Top 5 Things To Do In Vancouver
Granville Island's unique shopping and arts destination is a perfect place to spend the day or half day come rain or shine. You can do a walking tour that focuses on culinary indulgences or learn about the area’s history and architecture while shopping for unpredictable and distinctive products. Children of all ages will love the Kids Market where you can find every toy and childhood treasure new and from days gone bye.
The public market is incredible and offers fresh food, unique drink, flowers and artisan products. Buy a fresh baguette and pair with gourmet olives and locally made cheese and dine outdoors while enjoying the street entertainment, sights and sounds of this water front location.
www.granvilleisland.com
2. Tour a multi cultural neighborhood.
- 1. Commercial Drive
defines an 8 or 9 block strip of an east Vancouver neighborhood that is a cultural mosaic. You will find Cuban restaurants, Italian coffee houses, Thai or sushi take out, reggae music and live jazz and an atmosphere that breeds excitement at any time of the year. I especially recommend being there around world cup soccer time when the Drive is a big party. Shopping is eclectic on the drive and you won’t find any big box stores here. However, you will find everything from import furniture, fine fabrics, and chic shoe stores to second hand clothing and used goods. - 2. China Town
is located in the downtown east side of Vancouver and is easily accessible on foot from the downtown core. You can even seek out The Silk Road Route which is a pedestrian walk connecting Chinatown to Downtown Vancouver. The way is clearly marked with colorful banners and road signs, this self-guided walking tour encompasses all of Chinatown's best activities and cultural highlights. Starting from the city centre's Central Library, the course takes you through Keefer Street, International Village, the site of the future Millennium Gate on Pender Street, the Chinese Cultural Centre, the Chinatown market area and the must see Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. - 3. Walk through a rain forest
–whether you pick a local walk such as the most well known Stanley Park, the U.B.C endowment lands or if you choose to wander farther out to Vancouver’s North Shore or Squamish. You can discover the lush world of some of B.C.’s beautiful rain forests.You should take the time to visit the Capilano suspension bridge where you can take guided tours learning about the mysteries of this impressive eco system. This is a great activity for family or singles and can be explored in any weather.
4. Go Shopping
- · Robson Street – It has been nicknamed Canada’s Rodeo drive and offers everything from high fashion to book stores, souvenir shops and great places to enjoy a coffee or settle in for a meal. Located in Vancouver’s downtown core and is with in walking distance to most city center hotels.
- Yaletown –an industrial area that has converted its brick warehouses into über-trendy clothing stores, furniture shops and boutique restaurants. It is the place to spot Hollywood stars and one of the city’s best spots for people watching.
- West Fourth – During the sixties this was the Haight Ashbury of Vancouver and it is now the home to many young urban professionals and families. This strip will delight the shopper that is looking for unique products, cafes, book stores and health conscious eating.
- Main Street- This is where east meets west and you will enter a world of antique shops, multi cultural stores, ethnic restaurants and a great departure from the typical tourist destinations.
5. Vancouver Art Gallery
A wonderful escape into a world of Canadian and international artwork where you will See works by famed West coast artist Emily Carr , the group of seven and other art icons. For more information call 604.662.4719 or visit: www.vanartgallery.com
