A favourite hangout among locals and tourists alike, Granville Island is one of those can’t-miss kind of places. Tucked away under Granville Bridge, the island is famous for its popular food market, theatres and artisan workshops. It didn’t always look like this though. In the early 1900s, the island was pretty much just factories, sawmills and manufacturing warehouses. Sounds pretty bleak, right? While many of these historic buildings still remain, they’ve been treated to a modern makeover and repurposed into food halls, shops and studios. In other words, it’s a hipster’s haven. But despite all its coolness, the neighbourhood has a distinctly old-world look and feel, with an ever-growing creative community of artists and craftworkers adding to its magical charm.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of Granville Island is the legendary Public Market. It’s often described as a ‘food-lover’s paradise’, and you’ll soon understand why when you see the endless stalls piled high with fresh produce, seafood and baked treats. When you’re not exploring the sights and sounds of the busy indoor market, you can catch a show at one of the island’s theatres, browse an art gallery or watch the rainbow-coloured boats bob along False Creek. There are some great boutique shops too if you’re looking to pick up a unique souvenir. What more could you possibly want?
Whether you go for the food, the theatre or the vibrant atmosphere, Granville Island will leave you with the urge to return again and again.