Steven’s Vancouver Guidebook
Sightseeing
Stanley Park is such a vast natural environment that it is easy to forget that one is in the middle of the city. This lush jewel has so much to offer: the scenic Seawall walking path, biking, beaches, swimming, and much more. The park also offers a number of activities for kids, including pony rides, water games and a miniature train. Older visitors will want to tour the spectacular flower gardens.
Stanley Park teems with an amazing variety of wildlife. At least 500 species are known to live in the park. Some of the must-see landmarks: Lost Lagoon, Hollow Tree and Siwash Rock.
2658 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque Stanley
610 Pipeline RdStanley Park is such a vast natural environment that it is easy to forget that one is in the middle of the city. This lush jewel has so much to offer: the scenic Seawall walking path, biking, beaches, swimming, and much more. The park also offers a number of activities for kids, including pony rides, water games and a miniature train. Older visitors will want to tour the spectacular flower gardens.
Stanley Park teems with an amazing variety of wildlife. At least 500 species are known to live in the park. Some of the must-see landmarks: Lost Lagoon, Hollow Tree and Siwash Rock.
The Vancouver Aquarium is not just an aquarium: it is a unique non-profit marine science centre dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life. It is Canada's largest aquarium, with many exhibits and galleries presenting different aquatic ecosystems. Adults and kids alike will love the entertaining and educational "encounters" program, which allows visitors to go behind the scenes and get up close and personal with the animals and the people who train them.
Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in low season). In peak season, the best time to visit is before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
663 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Acuario de Vancouver
845 Avison WayThe Vancouver Aquarium is not just an aquarium: it is a unique non-profit marine science centre dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life. It is Canada's largest aquarium, with many exhibits and galleries presenting different aquatic ecosystems. Adults and kids alike will love the entertaining and educational "encounters" program, which allows visitors to go behind the scenes and get up close and personal with the animals and the people who train them.
Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in low season). In peak season, the best time to visit is before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Widely considered to be one of Vancouver's finest museums, the UBC Museum of Anthropology houses a number of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent collection features a magnificent collection of First Nations art and objects, including totem poles and traditional houses.
The cutting-edge temporary exhibitions focus on arts and culture from around the world. Allow at least two hours for a good look at everything on offer!
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays in low season (mid-October to mid-May).
502 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museum of Anthropology
6393 NW Marine DrWidely considered to be one of Vancouver's finest museums, the UBC Museum of Anthropology houses a number of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent collection features a magnificent collection of First Nations art and objects, including totem poles and traditional houses.
The cutting-edge temporary exhibitions focus on arts and culture from around the world. Allow at least two hours for a good look at everything on offer!
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays in low season (mid-October to mid-May).
In the early 1900s, Granville Island was home to factories, plants and sawmills. Things are a little different today—Granville Island is both a locals’ favorite and a huge draw for visitors. Technically a sandspit and not an island, the neighbourhood sits just south of the downtown peninsula, right under the Granville Bridge. The Granville Island Public Market acts as a hub of activity, but it’s also one of the city’s most important cultural districts with theatres, artisan workshops and craft studios.
Seeing and Doing
One of the best ways to get to Granville Island is one of the adorable mini-tugboat ferries that criss-cross False Creek – they’re favourites among young and old! Once you’re there, the biggest attraction on Granville Island is the Public Market. Housed indoors, there are endless rows of stalls that feature fresh produce, gourmet foods, baked goods, and seafood. For the food-focused, a walking tour of the market can be a great way to get an insider’s insight. Outside of the market, catch a show at one of the many theatres on the island, browse an art gallery show, or appeal to your outdoorsy side with a kayaking or paddleboarding tour.
Eating and Drinking
The market itself is often described as a “food lover’s paradise,” and an impromptu picnic is easily picked up between vendors offering cheese, charcuterie, bread and fresh produce. If you’re looking for something casual but already put together, try the popular food court at the end of the market building. If a restaurant is more your style, there are some great seafood offerings down here, and there’s nothing like dining by the waterfront. Don’t forget to fill your glass while you’re down here! The area is home to an artisan sake maker (the first in Canada), a spirits distillery, and two breweries.
Shopping and Souvenirs
With a mix of unique crafts, skilled artisans, outdoor outfitters and deluxe gourmet stores, Granville Island is one of the best places in the city to purchase souvenirs for back home. The public market is a great place to start; pick up smoked salmon, exclusive teas, and other gourmet goodies. Check out the stores in the Net Loft building for First Nations artworks, B.C. wines, and other unique gifts. Take a stroll along Railspur Alley and the far end of the island to peek into artisan studios where glassblowers, potters, jewellers and even a broom maker ply their crafts.
1659 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Isla Granville
In the early 1900s, Granville Island was home to factories, plants and sawmills. Things are a little different today—Granville Island is both a locals’ favorite and a huge draw for visitors. Technically a sandspit and not an island, the neighbourhood sits just south of the downtown peninsula, right under the Granville Bridge. The Granville Island Public Market acts as a hub of activity, but it’s also one of the city’s most important cultural districts with theatres, artisan workshops and craft studios.
Seeing and Doing
One of the best ways to get to Granville Island is one of the adorable mini-tugboat ferries that criss-cross False Creek – they’re favourites among young and old! Once you’re there, the biggest attraction on Granville Island is the Public Market. Housed indoors, there are endless rows of stalls that feature fresh produce, gourmet foods, baked goods, and seafood. For the food-focused, a walking tour of the market can be a great way to get an insider’s insight. Outside of the market, catch a show at one of the many theatres on the island, browse an art gallery show, or appeal to your outdoorsy side with a kayaking or paddleboarding tour.
Eating and Drinking
The market itself is often described as a “food lover’s paradise,” and an impromptu picnic is easily picked up between vendors offering cheese, charcuterie, bread and fresh produce. If you’re looking for something casual but already put together, try the popular food court at the end of the market building. If a restaurant is more your style, there are some great seafood offerings down here, and there’s nothing like dining by the waterfront. Don’t forget to fill your glass while you’re down here! The area is home to an artisan sake maker (the first in Canada), a spirits distillery, and two breweries.
Shopping and Souvenirs
With a mix of unique crafts, skilled artisans, outdoor outfitters and deluxe gourmet stores, Granville Island is one of the best places in the city to purchase souvenirs for back home. The public market is a great place to start; pick up smoked salmon, exclusive teas, and other gourmet goodies. Check out the stores in the Net Loft building for First Nations artworks, B.C. wines, and other unique gifts. Take a stroll along Railspur Alley and the far end of the island to peek into artisan studios where glassblowers, potters, jewellers and even a broom maker ply their crafts.
Take an exhilarating 6,000-km journey across Canada, from east to west, discovering some of the country's most spectacular and iconic locations without ever leaving Vancouver! The film is projected on a 20-metre spherical screen. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unique, unforgettable experience.
Open Monday-Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
189 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
FlyOver Canadá
999 Canada PlaceTake an exhilarating 6,000-km journey across Canada, from east to west, discovering some of the country's most spectacular and iconic locations without ever leaving Vancouver! The film is projected on a 20-metre spherical screen. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unique, unforgettable experience.
Open Monday-Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Just outside of Vancouver floats the Capilano Suspension Bridge, built in 1889! The 137m long, 70m high bridge offers a stunning view of the oh-so-green forest of Capilano River Regional Park.
Within this park, Treetops Adventure takes guests of all ages more than 30 feet above the forest floor on seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth Douglas fir trees!
Open mid-March to late April from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., early May to early September from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., early to mid-September from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and mid-September to mid-October from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (opens later and closes earlier in low season).
1150 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Capilano Suspension Bridge
3735 Capilano RdJust outside of Vancouver floats the Capilano Suspension Bridge, built in 1889! The 137m long, 70m high bridge offers a stunning view of the oh-so-green forest of Capilano River Regional Park.
Within this park, Treetops Adventure takes guests of all ages more than 30 feet above the forest floor on seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth Douglas fir trees!
Open mid-March to late April from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., early May to early September from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., early to mid-September from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and mid-September to mid-October from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (opens later and closes earlier in low season).
Located less than 15 minutes from North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers a wide array of activities for visitors of all ages: helicopter rides, paragliding, ascent to the top of a wind turbine, gondola rides, a lumberjack show, a demonstration of free-flying birds of prey and a tour of a wildlife refuge (home to bears, wolves, owls and other small animals).
Not to mention the gruelling 2.9-kilometre Grouse Grind Trail, an invigorating workout for seasoned hikers! The mountain is accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
1038 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Grouse Mountain
6400 Nancy Greene WayLocated less than 15 minutes from North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers a wide array of activities for visitors of all ages: helicopter rides, paragliding, ascent to the top of a wind turbine, gondola rides, a lumberjack show, a demonstration of free-flying birds of prey and a tour of a wildlife refuge (home to bears, wolves, owls and other small animals).
Not to mention the gruelling 2.9-kilometre Grouse Grind Trail, an invigorating workout for seasoned hikers! The mountain is accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
When the weather is cold and gray, add a much-needed dose of colour by exploring vibrant art exhibits and thought-provoking pieces in the Vancouver Art Gallery. With more than 10,000 works of art in the permanent collection, there’s plenty to see and discover.
1154 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Galería de Arte de Vancouver
750 Hornby StWhen the weather is cold and gray, add a much-needed dose of colour by exploring vibrant art exhibits and thought-provoking pieces in the Vancouver Art Gallery. With more than 10,000 works of art in the permanent collection, there’s plenty to see and discover.
Escape the rain, and venture into the fascinating world of science and technology. At Science World, visitors can learn about the human body, unique dinosaurs, rocket science, electricity and much more.
837 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Science World en TELUS World of Science
1455 Quebec StEscape the rain, and venture into the fascinating world of science and technology. At Science World, visitors can learn about the human body, unique dinosaurs, rocket science, electricity and much more.
Neighbourhoods
This is the birthplace of Vancouver, with historic cobblestone streets and Victorian buildings. The epicenter of independent design, culture, food and fashion, Gastown delivers one-of-a-kind experiences to visitors and locals alike.
In other words, Gastown is the trendiest neighbourhood in Vancouver! A must-see for art and culture lovers.
1068 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Gastown
This is the birthplace of Vancouver, with historic cobblestone streets and Victorian buildings. The epicenter of independent design, culture, food and fashion, Gastown delivers one-of-a-kind experiences to visitors and locals alike.
In other words, Gastown is the trendiest neighbourhood in Vancouver! A must-see for art and culture lovers.
With BC Place Stadium at one end, Stanley Park at the other, and the city’s best-known shopping precinct in between, Robson Street is a must-stroll for most visitors to Vancouver. One of Vancouver’s oldest commercial streets, it was once known as Robsonstrasse for the sheer number of German and European stores that opened up after the Second World War. The international character of the street still exists. Being right in the heart of the downtown core, you’ll find yourself walking right alongside locals on their way to the office, sports fans heading to the game, and students lining up outside noodle shops.
Seeing and Doing
Starting at the east end of Robson Street, sports fans will enjoy a visit to BC Place Stadium, home of two of Vancouver’s professional sports teams: the BC Lions Canadian Football League team, and the Vancouver Whitecaps—the city’s team in the North American professional soccer league, the MLS. Even if it’s not game day, check out the BC Sports Hall of Fame, housed within the stadium, with galleries such as those dedicated to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the city’s professional teams, and hometown heroes like Terry Fox. There’s also a sculptural tribute to Fox right outside on the plaza. Head west along Robson and you’ll walk past the Coliseum-like Vancouver Public Library, before coming to the iconic Vancouver Art Gallery, which is part of Robson Square. Under the street you’ll find a covered event space that hosts ballroom dancing evenings in the summer, and a free, public ice skating rink in the winter.
Eating and Drinking
In keeping with Robson Street’s historically international flavour, you’ll find a bit of everything along the strip. Down at the east end, you’ll find plenty of casual eateries, perfect for a burger and a beer before the game, replete with big screen TVs in case you weren’t able to score a ticket. Towards the middle of Robson, you’ll find some excellent higher-end option, many of which are above street-level, giving you a good perch for some people watching. Head further west towards Stanley Park and you’ll find an excellent choice of well-priced Asian restaurants, packed with locals. Try an izakaya—similar to a Japanese pub, explore Korean cuisine, or slurp your way through a bowl of ramen. If you’re looking for a caffeine refueling you won’t have to walk far; every fourth storefront along Robson appears to be a café.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Shopping is what Robson Street is famous for. Whether you’re looking to give your credit card a thorough workout, or window shopping is more your speed, Robson Street will hit the spot. The main retail shopping area starts around Granville Street, which is where you’ll find the Nordstrom department store and the entrance to the Pacific Centre shopping mall, stretching down to Jervis Street. In between, you’ll find most of the major North American fashion brands, along with a lively mix of sporting goods, accessories, homewares, beauty and wellness purveyors. You’ll find a number of international luxury brands a block off Robson, around the intersection of Burrard and Alberni streets.
789 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Robson Street
1155 Robson StWith BC Place Stadium at one end, Stanley Park at the other, and the city’s best-known shopping precinct in between, Robson Street is a must-stroll for most visitors to Vancouver. One of Vancouver’s oldest commercial streets, it was once known as Robsonstrasse for the sheer number of German and European stores that opened up after the Second World War. The international character of the street still exists. Being right in the heart of the downtown core, you’ll find yourself walking right alongside locals on their way to the office, sports fans heading to the game, and students lining up outside noodle shops.
Seeing and Doing
Starting at the east end of Robson Street, sports fans will enjoy a visit to BC Place Stadium, home of two of Vancouver’s professional sports teams: the BC Lions Canadian Football League team, and the Vancouver Whitecaps—the city’s team in the North American professional soccer league, the MLS. Even if it’s not game day, check out the BC Sports Hall of Fame, housed within the stadium, with galleries such as those dedicated to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the city’s professional teams, and hometown heroes like Terry Fox. There’s also a sculptural tribute to Fox right outside on the plaza. Head west along Robson and you’ll walk past the Coliseum-like Vancouver Public Library, before coming to the iconic Vancouver Art Gallery, which is part of Robson Square. Under the street you’ll find a covered event space that hosts ballroom dancing evenings in the summer, and a free, public ice skating rink in the winter.
Eating and Drinking
In keeping with Robson Street’s historically international flavour, you’ll find a bit of everything along the strip. Down at the east end, you’ll find plenty of casual eateries, perfect for a burger and a beer before the game, replete with big screen TVs in case you weren’t able to score a ticket. Towards the middle of Robson, you’ll find some excellent higher-end option, many of which are above street-level, giving you a good perch for some people watching. Head further west towards Stanley Park and you’ll find an excellent choice of well-priced Asian restaurants, packed with locals. Try an izakaya—similar to a Japanese pub, explore Korean cuisine, or slurp your way through a bowl of ramen. If you’re looking for a caffeine refueling you won’t have to walk far; every fourth storefront along Robson appears to be a café.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Shopping is what Robson Street is famous for. Whether you’re looking to give your credit card a thorough workout, or window shopping is more your speed, Robson Street will hit the spot. The main retail shopping area starts around Granville Street, which is where you’ll find the Nordstrom department store and the entrance to the Pacific Centre shopping mall, stretching down to Jervis Street. In between, you’ll find most of the major North American fashion brands, along with a lively mix of sporting goods, accessories, homewares, beauty and wellness purveyors. You’ll find a number of international luxury brands a block off Robson, around the intersection of Burrard and Alberni streets.
Overview
Just south-east of the downtown peninsula, South Main refers to the stretch of Main between East 2nd and East 33rd Avenues but the neighbourhood, taking in the mainly residential streets on either side, is actually called Mount Pleasant . For a long time, this area was considered to be the “wrong side of the tracks” but with the hipsters moving in and opening galleries, breweries and boutiques, this is now Vancouver’s answer to New York’s Brooklyn.
Seeing and Doing
Being primarily a residential area, a lot of the appeal of South Main is in hanging out with the locals, strolling the neighbourhood with a coffee from a local roaster in hand. But there are a few spots worth checking out along the walk. A little north of the actual “South Main” border is the Main Street SkyTrain station, as Science World, a recommended stop for those with families. Two blocks east of Main at East 8th Avenue, you’ll find “Dude Chilling Park,” named by locals after the site’s modernist wooden sculpture of a figure in repose. During the summer it’s full of hipsters on picnic blankets as well as home to outdoor yoga and a Sunday farmer’s market. Continue up to East 15th Avenue for the grand Main Street Heritage Hall, which was at times both a post office and used by the RCMP. At East 33rd Avenue, head west a few blocks to get to Nat Bailey Stadium, an old-fashion 1950s ballpark which home to the minor league Vancouver Canadians baseball team. Right across the street is Queen Elizabeth Park, the city’s highest point, boasting spectacular public gardens.
Eating and Drinking
True to its roots, you’ll find a lot of great cheap eats along Main Street, as well as a few excellent high-end options. From Lebanese to Malaysian, South Indian to Peruvian, it’s on Main Street, and someone is doing it well. Some of the city’s best Chinese food is found here, especially high-end dim sum. A number of Vancouver’s renowned coffee roasters and cafes have outlets along and around Main Street, so be prepared for a case of the caffeine jitters. But for many people, what sets South Main apart from other neighbourhoods is the sheer number of craft breweries that have popped up over the past few years. If you start at East 2nd Avenue and walk up to East 8th Avenue, you’ll pass within two blocks of five different brewery tasting rooms.
Shopping and Souvenirs
South Main isn’t thought of as a traditional shopping district, but the independent nature of many of the stores means that you’re likely some unique souvenirs. Starting with those craft breweries, grab a growler (a refillable glass bottle, usually branded with artwork) and fill it up with a beer that you’ll never find at home. Or buy a bag of beans from one of Vancouver’s best coffee roasters for a different kind of brew. South Main is also an excellent place to look for vintage clothing and antiques, especially the street from East 16th Avenue heading south. You’ll find plenty of very cool clothing boutiques, but also little indie stores that are adorably eclectic: from a soap dispensary to a hemp bedding emporium, a jukebox store to a cowboy outfitter. Shopping on South Main is a lot of fun.
82 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mount Pleasant
Overview
Just south-east of the downtown peninsula, South Main refers to the stretch of Main between East 2nd and East 33rd Avenues but the neighbourhood, taking in the mainly residential streets on either side, is actually called Mount Pleasant . For a long time, this area was considered to be the “wrong side of the tracks” but with the hipsters moving in and opening galleries, breweries and boutiques, this is now Vancouver’s answer to New York’s Brooklyn.
Seeing and Doing
Being primarily a residential area, a lot of the appeal of South Main is in hanging out with the locals, strolling the neighbourhood with a coffee from a local roaster in hand. But there are a few spots worth checking out along the walk. A little north of the actual “South Main” border is the Main Street SkyTrain station, as Science World, a recommended stop for those with families. Two blocks east of Main at East 8th Avenue, you’ll find “Dude Chilling Park,” named by locals after the site’s modernist wooden sculpture of a figure in repose. During the summer it’s full of hipsters on picnic blankets as well as home to outdoor yoga and a Sunday farmer’s market. Continue up to East 15th Avenue for the grand Main Street Heritage Hall, which was at times both a post office and used by the RCMP. At East 33rd Avenue, head west a few blocks to get to Nat Bailey Stadium, an old-fashion 1950s ballpark which home to the minor league Vancouver Canadians baseball team. Right across the street is Queen Elizabeth Park, the city’s highest point, boasting spectacular public gardens.
Eating and Drinking
True to its roots, you’ll find a lot of great cheap eats along Main Street, as well as a few excellent high-end options. From Lebanese to Malaysian, South Indian to Peruvian, it’s on Main Street, and someone is doing it well. Some of the city’s best Chinese food is found here, especially high-end dim sum. A number of Vancouver’s renowned coffee roasters and cafes have outlets along and around Main Street, so be prepared for a case of the caffeine jitters. But for many people, what sets South Main apart from other neighbourhoods is the sheer number of craft breweries that have popped up over the past few years. If you start at East 2nd Avenue and walk up to East 8th Avenue, you’ll pass within two blocks of five different brewery tasting rooms.
Shopping and Souvenirs
South Main isn’t thought of as a traditional shopping district, but the independent nature of many of the stores means that you’re likely some unique souvenirs. Starting with those craft breweries, grab a growler (a refillable glass bottle, usually branded with artwork) and fill it up with a beer that you’ll never find at home. Or buy a bag of beans from one of Vancouver’s best coffee roasters for a different kind of brew. South Main is also an excellent place to look for vintage clothing and antiques, especially the street from East 16th Avenue heading south. You’ll find plenty of very cool clothing boutiques, but also little indie stores that are adorably eclectic: from a soap dispensary to a hemp bedding emporium, a jukebox store to a cowboy outfitter. Shopping on South Main is a lot of fun.
In the 1960s, beachside Kitsilano was Vancouver's hippy hangout, drawing comparisons to San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury. Today, Kitsilano still has plenty of culture, but its apartments and houses are now occupied by young urban professionals and families who enjoy a modern version of that relaxed atmosphere – this is the birthplace of global yoga brand, lululemon athletica. Just over the Burrard Bridge from the downtown peninsula, the neighbourhood brings together a collection of attractions, beach and parks, residential streets, and a couple of main commercial districts. “Kits,” as it’s known locally, is bordered by the waterfront to the north and West 16th Ave to the south; Burrard Street to the east and Alma Street to the west. Most of the commercial activity is along West 4th Avenue and West Broadway, but you’ll also find shops and restaurants in the areas close to the beach.
Seeing and Doing
From Burrard Bridge, look north and you’ll glimpse a large waterfront greenspace known as Vanier Park. This spot is home to some of Vancouver’s best family-friendly attractions including the Museum of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and the Vancouver Maritime Museum, as well as being the venue for the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare festival from June to September each year. Continue along the waterfront and you’ll hit Kitsilano Beach, which is a hotspot during summer, complete with volleyball tournaments, picnicking families, lots of the beautiful people on parade, and the mammoth Kitsilano Pool – an outdoor saltwater public pool right by the beach. The neighbourhoods also host a number of community festivals over the course of the summer including Greek Days on West Broadway, and the Khatsalano Festival centred around West 4th Avenue.
Eating and Drinking
True to its hippy roots, Kitsilano is home to one of the city’s oldest vegetarian restaurants, The Naam. Open 24-hours a day, the restaurant’s yam fries with miso gravy have inspired many a late-night stop after a night out on the town. You’ll also find plenty of other healthy, organic and farm-to-table options. Down by the water, along the foot of Yew Street and along Cornwall, are lots of casual, neighbourhood bars and restaurants, many of which do a great job with seafood, along with wines and cocktails to match. West Broadway is where a lot of Vancouver’s Greek immigrants originally settled, and you won’t go wrong choosing something inspired by the Mediterranean in that part of the neighbourhood. Along West 4th, expect more polished dining, but still with lots of multicultural flavour.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Lifestyle shopping is where Kitsilano excels. Visit lululemon’s store on West 4th (right opposite the original upstairs location) to browse the company’s range of high-end yoga and active-wear. Along the same stretch, you’ll find a number of outdoor apparel companies, fashion boutiques, cafes, beauty and skincare stores, and spas. If you’re looking for gourmet items to take home, you’ll find a great selection of wine as well as specialty grocers – you can even take home a bottle of The Naam’s famous miso gravy. West Broadway is a little more locally-focused, but the strip still offers lots of independent boutiques and gift shops that make for a great afternoon of perusing.
190 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Kitsilano
In the 1960s, beachside Kitsilano was Vancouver's hippy hangout, drawing comparisons to San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury. Today, Kitsilano still has plenty of culture, but its apartments and houses are now occupied by young urban professionals and families who enjoy a modern version of that relaxed atmosphere – this is the birthplace of global yoga brand, lululemon athletica. Just over the Burrard Bridge from the downtown peninsula, the neighbourhood brings together a collection of attractions, beach and parks, residential streets, and a couple of main commercial districts. “Kits,” as it’s known locally, is bordered by the waterfront to the north and West 16th Ave to the south; Burrard Street to the east and Alma Street to the west. Most of the commercial activity is along West 4th Avenue and West Broadway, but you’ll also find shops and restaurants in the areas close to the beach.
Seeing and Doing
From Burrard Bridge, look north and you’ll glimpse a large waterfront greenspace known as Vanier Park. This spot is home to some of Vancouver’s best family-friendly attractions including the Museum of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and the Vancouver Maritime Museum, as well as being the venue for the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare festival from June to September each year. Continue along the waterfront and you’ll hit Kitsilano Beach, which is a hotspot during summer, complete with volleyball tournaments, picnicking families, lots of the beautiful people on parade, and the mammoth Kitsilano Pool – an outdoor saltwater public pool right by the beach. The neighbourhoods also host a number of community festivals over the course of the summer including Greek Days on West Broadway, and the Khatsalano Festival centred around West 4th Avenue.
Eating and Drinking
True to its hippy roots, Kitsilano is home to one of the city’s oldest vegetarian restaurants, The Naam. Open 24-hours a day, the restaurant’s yam fries with miso gravy have inspired many a late-night stop after a night out on the town. You’ll also find plenty of other healthy, organic and farm-to-table options. Down by the water, along the foot of Yew Street and along Cornwall, are lots of casual, neighbourhood bars and restaurants, many of which do a great job with seafood, along with wines and cocktails to match. West Broadway is where a lot of Vancouver’s Greek immigrants originally settled, and you won’t go wrong choosing something inspired by the Mediterranean in that part of the neighbourhood. Along West 4th, expect more polished dining, but still with lots of multicultural flavour.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Lifestyle shopping is where Kitsilano excels. Visit lululemon’s store on West 4th (right opposite the original upstairs location) to browse the company’s range of high-end yoga and active-wear. Along the same stretch, you’ll find a number of outdoor apparel companies, fashion boutiques, cafes, beauty and skincare stores, and spas. If you’re looking for gourmet items to take home, you’ll find a great selection of wine as well as specialty grocers – you can even take home a bottle of The Naam’s famous miso gravy. West Broadway is a little more locally-focused, but the strip still offers lots of independent boutiques and gift shops that make for a great afternoon of perusing.
A culturally rich and authentic neighbourhood, Commercial Drive - also known as The Drive - is one of the best and most colourful shopping, dining and nightlife districts you will find in the city; and boasts home to Vancouver’s own 8 block officially designated Little Italy, representing more than 60 years of Italian heritage. Day or evening, The Drive offers 22 full blocks to explore with over 300 distinct merchants, including quaint boutiques, an eclectic collection of restaurants, a vibrant live music and bar scene, dinner and dancing, theatres, coffee houses, specialty food stores and bakeries. A one of a kind experience. Welcome to The Drive.
Seeing and Doing
Commercial Drive runs through the centre of the neighbourhood, and strolling with a coffee in hand is a great introduction to Vancouver’s diversity. At the south end of the neighbourhood is John Hendry Park, which surrounds Trout Lake. On Saturdays from May through to October, the park is home to an excellent farmer’s market – the perfect place to grab a light breakfast while you browse the stalls. The pretty park is also a nice place for an impromptu picnic with items purchased at the market or along The Drive. At the north end, you’ll find a classic theatre space, and another green space – Grandview Park, known for its seemingly constant drum circles. In the streets on either side of Commercial, you’ll find lovely old houses, many built in the turn-of-the-century “Queen Anne” style.
296 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Commercial Drive
Commercial DriveA culturally rich and authentic neighbourhood, Commercial Drive - also known as The Drive - is one of the best and most colourful shopping, dining and nightlife districts you will find in the city; and boasts home to Vancouver’s own 8 block officially designated Little Italy, representing more than 60 years of Italian heritage. Day or evening, The Drive offers 22 full blocks to explore with over 300 distinct merchants, including quaint boutiques, an eclectic collection of restaurants, a vibrant live music and bar scene, dinner and dancing, theatres, coffee houses, specialty food stores and bakeries. A one of a kind experience. Welcome to The Drive.
Seeing and Doing
Commercial Drive runs through the centre of the neighbourhood, and strolling with a coffee in hand is a great introduction to Vancouver’s diversity. At the south end of the neighbourhood is John Hendry Park, which surrounds Trout Lake. On Saturdays from May through to October, the park is home to an excellent farmer’s market – the perfect place to grab a light breakfast while you browse the stalls. The pretty park is also a nice place for an impromptu picnic with items purchased at the market or along The Drive. At the north end, you’ll find a classic theatre space, and another green space – Grandview Park, known for its seemingly constant drum circles. In the streets on either side of Commercial, you’ll find lovely old houses, many built in the turn-of-the-century “Queen Anne” style.
Established back in the 1890s, Vancouver’s Chinatown has been humming busily for more than a century with vivid colours, exotic cuisine and a vibrant culture. Vancouver’s Chinese population originally made the journey to work in local mines and build the Trans-Canada railway. Rich in history and architecture, this area east of downtown boasts North America's third-largest Chinatown after New York and San Francisco. The main commercial area runs is around six blocks, bordered by East Pender Street, Gore Avenue, East Georgia Street, and Carrall Street.
You’ll find plenty of classic Asian specialty stores, with their wares piled by the sidewalk for perusing, as well as dim sum restaurants, apothecaries, and quiet oases offering calm respite from the bustle. While there are many traditional finds in Chinatown, you’ll also see a burst of modern retail thanks to some young entrepreneurs who have set up shop in the neighbourhood, especially along Pender between Columbia and Main streets.
Seeing and Doing
It’s easy to spend a half-day in Chinatown. No visit is complete without spending time at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden—the first of its kind to ever be built in Canada. Along with being a beautiful garden, it offers a fascinating primer on Chinese culture and symbolism. The world’s narrowest commercial building, the Sam Kee Building at the corner of Pender and Carrall, is also worth a look. But the best thing about spending time in Chinatown is strolling the commercial district, and experiencing the neighbourhood with all five senses. The area is also home to the Vancouver Chinatown Festival in August each year.
Eating and Drinking
If you’re going to be in Chinatown in the late morning, or over lunchtime, make sure that you grab dim sum at one of the neighbourhood’s restaurants. Choose a few different steaming baskets of these tasty bite-sized dumplings, buns and other delicacies and tuck in while you sip tea. If you’d rather pick up something “to go,” visit one of the many Chinese bakeries for well-priced snacks. Along with the traditional, you’ll also find modern twists on Chinese cuisine among some of the newer spots. Interestingly, Chinatown is also an excellent place to get a cocktail! Some of the city’s best bartenders can be found behind the wood in this part of the city.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Trawling Chinatown’s streets, you’ll have no problem finding places to shop! From ducking in to an apothecary for a traditional Chinese cure, through to buying jewellery made of lucky green jade, you’ll have a lot of fun exploring the area’s stores. Prized for its quality, B.C.-grown ginseng is available in many of the apothecaries, and would make an excellent souvenir for anyone you know that might need its purported energy-boosting properties!
Along with the stores selling live seafood, bulk goods and the latest and greatest electronics, you’ll also find a growing number of stores run by a new generation of Chinatown business-owners. From skate shops to vintage clothing, these spots are bringing new life to the neighbourhood.
171 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Chinatown
Established back in the 1890s, Vancouver’s Chinatown has been humming busily for more than a century with vivid colours, exotic cuisine and a vibrant culture. Vancouver’s Chinese population originally made the journey to work in local mines and build the Trans-Canada railway. Rich in history and architecture, this area east of downtown boasts North America's third-largest Chinatown after New York and San Francisco. The main commercial area runs is around six blocks, bordered by East Pender Street, Gore Avenue, East Georgia Street, and Carrall Street.
You’ll find plenty of classic Asian specialty stores, with their wares piled by the sidewalk for perusing, as well as dim sum restaurants, apothecaries, and quiet oases offering calm respite from the bustle. While there are many traditional finds in Chinatown, you’ll also see a burst of modern retail thanks to some young entrepreneurs who have set up shop in the neighbourhood, especially along Pender between Columbia and Main streets.
Seeing and Doing
It’s easy to spend a half-day in Chinatown. No visit is complete without spending time at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden—the first of its kind to ever be built in Canada. Along with being a beautiful garden, it offers a fascinating primer on Chinese culture and symbolism. The world’s narrowest commercial building, the Sam Kee Building at the corner of Pender and Carrall, is also worth a look. But the best thing about spending time in Chinatown is strolling the commercial district, and experiencing the neighbourhood with all five senses. The area is also home to the Vancouver Chinatown Festival in August each year.
Eating and Drinking
If you’re going to be in Chinatown in the late morning, or over lunchtime, make sure that you grab dim sum at one of the neighbourhood’s restaurants. Choose a few different steaming baskets of these tasty bite-sized dumplings, buns and other delicacies and tuck in while you sip tea. If you’d rather pick up something “to go,” visit one of the many Chinese bakeries for well-priced snacks. Along with the traditional, you’ll also find modern twists on Chinese cuisine among some of the newer spots. Interestingly, Chinatown is also an excellent place to get a cocktail! Some of the city’s best bartenders can be found behind the wood in this part of the city.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Trawling Chinatown’s streets, you’ll have no problem finding places to shop! From ducking in to an apothecary for a traditional Chinese cure, through to buying jewellery made of lucky green jade, you’ll have a lot of fun exploring the area’s stores. Prized for its quality, B.C.-grown ginseng is available in many of the apothecaries, and would make an excellent souvenir for anyone you know that might need its purported energy-boosting properties!
Along with the stores selling live seafood, bulk goods and the latest and greatest electronics, you’ll also find a growing number of stores run by a new generation of Chinatown business-owners. From skate shops to vintage clothing, these spots are bringing new life to the neighbourhood.
City/town information
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Coast Mountain Range, Vancouver is a vibrant metropolis of unrivalled beauty. It is a cosmopolitan city perched on the edge of nature, with unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation and a great cultural diversity with its European, Asian and First Nations heritages. Vancouver has it all, for seasoned travellers and the less adventurous seeking a peaceful, reassuring destination.
There is no need for a car in Vancouver. This is a city that is best explored on foot or by bike, at your own pace. For this reason, Vancouver is a perfect location to start or finish a Western Canada road trip.
215 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Vancouver
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Coast Mountain Range, Vancouver is a vibrant metropolis of unrivalled beauty. It is a cosmopolitan city perched on the edge of nature, with unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation and a great cultural diversity with its European, Asian and First Nations heritages. Vancouver has it all, for seasoned travellers and the less adventurous seeking a peaceful, reassuring destination.
There is no need for a car in Vancouver. This is a city that is best explored on foot or by bike, at your own pace. For this reason, Vancouver is a perfect location to start or finish a Western Canada road trip.
Food scene
This cozy, modern Chinese brasserie is a far cry from the Chinese restaurants of old. You will be charmed by the fresh ingredients, friendly staff, trendy atmosphere and the impeccable presentation. In a city that has long embraced Chinese cuisine as part of its culinary heritage, Bao Bei exemplifies the changing face of Chinatown.
Open Wednesday-Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m.).
250 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bao Bei
163 Keefer StThis cozy, modern Chinese brasserie is a far cry from the Chinese restaurants of old. You will be charmed by the fresh ingredients, friendly staff, trendy atmosphere and the impeccable presentation. In a city that has long embraced Chinese cuisine as part of its culinary heritage, Bao Bei exemplifies the changing face of Chinatown.
Open Wednesday-Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m.).
The restaurant was built in the 19th century on the site of Vancouver’s first jail. The French influenced West Coast fare is prepared and served with flare for a unique dining experience. A meat-lover's paradise!
158 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
L'Abattoir
217 Carrall StThe restaurant was built in the 19th century on the site of Vancouver’s first jail. The French influenced West Coast fare is prepared and served with flare for a unique dining experience. A meat-lover's paradise!
Maenam is one of Vancouver's best Thai restaurants, offering refined, beautifully-presented, authentic cuisine prepared using the best seasonal and local ingredients. The menu includes familiar classics like the sweet and sour tom kaa soup, curries and pad Thai.
Wine, beer and cocktail menu is also avalable. Open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
66 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Maenam
1938 W 4th AveMaenam is one of Vancouver's best Thai restaurants, offering refined, beautifully-presented, authentic cuisine prepared using the best seasonal and local ingredients. The menu includes familiar classics like the sweet and sour tom kaa soup, curries and pad Thai.
Wine, beer and cocktail menu is also avalable. Open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Les Faux Bourgeois is a favorite among Vancouverites because the food is excellent, the atmosphere is warm, and the price is right. You don't have to spend a bundle to enjoy classic French cuisine in Vancouver, making this spot a perfect place to take a date. The dishes are ample in size and most mains are under $25. Some daily specials can be a bit more, but for the quality, service and ambiance, it's incredibly reasonable. The menu features traditional French dishes like canard confit, mussels in white wine, and coq au vin. Appetizers include escargots de Bourgogne, sweetbreads, country-style pork pate and other tasty options. The menu hasn't seen any major changes since opening and diners love that they know they can always count on their favorite dish being on the menu. Daily specials are offered for those looking for a change, or to try something new.
203 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Les Faux Bourgeois
663 E 15th AveLes Faux Bourgeois is a favorite among Vancouverites because the food is excellent, the atmosphere is warm, and the price is right. You don't have to spend a bundle to enjoy classic French cuisine in Vancouver, making this spot a perfect place to take a date. The dishes are ample in size and most mains are under $25. Some daily specials can be a bit more, but for the quality, service and ambiance, it's incredibly reasonable. The menu features traditional French dishes like canard confit, mussels in white wine, and coq au vin. Appetizers include escargots de Bourgogne, sweetbreads, country-style pork pate and other tasty options. The menu hasn't seen any major changes since opening and diners love that they know they can always count on their favorite dish being on the menu. Daily specials are offered for those looking for a change, or to try something new.
Every superhero has a humble origin story, and the same goes for Superflux. In fact, it all began just a few blocks away at Callister Brewing. There, in Callister’s incubator, the Superflux concept was first explored. After a year honing their craft there, co-founders Adam Henderson and Matt Kohlen began developing the Superflux brand by making their beer at other partner breweries in Vancouver, all the while shaping plans for their own physical brewery space.
When Superflux Beer Co. finally opened its retail store in the summer of 2020, it was met by a line-up of fans that stretched around the block. Two months later, the tasting lounge opened with just as much excitement. Its stylish interior offers lots of space to spread out with a variety of seating areas. The kitchen features deluxe hot dogs and hyper-seasonal salads.
Superflux’s bold beer lineup, which is made up of nearly 100% IPAs, is all about experimentation and innovation. You can be sure you’ll find something delicious on tap, and probably something unexpected. You might even find something that changes the way you look at beer.
20 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Superflux Beer Company
505 Clark DrEvery superhero has a humble origin story, and the same goes for Superflux. In fact, it all began just a few blocks away at Callister Brewing. There, in Callister’s incubator, the Superflux concept was first explored. After a year honing their craft there, co-founders Adam Henderson and Matt Kohlen began developing the Superflux brand by making their beer at other partner breweries in Vancouver, all the while shaping plans for their own physical brewery space.
When Superflux Beer Co. finally opened its retail store in the summer of 2020, it was met by a line-up of fans that stretched around the block. Two months later, the tasting lounge opened with just as much excitement. Its stylish interior offers lots of space to spread out with a variety of seating areas. The kitchen features deluxe hot dogs and hyper-seasonal salads.
Superflux’s bold beer lineup, which is made up of nearly 100% IPAs, is all about experimentation and innovation. You can be sure you’ll find something delicious on tap, and probably something unexpected. You might even find something that changes the way you look at beer.
Known from their popular food truck that has been delighting diners with breakfast and brunch treats downtown and at the farmers markets, they now have a restaurant serving up even more dishes to start the morning. You can’t miss the locale as the outside is the same colour as the truck.
109 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Yolks
1598 E Hastings StKnown from their popular food truck that has been delighting diners with breakfast and brunch treats downtown and at the farmers markets, they now have a restaurant serving up even more dishes to start the morning. You can’t miss the locale as the outside is the same colour as the truck.
Since I was a kid I have loved Ice Cream, my favourite flavour growing up was mint chocolate chip, and still is. Most people have a favourite flavour or two or more, these days ice cream shops offer a multitude of flavours. Erica and Ben opened up a small batch artisan production facility in East Van over 1-1/2 years ago selling their now popular ice cream flavours at farmers markets around the city as well as festivals. Their dream came true when this scoop shop opened in East Van, it wasn’t only their dream, I am pretty sure it was every customers dream too!
353 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Earnest Ice Cream
3992 Fraser StSince I was a kid I have loved Ice Cream, my favourite flavour growing up was mint chocolate chip, and still is. Most people have a favourite flavour or two or more, these days ice cream shops offer a multitude of flavours. Erica and Ben opened up a small batch artisan production facility in East Van over 1-1/2 years ago selling their now popular ice cream flavours at farmers markets around the city as well as festivals. Their dream came true when this scoop shop opened in East Van, it wasn’t only their dream, I am pretty sure it was every customers dream too!
Savio Volpe is a restaurant styled after the classic osteria: rustic fare in the Italian tradition of freshness and regionality, using groceries gathered in the nearby lakes, oceans, farms and fields. Above all else, Savio celebrates liveliness, warmth and hospitality. Viva la convivialità!
180 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Osteria Savio Volpe
615 KingswaySavio Volpe is a restaurant styled after the classic osteria: rustic fare in the Italian tradition of freshness and regionality, using groceries gathered in the nearby lakes, oceans, farms and fields. Above all else, Savio celebrates liveliness, warmth and hospitality. Viva la convivialità!