Unlocking Freecouver
July 29th, 2026
In Freecouver (Tidewater Press $16.95), co-authors John Lee and Rebecca Bollwitt map out the rich array of low-cost and free experiences scattered across Metro Vancouver. From riding TransLink’s double-decker buses through the Massey Tunnel to uncovering hidden history in university galleries and quiet canyon trails, the duo set out to prove that exploring the region doesn’t have to break the bank.
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BC BookLook: What’s one thing you learned about Vancouver’s local history while researching this book that completely blew your mind?
John Lee: We discovered so many surprising history snippets while working on this book! I loved hearing about Vancouver’s illicit neighbourhood drinking houses when I visited Marpole’s Colbourne House; the extensive interurban transit system we used to have at the Steveston Tram pavilion; the 1950s mural painted for a local pub by a Disney artist that’s now on display at the PoCo Heritage Museum. There really were cool discoveries around every corner and we’ve loved sharing these in our book.
BCBL: You chose to travel almost everywhere by transit for this project. What was the weirdest or funniest interaction you had while travelling between regional destinations?
Rebecca Bollwitt: Heading out to Delta’s Douglas J Hubbard Discovery Centre—one of the furthest points in the book—you can take the double-decker bus from Canada Line’s Bridgeport Station over to Ladner Exchange. I hadn’t been on one of TransLink’s double-deckers before so I sat at the front on the top deck as we zoomed through the Massey Tunnel, with what seemed like mere inches of clearance. I spent the whole time with my head ducked down—what a thrill!
BCBL: Which hidden gem in the book is best for escaping the noise of the city for a quiet afternoon?
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Photo credit: Rebecca Bollwitt.
RB: Locals know that Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a free alternative to similar paid attractions, but it’s also about as far removed from the city as you can get—in the forest and up a mountain. With no major roads or developments nearby, the only roar you hear is the rush of the river through the canyon below. Its interpretive signs offer glimpses at the area’s history, the bridge connects to trail networks on either side, and there’s a by-donation ecology centre where you can learn all about local flora and fauna.
JL: A day out at UBC is one of my favourite escape-from-downtown things to do—and our book profiles several great freebie attractions located on the campus. That includes UBC Farm and the TRIUMF particle accelerator public tour as well as the excellent Chung|Lind Gallery, a museum-like space jam-packed with fascinating artefacts on the Klondike Gold Rush and the early days of B.C’s Chinese Canadian community.
TRIUMF Tour. Photo credit: John Lee.
BCBL: If a visitor only has time to visit one free spot this weekend, which one is non-negotiable?
RB: An absolute must is Stanley Park, which will always top my list of free things to do in the city because it has everything: views of downtown; beaches, mountains and harbour panoramas (with free entertainment when the seals are out frolicking by the rowing club); and over 20km of forest trails plus gardens and history. We’ve broken down a few areas of specific interest in Freecouver, including the park’s themed gardens (from roses and rocks to Shakespearean trees) as well as its Indigenous art and culture. If you call ahead, you can also pop into the Vancouver Naval Museum at HMCS Discovery on Deadman’s Island, an excellent, often overlooked attraction that’s accessible only from the park.
Shore to Shore by Luke Marston in Stanle Park. Photo credit: Rebecca Bollwitt.
BCBL: If you had to sum up the spirit of Freecouver in just three words, what would they be?
JL: Fun, friendly and eclectic!
Join the authors of the book “FREECOUVER: 101 free things to do in & around Vancouver” for a free walking tour of Granville Island.
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