Situated on North Vancouver’s vibrant waterfront, Lower Lonsdale is one of North Vancouver’s oldest and fastest urban neighborhoods. With a rich shipbuilding history, the Shipyards District in Lower Lonsdale has quickly become a hub of independent shops, restaurants, specialty food stores and more. Only a 12 minute seabus ride away from Downtown Vancouver, there’s plenty of things to see and do while exploring this waterfront neighbourhood.
Seeing and Doing
Start off your visit exploring Lonsdale Quay Market, a market that features 80 fresh food vendors, retail shops, unique boutiques and restaurants. Originally opened for Expo ’86, this carnival-style marketplace has developed into a diverse and multi-use community anchor.
This area has also often been used for festivals and community events and is the perfect spot to get marvelous views of Downtown Vancouver’s skyline. Tip: For even more breathtaking views, climb the 77 steps up to the top of the iconic Q Tower.
After exploring the waterfront area, venture north on Lonsdale Avenue and you’ll come across an alley you cannot miss – Fun Alley. The most colourful alley in North Vancouver, this interactive space has become quite popular for photo taking. Spend some time here letting your inner child free!
Eating and Drinking
There are many offerings for eating and drinking in Lower Lonsdale. You can stay near the Lonsdale Quay Market, and pop in for a gourmet pizza at Bowen Island Pizza Company and have a brew at Green Leaf Brewing Company. If you’re looking for something more casual, the many vendors inside the market will also have plenty of satisfying options.
You can also venture out to Restaurant Row, on Lonsdale Avenue, where you’ll come across five side-by-side restaurants with expanded patios. Here you’ll find well-crafted food and drinks, from Italian, Greek to classic comfort food, Restaurant Row will please any appetite.
For a waterfront drink, visit Tap and Barrel‘s flagship location for beer and appies. Catch the area’s many community events while sitting on the seasonal patio and enjoy incredible views of Burrard Inlet.
Shopping
For unique and local shopping, head over to Lower Lonsdale’s commercial district, a district that takes up four blocks along Lonsdale Avenue. Here, you’ll find one of the best general stores in the city, Mo’s General Store. This spot carries just about everything -from home goods, to groceries and even ice cream! You’ll also come across a variety of clothing boutiques, spas, juiceries and a bike shop.
Events
Lower Lonsdale’s Shipyards District is also home to many festivals and community events. New this year is the Shipped Waterfront Festival, a free event featuring music and performances at Lonsdale Quay Market. Other popular events include Shipyards Night Market, Summer Music Sessions on Saturday nights, Pride on the Pier, and Dinner on the Pier.
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