Lower Lonsdale is just across the water from Vancouver’s downtown, but you don’t have to hit the city to have a good time! With its prime waterfront location, lively shops and restaurants, and expansive local parks, Lower Lonsdale’s got everything you need to have a great day.
Take the Seabus Across the Water
If you’re trapped on the south side of the Burrard Inlet without a car, don’t stress! The passenger-only Seabus, accessible from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver, is a quick, cheap, and relatively scenic way to get to North Van. Bonus: there’s no chance of getting stuck in traffic crossing the Lion’s Gate Bridge!
Visit the Lonsdale Quay Market
The Seabus will drop you right at the Lonsdale Quay Market, which opened for Expo ’86 as a carnival-style marketplace and has since transformed into a community hub. The Market is now home to more than 80 specialty shops and services, including restaurants, bakeries, storefronts for local designers, and fresh food options.
Head to Fun Alley
Wander north on Lonsdale Avenue, and you’ll soon stumble across Fun Alley—it’s hard to miss! This colourful spot, a sprawling installation by Australian artist Lukas Kasper, is now a destination for the social media-savvy among us in search of the perfect playful backdrop for Insta. Grab pics here before moving on to your next stop!
Time for Lunch
Getting hungry? We thought so. Visit one of our top five recommendations for restaurants in Lower Lonsdale. Don’t fill up too much, though—your day’s not over yet!
Take in Some Culture at the Polygon Gallery
The Polygon Gallery, open Thursday – Sunday, is the largest non-profit photographic gallery in Western Canada. Exhibits here focus on photography and media-based art. If you caught their showing of Christian Marclay’s 2011 work The Clock, you’ll have an idea of the experimental contemporary art you can expect.
Hit the Shipyards Night Market
If it’s Friday night in summer, you’re in luck: the Shipyards Night Market is one of Lower Lonsdale’s top community events. Here, you’ll find food trucks, local products, musicians, art, and so much more. Festivities start at 5PM and run until 10PM, so plan your stay accordingly!
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