Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Vancouver B.C: Best Things to do on Granville Island



Granville Island waterfront with boats docked, viewed from False Creek in Vancouver
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If you've been following my blog for very long- you know I love my Canadian roots!  I was fortunate to grow up in Vancouver. Welcome back - in this post I'm sharing Best tips for Visiting Granville Island!

Granville Island: Vancouver’s Charming Waterfront Hideaway

As you step off the boat or stroll across the bridge, Granville Island immediately wraps you in a warm embrace of maritime charm. Whether you're a  Vancouver local or just visiting, this “man‑made island” nestled in False Creek feels like a blend of history, art  and everyday life. It’s not just a destination—it’s a place to slow down, explore, and savor. I loved growing up near here!

Scenic View of False Creek and Bridge from Granville Island

 
Reserve experiences  in the Van area and near Granville Island to enjoy the best of Western Canada! Many great hotels await you downtown as well! 

PRO TIP: The Marriott Bonvoy on Coal Harbor is a dreamy stay, I loved it!

Under the Bridge Views of Granville Island, Vancouver BC

Under the Bridge: The Fascinating Roots of Granville Island

Originally two sandbars, Granville Island started as an industrial outpost destined for factories and warehouses alike. Today, that concrete and tin skeleton has given way to a vibrant 14‑hectare peninsula buzzing with creativity. From Emily Carr’s art studios to repurposed silos splashed with street art, every corner speaks of transformation and reinvention.  Check out the silos , I call them the "Stylish Guys" of Vancouver!

Granville Island Public Market:  Bakery Shop with Macarons

A Taste of Vancouver: Inside the Public Market


Hands down, the Public Market is the heart and soul of Granville Island. Imagine fifty stalls offering everything from artisan cheeses to sushi rolls, plump berries  and sugary treats. When you close your eyes, you can feel your nose drawn toward fresh pierogies or warm bread—a  nod to my Eastern European roots. Wandering through the Granville Market is where every bite tells a story and every aroma feels like home.


This market is the king of Vancouver destinations. It has a fascinating assortment of homemade products featuring local makers and artisans. Close your eyes, and smell fresh aromas coming from the  displays of food, warm baked goods and plump fruit.


Granville Island Market, Vancouver BC: Polish Food

My mother and grandparents  used to cook sausage, sauerkraut and pierogies when I was growing up.  I'm a mix of German, Russian and Polish, so this yummy food is right up my alley. The smell wafting through the market took my nose right to the goods!


Charming boutique or artisan café on Granville Island with flower displays

Cafe Culture & Local Shops

Around the market area, you will find cafes, boutiques and specialty vendors. I adore the cozy café where you can sip a latte while watching artists handcraft  their beautiful goods. It’s the kind of place where each item feels passionately made. These items are perfect for gifting and for supporting the locals. I love to browse in this market, and sample all the different foods!

Granville Island Market Tea Shop

Scenic Walks and Waterfront Moments

The views around False Creek are nothing short of breathtaking.  Gazing at water taxis drifting past, is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. It’s a perfect setting to linger, journal, or  let your thoughts wander. Grab some lunch from the market and watch the city bustle by at a peaceful pace.


Scenic sunset over Granville Island with water taxis passing through False Creek
     

Granville Island waterfront with boats docked, viewed from False Creek in Vancouver

Dressing for Granville Island: Stylish and Practical

This visit to Vancouver was in February. The weather in winter can be a bit dicey—but we were blessed! I stayed cozy in a long tunic sweater, dark jeggings aand waterproof booties. Extend this for other seasons: think lightweight layers, scarves, or a chic rain jacket if you visit in spring. Most importantly, make sure your shoes are comfortable for lots of walking.


Woman in cozy winter travel outfit on Granville Island boardwalk, wearing sweater and boots

Why Granville Island Should Be on Everyone’s Vancity List

If you visit Vancouver, stopping at Granville Island is a must! It’s the perfect introduction to the city's amazing offerings  Whether you're celebrating a birthday (like I was!)  hunting for gifts,or soaking in the scenery;  this amazing peninsula is an unforgettable snapshot of everything that makes this city magical! 

Panoramic View of False Creek from Granville Island

Have you been to Vancouver? 

If not, I hope it's a destination on your bucket list. There is so much to do and see! If you haven't heard it already- Vancouver is considered one of the most COSMOPOLITAN cites of the world!

For additional travel tips and inspiration you can catch me on Instagram!


Traveling to Vancouver?: Click top right corner to Save to Pinterest 

                         

                            





                                                      



Would you like to comment?

  1. Just added this destination to my travel wish list!!

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    1. HI Katie...cool I hope you get to go soon!

      Valerie

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  2. It looks sooo beautiful here! I can't wait to visit! I hope you had a wonderful birthday - your pictures are absolutely stunning! XO

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    1. Thank you AD....you are such a doll..thanks so much for all YOUR HELP ..I am so glad we connected...you are the best! I hope you get to come visit..I will show your Vancouver

      xo
      Val

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  3. Sounds lovely! And your photos are gorgeous :)

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  4. Sounds like a great place to celebrate your birthday! I am Polish as well, and love all sausage and pierogi. I ve been to Canada, but to Vancouver area. Looking forward to making my way out.

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    1. HI Sarah! I am a just a smidgen of Polish..mostly german..but ya know all those three nationalities are very similar when it comes to cuisine...so yummy!! I hope you get to see this!

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  5. This looks incredible! I would for sure love the public market!

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    1. Yes the market is so amazing..I had tons more pictures of it..but didn't want to overwhelm with too many.. :)

      Thanks for coming by!

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  6. I've never heard of this city but it looks awesome. Enjoy your time there and have FUN.

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    1. Wow Jennifer I am surprised you have never heard of Vancouver..it is an amazing place and glad to call it home! I am so glad you stopped by and thank you!

      xo
      Valerie

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  7. Gorgeous pictures for a gorgeous weekend! The lantern tree is pretty too!

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  8. I live in Vancouver, and can you believe I've only been here once?! Definitely on my to do list to go back this spring!

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    1. Hey Chelsea!! So kewl you live there..I miss it and wish I could move back someday! I lived there until I was 17 and have never been to Whistler....so that's crazy too....I need to go there!!

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  9. Gorgeous photos. I've never been to Vancouver, and this is just one more reason to visit the area.

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    1. Hi Tara...I hope you can make it sometime...you'll love it!

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  10. Great post. Well done
    You have a interesting blog
    I hope you will like mine
    www.welovefur.com

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    1. Thank you so much..I have been to your site several times...love it!

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  11. Ooh I lived in Vancouver and I loved it !
    The city is everything <3 Nice pictures!!

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    1. Thank you so much...I miss it there bad! I would love to move back..but so so spendy compare to when I grew up there!

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  12. Ok, you are killing me in here. I visited Vancouver and Granville Island some years ago and absolutely loved the entire area. I remember all the good stuff on the market. And, yes, the views are so pretty from there. I want to stop by Vancouver again.

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    1. Ha ha Ruth...well I am glad I inspired you to return once again! This visit really made me want to move back home..miss it so bad!

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  13. Cool post! Thanks for linking up with Travel Tuesday, it's fun to find new-to-me blogs! Love that you got a beautiful day in Vancouver! Great photos!!

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    1. Thank you Christy for stopping by! I tried to post the badge...didn't have much luck..will try again!

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  14. I've never heard of Granville Island before, but it sounds like the perfect seaside getaway! I'm heading up to Vancouver in the fall so I'll have to add this trip to my list of things to see & do. I love how colorful that market is!

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    1. Yes you should def visit there...you will love it...I miss my home and wish I could move back some days..so beautiful! Thanks for stopping by!

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  15. I've never been to Vancouver but it looks lovely, I'd definitely go for the views and try out the public market..

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    1. HI Diana..I hope you can visit someday...amazing!

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  16. Thanks for sharing, Valerie. I'm originally from San Francisco so the sky, light and clouds are similar.

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    1. Thank you Dominic for stopping by! I LOVE SFO!! That is one of my fav places to visit. I went to college in Stockton for 4 years, so SFO was a weekend destination often!

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  17. Happy Birthday! Granville looks like a wonderful place to visit full of fun stuff. I do hope that those lovely earthy tones we see in the window of Mia Bella are a glimpse to what we shall see in stores here soon.

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    1. Hey Stella! If you are heading into fall there then maybe..these are still winter styles..its almost spring here...so its onto the pastels and lighter colors. Thanks for stopping by!

      xoo
      Valerie

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  18. I don't spend nearly enough time in Vancouver. I think I need to make a little trip up there! Looks like a fabulous birthday!

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    1. Hi Rachel..yes you definitely should...make sure its a sunny day so you can see all the beauty!!


      Valerie

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  19. I haven't been up to Vancouver for years. I need to renew my passport and plan a weekend north. I remember the food being amazing.

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    1. HI Kimberley..spring is a great time to go, or summer even better! Hope you can visit soon!

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  20. I love Vancouver! So much greenery surrounding the city. I made it to something called the Granville Market but didn't get the island-sounds awesome

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    1. You were on the island then..it doesn't really seem like an island lol..its attached by a road and bridge...that is the market I think you were at :)

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  21. Brings back memories! Well done Val!

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    1. Hey Stranger..ha ha! Thanks for stopping by long time friend...yes many memories ..I will see if I can find your new blog! HOpe the world travelers are having a blast! Val

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  22. The food looks delicious! What a great market Vancouver has. And the train/pet food store looks like fun!

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    1. Thank you so much , I missed this comment earlier..sorry!

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  23. I LOVE Granville! I went there last year when I was traveling in Van City and it was so fun! I am moving to Vancouver within the next 6 months so i'm happy that there are cool things to do there.

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  24. I have not made it to Vancouver yet, I know that it is a place I need to get to ASAP. I really want to kayak off the islands of Vancouver to do some whale watching!

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    1. Whale watching sounds amazing, hope you get to go!

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  25. Oh, how much I like the public markets. The food is always delicious.

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  26. I love buying local...so much more flavor and uniqueness. Great pics! <3

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    1. Yes local is best..fresh flavors always! Thank you!

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  27. My parents went to Granville Island earlier this year and they facetimed me while there... it was so pretty! Love that market and especially that view of Vancouver!

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    1. Yes the view from there is awesome in itself and the market is the icing on the cake!

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  28. My high school teacher was from Vancouver so its always been on my list but unfortunately am yet to get there! This post definetly made it a little higher though! You are right there is so much to see and do, and the beauty is incredible! Thanks for sharing x

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    1. Thank you Kayla, I hope you make it there soon, it will be decorated so nice for the holidays!

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  29. I'm still kicking myself that I missed Granville Island while we were in Vancouver. Great post :)

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    1. I am so sorry you did, well next time make sure you get it in, thank you !

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  30. This brings back such great memories. I bought dog coats for my two dogs at the pet shop! Great post

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    1. Yes that pet shop is so fun..glad you made it there!

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  32. Granville Island is my favorite spot in Vancouver! Loved traveling there vicariously through your post.

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