GRANVILLE ISLAND

and False Creek

Vancouver - British Columbia - CANADA

Granville island is a magical place and a must see for any visitor to Vancouver. It is considered to be part of downtown Vancouver, along with areas such as Gastown, Chinatown, West End, Stanley Park, Canada Place and Robson Street. All are within a mile of the corners of Georgia and Granville streets the centre of the downtown core of Vancouver.

It is physically connected to the city by a causeway from the south that provides no hint of the treasures that await visitors. Its humble origins are philosophically far removed from what it has become, a sophisticated home to performing arts, art education, dining, artists' studios and workshops, art galleries and a fabulous public market that offers the widest array of fresh food in the Lower Mainland as well as a favourite place for people to meet, eat and spend some time in a safe and relaxing environment.

Its location close to two of Vancouver main city bridges, at the place where English Bay becomes False Creek, suggests a beehive of human activity all around. Having exciting water views from any point along its perimeter contibutes to the sense that this is truly a unique space in more than just a local context.

There is a surreal aspect to the various juxtopositions apparent on the island. Marinas that have working fishing vessels as well as luxurious hi-tech personal pleasure craft. A cement plant that fits in visually as a unique element. Views of False Creek condo towers with marinas at their base suggesting Miami or other holiday centres. Within this context one can find a child friendly collection of attractions including A Kid's Market, a waterpark and playground, a Floating Village of houseboats and tiny colourful ferries taking people back and forth among points on the waterfronts.

Whimsy has found a home in Vancouver and it is called Granville island

The following collection of images should go a long way to back up the comments above and we hope will entice any visitor to this site to plan a first visit in person. The population of Vancouver needs Granville Island for its nurturing spirit on subjects that are not touched on elsewhere. We wish to thank all those who in the past were instrumental in manifesting this haven for the people.