Granville Island began its transformation in the late 1970′s, from a declining 37-acre industrial park in Vancouver’s False Creek, to possibly the most successful urban redevelopment ever seen in North America.
Granville Island is an urban planning success story, analyzed and copied worldwide. Transforming it from a derelict industrial park to a thriving market and entertainment destination, the Island’s planners have carefully and affectionately guided its growth.
Here are some of Granville Island’s popular attractions
The Granville Island Public Market – The Granville Island Public Market is Vancouver’s hub of epicurean delight. Browse the exotic array of crisp, garden-fresh produce which overflows each vendor’s stall—from luscious berries in season, to delicate Japanese eggplant. Look for displays of fresh Coho salmon and giant prawns on beds of ice. Breathe in the delicious scent of just-from-the-oven bagels mixing with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and pungent cheeses from around the world. The Public Market provides the very best of fresh food for the expert chef, as well as those who love to eat! It is a great source of local produce, homemade products and unusual ingredients for exotic recipes. Wild fiddleheads, pine mushrooms, seaweed, stinging nettles—the list is endless.
Granville Island Kids Market – If you’re a kid looking for fun, or a grown-up looking to bring out the kid in you, the Granville Island Kids Market is the place to be this summer! Arts and crafts, henna, face painting, ceramic painting, and rice art take place almost every day! If you’re planning on joining in the fun, make sure to call in advance and confirm which activities are taking place on any given day.
Granville Island Made in BC (BC Day) – Here comes another exciting patriotic celebration: BC Day! Follow the red balloons and discover the talented BC artists who call Granville Island home, see some amazing chalk artists create amazing chalk art, and join in all the activities for kids – young and old – that will be happening at the Kids Market. And what better way to end the day than with supper at one of the Island’s restaurants, all of which will be featuring dishes that highlight the most delicious foods our province has to offer?
Where else in the world can rusty tin-sided factories boast rebirth as a Public Market, an art school, shops, restaurants, theatres, galleries, a hotel, and a great deal more?
It’s a remarkable thing, this island in the middle of a city of two million. Embracing the surrounding metropolitan bustle, Granville Island’s ambiance is matchless; its gritty, industrial past is proudly displayed in today’s people-friendly, artistic, and energetic incarnation. Take a trip to Granville Island soon. It’ll be well worth your while!
Google Map to Granville Island
Jim Phillips says:
I was wondering if someone has any information they can give me about the Granville Island Chalk Art festival. I’m a street painter and would be interested in coming to Vancouver next year to paint !
admin says:
Hello Jim!
We were able to find out the contact information for the Granville Island Chalk Art Contest. Good luck!!
Granville Island Chalk Art
The SBC is supporting the annual Granville Island Chalk Art contest. Organizers are still looking for more artists. If you have the creative urge please contact chalkart@shaw.ca.
Best Chocolate Stores in Vancouver | Best Vancouver Guide says:
[...] gem of a chocolate store is located on Granville Island. Go and watch how traditional fudge is made in a multitude of flavours some old favourites and [...]