Five neighbourhoods in Vancouver worth checking out

Vancouver is one of those cities you arrive in and realise almost instantly that it has the wow factor. From the moment you stroll down Granville St in the heart of the city’s downtown area, looking onwards to the water and mountains, you know that there’s something very special about the place.

Vancouver has many attractions – museums, shopping and outdoor activities to name just a few. Another is its neighbourhoods. If you’re lucky enough to have time to explore the city, here are five areas worth taking the time out to visit.

1. Kitsilano

Photo courtesy of geffryv.

Kitsilano is where you’ll find Vancouver’s most popular beach, affectionately known as Kits Beach. In the summer months it attracts sunbathers, swimmers, beach volleyballers and more. There’s a lot more to this neighbourhood than it’s golden stretch though. Attractions such as the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. McMillian Space Centre are in Kitsilano, both in Vanier Park. It’s also home to a host of cafés, bars and restaurants along 4th Ave, while if you’re into your photography, there’s a great view of the skyline here.

Getting there: Take the #4 bus from Downtown Vancouver to West 4th Ave and Cypress Street.

2. Granville Island

Photo courtesy of chrisada.

If you had to pinpoint one tourist quarter in Vancouver, Granville Island would be it. This part of the city attracts 10.5 million visitors every year who come to (mainly) eat at the extremely popular Granville Island Public Market. Here you’ll encounter stalls dishing out smorgasboards, local cheese, fresh fish and more. You can buy works by local artists here too, but this part of the city really is best visited on an empty stomach.

Getting there: Take bus #50 from Gastown to the intersection of West 2nd Ave and Anderson Street.

3. Gastown

Photo courtesy of Victoria Garcia.

Of all of Vancouver’s neighbourhoods, Gastown is probably my favourite. The area dates back to 1867, and while there’s always a good vibe here, the best time to visit is at night due to the number of bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for a typical sports bar go to The Cambie Pub (300 Cambie Street), while if you like a wide selection of beers go to The Alibi Room (157 Alexander Street). Also, if you like photos as momentums from cities, get a quick snap at the Gastown Steam Clock before leaving.

Getting there: Take the Skytrain (Canada/Expo Lines) to Waterfront Station.

4. Chinatown

Photo courtesy of N Wong.

Canada’s largest Chinatown should be visited for one of two things – shopping and/or eating. Stores here specialise in fabric, spices, clothing and more, while the restaurants, many of which are either on or just off Pender Street, are extremely affordable and authentic. If you want to try something, I recommend trying Wild Rice (117 West Pender Street). But if you’re after dim sums (many people are), try Kam Wai Dim Sum (249 East Pender Street).

Getting there: Take the Skytrain (Expo Line) to Stadium/Chinatown station.

5. Mount Pleasant

Photo courtesy of Rick Chung.

Mount Pleasant is a neighbourhood that’s becoming more and more popular in Vancouver over the last decade. Seen as a somewhat alternative area, it’s full of restaurants specialising in vegetarian food and shops dealing in second-hand goods. There are bars, cafes and restaurants everywhere, but many of them are located around the intersection of Main and Broadway. If you want to do nothing else but hang out for the day, this is the neighbourhood to do it in.

Getting there: Take the Skytrain (Canada Line) to Broadway City Hall station.

Main image photo courtesy of Dripps.

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