VANCOUVER OUTDOORS
EXPLORING SUMMER SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
Vancouver is a stunning place to visit year round, but locals and visitors alike will agree that nothing beats the city in the summer! It’s no wonder that everybody wants to spend as much time as possible outdoors, but that shouldn’t stop you from shopping till you drop. With a bevy of gourmet treats, stunning handcrafted souvenirs and fashions hot off of the runways, Vancouver is a world- class shopping destination. Here are some of the best outdoor markets and sunny shopping promenades guaranteed to have you opening your pocketbook and begging for more! Granville Island Market - Consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in all of Canada, it’s easy to see why this market gets top marks in the summer shopping category. Perched on the edge of Granville Island and surrounded by the sparkling water of False Creek, the market boasts views of Stanley Park, downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains. A selection of gourmet and international foods awaits you in this converted factory, reopened to the public as the beloved market in 1981. Some standouts among the 100+ vendors include Benton Brothers Cheeses, a family-run fromagerie known for cave-aged gruyere and delectable blue; The Oyama Sausage Company who hand make dozens of exotic sausages andpâtés, including duck prosciutto and elk pepperoni; and the Salmon Shop, the local institution famed for smoked, candied and fresh salmon, all available for packing and shipping. Perfect for grabbing the ingredients for a picnic lunch or as the source of culinary goodies for your friends and family, the Granville Island Market is not to be missed! Visit granvilleisland.com/ public-market.
Robson Street - Often lauded as Canada’s most sought-after retail real estate, Robson Street is a shopper’s paradise. Dozens of high-end and midrange chain shops such as Lululemon, Aldo, Victoria’s Secret and Banana Republic mingle with Canadian favourites - Plenty, Aritzia and Le Chateau. Don’t miss the chance to sun yourself on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery where you can join local office workers soaking up some rays while savouring posh street fare from the plethora of nearby food trucks. A westward stroll up Robson is a fantastic chance to window-shop, people-watch and dine in style. Visit robsonstreet.ca.
Commercial Drive - Where do Vancouverites head for a dose of the bohemian life? Commercial Drive! Referred to as simply “The Drive” by locals, this colourful street is home to a thriving Little Italy and, more recently, has become the centre for Brazilian, Ecuadorian and Portuguese culture in the city. Mixed into this vibrant milieu, you will find funky boutiques selling fair-trade handicrafts, organic food shops and eclectic bars and cafes. Known for its exciting street festivals and “car free” days in the summer, The Drive is the ideal neighbourhood to explore if you want to get out of the ordinary and into the sunshine! Visit thedrive.ca.
Lonsdale Quay - Planning a trip to Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge or Lynn Valley Regional Park? Don’t miss out on this friendly, quaint public market known for artisanal gifts, fresh seafood and a selection of international delicacies. The Lonsdale Quay Market is located in a former shipyard, perched on the banks of North Vancouver, and it’s easily reachable by car or by public transport on the Sea Bus commuter ferry. It is easy to spend an hour or two sampling authentic gelato, plucking ripe produce and browsing tasteful souvenirs with the stunning backdrop of the downtown cityscape. Visit lonsdalequay.com.
Railspur Alley - The market is not the only attraction on Granville Island. Once you’ve had your fill of delectable edibles, make sure you explore some of Vancouver’s most unique shops at Railspur Alley. Once a part of the industrial rail system on the island, this quaint street is lined with artisanal shops owned and operated by artists. Indulge in an article of wearable art from Alarte Silks, or a piece of creative handcrafted jewelry from Forge and Form. Stop by the Kids Market where the young (and young at heart!) will delight in kites, puppets and toys galore. Now that you have beautiful, unique souvenirs for the whole gang, reward yourself with a pint of freshly brewed beer at the Dockside Brewery (located in the Granville Island Hotel), home to one of Vancouver’s most stunning patio views! Visit granvilleisland. com/public-market.
Kitsilano – Known to locals as “Kits”, this once hippy mecca is surrounded by lovingly restored Victorian and Art Deco homes, and boasts 17 parks as well as several annual festivals and events. West Fourth Avenue is jam-packed with upmarket shops selling casual-cool lifestyle accessories, extreme sports gear and on-trend fashions. You’re only a few steps from the ultra-trendy Kitsilano beach, so make sure to kick off your shoes and end your shopping excursion with a stroll on the sand! Visit kitsilano.ca/ category/shopping.
As you can see, on a sunny summer day in Vancouver, there is no reason to stay indoors to get your shopping fix and discover those unique, one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Just don’t forget to spoil yourself! – Enjoy Vancouver!