7 Things To Do In Vancouver’s West End Neighbourhood

August 26, 2016
DV
By Destination Vancouver
4 min read
City street lined with trees showing autumn colors, surrounded by mid-rise and high-rise buildings.


Populist is Vancouver’s cinematic city guide, showcasing everything that’s happening in the city through video – Your hub for where to go, what to do and who to see. Populist is run by Film and TV Producer, Rebecca Traub and Broadcast Journalist, Blanca Blandon (aka YinYang). Follow the fun at thisispopulist.com.

City street lined with trees showing autumn colors, surrounded by mid-rise and high-rise buildings.
photo: Trip Advisor
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Ever heard anyone refer to the West Coast as the “best coast?” Well, the same applies to the West End which we’ve aptly dubbed “West End, best end.” This list of things to do to in this neighborhood backs up our declaration. See for yourself.

People with bicycles outside a bike rental shop on a city sidewalk with signs reading 'Bike Rental'.

7. Bike Rentals

With multiple bike rental shops along Denman, exploring the West End on wheels is a fun, eco-friendly, and affordable way to get around. Best of all, the Stanley Park seawall is just a few pedals away!

Two people sitting on yellow chairs outdoors, eating popcorn, with a crowd in the background.

6. Movie in the Park

Tuesday nights have become quite the experience with Summer Cinema hosted by Evo Car Share! Bring a blanket or chair to sit on, some good company – four-legged friends are also welcome – and a sweater as it does get chilly in the evening. Prior movies have included The Little Mermaid, Dirty Dancing, and Purple Rain! Movies begin at dusk at Second Beach and the series runs until August 30th.

Two people walking past an Italian restaurant with a black awning featuring the Italian flag colors and yellow umbrellas on the outdoor patio.

5. Taste the West End

The culinary scene has grown immensely in the West End in recent years. Ranging from niche food joints and elevated farm-to-table restaurants, there’s plenty to taste and delight the senses!

Bowl of spicy ramen with corn, sliced green onions, and broth, with a side dish of halved soft-boiled eggs.

4. Ramen Row Binge

Meander down the ever popular “Ramen Row,” just before Robson and Denman and get your Japanese noodle fix! If you’re not familiar with ramen, it’s essentially a savoury soup dish with noodles, usually a meat-based broth (although vegetarian options are becoming more common and available), and completed with toppings such as boiled eggs, sliced meat, and seaweed. The perfect meal if you’re in full hunger mode!

Two people sitting on a log at the beach facing the water with the sun shining brightly in the sky.

3. Stanley Park Stroll

One of the biggest perks of living in and visiting the West End is that you’ve got the World’s Best Park – as voted in 2014- literally in your own backyard.

People relaxing on grass and benches near a beach with water, trees, and tall buildings in the background under a clear blue sky.

2. Hit up the Beach

Sunset Beach, English Bay, Second Beach, Third Beach – there’s no shortage of beaches in the West End! Watch the sky turn hues of orange and pink at Sunset Beach, dine with a view at English Bay, cool off at the outdoor pool at Second Beach and congregate at Third.

Urban street with pedestrians, cars, cherry blossom trees, rainbow flags, and a Super Valu store sign.

1. Celebrate on Davie Street

There’s no street more colorful or joyous than Davie Street. Celebrate the heart of the West End on this entertainment-packed strip that’s LGBTQ+ friendly and full of character!

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