levels, there’s a suitable stay made just for you.

Granite Hot Springs Pool

Need to soak your weary bones after trekking across Yellowstone National Park? Head to Granite Hot Springs Pool off US-191 (head south from Jackson, WY). In summer, you can park and then hike a short distance to reach the springs. There’s a man-made pool that was built for easier soaking.

If you’re heading to Yellowstone during the winter or colder months, definitely seat aside time to reach Granite Falls Hot Spring. Just make sure you’re prepared for the hike. The road and parking lot often close for winter, meaning the springs are only accessible via snowmobile, dog sled, or cross-country skiing.

10 Vancouver Vacation Rentals on Airbnb To Keep On Your Radar

Reports show that Americans are focused on domestic trips this summer.

That being said, jumping over the northern border into Vancouver is still a manageable ‘international’ trip for many—especially if you’re located in the Pacific Northwest.

And while you might think you’re familiar with Vancouver’s coolest nightlife, galleries, gardens, museums, and more, there’s always a new project taking off in this modern, vibrant city.

And while Canada tends to be pricier for travelers than a trip south of the border, that doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable vacation rentals in Vancouver.

Want to take a look at some of the city’s chicest, coziest, and coolest picks? Start with these top ten Vancouver vacation rentals from Airbnb.

Each showcases a different side of the city that will have you booking a return trip sin no time.

Vancouver vacation rentals from Airbnb at a glance

Budget-friendly room in shared home: Comfy, Clean, Convenient, Airy
High design for a photo-worthy stay: Bright & Modern Commercial Drive Loft
Great location, nice views: Flower Room
West Vancouver escape: Ocean View Retreat
Tiny home for tiny trips: Modern East Vancouver Tiny Home
Cozy escape close to the action: East Van Modern Garden Suite
Private pool with paradise vibes: Ocean & Mountain View Oasis
A quiet street in trendy South Main: Modern Lower Level Suite
Big enough for the whole crew: Heart of Van!
Bring Fido with you: Luxe Private Suite

Best Vancouver vacation rentals on Airbnb

Budget-friendly room in shared home: Comfy, Clean, Convenient, Airy

This lovely home has a room with a king-sized bed and a private bathroom, giving you the keys to an affordable stay close to South Memorial Park. You can also wander around the neighborhood to find a great bite to eat on Victoria Drive, or take the bus to Downtown, Metrotown, and Richmond. Plus, host Lucia can point you in the right direction with some recommendations.

High design for a photo-worthy stay: Bright & Modern Commercial Drive Loft

One of my favorite reasons to book an Airbnb is to find high-design gems that feel like a five-star boutique stay. If you’re of a similar mindset, book this gorgeous loft. It’s one of the most popular Vancouver vacation rentals on Airbnb thanks to its interior. But there are other perks, like the soaking tub, proximity to the popular Commercial Drive, and the Skytrain.

Great location, nice views: Flower Room

You’ve got it all at this one-bedroom stay in Kitsilano. First, you get all the great restaurants, bars, and shops in the popular Kitsilano neighborhood. Second, you’re also close to hotspots like Pacific Spirit Park and Jericho Beach. Third, you can soak up a lovely view from the second-floor balcony.

West Vancouver escape: Ocean View Retreat

If you want to really maximize the view while staying at an Airbnb in Vancouver, head to West Vancouver to stay at the Ocean View Retreat. From high up on Horseshoe Bay, you’ll be able to soak up snow-capped views of the Rockies. Being that this rental is a bit further outside of Vancouver, it’s a great jumping-off point if you’re planning to head to Squamish or Whistler.

Tiny home for tiny trips: Modern East Vancouver Tiny Home

High design comes to life at this tiny home in East Vancouver. Thanks to its modern and sleek design, you won’t feel cramped. As an added bonus, this tiny home was designed to fit in with Vancouver’s surrounding parklands, adding an organic feel. Uniquely, you can also schedule an early check-in or late check-out easily with the host.

Cozy escape close to the action: East Van Modern Garden Suite

This is another sublime East Vancouver rental with a simple one-bedroom setup. (You can sleep a third on the couch mattress in the living room, if you want.) The garden suite is tucked away on a quiet street, while also putting you a short walk from Commercial Drive. There’s also a garden for you to enjoy, like the name suggests. That’s a fantastic balance of action and relaxation.

Private pool with paradise vibes: Ocean & Mountain View Oasis

I don’t think of outdoor pools when I think of Vancouver, but if you’re heading to the area during summer, consider booking this dreamy oasis. You’ve got a five-star view of the mountains—which you can enjoy from a gorgeous infinity pool. As an added bonus, you’re only steps away from some of West Vancouver’s best hiking trails.

A quiet street in trendy South Main: Modern Lower Level Suite

If you want to stay in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Vancouver, head to this Airbnb in South Main. You’ve got the city’s top shops, galleries, stores, restaurants, bars, and more. I’m talking fine art, vintage clothes, gourmet eateries, and more. When you’re ready to unwind, head back to this quiet, tree-lined suite to drop off the map.

Big enough for the whole crew: Heart of Van!

Heading to Vancouver with a crew? Heart of Van can sleep up to five guests in two bedrooms, and also offers two living rooms to hang out. You’ll be right in the action despite not being in the downtown area—plus, Heart of Van includes a dedicated and free parking spot to boot. No car? No problem. You can explore the Fraser Street scene on foot.

Bring Fido with you: Luxe Private Suite

If you’re going to explore Vancouver with your little muppet in tow, I recommend the Luxe Private Suite. Though you don’t have a backyard for potty breaks, the area is wonderful for walking, letting you explore the city on foot with your pup—no long drives. With a washer-dryer at your disposal, you can also stay fresh and clean for your next adventure.