The hubby and I, and our good friends The Underdowns, took the train from Seattle to Vancouver for a long weekend. It was my first time traveling by train and it was a lovely experience. We sat back and relaxed without the exhaustion of driving or the annoyance of traffic (plus going through customs is just a breeze if you visit Canada by train or boat).
We stayed in an adorable AirBnB townhouse in Yaletown. It’s a great, walkable neighborhood filled with restaurants, like the delightful Homer St Cafe, bars, and independent shops, like Moulé where I drank champagne while I browsed, and found a fabulous dress on sale.
I think my favorite park of the trip was Stanley Park. It’s was just amazing and beautiful. I can’t really do it justice, you just need to go and spend at least a full day wandering around. Make sure you visit the Aquarium to see beluga whales, sea lions, jelly fish, and Chester, the false killer whale—technically part of the dolphin family—with a large personality. He swam right up to us and started chatting away with clicks and squeaks. The Aquarium does a good job telling each animal’s rescue and rehabilitation story, as well as those who were successful released.
EAT
Something to note about dining in Vancouver—most restaurants do not take reservations so you should expect to wait. The good news is that most place will take your phone number and text you when the table is ready. So get there early, get on the list, and then take a little stroll or go shopping.
Yaletown
Homer St Cafe Delightful cafe. Go for the roasted chicken, wine and cocktails.
Twisted Fork Bistro We went for brunch but found that it was just ok. Check out their website for the up-to-date wait times.
Medina Cafe Brunch is suppose to be amazing, but we didn’t make it here because it’s very popular. Get there at least 30 minutes before they open. Trust me.
Main Street
The Shameful Tiki Room Start with the Mystery Bowl for two. It’s served with the clash of a gong, plus it’s on fire, so yeah. The Painkiller, with house made coconut cream, was my favorite. It’s a little boozy, a little sweet, and so yummy.
Chinatown
Bao Bei Get one of everything! The standouts include: chino margarita, sticky rice cakes, kick ass fried rice, octopus salad, potstickers.
Juniper While you’re waiting for your table at Boa Bei, have a cocktail next door at Juniper’s bar. They have a comprehensive list of Gin and Tonics.
Granville Island
Edible There isn’t a ton of dining options on the island—most are pretty touristy—but this place is a standout. Not only is the food great, but they’ve got a nice patio, a really great atmosphere if you dine indoors, and an adorable store filled with delightful goods.
Lee’s Donuts Try the lemon or the chocolate. Note: they only take cash (US or Canadian) or Canadian credit cards, so come prepared.
Stanley Park
Stanley Park Grill Stop in here for a snack and drink on the patio after visiting the Aquarium
SEE
Getting Around: Uber and Lyft aren’t currently available in Vancouver which is a major bummer. I didn’t find it too difficult to find a taxi, but if you want to make it even easier, you can download the Yellow Cab app on your phone.
Stanley Park Walk, bike or rollerblade for miles along the sea wall. Browse the canvases of local artists, take a tour of the totem poles and art installations around the park. Watch for the roaming trash pandas (raccoons) eating lunch. Take a dip in the expansive swimming pool overlooking the harbor. Hang out at the sandy pocket beaches. It’s easy to find food vendors and you won’t have to search far for a bathroom.
Aquarium Visit Chester (the false killer whale), sea lions, beluga whales, jelly fish, and if you’re brave—touch the stingrays.
Granville Island Market Hop on the Aquabus or False Creek Ferry to get over to the island and then stroll through the public market, artist studios, shops, before you pop in the Charles H. Scott Gallery at the Emily Carr University.
SHOP
Yaletown
Moule and many more independent boutiques
Gastown
Menu Skateboard Shop has a large selection of Herschel bags.
Secret Location is high concept clothing from independent designers as well as some vintage Chanel bags.
Meadow is a cute boutique that sells cards, children’s clothing, and gifts like tea towels, soap, and jewelry.
Plus, lots of art galleries, home decor, and designy stores around every corner.
Note: This area is also where the cruise ship dock, so you might have to wade through the crowds and touristy trinkets until you get to the good stuff.
Best for vintage clothing stores, record stores, used books.
See more of Bobby’s photos from the trip.
What should I visit next time? Any favorite go-to spots? Leave me a note in the comments.