As a Vancouver-based hotel, hundreds of guests ask the staff at the Victorian Hotel whether it’s worth making the trek to historic Granville Island. And in a word—YES. As Vancouver’s biggest farmer’s market, there is something absolutely charming about this open, colourful space, which has long served as a haven for artists, actors, artisans and growers.
Tucked away under the Granville Street Bridge, Granville Island Market is a not-so-hidden gem chockfull of delightful spaces and places just awaiting discovery.
Surprisingly, the diminutive island boasts over three hundred businesses, artist studios, theatre, and other facilities, utilizing repurposed warehouses which harken back to the area’s industrial past. However, rather than cement mixers and trucks, the island has evolved into a haven where visitors can enjoy Improv Theatre, browse art galleries, and walk away with an almost unfathomable amount of artisanal handmade goods.
As one of many attractions around Vancouver, Granville Island is just a short bus ride from the historic Victorian Hotel. Guests can take the 50 Waterfront Station from Granville Street, where they’ll be dropped off within sight of the welcoming neon entrance peeking out from under the Granville Street Bridge. On sunny days consider renting bicycles and cycling along the designated bike path that takes you directly to Granville Island or to the SeaBus terminal under the Burrard Street Bridge and access the market via water on a small walk-on ferry.
Granville Island continues to be a popular attraction due in part to the sheer variety of activities available. There’s something for everyone. While the largest feature is the Public Market, there’s an incredible range of boutique-y stalls with the takeaway treasures that just can’t be found anywhere else.
Visitors are often stunned by the sheer volume of theatres and galleries the market has to offer. And when it comes to food, elastic pants are a good idea, because there are dozens of eateries boasting wares that from the homegrown and handmade to opulent, sizzling masterpieces featuring ingredients taken from Vancouver’s bountiful natural larder.
For kids, Granville Island is an experience unlike any other. From brightly coloured confectionaries to old-timey toy stores, little ones can indulge in plenty of fun activities which include a children’s theatre, kids market, outside playground and water park.
While it’s quite possible to see everything Granville Island has to offer in a day, it’s not always possible to do everything. So, opting to return it quite reasonable. Come back and relax at the Victorian Hotel. Maybe give those tired tootsies a soak in our spa-style tubs. Then after your complimentary “Healthy Start” breakfast, you’ll be ready to catch-up on all the attractions you missed—or maybe revisit a few favourites.
To learn more about the attractions around Vancouver’s Victorian Hotel, call toll free at 1.877.681.6369. or visit website www.victorianhotel.ca to make a reservation online.