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Welcome It’s 2017 and this year’s Students 4 Students Guide is ready to take on the 21st century with its new digital format! Embracing Emily Carr University’s new neighbourhood, this guide has been updated to help students make the best of Great Northern Way. With tips by Vancouverites for Vancouverites, every recommendation is tailored to make your Vancouver journeys full of adventure, tasty treats, and local gems.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Meet the Neighbours Getting Around Getting Out of Town Our Favorite Hikes
The Neighbourhoods Neighbourhoods Map False Creek Flats Hastings Sunrise Grandview Woodland Strathcona & Chinatown Mount Pleasant Kensington-Cedar Cottage Downtown The West End Gastown- Downtown Eastside Fairview & South Cambie Riley Park Kitsilano Marpole & Kerrisdale Richmond & Delta UBC-Point Grey Burnaby and Beyond North Shore Renfrew-Collingwood Queer Vancouver Stuff to Make Stuff Biking to GNW Eats for Cheaps Food Assistance
4-5 6 7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-25 26-27 28-29 30-31 32-33 34-35 36-37 38-39 40-41 42-43 44-45 46 47 48 49 50 51
Credits Contributions by Emily Carr students and staff Design by Stephanie Broder & Justine Gabias Cover Design by Stephanie Broder Icons courtesy of The Noun Project
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MEET THE NEIGHBOURS With a fresh campus, students new and seasoned alike will be checking out our neighborhood looking for the hippest happening places to frequent! Here’s the insider scoop on what’s good to eat, cool to see, or chill to do near Great Northern Way.
Red Truc Brewery an Truck Stop great place local beer and eats.
The galleries of The Flats Winsor Elain Fine Art Chernoff
Catriona Jeffries
Macaulay & Co
Main Street Science World Station 295
Term in
al Av e
Grunt Gallery is one of many art galleries in The Flats Gallery District
Craft Beer Market
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Antisocial Skate Shop
Jonathan Rogers Park
The Anza Club 33 Acres Brewing Co
Field Contemporary Gallery
1s tA ve Monte Clark and Equinox Galleries
Main Street
Quebec St
Ontario St
Manitoba St
W 2nd Ave
Emi Uni +D
E 5th A
Brassneck Brewery
E6
E 7th Ave
Dude Chilling Park Western Front Society Sushi Yama
Saku
Gene Coffee Bar
Rath Art Supplies Budgies CSA Space Burritos
PSST! The Dude Chilling Park Yoga Collective offers free yoga classes in the park throughout the summer! 4
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Friendly Snackbar
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Guerrilla artist Viktor Briestensky renamed Guelph Park ‘Dude Chilling Park’ a few years ago by changing its sign. The new name was quickly adopted by the locals and, subsequently, Google Maps!
The Wallflower
The Biltmore Cabaret
Sakura-Ya and Kim’s Mart offer Japanese and Korean groceries and are conveniently located on East Broadway.
This is our new home! Welcome to The Flats, Emily Carr!
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PSST! Red Truck will give you a free lunch on your birthday! (bring your ID)
ily Carr iversity of Art Design
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PSST! OPUS Art Supplies will have a pop-up store at Emily Carr on the first 3 weeks of every semester!
r the
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VCC-Clark Station
6th Ave
E Broadway
PSST! The cafeteria at VCC serves affordable meals prepared by their Culinary Arts students!
Can you find Alumnus Nomi Chi’s mural on East Broadway?
ura-Ya and Kim’s Mart
PSST! Kim’s Mart has a great selection of ready-toeat meals. Try their Bulgogi bowl for $6 or buy a bag of freshly-baked sweet potatoes for $2.59!
This iconic East Van sign welcomes you to VCC-Clark Station
For more info on these places check out Pages 12-13 and 16-17 5
GETTING AROUND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Your U-Pass gives you unlimited access to public transit--go explore! Buses, Skytrain and Seabus can take you to some awesome places. If you have a destination in mind, use the Translink Trip Planner tool or Google Maps to find out how to get there. When waiting at the bus stop, text the stop number (5-digit number at the top of the stop sign) and the bus number you are trying to catch in (brackets) to 33333 to find out when the next bus is scheduled to arrive. Please note that the Aquabus, False Creek Ferries and BC Ferries services are not included in your Upass.
CYCLING IN VANCOUVER Cycling is hands-down the best way to get around the city. There are great bike lanes, and the mild weather allows for year-round commuting. You can learn more about biking in Vancouver at bikehub.ca. You can also find great tips and plan your route on the Translink website. Vancouver recently launched the Mobi bike share program. Find out more on how to use the Mobi bikes here. Remember that wearing a helmet is mandatory (and very smart.) A bell, as well as front and back lights are also mandatory. These are very cheap and will make your rides a lot safer. Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is a good place for inexpensive bike accessories.
DRIVING IN VANCOUVER If you are an out-of-province or international student attending a university in British Columbia, you do not need a BC issued driver’s license to drive in BC , but you must hold a valid license from your home country or province. You must also be registered as a full time student and be attending an approved public post-secondary institution (Emily Carr is an approved university.) Any restrictions you have on your home license also apply in BC. When driving, you should always carry and be able to show proof of student status (such as your student ID card) and proof of your registration in a full-time program when asked to do so by a police officer. International students should also carry a copy of their Canadian Study Permit. It is not required that international students have an international driving permit. However, this is recommended if your license from your home country is issued in a language other than English. Be aware that if you have driving violations in BC (i.e. for speeding, driving with undue care and attention, failing to stop at a red light, etc.), you can lose your driving privileges, regardless of where you are licensed. For more information, visit the ICBC website at icbc. com
CAR SHARE There are a number of car share programs in Vancouver. Visit their websites for more information on eligibility and cost. Here are a few options: Car2Go: Tiny cars that seat 2 people. Pay by the minute, great for short distances. Evo: Cars come with bike and ski racks. Great for quick getaways. Modo: Choose from cars, vans or even pick-up trucks. Great for moving. 6
GETTING OUT OF TOWN TRAVELING TO THE USA Please ensure that you have proper documentation to cross the border and to re-enter Canada. Canadian citizens must present a valid passport. If you are an international student, the documentation required will vary depending upon the status of your entry into Canada. Further information is available from the International Office at Emily Carr, or you can contact the U.S. Consulate’s website at ca.usembassy.gov
BUSES Pacific Central Station 1150 Station St. (Main St. & Terminal Ave.) One of the most affordable ways of traveling to other parts of BC, Canada or the US is by Greyhound Bus. Fares and info at greyhound.ca. You also get a student discount on all tickets. Boltbus is a really cheap way to go to the US. Their buses have free wifi and lots of leg room. Fares depend on when you purchase your tickets; a one-way ticket to Seattle averages around $10 but could cost you as little as $1! boltbus.com
WHISTLER OR BLACKCOMB Skiing/snowboarding at its best. Some 7-Eleven stores sell discount lift passes. You can find deals on passes by getting them in advance or scouting out student pass discounts. If you plan on skiing or snowboarding a LOT, an unlimited season pass might be the best option. Plan on spending around $600 for it, but prepare to be amazed by some of the best skiing and riding in the world. The ski season typically extends to the end of May! You can purchase your season pass online at whistlerblackcomb.com
BC PARKS BC has some of Canada’s most beautiful parks. Go camping! If you don’t have the necessary equipment, ask around or rent it from Mountain Equipment Co-op. env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (YVR) The Skytrain’s new Canada Line makes it super fast and easy to go to the airport. It takes around 25 minutes to get from downtown to YVR! And with your UPass, you do not need to worry about fare. yvr.ca
BC FERRIES You can also escape to Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast or any of the Gulf Islands for a fun get-away. Ferries accept car, bikes and walk-on passengers. Consider making a reservation for your vehicle on busy weekends. They have 2 terminals, Tsawassen and Horseshoe Bay, both accessible by public transit. bcferries.com 7
OUR FAVORITE HIKES
Visit vancouvertrails.com for a list of hikes in and around the lower mainland. A number of books on trails are available at the Vancouver Public Library and stores such as Army & Navy or Value Village (if you are buying second-hand hiking guides, make sure they are not too old, as trails and signage can change.) Use caution when hiking--check the weather leading up to your hike day and be prepared for sudden changes. Wear good shoes, bring warm clothes, and obey all posted B.C. Parks signage & notices. Always tell someone where you are going before you head out. The following hikes are all accessible by public transit!
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CAPILANO RIVER REGIONAL PARK
QUARRY ROCK IN DEEP COVE
From Waterfront Station take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay and transfer to the #236 Grouse Mtn Bus. Exit the bus at NB Nancy Greene Way FS Prospect Ave and the park entrance will be a couple minute walk away. Capilano River Regional Park is home to The Capilano River hatchery, The Cleveland Dam, and The Capilano Suspension bridge. Inside Vancouver has a comprehensive article about this great park here.
The #212 bus (from Lonsdale Quay via the Phibbs Exchange bus loop) will take you to this scenic town. Grab a coffee, hang out by the water and hike the Baden Powell Trail up to the viewpoint. The trail starts from Panorama Drive (walk eastbound from the town--the bottom of the trail is between two houses on the left-hand side). It is a steep and quick (30-45 minutes) hike and the view is worth the trip.
LIGHTHOUSE PARK
THE STAWAMUS CHIEF
Take the #250 bus from downtown and get off at WB Marine Dr at Beacon Lane. Walk south on Beacon Lane to get to the entrance to the park. Pack a lunch and spend an afternoon there--the views of Burrard Inlet are breathtaking!
Affectionately called ‘The Chief’ by locals, this granite monolith (the second largest in the world!) is an impressive sight. Rock climbers and hikers flock to it, and it is one of the most popular hikes around Vancouver thanks to its breath-taking views of Squamish and Howe Sound. The trail has three summits; choose one or tackle all three if you have it in you! But popular means crowded--try to go on a weekday to avoid being stuck hiking in a slow single-line file. This trail has some difficult spots, so make sure you wear good trail shoes and bring water and snacks.
LYNN CANYON From downtown Vancouver, take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay and transfer to the #228 or #229. Exit the bus once you have arrived at Lynn Valley Centre; from here either walk for 15 mins to the parks entrance or wait for the #227 shuttle for drop off at the park’s main entrance. Lynn Canyon has several trails with a suspension bridge, water fall, and swimming hole, so don’t forget your bathing suit!
photo source: vancouvertrails.com
The Capilano Reservoir in the Capilano River Regional Park
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THE NEIGHBOURHOODS
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FALSE CREEK FLATS Click here to see False Creek Flats on Google Maps. OUR NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD! 'The Flats' is one of the fastest-growing area in the city thanks in part to the 2010 Winter Olympics, which transformed what used to be an industrial area into what is now known as the Olympic Village. Many of the city’s biggest art galleries have migrated to the flats and make it the most exciting place to be on opening nights.
THE OLYMPIC VILLAGE This housing development was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Grab an ice cream cone from Mario’s Gelato, lounge on one of the big white chairs by the water, and watch the dragon boats race by. Get a picture of yourself next to Myfawny Mcleod’s giant birds sculpture and send it to your parents! The community center has great facilities including intramural courts, basketball courts and dragon boat classes. THE HIVE BOULDERING GYM 520 Industrial Ave. Lots of Emily Carr students enjoy this amazing bouldering gym. Close to campus! THE SEA WALL If you don't necessarily want to traverse the whole Sea Wall but are looking for a good place to get a sense of it, False Creek Flats is your spot. The view of the Science Center over the water is pretty neat and there's abundant public seating along the waterfront in this area. EARNEST ICE CREAM 1829 Quebec St. Locally-made ice cream. At $7 for a double scoop cone, it is pricey but line-up worthy. They have great flavors like Bourbon Peach and Blackberry Coriander.
GEMS ART GALLERIES A lot of galleries recently moved East and are now clustered around Main and 1st Ave. Many will schedule their openings on the same day; make an evening of it! MONTE CLARK GALLERY & EQUINOX GALLERY 525 Great Northern Way These two galleries are immediately across the street from our new campus! Share some love with them. CATRIONA JEFFRIES 274 E 1st Ave. (back alley entrance) The openings at ‘Catriona’ are always busy thanks to the gallery’s great roster... and its free drinks and snacks. MACAULAY & CO FINE ART 293 E 2nd Ave. This compelling gallery sometimes has special features that highlight the history of Northwest Coast First Nations' art history. GRUNT GALLERY 350 E 2nd Ave. grunt tries to promote work that is not often seen in Vancouver, making it a neat place for a look. WINSOR GALLERY 258 E 1st Ave This gallery hosts a block party each year in the Flats, gathering together participants from all the local galleries.
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THE MOMENTO COFFEE HOUSE 577 Great Northern Way A great coffee shop next door to us. Their upstairs area is perfect for group meetings and can be booked ahead of time! ARGO CAFE 1836 Ontario St. Where chefs eat. Cheap and tasty. CAFÉ NUBA 146 E 3rd Ave. Beautiful lebanese cuisine. They have great share plates, so go with a friend! TERRA BREADS 1605 Manitoba St. Baked goods and coffee in the heart of Olympic Village. BETA5 CHOCOLATES 413 Industrial Ave For those days when you need a treat. Hand-crafted chocolates and ice cream.
THE LEGACY LIQUOR STORE 1633 Manitoba St. Located in the heart of Vancouver’s Olympic Village, this store offers a vast selection of wine, beer and spirits.
FOOD RED TRUCK BREWING CO. 295 E 1st Ave. Local brewery and restaurant. TRACTOR EVERYDAY HEALTHY FOODS 1751 Quebec St, Healthy salads, soups, sandwiches and stews. PEACEFUL RESTAURANT 43 E 5th Ave. Delicious Chinese comfort food a mere 10-minute walk from campus. Their Beef Roll is amazing. THE NARROW 1898 Main St. A bit hard to find (look for the red lightbulb), but super cozy with a great atmosphere. Check out The Hide Away Tiki Bar around back! CLUBHOUSE SUSHI 255 W 2nd Ave. Because who wouldn’t want to eat in a golfthemed sushi restaurant!?
SHOPS URBAN FARE 1688 Salt St This boutique grocery store has a lovely selection of local products as well as a delicious buffet that changes cuisines daily.
PORTOBELLO WEST Creekside Community Centre, 1 Athlete's Way This hip artisan market in the local community centre is a great place to find exciting local designers. It's one of the most popular Artisan/ Craft fairs in Vancouver according to The Georgia Straight!
Alexander Caldwell's Thunderhead (2013) on display at the Winsor Gallery 13
HASTINGS SUNRISE Click here to see Hastings-Sunrise on Google Map Hastings Street begins downtown and goes through Vancouver all the way to Burnaby. The stretch of Hastings Street between Nanaimo St and Boundary Road is called Hastings-Sunrise, or sometimes East Village. This residential neighbourhood is rapidly gaining in popularity thanks to its quiet streets and great location. Most amenities are along Hastings St. and Renfrew St. The Second Narrows (or Iron Workers) bridge is an easy gateway to the North Shore mountains.
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PACIFIC NATIONAL EXHIBITION (PNE) 2901 E Hastings St. The Pacific National Exhibition grounds were built in 1910 and include a popular skate park, beautiful gardens, basketball courts and even a bird sanctuary. Every year in August, the PNE comes alive for ‘The Fair’, two weeks of exhibitions, food stands and outdoor concerts.
NEW BRIGHTON PARK A great park on the south shore of Burrard Inlet. Small beach, lots of grass to play catch or fly a kite, and a nice outdoor pool open in the summer.
HASTINGS RACECOURSE 188 Renfrew St. Have you ever been to the races? This is your chance! There is no admission fee and you are not required to bet. Sit, enjoy the sun, have a beer or a delicious roast beef sandwich and watch the amazing horses thunder by. Great view of the North shore from the bleachers!
BURRARD VIEW PARK As its name suggests, this park offers stunning views of the North Shore mountains. The park has a few old tennis courts as well as an off-leash dog area and playground. I hear the swings allow you to go really high! The park is on the site of an old children’s home that was more like a child PRISON! You can still see the foundations.
SLIDEY SLIDES PARK AT EMPIRE FIELD New facilities including SLIDES, an outdoor gym, ping pong tables and a great rubberized track.
RUPERT PARK PITCH & PUTT 3402 Charles St. A mini golf course (holes are between 50 and 120 yards) on the edge of Vancouver that boasts beautiful mountain views, ponds, and mature trees. You can play the 18 holes fr $13.75. Bring your own iron and putter to skip the rental rate.
PLAYLAND An amusement park on the edge of the city, next to the PNE, open May to September. Go for a rollercoaster ride (great views!) or a game of mini golf. The site also opens around Halloween for the very popular Fright Nights 14
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BON’S OFF BROADWAY 2451 Nanaimo St. A true ‘greasy spoon’. All-day breakfast is super cheap.
TAMAM 2616 E Hastings St. Fine Palestinian cuisine in a sunny spot. Their roasted chicken is amazing.
TACOFINO COMMISSARY 2327 E Hastings St. On the pricey side but the food is lovely and it is always packed with hip folks.
LE PETIT SAIGON 2783 E Hastings St. Great and affordable Vietnamese restaurant.
X-SITE GRILL AND BISTRO 2270 E Hastings St. Burgers are delicious and under $7! They also have a great Mexican menu and cheap daily specials. ROUNDEL CAFÉ 2465 E Hastings St. Lovely cafe with classic diner fare. Meals are around $8. AL BUCO PIZZERIA 2638 E Hastings St. This new pizzeria is an awesome addition to the neighborhood. Order a slice or a whole pie. Eat in or take out!
THE RED CAT RECORDS 2447 E Hastings St. Local record store. T&T SUPERMARKET 2800 E 1st Ave. (at Renfrew) Asian supermarket offering a wide variety of Asian groceries, as well as ready-to-eat meals. BOSA FOODS 1465 Kootenay St. This grocer is a bit out of the way but is worth the trip. Great selection of Italian groceries, cheeses, meat, baked goods and even cookware.
LAKSA KING 2546 E Hastings St. Affordable Malaysian delights. Try the laksa, a spicy noodle soup hot enough to cure all nasty colds. THE RED WAGON 2296 E Hastings St. A popular ‘mom and pop’ diner that serves quality comfort food made fresh everyday. Try their famous pulled pork pancakes for breakfast! WHAT’S UP? HOT DOG! 2481 Hastings St. Hot dogs, arcade games and more in a funky decor! They also have vegetarian and vegan options.
SHOPS DONALD’S MARKET 2342 E Hastings St. This quaint grocer focuses on organic and local stock, making it a must for conscientous foodies. VGH THRIFT STORE 2335 E Hastings St. Small thrift store with a good book and record selection TAZMANIAN COMICS 3618 E Hastings St. If you like comics even a smidge you’ll LOVE this store. Knowledgable staff and the option for personalized “pull-lists” make this a gem among comic shops.
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GRANDVIEW WOODLAND Click here to see Grandview Woodland on Google Maps A lively, multicultural neighbourhood popular with travellers, students, artists and young families. The Commercial Drive area, once heavily populated by Italian and Portuguese immigrants, is also known as ‘Little Italy’.
THE BRITANNIA COMMUNITY CENTER AND LIBRARY 1661 Napier St. Gym, pool, tennis courts, soccer field, ice rink, library, drumming lessons and more. CAR-FREE DAY Every summer for a day, Commercial Drive transforms into a pedestrian-only street lined with local vendors, musicians and acrobats. RIO THEATRE 1660 E Broadway. A great movie theatre to see old classics or blockbusters. Famous for their late-night screenings of cult classics. Their liquor license allows you to have a beer while watching your movie.
GEMS STRANGE FELLOWS 1345 Clark Dr. One of Vancouver’s newest breweries, it has everything to please the hip crowd: industrial neighbourhood, slick and modern tasting room and, of course, delicious old-world inspired beers. PARALLEL 49 BREWING CO. 1950 Triumph St. Another great Vancouver brewery! Sample their beers on tap or buy a few bottles to enjoy at home. THE WISE HALL 1882 Adanac St. WISE is for Welsh, Irish, Scottish and English. Affordable folk perfomances. GRANDVIEW LANES BOWLING 2195 Commercial Dr. Old-school 5 or 10-pin bowling. Cosmic bowling upstairs. THE CULTCH 1895 Venables St. Usually hosting visiting artists and performers, the Cultch always offers an amazing range of musical and theatrical talent. KEN LUM’S MONUMENT FOR EAST VANCOUVER Erected in 2010, this public art piece is like a shining beacon at the corner of Clark Drive and Great Northern Way. The East Van cross has been around for a long time, but Ken Lum’s take on it has made it a city icon.
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HAVANA 1212 Commercial Dr. Cuban-themed restaurant and bar that hosts theatre and art events in their back room.
PALLET COFFEE ROASTERS 323 Semlin Dr. A new addition to the neighborhood! Coffee, pastries, sandwiches, salads and paninis.
STORM CROW TAVERN 1305 Commercial Dr. A geek’s heaven! Enjoy a drink while watching Buffy or playing D&D with your friends!
(V) SWEET CHERUBIM 1105 Commercial Dr. Grocery store and restaurant selling organic and natural vegetarian foods. Lots of vegan options.
PRADO CAFÉ 1938 Commercial Dr. Great coffee in a beautiful minimalist decor.
CAFÉ DEUX SOLEILS 2096 Commercial Dr. Healthy food and relaxed attitude. Their baked goods and smoothies are amazing! Poetry slam every Monday.
YAMA CAFE 2007 E Hastings St. Cutest cafe offering beautiful coffee, tea and light Japanese fare. ON LOK RESTAURANT 2010 E Hastings St. No-frills, affordable Chinese cuisine.
(V) BANDIDAS TAQUERIA 2781 Commercial Dr. Tasty, all-vegetarian mexican dishes in a warm atmosphere. Great breakfast!
MR. RED CAFE 2131 E Hastings St. Tasty and affordable Northern Vietnamese cuisine.
THE PIE SHOPPE 1875 Powell St. Founded and operated by two sisters, one of them a recent ECU grad, the Pie Shoppe serves fresh pie and locally-roasted coffee. The space also includes the Sugar Cube Satellite Gallery.
(GF) EAST VILLAGE BAKERY 2166 E Hastings St. Lovely local bakery dedicated to providing delicious gluten-free bread and baked goods.
JACKALOPE’S NEIGHBOURHOOD DIVE BAR 2257 E Hastings St. Metal music-themed restaurant serving amazing burgers and brunch on weekends.
THE BOSA FOODS 956 Commercial Dr. (soon to move to a new building on Victoria Drive at Turner St) Great selection of Italian groceries, including a deli counter for all your olive, cheese and meat needs. SANTA BARBARA MARKET 1322 Commercial Dr. Italian supermarket with a great selection of produce, cheese and meat. It can get chaotic at the deli counter--just relax and enjoy the latin spirit!
SHOPS VALUE VILLAGE 1820 E Hastings St. The Wal-Mart of thrift stores. DONALD’S MARKET 2332 E Hastings St. and 2279 Commercial Dr. A local favorite. Awesome produce selection and healthy food options. AUDIOPILE 2016 Commercial Dr. Neighbourhgood music store with a great selection of new and used records. 17
STRATHCONA & CHINATOWN
Click here to see Strathcona and here to see Chinatown on Google Maps Our neighbors to the North, these lively neighborhoods are packed with galleries, restaurants and shops. A great mix of traditional and contemporary, they are the home of some of the city’s best traditional Chinese restaurants and art galleries. Many students and young artists call Strathcona home, as rent prices are still relatively affordable.
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DR SUN YAT-SEN’S GARDEN 578 Carrall St. An oasis in the city. This garden was built in 1985-1986 using the time-honored principles and techniques of the original Ming dynasty garden. Check out the free side! OPPENHEIMER PARK 400 Powell St. In the heart of Japantown, this park comes alive every year in August for the Powell Street festival, a fun celebration of the Japanese culture and its impact on Vancouver. VANCOUVER POLICE MUSEUM 240 E Cordova St. A quirky museum that is well-worth a visit.
STRATHCONA PARK 857 Malkin Ave Grab a gelato cone from La Casa Gelato and head to the lush gardens and orchard behind the park. Strathcona park also has tennis and basketball courts, baseball diamonds as well as a skate park. ART GALLERIES There are many artist-run centres in this area, including the following... 221A 221 E Georgia St.
UNIT/PITT PROJECTS 236 E Pender St.
BLIM 115 E Pender St. Funky arts and crafts store, workshop space. and gallery.
RENNIE COLLECTION AT THE WING SANG 51 E Pender St. An impressive contemporary art collection housed in a historical building. Appointment necessary; sign up for a tour online.
CENTRE A 229 E Georgia St. Centre for Contemporary Asian Art. ACCESS GALLERY 222 E Georgia St.
CATFE 88 West Pender Street (in International Village) Vancouver’s first Cat Cafe! Hang out with some fun felines over vegan drinks and pastries, all while supporting the work they do finding homes for kitties in need. 18
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THE WILDER SNAIL 799 Keefer St. Lovely grocery store and cafe.
HON’S WUN-TUN HOUSE 268 Keefer St. Cheap and tasty Cantonese cuisine.
UNION MARKET 810 Union St. On the Adanac bike route. Great coffee and cheap prepared meals and sandwiches.
BESTIE 105 E Pender St. Sausage and beer parlour.
LA CASA GELATO 1033 Venables St. (it’s bright pink!) Vancouver institution serving 218 different kinds of gelato. PHNOM PENH 244 E Georgia St. Affordable Cambodian and Vietnamese cuisine. NEW TOWN BAKERY & RESTAURANT 158 E Pender St. Affordable and convenient. Their Siopao (steamed buns) are world-famous and SO delicious! CANRA SRILANKAN PLUS International Village Mall Food Court 88 W Pender St. One of Vancouver’s best fast food joint. Amazing Dosas and curries.
THE SUNRISE MARKET 300 Powell St. The best place for cheap produce in Vancouver. T&T SUPERMARKET 179 Keefer Pl. Next to the Stadium Skytrain station. Amazing selection of Asian foods. ERIN TEMPLETON 511 Carrall St. Check out Erin’s one-of-a-kind new and recycled leather bags, as well as some cool vintage finds
PIZZERIA FARINA 915 Main St. Authentic neapolitan pizza. Go early--they close when they run out of dough! KOBOB BURGER 1019 Main St. Korean restaurant famous for their ‘rice patty burger’. Affordable, filling and delicious! BENNY FOODS 598 Union St. In Benny’s Market. Amazing sandwiches! LUPPOLO BREWING CO. 1123 Venables St. A brand new brewery close to Strathcona Park serving beer and Italian snacks.
SHOPS THE EASTSIDE FLEA 1024 Main St. Popular artisan market taking place every other weekend. YOKOYAYA In the International Village Mall 88 W Pender St. Vancouver’s ‘2-Dollar Store’. Awesome home items at low prices. Resells loads of Daiso merch! MAIN STREET STATION FARMERS’ MARKET Right across the street form the beautiful Pacific Central train station, this market runs every Wednesday from 3 to 7 between June and October. 19
MOUNT PLEASANT Click here to see Mount Pleasant on Google Maps Our new neighborhood! Mount Pleasant is a perfect home for our new campus thanks to its many restaurants, art galleries and supply stores. The Main Street and VCC-Clark skytrain stations, as well as the many buses zooming up and down Main Street, make it easy to go just about anywhere. Once a grimy industrial area, Main St. is now one of the most exciting strips in Vancouver. It has retained a certain ‘indie’ feel despite its rapid gentrification, and it houses some of the best independent shops, restaurants and cafes in the city. There are lots of rental opportunities in that area, especially south of 2nd Ave.
THE DUDE CHILLING PARK Guelph St. at 8th Ave. This park is now a legend thanks to a clever sign change by an ECUAD alumni. Free yoga in the summer. JONATHAN ROGERS PARK Manitoba St. at 8th Ave. Where hip Vancouverites hang out after work or play softball in the summer. VANCOUVER MURAL FESTIVAL Vancouver’s largest display of public street art! This festival is only a few years old but has already had a big impact on the city. Every summer, selected artists paint their own mural on a dedicated outdoor space. The results are colorful, incredible, and make Mount Pleasant one of the most exciting places to go for a walk. Guided tours are available. UKRAINIAN PEROGIE DINNER 154 E 10th Ave. On the first Friday of every month, people young and old line up at the Holy Trinity Church for a traditional Ukrainian meal. This is not your typical restaurant experience; allow for lots of time, relax and enjoy the scene! CSA SPACE #5 - 2414 Main St. (upstairs) A tiny gallery space above Pulpfiction Books.
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GEMS WESTERN FRONT GALLERY 303 E 8th Ave. This artist-run centre offers contemporary art exhibitions and new music events. FIELD CONTEMPORARY 17 W Broadway Commercial gallery showcasing the works of local and international artists. 33 ACRES BREWING CO. 15 W 8th Ave. Beautiful minimal decor and amazing beer. They also serve brunch on weekends! BRASSNECK BREWERY 2148 Main St. So close to our new campus! Great communal tables and friendly vibe. Try their beers in the tasting room and refill your growler for a rainy day. THE ANZA CLUB (Australian-New Zealand Club) 3 W 8th Ave. Unpretentious and comfortable atmosphere. Excellent local band venue. THE BILTMORE CABARET 2755 Prince Edward St. Some of the best local indie acts grace the Biltmore’s stage every day of the week.
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GENE COFFEE BAR 2404 Main St. Their great coffee and huge windows make it a perfect spot for people-watching.
THE WALLFLOWER 2420 Main St. Comfort food for all, including vegetarians and celiacs.
49TH PARALLEL COFFEE ROASTERS AND LUCKY’S DOUGHNUTS 2902 Main St. Sit down with a delicious latte and bacon & apple fritter. Relax (before the sugar kicks in!)
TOSHI SUSHI 181 E 16th Ave. This place has a line-up on any given day. It has a cult following amongst Vancouverites, and it is worth the wait. The sushi is amazing. Try their Nasu Dengaku (eggplant baked with miso.)
(V) BUDGIE’S BURRITOS 44 Kingsway Vegetarian burritos with a cool east van attitude. Try the ‘Blair Stanley’ with crunch! NICE CAFÉ 154 E 8TH AVE. Cheap and tasty breakfast! Also known as the ‘hungover hipster hangout’.
THE MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT CO-OP (MEC) 130 W Broadway This Canadian institution has everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. Membership is a one-time fee of $5; just go to the customer service counter to join. SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE 261 E 12th Ave. Large thrift store selling everything from furniture to butter dishes. PULP FICTION BOOKS 2422 Main St. Great selection of new and second-hand books. ANTISOCIAL SKATESHOP 2337 Main St. A beautifully curated skateshop that also hosts events and art shows. Grab one of their iconic T-SHIRTS!
SUSHI YAMA 371 E Broadway Tasty, affordable sushi. CONGEE NOODLE HOUSE 141 E Broadway Classic Hong Kong-style dishes. Open late, cash only.
SHOPS OUR COMMUNITY BIKES (OCB) 2429 Main St. Everything you need to fix your bike, including lessons! You can also volunteer in the shop or buy used and new parts for cheap. URBAN SOURCE 3126 Main St. Got craft? This place sells all sorts of great materials, generally industrial cast-offs (plastic tubes, feathers, film canisters, fabric scraps…) and stationary. KIM’S MART 519 E Broadway Asian grocery store with a good selection of ready-to-eat meals. Their awesome tofu is cheap and made in-house!
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KENSINGTONCEDAR COTTAGE Click here to see Kensington-Cedar Cottage on Google Maps A rapidly-changing neighbourhood with many personalities, Kensington-Cedar Cottage has both beautiful, quiet tree-lined streets and busy industrial arteries. There are great shops and restaurants along Kingsway and Victoria Drive, and the area has lots of green spaces. Kingsway is sometimes referred to as ‘Little Saigon’ thanks to its vibrant Vietnamese community, and it boasts lots of small grocery stores and restaurants.
THE BINGO AT THE CROATIAN CULTURAL CENTRE 3250 Commercial Dr. Every Wednesday and Friday night! Fun time guaranteed, and you might just win! PINOY FIESTA PARADE Once a year in August, the neighbourhood hosts the biggest Filipino cultural event in BC. Expect a colorful parade, as well as delicious food and entertainment.
GEMS KENSINGTON PARK 5175 Dumfries St. Just off Knight St. at 33rd Ave, this big green space has a skatepark, softball diamonds, soccer fields and an indoor pool! CLARK PARK 1500 E 14th Ave. A beautiful and quiet park with tennis and basketball courts, as well as a soccer field. It has a great view of the city and makes a great place to watch the fireworks in the summer.
TROUT LAKE A perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has a beach and walking trails, and hosts a very popular farmers’ market in the summer. The community centre has an ice rink, fitness centre, tai chi classes, ceramics studio and much more!
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THE SAL Y LIMON 701 Kingsway (at 16th Ave.) Authentic Mexican food in a casual atmosphere. PHO THAI HOA 1625 Kingsway Some say this is where you can find the best Pho in town! DOSA FACTORY 1345 Kingsway Specializing in Indo-Chinese, North Indian and Tandoori dishes. A ‘dosa’ is the Indian version of a French crepe made with rice and lentil. They are served with a variety of savoury fillings (they serve over 100 varieties of dosas with lots of vegetarian options). Cheap, delicious, and the portions are always generous. Open late (3am). DUFFIN’S DONUTS 1391 E 41st Ave. (at Knight St.) Open 24 hours, this Vancouver institution serves the best spicy fried chicken in town. Their menu is diverse, from teriyaki pork to tortas, and everything is very affordable. SEOUL DOOGBAEGI 1031 Kingsway Delicious traditional Korean cuisine. Their bibimbab is delicious and affordable at under $10. KIM CHAU DELI 1327 Kingsway Amazing Vietnamese subs, and super cheap at $4 each!
THE FAMOUS FOODS 1595 Kingsway Vancouver’s original natural food store! Amazing bulk section. MCC THRIFT STORE 5914 Fraser St. Super cheap second-hand goods.
FOOD KEN’S CHINESE RESTAURANT 1097 Kingsway Award-winning Chinese food at affordable prices. They do Hot Pot! WALLY’S BURGERS 2661 E 49th Ave. Ok so it’s a bit further up, but this Vancouver institution is worth the trip! Everything is cooked to order using fresh local ingredients. Delicious burgers, milkshakes and onion rings. MATCHSTICK COFFEE ROASTERS 639 E 15th Ave. Beautiful coffee shop with view on a cute park. DEUTSCHES HAUS RESTAURANT AT THE VANCOUVER ALPEN CLUB 4875 Vicoria Dr. The Alpen Club is the heart of the German community in Vancouver. Drop in for a beer and a little taste of Deutschland. Live bands on weekends. (V) THE BLACK LODGE 630 Kingsway A ‘Twin Peaks’ themed bar with an awesome log cabin decor and affordable vegetarian dishes. CEDAR COTTAGE NEIGHBOURHOOD PUB 3728 Clark Dr. A lovely neighbourhood joint that serves classic pub fare. It also houses a liquor store.
SHOPS BKH JERKY 3201 Fraser St. Singapore-style beef and pork jerky. Some say it is the best in the world and I believe them. The spicy pork jerky is crazy amazing. Get a bag of ‘ends’ at a discounted price!
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DOWNTOWN Click here to see Downtown on Google Maps Downtown Vancouver is in a beautiful location, squished between Stanley Park, Burrard Inlet, East Vancouver and False Creek. It has a little bit of everything, from industrial grit in the east to yuppy vibe in Yaletown. You can catch a bus, ferry or train to just about anywhere from downtown, as well as find the best shopping and dining in the city. There are bike lanes throughout, making it safe and easily accessible to cyclists.
THE VANCOUVER ART GALLERY 750 Hornby St. Affectionately called ‘the VAG’ (with a hard G), this gallery is the gem of Vancouver. The gallery houses a fantastic permanent collection and also hosts contemporary art exhibits. VANCOUVER LOOKOUT TOWER 555 W Hastings St. Take the 40-second glass elevator ride and enjoy 360º views of Vancouver! Admission is $12.50 for students with valid ID. ROBSON STREET A mecca for shoppers and tourists, this street is packed with stores offering everything from designer clothes to cheap souvenirs. BC PLACE 777 Pacific Blvd Where the BC Lions and Whitecaps go out and play. Tickets are affordable and the games are exciting! THE COMMODORE BALLROOM 868 Granville St. One of Vancouver’s oldest venues, the Commodore hosts an excellent selection of various live artists. Next door is Commodore Lanes, where you can play 5-pin bowling, billiards and arcade games. VANCITY THEATRE 1181 Seymour St. By far the most comfortable movie theatre in town! They have great programming, from Bond retrospective to cutting edge documentaries. 24
GEMS CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 555 Nelson St. Public gallery focusing on--you guessed it--contemporary art. VANCOUVER SYMPHONY 601 Smithe St. Home of Ballet BC and the Vancouver Opera.. THE CINEMATHEQUE 1131 Howe St. The best place to catch old classics as well as indie and art house movies. Grab their magazine/ program every month for details on what’s playing. OR GALLERY 555 Hamilton St. Small non-profit artist-run center with a focus on conceptual art.
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FINCH’S TEA HOUSE 352 W Pender St. Beautiful sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere.
THE TEMPLETON 1087 Granville St. Organic, old-school diner fare in a cool decor.
LA TAQUERIA 322 W Hastings St. Authentic Mexican tacos.
CAFE PHIN AND PHO 976 Denman St. Awesome Vietnamese subs, pho, and salad rolls.
JAPADOG 530 Robson St. Hot dogs with Japanese flair! This is their storefront, but they also have multiple food carts in the downtown core. They serve the best hot dogs in Vancouver. Check out their hall of fame!
RAMEN JINYA 270 Robson St. This world-famous Tonkotsu Ramen restaurant had a cult following even before it opened! Amazing dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options!
SAJ&CO 813 Davie St. Authentic and delicious Lebanese food. Their zataar labneh is incredible.
EXP RESTAURANT + BAR 309 W Pender St. The hangout spot for Vancouver’s video gamers and animators.
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DRESSEW SUPPLY 337 W Hastings St. Best selection of textiles and notions in the city, and LOTS of costume supplies.
JOE FRESH STYLE 540 Granville St. Stylish and affordable clothes. They have great workout gear and pajamas!
MACLEOD’S BOOKS 455 W Pender St. Affectionately called ‘the fire trap’, this amazing store is packed to the rafters with old books. The basement is so full it is claustrophobic!
COSTCO DOWNTOWN 605 Expo Blvd. Yes! There is a Costco downtown, right by the Chinatown Skytrain station. Share a membership with a friend and get quality items at low prices, including electronics, clothing, beauty items and groceries.
WILDLIFE THRIFT STORE 1295 Granville St. Great selection of furniture and clothing in the heart of downtown.
VPL CENTRAL BRANCH 350 W Georgia St. It looks like a Roman Coliseum but there are no gladiator fights there... just books, lots of books!! Spend a quiet day perusing their great collection and get a membership. They also have a recording studio!
VANCOUVER PEN SHOP 512 W Hastings St If you use dip pens or do calligraphy, you need to check out this eclectic boutique that has a great selection of pens (and also some pencils).
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THE WEST END Click here to see the West End on Google Maps Many students choose to live in the West End because of its fabulous location, ch aracter buildings and affordable rent. Stanley Park, beautiful sand beaches and the Downtown core are all within walking distance. This neighborhood is very multi-cultural and is rich in international cuisines, with everything from authentic ramen to Korean BBQ, Lebanese and much more.
THE BEACHES Go for a dip in the ocean! The West End has three of Vancouver’s best beaches, including English Bay, Sunset Beach and Third Beach.
PRIDE PARADE The highlight of Vancouver Pride Week is the amazing Parade which takes place at the beginning of August each year.
STANLEY PARK The jewel of Vancouver. Best enjoyed on a bicycle (note: you can only bike one way--see “Seawall” below). Stanley Park houses the Aquarium, a Rose Garden, a Pitch-and-Putt course and lots more.
DENMAN STREET Start from English Bay and walk up to W Georgia; this street is full of restaurants and shops. Grab a coffee and go relax in Devonian Harbour Park.
SEAWALL One of the best things in Vancouver, hands down. You can walk the 9km stone wall (2-3 hours) but we recommend riding a bike (1 hour). You can start at the Convention Center; there is a bike path that leads to Stanley Park. Note that the Seawall is a one-way bike path; you can only cycle it counter-clockwise. Make sure you wear a helmet and that you have good front and back lights, as the seawall is not lit at night and can be potentially very dangerous! You can continue past the Seawall and end your journey in Chinatown. Enjoy the views! DAVIE VILLAGE Vancouver’s male gay community is centered around Davie Village. Although not exclusive, some of the neighbourhood’s restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, clubs and boutique cater to gay men. These businesses are mostly located on Davie Street.
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NUMBERS 1042 Davie St. Mostly frequented by gay men, Numbers has a small dance floor, features themed nights and has a pool table and a karaoke room upstairs. CELEBRITIES NIGHT CLUB 1022 Davie St. Mixed crowd, gay and straight welcome! Live cabaret performances, the finest local and international DJs. Bingo every Tuesday! Cover charge applies.
THE SAMURAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 1108 Davie St. Cheap and tasty Japanese cuisine. Always busy! STEPHO’S SOUVLAKI GREEK TAVERNA 1124 Davie St. People line up for their generous portions. Arrive early! LA BELLE PATATE 1215 Davie St. Their poutine got the seal of approval from the pickiest Quebecer I know. ZAKKUSHI 823 Denman St. Japanese Yakitori Izakaya. Very popular charcoal bbq restaurant chain. LEGENDARY NOODLE HOUSE 1074 Denman St. Thin, thick or flat noodles made to order. MOTOMASHI SHOKUDO 740 Denman St. One of the best ramen restaurants in town. You will feel like you have just been teleported to Tokyo!
THE ROBSON STREET Robson Street is essentially an outdoor mall startng from Downtown and stretching well into the West End. You can find excellent, jumbo-sized versions of some of your fave franchises including: Forever 21, Sephora, Roots, Aritzia, Victoria's Secret, The Body Shop and many more. If you need to do some shopping on a sunny day, why not skip the mall and enjoy a walk down this store-packed street?
FOOD THE BAR AT THE SYLVIA HOTEL 1154 Gilford St. (English Bay) A beautiful heritage building with a great view. On the expensive side, but you get $2 off drinks during Happy Hour (M-F 3pm-6pm) THE CAPITAL 1178 Davie St. Everything on the menu is $4.95! Vegan options available. Great selection of craft beers. COMOX STREET LONG BAR & GRILL 1763 Comox St. Super cozy and friendly bar with a cool retro vibe. MILANO ESPRESSO BAR & GELATO 849 Denman St. Espresso-based drinks and, you guessed it, gelato. GREENHORN ESPRESSO BAR 994 Nicola St. Nice and cozy neighbourhood coffee shop. SHIZENYA 985 Hornby St. Japanese restaurant serving healthy dishes made with organic and sustainably-sourced ingredients.
SHOPS HOUSE OF VINTAGE 1008 Robson St An ecelectic second-floor shop with all things weird, wonderful, and vintage. THE CANDY ROOM 1218 Robson St Got a sweet-tooth? You can't miss this candy-packed fun store! KONBINIYA JAPAN CENTRE 1238 Robson St This is as close as you could come to an authentic Japanese convenience store experience this side of the Pacific Ocean. 27
GASTOWN & DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE Click here to see Gastown and here to see the Downtown Eastside on Google Maps Full of inspired bars, restaurants and fashion-forward boutiques, Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood and was designated a National Historic site in 2009. Its cobbled streets, heritage buildings and old lamposts make it a destination in itself. The adjacent Downtown Eastside (DTES) is more challenging but should not be overlooked; it is Vancouver’s hub of creative talent, independent businesses and artist-run galleries. Although it is not necessarily a dangerous place, we do recommend you be more careful when walking through the DTES, and that you avoid walking there late at night..
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STEAM CLOCK Popular with tourists, the steam clock whistles every 15 minutes.
ARTSPEAK 233 Carrall St. Non-profit artist-run centre.
WOODWARDS BUILDING Recently renovated, this iconic Vancouver building now hosts a variety of shops and cafes, as well as the Audain Gallery.
GAM GALLERY 110 E Hastings St. Gallery, studio space, small boutique and venue.
CRAB PARK Walk northbound on Main St. past Alexander St., take the bridge across the train tracks and discover this lovely, underrated park.
THE ARMY & NAVY 36 W Cordova St. and 13 W Hastings St. Canada’s original discount store! You can find everything from a fishing rod to a pair of sandals. Really good prices! COMMUNITY THRIFT AND VINTAGE 11 W Hastings St. (unisex) 311 Carrall St. (ladies) Find that special clothing item that will set you apart in these funky non-profit stores. 28
SHOPS JOHN FLUEVOG SHOES LTD 65 Water St. Iconic, quality shoes. Try to catch one of their big sales. OLD FAITHFUL SHOP 320 W Cordova St. Timeless quality items from around the world. Pricy but worth the visit, especially if you are a lover of classic design and craftsmanship..
THE SAVE ON MEATS 43 W Hastings St. A great restaurant with a social conscience. Cheap breakfast. You can buy a $2.25 token which will provide a breakfast sandwich to a person in need. MEAT & BREAD 370 Cambie St. Tasty sandwiches; the menu changes daily. Open for lunch only. NELSON THE SEAGULL 315 Carrall St. Bread and coffee shop with the coolest decor in town. Known for their avocado toasts! LA CASITA 101 W Cordova St. Family-owned restaurant serving authentic and fresh Mexican food. TACOFINO TACO BAR 15 W Cordova St. They have a burrito bar! Grab one to-go and head out to Crab park.
FOOD DEACON’S CORNER 101 Main St. The original Gastown Diner. Popular breakfast. THE CAMBIE BAR AND GRILL 300 Cambie St. Under the Cambie hostel, ‘the Cambie’ is always brimming with students and travellers. Write your name on the picnic table you’re sitting at! THE ALIBI ROOM 157 Alexander St. Vancouver’s best selection of Pacific Northwest beers on tap. Try the paddle sampler if you want variety, and ask the server to pick the beers for you if you feel adventurous! EAST VAN ROASTERS 319 Carrall St. A non-profit artisan coffee and chocolate shop. Everything is roasted and made in-house! Try their decadent drinking chocolate... mmm... REVOLVER 325 Cambie St. For serious coffee lovers! They can brew your coffee in different ways--pick your favorite!
image credit: Vancouver Sun
DR. SUN YAT-SEN GARDEN Chinatown and the Downtown Eastside are neighbours, so enjoy a nice walk through Gastown to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden on a sunny day.
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FAIRVIEW & SOUTH CAMBIE Click here to see Fairview, and here to see South Cambie on Google Maps This area is very popular thanks to its central location, easy access to public transit, and tree-lined streets dotted with beautiful heritage houses and character apartment buildings. This is a safe area with plenty of amenities and green spaces. It includes our former home, the world famous Granville Island!
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SOUTH GRANVILLE ST. Just South of Granville Island, this strip has lots of fancy shops and cafes. CAMBIE ST. The portion of Cambie St. between 6th Ave. and King Edward Ave. offers great shopping. Stop by the park at City Hall for some good people watching. GRANVILLE ISLAND KID’S MARKET 1496 Cartwright Street This is a kid’s haven on Granville! Not a kid? Don’t worry, there’s probably something for you too.
FIFTH AVENUE CINEMAS 2110 Burrard St. Must be 19+ to go in due to its bar (alcohol can be purchased and brought into the theatre.) This small theatre always has a great selection of movies, from blockbusters to arthouse films and documentaries. Go on a Tuesday for cheap tickets ($7.99!) PARK THEATRE 3440 Cambie St. Although now part of the Cineplex family, this small neighbourhood theatre has kept some of its quirky charm (real butter on the popcorn!) The theatre only has one screen and shows mostly mainstream movies. $12 admission. KINO CAFE 3456 Cambie St This great Spanish tapas bars boasts Tuesday Night Stand-up every week at 9:30 pm, Vancouver's longest running stand-up!
THE BLOEDEL CONSERVATORY In the winter when the days are dark and cold, this is a real tropical oasis in the city: hot, humid and full of exotic birds and plants. Located at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park, it also offers a great view of the city! 30
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CAFE SALADE DE FRUITS 1551 W 7th Ave. Un petit bout de France in Vancouver! Delicious French fare, great for lunch but arrive early because it’s always busy. Cash only.
SHAOLIN NOODLE HOUSE 656 W Broadway Always packed with locals. Watch the cooks expertly pull, shave or cut the noodles right before your eyes!
VIJ’S RANGOLI 1488 W 11th Ave. Vij’s is one of Vancouver’s most famous chefs. Eat in or buy one of his ready-made curries!
RAIN OR SHINE ICE CREAM 3382 Cambie St. Beautiful locally-made ice cream with intriguing flavours such as Blueberry Balsamic, Honey Lavender and London Fog.
SHISHINORI JAPANESE EATERY 2328 Cambie St. Rice bowls, light japanese dishes, ice cream and more. LA TAQUERIA PINCHE TACO SHOP 2549 Cambie St. Their tacos got the thumbs up from our pickiest Mexican students!
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HOKKAIDO RAMEN SANTOUKA 558 W Broadway Japanese franchise serving handmade shio, shoyu, miso, tokusen toroniku and char siu ramen!
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BEAU PHOTO 1520 W 6th Ave. This camera store offers a discount to ECU students.
THE UMBRELLA SHOP 1550 Anderson St What could be more “Vancouver” than an umbrella shop?!
ORIGINS COFFEE ROASTERS 1245 Cartwright St We have it on good authority that this place has the BEST coffee beans!
BC LIQUOR STORE 5555 Cambie St. There are many BC liquor stores around the city, but this one is one of the best! Amazing selection. Open 7 days/week.
GRANVILLE ISLAND SOAP GALLERY 104-1535 Johnston St Handmade soap, bath, and body products with very knowledgable staff. This little shop smells AMAZING.
SEA WALL The False Creek Sea Wall is lined with stunning views and fun activities. It connects the Telus World of Science, the Creekside Community Centre (famous for its dragon boating facilities), Granville Island and more. There are no cars allowed on the Sea Wall, which makes biking safe and enjoyable. Start in Olympic Village and pedal all the way to Kits beach! 31
RILEY PARK Click here to see Riley Park on Google Maps South of Mount Pleasant. Quiet and safe yet thriving and hip, this is a great neighbourhood to spend a day or a few years! There are lots of restaurants and shops to discover, as well as a lovely park and community centre.
THE WELK’S 3511 Main St. The best discount store in Vancouver. They have everything. BAKER’S DOZEN ANTIQUES 3520 Main St. A pretty magical place! Get inspired by their amazing window displays and odd antiques. UMEBOSHI FOOTWEAR 3638 Main St. Drool-worthy, fashionable designer shoes. COLLAGE COLLAGE 3697 Main St. A beautiful store that celebrates children’s creativity. Founded by an Emily Carr graduate, it offers inspiring exhibits and workshops, as well as a nice selection of art supplies and gifts. THE SOAP DISPENSARY 3718 Main St. I could spend hours in this tiny shop. You can buy all kinds of eco-friendly liquid and powder soaps, cleaning products, oils, and essential oils in bulk. They also have a big selection of eco-friendly items for your home. FRONT & COMPANY 3772 Main St. A consignment clothing store with a great selection of new and second-hand items. REGIONAL ASSEMBLY OF TEXT 3934 Main St. Founded by two Emily Carr graduates, this beautiful store is a stationary-lover’s paradise. Join the Letter Writing Club on the first Thursday of every month at 7pm to write a letter home—supplies are provided! 32
SHOPS LUCKY’S COMICS 3972 Main St. A tiny space with the best selection of comics and zines in the city. They also host art shows and music events at the back of the store. TRENDYBUCKS 4101 Main St. Crazy dollar store with a great selection of plants! EAST WEST MARKET 4169 Main St. Amazing grocery store just south of King Edward. They carry local produce and make awesome salsas, chimichurri and fresh juices in store. RED CAT RECORDS 4332 Main St. An artist-owned and operated record store. I FOUND GALLERY 4578 Main St. Vintage jewellery and other treasures.
THE QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK (OR ‘QUEEN E’) A park on a hill with beautiful gardens on the west side and great sports facilities.You can play pitch & putt, basketball and disc golf, or hit the well-maintained tennis courts. Hike up to the biodome for a spectacular view of the North Shore mountains. The biodome is an awesome place to go to beat the winter blues. THE LEGION ON MAIN 3917 Main St. Mingle with the old-timers, play shuffleboard or darts, or belt out your favorite tune on Wednesday and Saturday Karaoke Nights.
THE LIBERTY BAKERY 3699 Main St. This Vancouver institution got new owners last year, and Liberty 2.0 is stunning. The decor is like a pinterest board, the coffee is great and their light sandwiches and pastries are beautiful. (V) THE ACORN 3995 Main St. This restaurant is pricy, but it’s so good we had to include it. Locally-owned restaurant serving vegetarian (mostly vegan) dishes. The halloumi salad is insane. EAST IS EAST 4433 Main St. The beautiful decor and delicious chai will make you feel like you just landed in India. Live world music every night.
GEMS THE VANCOUVER CANADIANS AT THE NAT BAILEY STADIUM 4601 Ontario St. The Vancouver Canadians are the local baseball team and the games are so much fun! Catch a game June - September (make sure you go when post-game fireworks are scheduled!). Tickets cost as little as $12.50 and can be purchased at the door. Mini donuts are a must! HILLCREST CENTER 4575 Clancy Loranger Way This state-of-the-art community center was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics. It includes an amazing indoor pool, an ice rink and a curling club.
FOOD QUEJOS CHEESEBUNS 4129 Main St. Wheat and gluten-free baked goods made just like in Brazil! Their sandwiches are amazing. Grab a bag of cheap day-olds. THE REEF 4172 Main St. A taste of the Caribbean in Vancouver. SIMPLY DELICIOUS 4316 Main St. (upstairs) Sushi lounge where you can find great deals on food and drinks, as well as karaoke! BOB LIKES THAI FOOD 3755 Main St. Thai food in a hip atmosphere. Try their duck curry!
LE MARCHÉ ST. GEORGE 4393 St. George St. A little bit of Paris just east of Main Street. Coffee, tea and pastries in a charming old corner store.
THE FISH COUNTER 3825 Main St. Amazing Ocean Wise-approved fish and chips, available gluten-free!
HAWKER’S DELIGHT 4127 Main St. Inexpensive and authentic Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine. Their fritters are amazing!
AU PETIT CAFÉ 4851 Main St. No-frills, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Cheap Banh mi sandwiches.
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KITSILANO Click here to see Kitsilano on Google Maps Kitsilano (or Kits to locals) is one of Vancouver’s favorite neighborhoods thanks to its beaches, great shopping, and relaxed atmosphere. It hosts a large student population due to its proximity to UBC.
THE VANIER PARK 1000 Chestnut St. Home of the Museum of Vancouver (MOV), the HR MacMillan Space Center and the Vancouver Maritime Museum. Show your student card for a discount on admission. Check out the MOV’s permanent exhibit to learn more about the history of Vancouver! JERICHO BEACH A great place to relax and watch the sun set.
GEMS WEST 4TH AVENUE AND WEST BROADWAY These two streets are lined with great shops and restaurants.. KHATSALANO STREET PARTY Every year in July, W4th Ave. turns into a massive street party, comlete with amazing local bands, street vendors and food trucks. WEST 4TH AVENUE AND WEST BROADWAY These two streets are lined with great shops and restaurants..
KITS BEACH Kits Beach is one of Vancouver’s most beloved outdoor spot. The sandy beach is perfect for lounging in the sun or go for a dip in the ocean. The park also includes beach volleyball nets, tennis courts, basketball courts and, last but not least, the amazing Kits Pool.
KITS POOL A true gem, Kits Pool is a 137-metre, heated saltwater swimming pool. It costs $6 to go, but avid swimmers can get a Flexipass that allows unlimited use of city pools and fitness centres. 34
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SIEGEL’S BAGELS 1883 Cornwall Ave. Classic wood-fired bagels and corned beef sandwiches. Open 24h.
(V) THE NAAM 2724 W 4th Ave. Vancouver’s vegetarian food mecca! Try their famous fries with miso gravy. Open 24 hrs.
DONER KEBAB 1956 W 4th Ave. Cheap and SO tasty. Their falafel kebab is $7 and almost had me fall off my chair.
APHRODITE’S ORGANIC CAFE AND PIE SHOP 3605 W 4th Ave. (restaurant) 3598 W 4th Ave. (pie shop) Breakfast, lunch, dinner... and of course, PIES!
RAMEN DANBO 1833 W 4th Ave. Fukuoka-style ramen, always packed and consistently delicious!
MODERNE BURGER 2507 W Broadway Vancouver’s favorite diner, complete with ‘50s decor.
SOPHIE’S COSMIC CAFE 2095 W 4th Ave. A Kitsilano institution, Sophie’s is a popular and funky breakfast spot.
THE EATERY 3431 W Broadway Funky and over the top sushi!
THE ZULU RECORDS 1972 W 4th Ave. Vancouver’s #1 music store. Knowledgeable staff and amazing selection of vinyl records. GRAVITY POPE 2205 W 4th Ave. The best shoe-shopping spot in Vancouver.
SHOPS MINERVA’S MEDITERRANEAN DELI 3207 W Broadway Amazing gyros and mediterranean groceries. WHOLE FOODS MARKET 2285 W 4th Ave. A healthy food store with a section of prepared meals. Check out their Juice Bar for a meal in a cup. TOY JUNGLE 2933 W Broadway Voted the best toy shop in Vancouver! Satisfy your inner child with this delightful store. W 4TH AVE SHOPPING W 4th Avenue is a great shopping and dining street. You can find everything from yoga gear to vintage records, as well as many fashion-forward boutiques. There are also plenty of restaurants for the foodies: whether you are craving ramen, curry, falafel, boeuf Bourguignon, freshly shaved noodles or an amazing ice cream cone (try Rain or Shine), w4th has you covered!
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MARPOLE & KERRISDALE Click here to see Marpole, and here to see Kerrisdale on Google Maps At the south end of Vancouver, these neighbourhoods are mostly residential and have all the amenities you need. Marpole is on the Skytrain’s Canada Line and the rent prices are still affordable, making it a great home for Emily Carr students.
THE MARPOLE CURLING CLUB 8730 Heather St. Rent a sheet and play with some friends, or sit at the bar upstairs and watch the pros hurry hard!
FRASER RIVER PARK AND TRAIL 8705 Angus Dr. Walk, bike or ride a horse along Vancouver’s only riverside greenway.
KERRISDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE 5851 West Blvd A neat little community centre with great facilities and programming, including a fitness centre with really reasonable rates ($3.50 drop-in!)
METRO THEATRE 1370 SW Marine Dr. Come see everything from dance to drama to opera at this local theatre. If you’re theatrically inclined, they also have audition calls on their website.
VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY KERRISDALE BRANCH 2112 W 42nd Ave A quaint and convenient branch of the VPL system. THE DRY SPOT INDOOR SK8 PARK 8495 Ontario St If you skate and you live in Vancouver you'll understand the need for a place like this. Great place to skate while dodging the weather.
VAN DUSEN BOTANICAL GARDENS 5251 Oak St. Beautiful gardens in the heart of the city. Lovely in the spring with the cherry blossoms. Admission is between $8-$11 depending on the season. Bring your camera!
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MARPOLE PARK 1410 W 72nd Ave A lovely park but what makes it the most intersting is the plaque discussing the Marpole Midden, evidence of a settlement dating back to 3500 BCE!
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PHO TAN’S VIETNAMESE 2076 W 41st Ave. Cheap and tasty. Large Pho for around $7!
MIRCHI 7964 Granville St. Tasty Indian and Pakistani cuisine.
KERRISDALE KITCHEN 6055 West Boulevard Affordable Chinese food.
CAFE MAI-MAI 8636 Granville St. Vietnamese restaurant serving MSG-free Pho.
SECRET GARDEN TEA CO. 5559 West Blvd Enjoy a real High Tea experience, complete with sweets and sandwiches.
THE YARD CAFE 8482 Granville St. One of the very few pubs in the area.
FABOURG 2156 W 41st Ave A Parisian cafe with fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more including a rainbow of macarons! BUFALA 5395 West Blvd An authentic pizzeria with from-scratch Napolitana stlye pizzas. Try the Margherita, you can’t go wrong.
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APPLAUSE 8269 Oak Street Cheap sushi, noodles and rice bowls. MILLTOWN BAR AND GRILL 9191 Bentley St A stunningly decorated Canadian style bar and grill with waterfront views.
SHOPS
OAKRIDGE CENTRE 650 W 41st Ave. A nice mall on the Skytrain line. Lots of high-end boutiques.
SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE 8384 Granville St. and 2021 W 41st Ave. Great thrift stores that are less picked over than the ones closer to downtown.
CHOICES MARKETS 1888 W 57th Ave. Neighbourhood grocery store with a selection of fresh and local products.
VANCOUVER RESTORE 69 W 69th Ave This thrift store is a great place to find furniture and it's run by Habitat for Humanity.
THE ANTIQUES WAREHOUSE 226 SW Marine Dr This is a fascinating place to walk through on a rainy day and you never know what well-priced gem you might find!
TJ'S THE KIDDIES STORE 88 SW Marine Dr This a must-stop place for any parents out there, especially since they offer discounts for single ma's and pa's.
SWEET GEORGIA YARN 408 East Kent Ave S An artisan yarn shop great for all you fibre artists!
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RICHMOND & DELTA Click here to see Richmond and here to see Delta on Google Maps
Located south of Vancouver, Richmond is home to a thriving Asian community. It boasts some of the best Asian restaurants in North America, as well as great shopping, lovely trails and historic sites like Steveston (see below). South of Richmond is the municipality of Delta, which includes the Tsawassen ferry terminal and the Reifel Bird Sanctuary.
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WEST DYKE TRAIL Cycle this flat 5.5-kilometre (3.5-mile) trail that links Garry Point Park and the Terra Nova Natural Area. Along the way, it passes the marshes and mud flats of the remarkable Sturgeon Banks wetlands.
REIFEL BIRD SANCTUARY 5191 Robertson Rd., Delta This Delta jewel is located within the larger Alaksen National Wildlife Area. It is a wonderful place to watch migratory birds, especially in the Fall. Bring your camera, the landscape is stunning.
FINN SLOUGH At the end of No.4 Road (bike or car needed). Settled in 1890 by a group of Finnish fishermen, this community on stilts in a muddy slough continues to be squatted by a variety of people. This unique community was also one of the strongholds for the UFAWU Fisherman’s Union in the 1930’s. Go, look around, be respectful of the fact that people live in this delicate environment and are constantly under threat of eviction.
RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET 8351 River Rd. Held on weekend and holiday evenings from midMay to mid-October. Eat things you have never seen before and shop for an amazing array of accessories. Admission is $3.25.
Richmond Night Market
THE LIDO RESTAURANT 4231 Hazelbridge Way Tasty and inexpensive Hong Kong-style dishes. XI’AN CUISINE 8620 Westminster Hwy Close to Brighouse Station. Always busy! GOKUDO SHABU SHABU HOTPOT #2133-3779 Sexsmith Rd. Great hot pot restaurant. Limited seating--arrive early to beat the crowd. GYO-O JAPANESE RESTAURANT #2137-3779 Sexsmith Rd. Traditional and delicious Donburi, Ramen and Udon dishes.
THE IKEA 3320 Jacombs Rd. This store needs no introduction! Everything you need for your new apartment can be found at great prices.
FOOD BUBBLE QUEEN 8888 Odlin Crescent Bubble tea and fresh fruit slushes. Their fresh mango slush with mango cubes is a must-try. THE FLYING BEAVER BAR AND GRILL 4760 Inglis Dr. By the airport’s South Terminal. On a nice day, sit on the patio and watch the hydroplanes come and go. ROCANINI COFFEE ROASTERS IN STEVESTON 115-3900 Moncton St. Beautiful location, great coffee and pastries.
SHOPS OSAKA SUPERMARKET 1000-3700 No 3 Rd. Looking for mangosteen, a whole salted chicken or gochujang? Osaka has it! ABERDEEN CENTRE 4151 Hazelbridge Way This mall is huge! Walk around, go to Daiso or the Yaohan Centre.
STEVESTON An old fishing community now turned into a lovely seaside village. Check out the two National Historic Sites: the Golf of Georgia Cannery and the Britannia Heritage Shipyard, where you can learn about the multicultural lives of the men and women who worked in the cannery in the 19th century.
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UBC & POINT GREY Click here to see UBC and here to see Point Grey on Google Maps The westernmost point of Vancouver, this area is surrounded by beautiful beaches and offers spectacular ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. The UBC campus is a must-see; you can spend a day roaming its beaches, museums, galleries, gardens, and coffee shops. Just take the #99 or #84 express bus all the way to the UBC bus exchange.
UBC CAMPUS
This is a huge campus, so bring a map! There is lots to see, including world-class museums and galleries (see below), an amazing library, beaches, gardens, sports facilities and more.
BEATY BIODIVERSITY MUSEUM
2212 Main Mall Vancouver’s new natural history museum. The blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling is in itself worth a visit! This is a great place to go if you would like to sketch plants and animals.
UBC PACIFIC SPIRIT PARK
A popular network of trails for hikers, walkers, runners, and mountain bikers alike. The biking trails are not challenging, but they are easily accessible and are an enjoyable quick-fix for those who like to ride cross-country.
UBC FARM
3461 Ross Drive The UBC Farm encompasses 24 hectares of integrated farm and forest lands on UBC’s South Campus. The farm offers two weekly markets from early June through mid-October
SPANISH BANKS
A huge sandy beach--at low tide, the water is one kilometre off shore! This is a great place to have a BBQ and toss a Frisbee with friends. You can easily ride your bike all the way there.
UBC BOTANICAL GARDENS
6804 SW Marine Drive Go for a canopy walk on the 308-metre aerial trail system! Also worth a mention is the Nitobe Memorial Garden (next page, bottom right), one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in North America, and among the top five Japanese gardens outside of Japan.
WRECK & TOWER BEACH
Vancouver’s favorite nudist beach. Just go, it’s not scary. It is interesting and a real Vancouver thing to do. Get naked, swim. You don’t have to go nude but you might feel slightly out of place if you keep your swimsuit on! Tower Beach, just North of Wreck, doesn’t have the latter’s nice sand beaches, but is a bit less intimidating and much quieter. To access Tower Beach from UBC, simply go down the stairs located behind the Museum of Anthropology. 40
MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY
6393 NW Marine Drive Every new BC resident should visit this amazing museum. They have an extensive and fascinating collection of First Nations artifacts and artworks. Learn about the people that have inhabited BC for thousands of years, and check out the contemporary art exhibit in the adjacent Audain Gallery.
THE NEST AT UBC
6133 University Blvd This is the UBC Alma Mater Society’s beautiful new building, and it’s worth checking out! It’s a great place to catch the UBC vibe, as well as a perfect stop if you need to get a quick bite to eat. Uppercase has the most amazing cookies!
MORRIS AND HELEN BELKIN GALLERY 1825 Main Mall A must-see for all artists, especially for lovers of Canadian avant-garde art.
HASTINGS MILL MUSEUM
1575 Alma St Awesome and quirky museum full of artifacts and photographs that show the history of Vancouver. Admission is by donation, and the museum is run by volunteers (which explains the weird opening hours--check online before you go). The museum is in Vancouver’s oldest building, one of the few that survived the Great Vancouver Fire of June 13, 1886. Stop by on your way to the beach to learn more about the Great Fire, logging in BC, and the way of life of the region’s first nations people and settlers. The staff is super friendly and will be happy to answer your questions.
THE NITOBE MEMORIAL GARDEN
A stunning gem in the city. You can’t beat the tranquil atmosphere and in the summer they host authentic tea ceremonies.
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BURNABY AND BEYOND Click here to see Burnaby, here to see Surrey, here to see New Westminister, and here to see Coquitlam on Google Maps. As the SkyTrain Lines continue to snake eastwards, more and more communities outside of Vancouver are becoming accessible for students. Burnaby, New Westminister, Surrey, and Coquitlam can all be reached via either the Expo or Millenium lines. Burnaby is only a couple stops from VCC-Clark and Emily Carr!
THE DEER LAKE PARK 6450 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby Keep an eye out for concerts at the scenic outdoor stage. During the summer, Vancouver Symphonic Orchestra hosts a FREE Symphony in the Park here! There is also easy access to the Burnaby Art Gallery and Shadbolt Centre for the Arts from the park. And you can’t miss kayaking on the lake! ROCKY POINT PARK 2800 Murray St, Port Moody Easily accessible by bus, this park has trails, a beach, an outdoor pool and a skatepark. You can also find amazing fish‘n chips at the Pajo’s concession stand in the summer! CRESCENT BEACH Surrey Walk along this beautiful beach and enjoy the nifty restaraunts. This sunny, sandy spot has been called one of Surrey’s best kept secrets!
McGILL LIBRARY McGill Library in gorgeous Confederation Park is a gem of a library. Although it’s in the Burnaby Public Library system, VPL card holders have full access to its books and services!
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GEMS BURNABY MOUNTAIN Spend some time hiking beautiful Burnaby Mountain and while you’re there check out Kamui Mintara. This scultpural gift from Burnaby’s Japanese sister city Kushiro was created by Ainu sculptor Toko Nuburi. BURNABY VILLAGE MUSEUM 6501 Deer Lake Ave Experience some local history first hand at this hopping museum. Check out the carousel while you’re there! NEW MEDIA GALLERY 777 Columbia Street, New Westminister A fantastic contemporary art gallery dedicated to new media works, this gallery is located in the Anvil Centre in New West.
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ANTON’S PASTA BAR 4260 Hastings St, Burnaby This pasta bar is so popular there is a line-up down the BLOCK at dinner time! Come early and come often for big servings of delicious pasta.
HI SUSHI 881 Carnarvon St, New Westminister Get some great, authentic sushi for reasonable prices within a minute walk from New Westminister Station.
GLENBURN SODA FOUNTAIN AND CONFECTIONARY 4090 Hastings St, Burnaby Take a blast back to the past with this oldfashioned soda parlour.
CENTRAL CITY BREWPUB 13450 102nd Ave, Surrey Makers of the famous Red Racer beer! Their brewpub has their entire beer portfolio on tap. Next to the Surrey Central Skytrain station.
NUVOLA GELATO 4712 Hastings St, Burnaby Is it the best gelato in Vancouver area? That’s for you to discover (hint: yes) as you sample their gelato and dairy-free sorbetto made with fresh, seasonal fruit!
BREWERY ROW 2601 Murray St, Port Moody With four breweries within a five minute walk from each other, this “ale-trail” is a great place for a tasting tour! Start with Moody Ales and then head up Murray Street for the rest.
DAGERAAD BREWERY 3191 Thunderbird Crescent A small-batch brewery with Belgian inspired beers, try the local specialty Burnabarian!
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COMPANION BOOKS 4094 Hastings St, Burnaby This second-hand bookstore is packed with sweet gems to find. They also take gently-used books for store credit or cash.
NEW WESTMINISTER QUAY 810 Quayside Dr, New Westminister Enjoy a scenic walk along the water or in the park. Check out the nifty shops in the River Market. Watch the tugboats tug things. A perfect day!
METROPOLIS AT METROTOWN 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby One can’t mention shopping and not mention Metrotown. This enormous four-storey mall is the largest in BC and third largest in Canada.
BOARD GAME WARRIORS 708 Clarkson St, New Westminister This shop sells the real-deal board games and also buy and sell used games.
GAME DEALS VIDEO GAMES 407 Columbia St, New Westminster If you want your digital entertainment, check out this neat shop where you can buy, sell, and trade video games.
ITAL DECOR LTD. 6886 Hastings St, Burnaby This unusual shop offers a wide selection of statues, gargoyles, gnomes, fountains and other stuff you never knew you needed. Awesome location for a photoshoot!
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NORTH SHORE By North Shore we mean the area of Metro Vancouver across the Vancouver Harbour; it includes North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Deep Cove. Click here to see these areas on Google Maps. The SeaBus is the best and most scenic way to get to the North Shore. It departs from Waterfront Station downtown and arrives at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. The North shore has amazing hiking and mountain biking trails that can be accessed by bus. Invest in a hiking trails guide and explore the mountains!
THE HIKING There are many beautiful trails all over the North Shore. Click here for a list of our favorite hikes. LONSDALE QUAY Take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay and explore the market. Walk up Lonsdale Road for some great shopping and dining. MAPLEWOOD FLATS CONSERVATION AREA 2645 Dollarton Hwy A bird sanctuary just east of the Second Narrows bridge. It is the largest section of tidal mudflats remaining on the North Shore. You can still see traces of the community of hippies, artists, writers and free spirits that took residence there in the 70’s in a series of ramshackle driftwood-constructed huts and cabins. Watch the NFB’s ‘Mudflats Living’, a 1971 film documenting the lives of the people who peacefully occupied the mudflats until they were burnt down. AMBLESIDE PARK 1150 Marine Dr. This beautiful park offers great views of Stanley Park as well as a skatepark, dog park and water park! The beach is a lovely spot for a picnic.
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GEMS CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE 3735 Capilano Road A popular tourist attraction, the bridge is accessible by transit (#246 from Downtown) and is a fun thing to do on a date. The admission price is steep at $34 for students, but it includes the Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk. If you are on a budget, you can go to the amazing free park right behind the bridge which is beautiful and goes on for miles. Check out the salmon hatchery! PRESENTATION HOUSE GALLERY 333 Chesterfield Ave. A beautiful gallery just a 15-minute walk from the Seabus terminal. Great contemporary art exhibits. HORSESHOE BAY A picturesque town best known for its BC Ferries terminal. Take the #257 Express bus from downtown--you will be in Horseshoe Bay in less than 30 minutes. The town itself is beautiful and has many cute cafes and shops. You can take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo or up to the Sunshine Coast. There are also water taxis that leave from the government docks; these can take you to beautiful places including Bowen Island and Gambier Island.
HIKING ON CYPRESS Cypress Mountain is well-known for its amazing skiing, but when the snow melts, it becomes a hikers' paradise! Many amazing hikes start at the Cypress Mountain parking lot, including Hollyburn Mountain, pictured on the right. Check the conditions before you leave, as things can get a bit hairy in the mountains. If you can get a ride to the parking lot, you will skip a ton of boring and steep terrain, and will quickly find yourself surrounded by alpine flowers, pristine lakes, scraggly pines and stunning views.
THE TOMAHAWK RESTAURANT 1550 Philip Ave., North Vancouver Their vintage canadiana-themed decor alone is worth the trip! Their burgers are delicious and made with organic beef. THE CRAB SHOP 2455 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver Seafood store and restaurant famous for its fish & chips, crab burgers and fish tacos. HONEY DOUGHNUTS AND GOODIES 4373 Gallant Ave., Deep Cove Hearty meals and delicious doughnuts. Hike up the Baden Powell Trail to the viewpoint and treat yourself to a doughnut afterwards! WALLY’S BURGERS IN CATES PARK 4131 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver A simple concession stand that serves delicious burgers. Lovely location-- there is even a small beach where you can swim in the summer. Wally’s hours depend on the weather, so check before you make the trip!
THE PARK ROYAL & PARK ROYAL VILLAGE 2002 Park Royal St. Taylor Way at Marine Dr. (West Vancouver) A very popular shopping destination, this mall has all the big names, including Winners, H&M, Simons, Eddie Bauer, Helly Hansen and more.
FOOD TWO LIONS PUBLIC HOUSE 2601 Westview Dr., North Vancouver Their Karaoke night on Thursdays is popular amongst locals. CAZBA 132 W 16th Ave., North Vancouver Affordable Persian and Halal food. Great rice. JORDAN SUSHI 1564 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver The Chef’s special platters and rolls are great and reasonably priced. BURGOO BISTRO 3 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver Comfort food in a cozy atmosphere.
SHOPS EDGEMONT VILLAGE This picturesque little spot hosts over 100 family owned businesses. Check out Giftworks, a iconic spot that sells goods produced by local artisans.
Hollyburn Mountain
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RENFREW-COLLINGWOOD Click here to see Renfrew-Collingwood on Google Maps This is a great area for Emily Carr students to live in, as it is still affordable and is served by both the Expo and Millenium Skytrain lines, giving it easy access to the new campus and downtown. This neighbourhood is culturally diverse, blending quiet residential streets with bustling industrial areas. You can see the impressive film studios from the skytrain!
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FALAISE PARK 3434 Falaise Ave. A big park with baseball diamonds, soccer field, wading pool and more. The Iris Film Collective is currently doing a residency in the field house and hosts regular screenings of filmwork by local, national, and international artists, as well as offer hands-on workshops and projects for community members of all ages.
THE RAGAZZI PIZZA CO. 2996 E 22nd Ave. Small Italian eatery offering free delivery within their delivery zone (or $4 if you’re too far!) SUSHI TAKU 4902 Joyce St. Great quality sushi in an unassuming restaurant. Reasonably-priced bento boxes and inspired sushi rolls. PENANG DELIGHT CAFE 3885 Rupert St. Malaysian cuisine, with lovely dishes including Roti Canai, Gado-Gado and Tom Yum soup.
THE FILMGO SALES 2741 Skeena St. Looking for old treasures? A 5-minute walk from the Rupert Skytrain station, this consignment store specializes in movie props and is an antiqueslover’s dream. 46
FOOD PANADERIA LATINA BAKERY 4906 Joyce St. Chilean bakery close to the Joyce-Collingwood Skytrain station. They sell tasty to-go meals like the Chacacero sandwich, as well as empanadas and decadent items like the Tres Leches Millhojas cake. They also have a small section of Latin American groceries. (V) DHARMA GARDEN VEGGIE DELI 3195 Kingsway Vegetarian South-East Asian food, self-serve style. Choose from a small but solid menu that includes vegetarian Banh Mi sandwiches and vegetarian Pho. Vegan options available.
SHOPS ROOTS OUTLET 3695 Grandview Hwy Roots brand clothing and accessories at bargain prices.
QUEER VANCOUVER Vancouver has a long-standing reputation as a progressive and open city that celebrates the Queer community and embraces differences. The largest gay population in Western Canada lives in Vancouver. Davie Village (West End) and Commercial Drive are two awesome queer-friendly neighbourhoods, thanks to a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, pubs and boutiques catering to gays and lesbians. The Queer community is a key part of the city’s social, economic and cultural life.
COMMUNITY EVENTS Emily Carr students should consider joining the awesome Emily Queers club. They always have something cooking, whether it’s Gaymes Night or their Holigay Dinner! Every year in early August, Vancouver celebrates love and the LGBTQ2SIA community with the Pride Parade. This is a major event that must be experienced at least once. Imagine a huge street party, with around 650 000 people dancing, singing, waving their rainbow flags and enjoying the always-entertaining float cars. Check out the Pride Society’s website for more details about the parade and other events throughout the year. vancouverpride.ca The Vancouver Queer Film Festival celebrates the best in independent queer cinema for 11 days every August. It also hosts a variety of performances, workshops, panels and parties, and is the largest queer arts event in Western Canada. queerfilmfestival.ca If you are interested in finding out more about community services such as arts, social, sports and support groups, as well as gay or gay friendly restaurants, retail and shopping, visit gayvancouver.net
RESOURCES PFLAG Canada PFLAG Canada is Canada’s only national organization that helps all Canadians who are struggling with issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. PFLAG Canada supports, educates and provides resources to parents, families, friends and colleagues who have questions or concerns, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Check their website to find out the date and location of their next meeting. QMUNITY 1170 Bute St. QMUNITY is community resource providing support, health and social services, and public education for the well being of LGBTQ2SIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Two Spirit, Intersex, Asexual) people and their allies.
Davie Village got the first permanent rainbow crosswalk in Canada in 2013.
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STUFF TO MAKE STUFF If there’s one thing art students can all agree on it’s that sometimes we need better art supply selection than your local big-box store offers. That’s why we put together this handy list of the best places to equip your practice.
OPUS ART SUPPLIES
Due to it’s convenient location across from the Granville Island Campus, this was the go-to art supply store for ECUAD students. While there are multiple locations around the city, the Granville store is one of the best stocked. Everything from drawing materials, painting supplies, framing, printing, sculpting, and more, there’s a good chance Opus has what you are looking for. They offer discounts and no tax with valid student ID.
DESERRES
Deserres has similar offerings to Opus although slightly reduced. However, one area they excel in is their selection of materials for knitting and crocheting. They have a Creative Club which is free to join and offers discounts and special offers.
DRESSEW
Dressew is the ideal location for all you fibre artists and sewers out there! They boast an extremely wide selection of fabrics and accessories for sewing and related crafts.
VANCOUVER PEN SHOP
The Vancouver Pen Shop is a great little hole-inthe-wall for illustrators or anyone else who just likes a fine pen. They have a great selection of nibs, including the beautiful Zebra range straight from Japan. They also offer paper and pencils but really their specialty is pen and ink.
MAIWA
Another Grandville Island staple that we will miss! This textile store sells a fantastic range of natural dyes, from indigo to cochneal to logwood. They also sell textiles and related paraphenilia.
KROMA
Locally made acrylic paint and the best gesso around! Great prices on a great quality paint. 48
PAPER-YA
Paper-Ya is an eclectic little shop that boasts everything from dip pens to journals to fancy papers. They have a pretty nifty little corner of bookmaking supplies, which can be hard to come by, and are worth checking out.
RATH ART SUPPLIES
This store is close to the new campus and begging to be explored! A small store with a good selection of quality artist materials, they offer a 10% student discount.
WILLOX
Ok, it’s a bit out of they way, but if you are looking to buy screenprinting supplies this is the place to be. While our technicians on campus offer a variety of screenprinting materials for sale, Willox offers everything you need to set up a screenprint studio in your home.
HOME DEPOT
This will be the closest hardware store to our new campus. For tools, hardware, wood, and more, this is a great place to pick up your standard hardware store offerings at decent prices.
ALIEXPRESS
Ok, this is not an art store, but they certainly offer art supplies. This all-purpose online store ships straight from China. If you are looking for cheap art supplies (quality optional but usually just fine), then plan lots of shipping time into your order and check out this site.
MICHAELS
Michaels is not our favorite store as they tend to be overpriced. However, some items here are a good deal and they offer regular 40% off coupons for one item through their app.
BIKING TO GNW The Great Northern Way Campus is very close to the Central Valley Greenway and the BC Parkway bike routes! This route stretches from Main Street-Science World Station all the way to New Westminister Station. A convenient way to get to campus from the ‘burbs if you like to cycle.
BURNABY Main Street-Science World Station Sperling-Burnaby Lake Station
VCC-Clark Station Rupert Station Renfrew Station
COQUITLAM
Nanaimo Station 29th Avenue Station
Joyce-Collingwood Station
Metrotown Station
VANCOUVER
Royal Oak Station
Edmonds Station
22nd Street Station
BC Parkway Central Valley Greenway
NEW WESTMINISTER New Westminister
King George Station
SURREY
You’ll never get lost with these handy signs guiding your way!
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EATS ON THE CHEAPS We all like to eat out, or sometimes busy schedules force us to eat out, but we can’t afford five star cuisine everyday. Here are the top recommended cheap eats around Vancouver.
TACO TIME TACO TUESDAY
We tried to keep the recommendations local and unexpected but we have to give a shout-out to a classic franchise for cheap, filling eats. Every Tuesday, Taco Time serves $2 tacos. Vegetarian option available!
MANNA SUSHI
Manna Sushi is in our new neighbourhood and is a decent sushi place for really reasonable prices. The menu has a range of dollar values but some plates, like miso soup and cucumber rolls, are just a buck or two.
TRIPLE A FRESH PRODUCE
This little produce store in North Burnaby is a double whammy. Not only does it have produce much cheaper than the Big Box Grocery across the street, there’s a cooler in the back where they put produce that’s nearly off that you can get a great deal on. If you need produce for that day, get a good deal and prevent food waste!
HOUSE OF DOSAS
If you’re saving Tuesdays for Tacos save Mondays for Dosas. All day on Mondays, Dosas are served up for $6 a pop here! Filling and flavourful.
UNCLE FATIH’S PIZZA
Grab two slices of pizza and a pop for $5.50. That’s a great deal! The slices and a good size and flavourful. Ever had potato on your pizza? No? Try Uncle Fatih’s.
CRAVE INDIA
At this little hole-in-the-wall you can grab a delicious curry for $6 or spring for the combo and eat like royalty for $10.
BON'S OFF BROADWAY
Super super super cheap breakfast. Be ready to wait in line on weekends, sit close to other diners and get up to get your own bottomless coffee refills..Embrace chaos! 50
FOOD ASSISTANCE Vancouver is an expensive city, and sometimes, despite all our efforts, we find ourselves broke and unable to buy groceries. The list below is for people who find themselves in a tough financial spot.
ST. MICHAEL’S MULTICULTURAL ANGLICAN CHURCH
This church in Mount Pleasant offers a “Meal Ministry” which includes a free hot meal 6-7 pm on Fridays. They welcome full-time students and even those who are employed. If you are in need, come get some free grub!
“FOOD TEMPLES”
Please read the following article before you head down to the wonderful temples listed below. http://boredinvancouver.com/listing/free-food-invancouver/ There are a few rules to follow, please be respectful in return for the generosity and kindness you are receiving.
AKALI SINGH SIKH TEMPLE
1890 Skeena St. Free meals are served Monday through Thursday at 7pm sharp.
SHREE MAHALAKSHMI HINDU TEMPLE
467 11th Avenue The delicious vegetarian food is offered to anyone who lines up at 1:30pm on Sundays, with food being served at 2pm.
QUEST FOOD EXCHANGE
This is an awesome program for folks who can’t make ends meet. Becoming a member allows you to shop at the Quest stores, which sell groceries at a deep discount. To sign up, go see the good folks of the Students’ Union, or Justine in the Student Life Office. They will give you a form that you can take to any of the Quest stores: 2020 Dundas St., Vancouver 611 E Hastings St., Vancouver 7753 Sixth St, New Westminster 167 1st St E, North Vancouver 13890 104 Ave, Surrey
GREATER VANCOUVER FOOD BANK
The Greater Vancouver Food Bank provides a 2-3 day food supplement to thousands of people each week by way of locations throughout the Greater Vancouver area. All GVFB members must register in order to access food. If you find yourself broke and unable to buy food, the GVFB has your back. We all love free stuff, but please only use this service if you are struggling, out of respect for the folks who really need it. You can find registration details and locations on the GVFB website: https://www.foodbank.bc.ca
ROSS STREET GURDWARA
8000 Ross St. Volunteers serve free vegetarian meals daily between 6am and 8pm. If you can, leave a donation with the attendant at the entrance.
QUEST Food Exchange 51
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