Visitors Guide - 2024

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VANCOUVER VISITORS GUIDE

Welcome to

Vancouver’s North Shore,

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No matter what brought you here, whether that’s high mountain adventure, tranquil West Coast forest bathing or the allure of a cosmopolitan city against a stunning natural landscape, we know you'll find exactly what you’re looking for—and a little bit more.

We cordially invite you to explore our little slice of paradise, where an exciting discovery awaits around every street corner and every bend in the trail. Each smiling face you encounter, every meal lovingly prepared from fresh local ingredients, and even that sparkle on the ocean is our little nod to let you know we’re so happy you’re here.

Explore more at vancouversnorthshore.com

Welcome to the North Shore!

MAYORS MESSAGES

Mayor

Mayor

Mayor

NEIGHBOURHOODS

Horseshoe

Dundarave

We acknowledge the original peoples of these lands and waters, speci cally the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), and xʷmə

ʷəyəm (Musqueam), on whose ancestral lands the North Shore is located.

We value the opportunity to learn, share, live and play on these unceded lands.

This stunning region is far more than just a picturesque backdrop for one of the world’s most scenic cities. It buzzes with life, both wild and urban, offering endless possibilities for how to spend your time here.

Hosting a wide array of summer and winter activities, including the prestigious 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the North Shore mountains serve as an all-season playground, enhancing Canada’s most scenic community with breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re traversing alpine trails or skiing down slopes, you’ll encounter like-minded locals and fellow travellers alike. For water enthusiasts, the ocean awaits just downhill, boasting coves and islands ideal for paddling excursions and world-class diving experiences.

The vibrant Coast Mountain rainforest envelops North and West Vancouver, making their trails a haven for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. Following outdoor adventures, immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary and shopping scene. From designer boutiques to unique local shops in various community districts, Vancouver’s North Shore has it all.

Explore local galleries, craft breweries, distilleries and a cidery, and eateries ranging from cozy to upscale. Whether indulging in market food trucks at the summer Shipyards Night Market or dining at authentic restaurants with unparalleled city skyline views, the culinary diversity knows no bounds. Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, Persian, Indian – there’s something to delight every palate and fit every budget. The only thing in short supply here is time; there’s simply too much charm on the North Shore to fully absorb in one visit.

Jennifer Belak Executive Director, Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association

Message from Mark Sager

District of West Vancouver Mayor

West Vancouver is a community proud of its many recreational and cultural opportunities, with an abundance of public parks and trails to explore. Of those is our famous Lighthouse Park, one of the most painted and photographed locations in Metro Vancouver.

Many more of these parks can be found along our scenic coastline and boast magnificent views of scattered islands, snow-capped mountains, and the Vancouver skyline. As for our trails, visitors can enjoy an extensive network with countless options for hikes at varying levels of difficulty, all featuring unbeatable breathtaking views. Cypress Bowl is a wonderful winter destination for skiing and snowboarding while basking in beautiful scenic vistas.

You can also enjoy and experience our many cultural offerings in West Vancouver. I highly recommend taking in a show at the Kay

Meek Arts Centre, visiting the scene of our historic restoration of Navvy Jack House, and viewing the various exhibitions and works of art at the Ferry Building Gallery, Silk Purse, and West Vancouver Art Museum.

Additional recreation and fitness opportunities at Ambleside Beach and Place for Sport are coming in 2024, and, accessible to everyone, is our paved Centennial Seawalk which hugs the shoreline for several kilometres, attracting hundreds of thousands of people every year who delight in the picturesque ocean views.

Visit one of our Ambleside Village restaurants or cafés and take a leisurely stroll along our Seawalk – West Vancouver is a hidden gem and I hope you can take the time to see all it has to offer! ■

Horseshoe

Bay

It might be most well known as being the entrance to the Howe Sound, and the departure point for those heading to the Sunshine Coast or the Gulf Islands, but there’s far more to Horseshoe Bay than just its ferry terminal. Situated on the most western tip of West Vancouver, the seaside village is a hubbub of activity with waterfront cafés, restaurants and stores.

Watch the ferries come and go and lap up the glistening views of the Howe Sound with a coffee or a hot parcel or plate of fresh fish and chips, secured from Troll’s, Olive & Anchor or beloved takeaway joint C-Lovers.

Should you wish to venture to further lands, the ferry to Bowen Island occurs once every hour and takes just 20 minutes. Perfect for a day trip, the 12-kilometre long island is a quiet and secluded getaway with hiking, sea kayaking, beaches, and a scattering of small village-style restaurants and cafés to be explored. ■

Dundarave Village

There’s no finer way to whittle away a sunny morning than with a walk along the West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk, the North Shore’s seawall. Depending on which way you start and end the journey, Dundarave can either be the fuelling spot pre-walk or the prize at the end of the hike.

The village itself is a quaint little seaside spot that began as the very first neighbourhood in West Vancouver, with much of its historic charm still oozing

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through its artisan shops, charming market stalls and restaurants. Dundarave beach makes for a lovely spot to recline under the sun, while, just a little further east, Lighthouse Park is a forest home to numerous trails and the most spectacular views that survey the water.

Stay local for food, with the famous Beach House restaurant that overlooks the pier at the end of the seawalk serving up delectable plates and some of the finest views of downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park and the Point Grey peninsula. ■

WEST VANCOUVER

Ambleside

From one end of the seawalk, to the other. Ambleside is Dundarave’s younger and more livelier sister, a village that is the commercial heart of West Vancouver. Much like Dundarave, it has a beautiful seawalk and picturesque beaches, but what modernity Dundarave lacks with its historic village charm, Ambleside makes up for with a park complete with a tennis court, pitch and putt and a skate park, as well as a vibrant and growing urban core.

WEST VANCOUVER

The sprawling Park Royal shopping centre houses hundreds of stores, from familiar retail faces like Zara, Anthropologie and H&M to local boutiques. Intertwined alongside them are plentiful food options, spanning food court fare, fine dining, cafés and bakeries.

If you’ve arrived at Ambleside via a stroll along the seawalk from Dundarave, or if you plan to exit that way, don’t forget to swing by the Ferry Building Gallery. The historic building, constructed in 1913, sits perched on the beach overlooking the water and houses pieces crafted at the hands of some of the North Shore’s most talented artists. ■

Ambleside Park, Beach & Pier

Headwaters

Message from Linda Buchanan

City of North Vancouver Mayor

The City of North Vancouver’s Spirit Trail is an urban path, which can be traveled by foot or by bike, filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Accessible by transit, this scenic pathway winds along the waterfront, treating visitors to breathtaking views of the Burrard Inlet, downtown Vancouver, and the North Shore Mountains, all while connecting people with parks, public spaces, restaurants, breweries and more through the community and the Shipyards.

One of the trail’s highlights is its cultural richness. Art installations along the way celebrate Indigenous heritage and maritime history, offering a glimpse into the area’s diverse cultural tapestry. Food enthusiasts will find a culinary paradise along the Spirit Trail. From charming coffee shops to waterfront restaurants, there’s a variety of dining options to explore. Indulge in fresh seafood, artisanal pastries,

or international flavours while enjoying the trail’s views.

Nature lovers will appreciate the green spaces and parks, perfect for picnics. The Shipyards often has live music, Lonsdale Quay Market boasts many unique shops and vendors, the Polygon Gallery is home to international art exhibitions, and the Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA) allows visitors and residents to learn local stories – all of these attractions are just steps off the Spirit Trail!

The Spirit Trail is an immersive experience that unveils many of the city’s hidden treasures. Whether you’re admiring art, savoring delicious cuisine, or connecting with nature, the Spirit Trail promises a memorable adventure for all who wander its paths. ■

Lower Lonsdale

Chock-full with galleries, cafés, restaurants and bars, the bustling LoLo is the epicentre of the North Shore, and the first port of call when you hop off the Seabus. Follow the path from the terminal and take a stroll into Lonsdale Quay Market, where you can wander the 80 fresh food vendors, flower stalls, chocolate shops and nick-knack boutiques. Culture vultures will enjoy the Museum of North Vancouver and the

Polygon Gallery, an absolutely stunning waterfront building that features a revolving door of thought-provoking exhibitions. Happen to be visiting during the summer months? Be sure to drop by the Shipyards Night Market, a weekly Friday Night event that sees the Shipyards come alive with a pop-up beer garden, live music, food trucks, markets and kids entertainment from May until September. Just a stone’s throw from the waterfront is the neighbourhood’s Brewery District, where a line of applauded micro breweries provide the ultimate way to whet your whistle after a long day of exploring. ■

Central Lonsdale

A veritable melting pot of cultures call Central Lonsdale home, and it comes through in its vast and varied selection of restaurants, eateries, cafés and specialty stores. Mexican street food, Indian, Persian, Greek and Chinese flavours linger around every corner, making the precinct a nobrainer for the foodie.

Since the 1970s, the neighbourhood has been the epicentre of the local Persian community – Farsi signage, stores and restaurants serving traditional home-cooked fare are commonplace. For those interested in exploring the area’s Persian culture, the 10-block strip along Lonsdale Avenue is home to everything from stores selling luxurious carpets to eateries serving up fragrant curries, mouthwatering kabobs and an array of fine baked goods and sweets.

If you can peel yourself away from the tantalising fare, it’s worth paying a visit to the places that pay homage to Central Lonsdale’s creative side. Vibrant murals and public art are aplenty, while the Centennial Theatre’s expansive repertoire of stage shows puts local talent in the spotlight.

Hoping to check out the North Shore mountains while you’re here? Whether skiing, snowboarding or simply exploring in the snow, here’s your best port of call for picking up all things outdoors related. ■

Message from Mike Little

From skiing and golfing to forest trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the District of North Vancouver.

Our community is nestled at nature’s edge, where you can explore our network of trails and parks, while supporting our many local businesses along the way.

My family and I often visit Maplewood Farm. Charming and rustic, it is the last remaining farm on the North Shore and offers a glimpse into our agricultural history. Pack a picnic and stay awhile, it’s a place where you can delight in the natural beauty of the District while enjoying an educational experience for the whole family.

Maplewood Flats, the North Shore’s only wild bird sanctuary, is another spot worth visiting. Located within the traditional lands of the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), it is a wonderful place to learn

about and honour the Indigenous heritage of this land.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking forest at Lynn Canyon Park where you can walk across the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and visit Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre.

Or, take time to explore one of our town and village centres. These charming neighbourhoods are located across the District and bustle with activity, offering a wide array of cafés and shops. They offer a true taste of what the District of North Vancouver is all about.

To make your visit to the District as memorable as possible, consider taking transit to get here. The bus and SeaBus provide direct access to the North Shore and offer amazing views, as you cross Burrard Inlet. ■

Edgemont Village

It might only be a few blocks long, but what Edgemont lacks in size it more than makes up for in personality. The mountain village is home to almost 100 family-owned businesses, from toy shops and chocolate boutiques to craft stores and bakeries. With charming cafés in abundance, it’s a neighbourhood to enjoy a hot chocolate and a moment of quiet respite before embarking on a few hours of adventure at the nearby Grouse Mountain.

Speaking of Grouse, the North Shore ski resort features zip-lining tours, snowshoeing, hiking trails, winter sports, wildlife encounters and a lumberjack show, for visitors to indulge in the true B.C. experience. Those who are looking for adventure of the more challenging variety can try their hand at the Grouse Grind, a 2.5-kilometre, 2,830 step trail up the face of Grouse Mountain. Often referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” this trek isn’t for the faint of heart.

Running in August every year is the Vancouver Mural Festival, a citywide project that sees certain neighbourhoods, including Edgemont Village, overhauled with vibrant pieces of art. With Edgemont’s proximity to the rugged wilderness, much of the art pays homage to the great outdoors and the natural beauty that can be found on the North Shore. ■

Lynn Valley

Sandwiched between Lynn Creek and the North Shore mountains, and home to one of the largest of Metro Vancouvers’ regional parks, the verdant Lynn Valley neighbourhood is a haven for the adventurous.

The 40-metre long Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge serves as a gateway to a temperate rainforest filled with trails for the mountain biker or hiker, while Lynn Headwaters, a deep cirque valley drained by Lynn Creek, is a 9,216-acre forest with colour-coded trails that range from three kilometres to beyond 20 km.

Deep Cove

The jewel in the crown of the North Shore neighbourhoods, an excursion across the bridge shouldn’t be deemed complete until you’ve visited Deep Cove. The waterfront village is famed for its sublime scenic views of the Indian Arm, and so exploration is best carried out on foot or on the water. The Quarry Rock hike, part of the easternmost section of the Baden Powell Trail, is a must-do when in the area, while the Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak Centre offers paddling journeys to get the finest views from the water.

While the quaint village has a scattering of cosy cafés to refuel in after a long day of adventuring, it would be Honeys Donuts and

Some of the shorter day hikes require nothing more than a picnic and a sturdy pair of shoes, while others of a more intermediate level may need a higher level of fitness, specialty equipment and detailed trip planning. Be sure to always check the trail and weather conditions beforehand, and don’t forget to pack that bear spray.

If you’re hoping to learn about the local rainforests without embarking on too much strenuous activity, the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre has informative, interactive displays about the local flora and fauna. Lynn Valley village itself, littered with numerous cosy cafés and coffee shops, provides many quiet spots to wind down at the end of the day. ■

Goodies that would really be remiss to overlook. The doughnuts – large, dense and drenched in a honey glaze – are famous around these parts.

Wind down in an evening with a production at the local theatre or kick back with a cold one at The Raven, the neighbourhood pub that’s more than happy to welcome newcomers. ■

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Don’t Miss

VISIT MONOVA!

Located in the heart of The Shipyards, traditional territory of the Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səlílwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh) First Nations, MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver is a dynamic and innovative hub where the stories of North Vancouver’s people, places and past come to life.

Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Coast Valley Markets

Every Wednesday throughout summer on the waterfront in North Vancouver lies a bustling market, complete with over 60 fresh food vendors and artisan stalls. Anchored in the Shipyards District, it is nestled among some of the North Shore’s finest hotels, restaurants and unique boutique stores - should you wish to hang around after the markets have closed for the day.

Lonsdale Quay Market, Wednesdays 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

May 29 – October 9

North Shore Seniors’ Health Expo

Now in its sixth edition, the annual North Shore Seniors’ Health Expo has really nailed down what makes the older residents of North and West Vancouver tick. The event, features exhibitors, innovative speakers, and researchers who will offer their insights on bettering cognitive, physical, social, financial and nutritional well-being.

West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre

June 7, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

The Polygon’s outdoor cinema is returning for its third year, bringing al fresco film screenings to Cates Deck

The Polygon Deckchair Cinema

come sundown. While the titles are still to be released, if the previous year is anything to go by, movie goers can expect a string of must see cult classics.

The Polygon

Every Thursday from June 27 until August 29

Whey-Ah-Wichen Canoe Festival

Each year the Tsleil-Waututh Nation invites the public to join their annual canoe race at the traditional village site of Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park), where they take to the water for a variety of races with crews from several Indigenous communities from across the south coast of B.C. and Washington.

Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park)

June 28 – 30

Summer Family Fun Fest & Market

Not your average summer market, West Vancouver’s community shindig combines the usual suspects - like live music, food stalls, and activities for the kids - with a vintage car show. Back for its sixth iteration, the event has become a calendar mainstay for petrol heads, local residents and curious visitors alike.

West Vancouver Community Centre

July 20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Pride at the Pier

While there’s an abundance of vibrant and convivial events celebrating Pride across the city, there’s not one quite like the local, community-led celebrations here on the North Shore.

The free event Pride at the Pier crafts a fabulous time by combining live music, drag performances, a raucous beer garden, competitions, prizes, and an introduction to a local celebrity or two.

Shipyards District

August 2, 4 – 10 p.m.

North Shore Arts Crawl

Come and see what creative talent lies among those living on the North Shore at its annual Arts Crawl. Art schools, studios and community and commercial galleries fling open their doors and artists beckon in those wandering by to witness their work and share over joint passions of art. From painters and pot makers to ceramicists, jewellers, sculpturists, woodworkers and graphic design artists, there’s inspiration aplenty from all manner of creatives. Various locations across the North Shore, October 13, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. October 14 – 15, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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