Ever wondered what makes Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia so special? It’s known for its lively art scene, busy public market, and local breweries. Plus, it’s a top spot for whale-watching. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you live in Vancouver, there’s always something new to discover.
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But what are the hidden spots and must-see places on this lively island? Let’s dive in and find out.
Key Takeaways
- Granville Island attracts over 10 million visitors annually, making it a top destination in Vancouver.
- The Granville Island Public Market, reopened in 1978, is a hub for local artisans, vendors, and foodies.
- Granville Island is renowned for its vibrant art scene, with over 100 galleries and art studios showcasing diverse talent.
- Visitors can explore the island’s rich history, from its indigenous roots to its industrial past and recent redevelopment.
- Granville Island offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to high-end restaurants, catering to every budget.
Granville Island: A Brief History
Granville Island is in the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia. It has a rich history that changed it into a vibrant spot loved by many. The area was once a sandbar called Snaq, home to the Indigenous Squamish people. They used it for fishing and gathering.
Originally a Sandbar Called Snaq
In 1869, a small reserve was set up in False Creek, pushing the Squamish people away. The Granville Bridge built in 1889 linked both sides of False Creek. Soon, Granville Island became a hub for industry, with many companies and employees.
From Industrial Boom to Abandonment
The Great Depression and World War II led to a decline in industry here. For decades, Granville Island was left unused. It was forgotten until the 1970s, when Ron Basford, a former Liberal Minister, wanted to revamp the island.
Redevelopment and Revival in the 1970s
Basford’s plan brought new life to Granville Island. More shops, restaurants, and art studios opened. The Granville Island Public Market, known for local produce and crafts, reopened in 1978. Now, it draws over 10 million visitors yearly, making it a top spot for both locals and tourists.
Granville Island changed from a forgotten industrial area to a lively community and creative center. Its story of urban renewal and preserving heritage shows its unique appeal in Vancouver.
Shop and Indulge at the Granville Island Public Market
Granville Island’s Public Market is a top spot for anyone visiting. It’s filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, and tasty food. With over 50 food vendors, it’s a feast for food lovers.
Walking through, you’ll smell fresh pastries and see colorful fruits and veggies. There are gourmet foods and special items too. It’s a dream for those who love food.
But it’s not just about food. The market also has unique crafts, art, and gifts. You can meet local artisans and learn about their work.
The courtyard is perfect for enjoying your finds. Sit back, watch the boats, and taste the best of Granville Island’s food scene.
Looking for a quick snack or a fancy meal? The market has it all. You can find everything from doughnuts to sushi and chocolates.
The market’s lively vibe makes it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Its history, culture, and food make it a key part of the island.
Sip Local Brews at Granville Island Brewing
Granville Island Brewing is a key player in Vancouver’s craft beer scene. Since 1984, it has led the city’s beer revolution. Visitors can try their classic Northwest Pale Ale, seasonal beers, and limited-edition brews.
A Pioneering Microbrewery in Vancouver
Granville Island Brewing is one of Canada’s first microbreweries. It’s located on beautiful Granville Island. The tasting room and bar offer a stunning view for enjoying their beers.
Their beers range from the popular Northwest Pale Ale to unique seasonal and limited-edition brews. This shows the variety and creativity of Vancouver’s craft beer scene.
Seasonal and Limited Edition Beers
- Granville Island Brewing also has seasonal and limited-edition beers. These let you see their creativity and experimentation.
- Their Peach Sour is a hit in summer, being a refreshing and fruity beer.
- Their limited-edition beers often use unique ingredients and techniques. This gives you a chance to try new and exciting flavors.
If you love craft beer or want to try local brews, visiting Granville Island Brewing is a must. Dive into its rich history and innovative spirit. Enjoy the flavors that have made it a favorite in Vancouver’s beer scene.
Embark on a Whale Watching Adventure
Granville Island is the perfect spot for an unforgettable whale watching trip. You can join guided tours with Wild Whales Vancouver. They let you see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, and dolphins. These tours also show you Vancouver’s famous city views and landmarks, making it a unique adventure.
The best time for whale watching is from April to October. This is when you’re most likely to see killer whales, humpback whales, and grey whales. Tour operators have a success rate of over 90% for whale sightings. This is because they know the area well and there’s a lot of marine life around.
| Tour Company | Departure Point | Tour Duration | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Whale Watch | Steveston Village | 3-5 hours | $191.25 |
| Prince of Whales | Granville Island | 3-5 hours | $235.99 |
| Lotus Land Safari | Hotel Pickup | 5 hours | $389.00 |
Whether you pick a short tour or a longer one, whale watching from Granville Island is unforgettable. It’s a chance to see these amazing creatures in their home. And it’s a way to make lasting memories of your trip to Vancouver.
Explore the Vibrant Art Scene
Granville Island is a paradise for art lovers. It’s full of talented painters, woodworkers, sculptors, jewelers, fashion designers, and photographers. With more than 100 galleries and studios, you’ll find plenty of ways to dive into the island’s creative world.
Visit Local Artists’ Open Studios
Granville Island lets you see art being made up close. Artists open their studios to the public. You can watch them work and learn about their art. From abstract paintings to detailed woodwork, the variety will amaze you.
Admire Diverse Art Galleries
Granville Island also has many art galleries. These places show off the island’s rich art scene. You’ll see work by Canadian abstract painters and sculptors from Zimbabwe. Each gallery has its own special view, making sure there’s something for every art fan.
| Art Galleries on Granville Island | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Granville Island Art Galleries | – Abstract painting – Sculpture – Woodwork – Photography |
| Granville Island Studios | – Jewelry-making – Fashion design – Ceramics – Glassblowing |
| Granville Island Artisan Market | – Diverse handmade crafts – Local artisan products – Rotating vendor showcases |
“Granville Island is a canvas come to life, where the creative spirit of the city shines through in every brush stroke, every carved sculpture, and every handcrafted piece of art.”
Ride the Aquabus for Stunning City Views
Discover Granville Island and its surroundings in a special way. Take the Aquabus, a water taxi that links the island to spots along False Creek, like Yaletown. This service makes getting around easy and gives you amazing city views.
As you move over False Creek’s calm waters, you’ll see Vancouver’s beautiful skyline and the waterfront. The Aquabus stops at many places. You can get off to see vibrant Granville Island, stylish Yaletown, or other spots along the creek.
- Experience the city from a unique vantage point aboard the Aquabus
- Enjoy stunning views of Granville Island, False Creek, and the surrounding neighbourhoods
- Conveniently travel between Granville Island and other destinations along the waterfront
- Discover the charm and character of Vancouver’s urban waterways
If you’re visiting for the first time or just want to see Vancouver again, the Aquabus is key to the Granville Island trip. Get on and let the waves and city views take you to a new view of this beautiful part of British Columbia.
“The Aquabus is a must-do when visiting Granville Island. It’s a fun and unique way to experience the city’s waterfront and get a different perspective on Vancouver’s stunning skyline.”
Granville Island, British Columbia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Granville Island is a vibrant spot in the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia. It has a rich history and lots of activities. It’s a top spot for both locals and tourists.
The Granville Island Public Market is a big draw. It’s full of fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. The market is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm. It’s perfect for families, with the Kids Only Market offering fun for the little ones.
Granville Island is also known for its arts scene. The Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design shows off student art. There are theaters and outdoor spaces for music and arts festivals all year.
Nature lovers will find plenty to do here. You can go whale watching, hike in the Canadian Rockies, or try Kicking Horse River Rafting and Whitewater Adventures.
Granville Island is close to other great places like Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Yoho National Park, and Glacier National Park. It’s a great spot to start exploring the region. You can also see Northern Lights Tours and Mountain Biking Routes nearby.
Don’t miss the Golden Museum in Golden, a short drive from Granville Island. It offers a deep dive into culture and food.
Granville Island has something for everyone. Its history, activities, and location make it a top spot in British Columbia. It promises an unforgettable visit for all.
Attend Lively Festivals and Events
Granville Island is alive with festivals and events all year. They celebrate music, literature, and the performing arts. You can enjoy these in outdoor spots, art studios, cozy cafes, and even at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design.
Music, Literature, and Performing Arts Festivals
The Vancouver International Jazz Festival is a big hit, drawing over 500,000 people for ten days of music. The Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival brings drama to the island from June to September. It’s held at Sen̓áḵw/Vanier Park.
For book lovers, the Vancouver International Writers Festival is a must-visit. It happens on Granville Island in October, with famous authors and workshops. The Khatsahlano! Street Party in early July is another highlight, with music, beer gardens, and lots of food.
Seasonal Events and Celebrations
Granville Island also has seasonal events all year. The Honda Celebration of Light festival is a summer favorite. It features fireworks over three nights in late July at English Bay and Burrard Inlet.
In the fall, the Fair at the PNE at Hastings Park is a carnival with games and tasty food. The Granville Island Farmers Market runs every Thursday in spring and summer. It connects visitors with local producers and artisans.
Granville Island has something for everyone, whether you like music, books, arts, or seasonal events. Its events calendar is always full of fun and engaging activities.
Savor Local Seafood and Cuisine
Granville Island is a top spot for food lovers, offering a unique dining experience. It celebrates the best of British Columbia’s seafood and diverse dishes. The island’s lively atmosphere is perfect for enjoying the tastes of the Pacific Northwest.
For a top seafood meal, check out Longliner Seafoods. This family-owned shop has been at the Granville Island Public Market since the start. You’ll find fresh and smoked local seafood like salmon and halibut here. Miku, a famous restaurant by the harbor, is known for its sushi with great views.
Granville Island also has a wide range of food options for everyone. Published On Main, a Michelin Star winner, offers a new take on local ingredients. St. Lawrence serves up cozy Québécois dishes in a welcoming setting, mixing rustic and fine dining.
For dessert lovers, Earnest Ice Cream and A La Mode are a must. Earnest Ice Cream is loved for its changing flavors each month. A La Mode has been a favorite in Vancouver for over 37 years with its wide pie selection.
Granville Island has everything from fresh seafood to innovative dishes and classic comfort foods. Discover the island’s food highlights and enjoy the tastes that make it a top food destination.
| Dining Destination | Specialty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Longliner Seafoods | Fresh and Smoked Local Seafood | Three-generational family-run shop, original tenant at Granville Island Public Market |
| Miku | Sushi | Iconic fine dining restaurant with harbor views |
| Published On Main | Innovative Local Cuisine | Michelin Star and #1 on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list |
| St. Lawrence | Québécois Cuisine | Cozy atmosphere, blending rustic and haute cuisine |
| Earnest Ice Cream | Handcrafted Ice Cream | Monthly rotating flavors, local favorite |
| A La Mode | Pies | 37 years in the Vancouver food scene, over 40 flavors |
“Granville Island is a true gastronomic haven, where the flavors of the Pacific Northwest come alive in a vibrant waterfront setting.”
Unwind at Waterfront Eateries and Pubs
Granville Island is a lively spot in Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s known for its many eateries and pubs. These places are great for relaxing and enjoying the view of False Creek and the city. You can find everything from casual craft beer spots to fancy restaurants here.
There are cozy pubs serving local beers and famous restaurants with the best seafood and produce. You can have a slow lunch at a waterfront spot. Enjoy fresh fish, artisan sandwiches, and seasonal dishes while looking at the calm water and boats.
When the sun goes down, the island’s pubs and bars get busy. People come for cool cocktails and craft beers. You can enjoy live music, trivia, or just the fun vibe. There’s a place for every taste, making sure you have a great time and make memories.
Looking for a quick snack or a fancy meal? Granville Island’s waterfront places are ideal for your Vancouver trip. Enjoy a great meal and soak in the island’s lively feel and beautiful views.
Conclusion
Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia, is a true gem. It offers a wide range of experiences for every traveler. You can explore the vibrant art scene, try delicious local food, or go on outdoor adventures.
There’s always something to do here. You might walk through the bustling Granville Island Public Market. Or, you could try craft brews at Granville Island Brewing. Or maybe go on a whale-watching trip. Each activity creates unforgettable memories in this special place.
Granville Island’s history shows the city’s strength and the community’s love for its culture. The island has moved from an industrial area to a lively spot today. This change shows the city’s growth and the community’s effort to keep its heritage alive.
Granville Island lets you experience the beauty of Vancouver, from the tall mountains to the shining sea. It’s a place that locals and visitors love. This island is a key spot that shows off British Columbia’s variety. Get ready to be amazed by Granville Island’s charm, creativity, and endless possibilities.
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