After a long day of travelling yesterday, we had the opportunity to explore the great city of Vancouver in British Columbia. We visited various landmarks and neighborhoods, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful city.
When we arrived yesterday, the city was still buzzing with Canada Day celebrations. It was no surprise to find the streets empty the next morning, as many people were probably recovering from their festivities.
Aquabus from Yaletown, Vancouver
We started our day in the neighborhood of Yaletown, near the waterfront of False Creek. While exploring the area, we discovered the Aquabus service, which offered a convenient way to get around. We hopped on board one of the small and comfortable vessels, enjoying the scenic views of Vancouver’s waterfront.
Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver
Our next stop was Granville Island. After disembarking from the Aquabus, we made a short walk to Granville Island Public Market. Established in 1979, this market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and homemade chocolates. The vibrant colors and neatly arranged stalls made it a feast for the eyes.
Canada Place
From Granville Island, we took the Aquabus again and made our way to Canada Place. This iconic waterfront location is home to the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre. Walking along the promenade, we were amazed by the size of the cruise ships docked there, which primarily set sail for Alaska. The white sails of Canada Place made it a prominent landmark in Vancouver.
Gastown
We then explored Gastown, one of Vancouver’s most famous neighborhoods. This vibrant district offers a mix of shops, restaurants, bars, art galleries, and offices. We couldn’t miss the iconic Gastown steam clock, which chimed on the hour and emitted steam, adding to its charm. We also discovered the statue of “Gassy” Jack Deighton, a Yorkshire steamboat captain who played a significant role in the area’s history.
Vancouver’s Chinatown
Our journey continued to Vancouver’s Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in Canada. Similar to Gastown, Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction, offering a vibrant atmosphere with its street decor, sculptures, and shops. We were particularly impressed by the Millennium Gate, which served as a beautiful entrance to the neighborhood.
Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
While in Chinatown, we visited the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. This tranquil garden consisted of two sections: an admission-based garden featuring a Chinese bridge, pavilion, and pond, and a free-to-enter Chinese Garden with a larger pond. We were amazed by the beauty and serenity of the gardens, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Vancouver Lookout at the Harbour Centre
Our final destination was the Harbour Centre, where we ascended to the Vancouver Lookout. Taking a glass elevator that soared 168 meters high, we were treated to awe-inspiring views of the city, waterfront, and mountains from the observation deck. The panorama was absolutely breathtaking, and we even returned after dinner to witness the cityscape illuminated at night.
With our day of exploration complete, we returned to our hotel to rest and prepare for our upcoming visit to Vancouver Island tomorrow.