Archie MontroseSince 1974, the Vancouver Aquatic center has been a hub for leisure and competitive swimming. Situated along the city’s picturesque waterfront, this state-of-the-art facility offers swimming pools and diving platforms.
If you’re looking to visit this gem, keep reading as we dive into the world of aquatic adventures and discover the endless possibilities at the Aquatic Center in Vancouver.
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get to the Vancouver Aquatic Center
- Where to Stay near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
- Where to Eat near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
- What to Do in the Vancouver Aquatic Center
- Where to Shop near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
- Apps to Download for a Trip to the Vancouver Aquatic Center
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to the Vancouver Aquatic Center is during the weekday off-lunch hours, as it tends to be less crowded and you can enjoy the facilities without having to wait in long lines.
Things to Know
Hours
The Vancouver Aquatic Center is pretty much open every day. During the week, you can head there anytime between 6:30 in the morning until 9 in the evening.
Saturdays, it’s a bit later, opening up at 8 in the morning and closing at 7:25 in the evening. Sundays, it’s a later start but a later close, kicking off at 10 in the morning and wrapping up at 8:55 in the evening.
| Monday to Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
| 6:30am to 9pm | 8am to 7:25pm | 10am to 8:55pm |
Fees
The Vancouver Aquatic Center charges pool fees based on age. Adults typically pay a higher fee than residents, with discounts available for seniors and children.
| TYPE | PRICE |
| Adult (19-64 years) | $7.41 |
| Youth (13-18 years) | $5.19 |
| Child (5-12 years) | $3.71 |
| Preschooler (0-4 years) | Free |
| Senior (65+ years) | $5.19 |
| Family | $7.42 (2 members minimum)$3.71 per additional member |
| Low cost swim | 50% off |
| Sauna/Whirlpool only (pool closure) | 50% off |
Parking
There’s a paid parking lot to the east of the Vancouver Aquatic Centre. The hourly rate is $3.50 and daily rate is $13.00. There are also a few free parking spots under the bridge, but you have to be lucky to find them free.
How to Get to the Vancouver Aquatic Center
From Vancouver: head northeast on Hornby Street and take a right onto W Georgia. Next, turn right into Howe Street and another right onto Beach Avenue. The Vancouver Aquatic Center will be on your left.
From North Vancouver: drive to the BC-99 S ramp to Vancouver and continue driving onto Lions Gate Bridge. Then, take a right onto Denman Street and once you’re on Howe Street, turn right. The center will be on your left.
From YVR: drive to Arthur Laing Bridge and merge onto SW Marine Drive. Keep driving onto Granville Street and BC-99 N. Then, turn left onto Drake Street and another left onto Howe Street. Turn right onto Beach Avenue, and the center will be on your left.
Where to Stay near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
Holiday Inn & Suites
Address: 1110 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1R2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-684-2151
Pricing: $$
Located right smack in the heart of downtown, you can’t really miss out on the Holiday Inn & Suites. Their rooms are cozy, plus they’ve got an indoor pool, a spa, and even a gym that’s open round the clock.
Despite being in the midst of the hustle and bustle, it’s surprisingly peaceful there, tucked away at the intersection of two streets.
Residence Inn
Address: 1234 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1W2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-1234
Pricing: $$
This long-term stay hotel offers sleek studios and a luxurious penthouse suite boasting generously sized living areas and a private balcony overlooking the bay.
They’ve got you covered with complimentary hot breakfast and a social event in the evenings where you can grab some snacks. Plus, they offer grocery delivery and have a convenient store open 24/7.
Quality Inn & Suites
Address: 1221 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1B6, Canada
Phone: +1 778-907-2918
Pricing: $
At Quality Inn & Suites, you’ve got the added bonus of a nightclub right on site, and it conveniently places you just a short 15-minute stroll away from Robson Street and BC Place Stadium.
Sure, the room might have a bit of that old charm (I mean, the building’s been around for 150 years!), but you can’t beat the location, especially with easy access to public transit.
And hey, when hunger strikes, there’s a vibrant pub and restaurant serving up delicious craft ales and comforting dishes. Plus, they’ve got parking available and breakfast options.
Best Western Premier Chateau
Address: 1100 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2B6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-669-7070
Pricing: $
This hotel is just a quick 5-minute stroll from the shopping hub of Robson Street. The room might not be huge, but it’s definitely cozy and spotlessly clean, plus you get a balcony view overlooking the surrounding high-rises.
If you’re aiming for some quality shut-eye, they’ve kindly got you covered with earplugs because let’s face it, downtown living means the city’s buzzing until the wee hours, usually calming down around 3 a.m.
L’Hermitage
Address: 788 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C7, Canada
Phone: +1 778-327-4100
Pricing: $$
L’Hermitage Hotel Vancouver is a swanky boutique hotel nestled right at the bustling intersection of Robson and Richards Streets, smack dab in the heart of Vancouver’s shopping hub.
They’ve got all the bells and whistles, including a top-notch fitness studio, a relaxing Jacuzzi, a heated outdoor lap pool, and a cozy hot tub to unwind in.
Where to Eat near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
Blue Water Cafe
Address: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-8078
Pricing: $$
Housed in a converted warehouse in Yaletown, Blue Water Cafe stands out as the ultimate seafood hotspot in the city. As you’d anticipate, seafood dominates the menu, but fret not if you have dietary restrictions; they handle those with ease.
Our top picks? You can’t go wrong with the ceviche, scallops, and salmon. Each mouthwatering bite had us practically rolling our eyes back in pure bliss.
Sneaky Pete’s Pool Café
Address: 424 McLean Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 0C1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-292-6692
Pricing: $
When you’re in need of craft cocktails, local brews, and comfort food, Sneaky Pete’s Pool Café is where it’s at. Don’t expect a wide array of food options though, they mostly stick to pizza and snacks.
But let us tell you, their pizza is to die for – we went for the BBQ chicken one, and it was a flavor explosion. And those cocktails? They pack a punch, making every penny worth it.
Karma Lounge
Address: 1161 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0B3, Canada
Phone: +1 778-488-8616
Pricing: $$
At this lavish lounge, you’ll find an assortment of delectable light bites and appetizers, along with a tempting selection of brunch favorites such as eggs benedict, avocado toast, salads, and classic burgers and fries.
But what really sets this place apart is its ambiance. With non-stop fantastic music, stunning interiors, and a cocktail menu that’s practically begging for Instagram attention.
Beach Ave Bar and Grill
Address: 1012 Beach Ave #1, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-676-2337
Pricing: $
Nestled along the waterfront of downtown Vancouver, Beach Ave Bar and Grill is your go-to spot for West Coast-inspired cuisine, with a selection of local craft beer, wine, and creative cocktails, all served up with daily happy hour deals.
Tried out the cod and chips and boy, was it a treat! The cod was cooked to perfection, and the homemade tartar sauce? Absolutely divine.
Merci Beaucoup Cafe
Address: 1468 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-255-3220
Pricing: $
Merci Beaucoup Cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine and coffee, all within a Parisian-inspired setting.
If you’re craving some mouthwatering pho or banh mi, this is the place to be. Now, let’s talk about their beef stew – it’s an absolute must-try. The soup is rich and hearty, with the beef and carrots simmered for hours until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender.
What to Do in the Vancouver Aquatic Center
Go Swimming
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Address: 1050 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-665-3424
The Vancouver Aquatic Centre is a pleasant place to swim.They have a 50m (or 20.7m) long pool that is ideal for both pleasure and training. It is unquestionably one of the greatest for lane swimming.
There are also various amenities at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre. These include a sauna, hot tub, steam room, whirlpool, café, and fitness center. There’s also a snack bar and a lounge where you may rest.
Hop on the Rope Swing
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Address: 1050 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-665-3424
The Vancouver Aquatic center also has a rope swing as one of its main attractions, providing a fun and unique way for visitors to splash into the water.
The rope swing is a popular spot for thrill-seekers looking to add an extra element of excitement to their swimming experience. It allows guests to swing high above the pool before releasing into the water below.
Work out at the Fitness Centre
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Address: 1050 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-665-3424
There is a great gym here that is usually not too busy. It has stationary bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, rowing machines, weight training machines, and other fitness equipment.
Once you arrive at the Vancouver Aquatic Center, make sure to grab a wristband for gym access.
Run Courses in the 50-Meter Lap Lanes
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Address: 1050 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-665-3424
The lap pool rocks when they’ve got the full 50m lanes, but sometimes it’s cut short to about 20m across. Just double-check before diving in. And man, the diving board section is sick, with both a 7.5m and a 10m platform.
At the Vancouver Aquatic Center, you’ve got tons of lanes to choose from for your laps, and their online schedule keeps you in the loop about any group lessons or special events.
Take a Plunge in the Dive Tank
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Address: 1050 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-665-3424
If you’re all about taking the plunge, then you’ll dig the fact that the Vancouver Aquatic Center boasts two diving boards. The diving board section is killer, offering both a 7.5m and a 10m platform.
Where to Shop near the Vancouver Aquatic Center
CF Pacific Centre
Address: 701 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-7235
CF Pacific Centre stands out as one of the go-to malls in the city, and it’s just a quick 4-minute drive from the Vancouver Aquatic Center.
This shopping spot has everything covered—it’s split into two parts, with one section dedicated to luxury brands and the other catering to regular ones.
Situated underground, this complex even offers skytrain access, so you can hop in without worrying about getting drenched on rainy days.
International Village Mall
Address: 88 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6N9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-646-1081
Nestled in Gastown, the International Village Mall hosts a bustling array of over 60 stores, alongside a food court, an arcade, and a cinema, making it a vibrant indoor shopping hub.
For those hunger pangs, the second-floor food court offers a tempting variety of culinary delights. And if you’re up for catching a flick, head to the movie theater conveniently located on the third floor.
Plus, score free parking for up to two hours in the underground parking area.
District Factory Outlet
Address: 620 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3K4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-8613
The District Factory Outlet is a must-visit spot, boasting a wide array of souvenirs, t-shirts, and luggage options. Perfect for those looking to pick up gifts for a whole bunch of folks back home.
But it’s not just your typical Canada-themed gift shop. They’ve got you covered for all seasons with clothing, bags, electronic accessories, and everyday essentials.
Kingsgate Mall
Address: 370 E Broadway Unit 114-Administration, Vancouver, BC V5T 4G5
Phone: +1 604-875-0144
Since 1974, Kingsgate Mall has been nestled in the heart of the Mount Pleasant community. It’s a cozy little spot perfect for snagging those last-minute drug store essentials or picking up a holiday-specific gift.
And if you’re in the mood for a bit of browsing, there are also a couple of clothing stores to explore.
Kids Market
Address: 1496 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Y5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-8447
The Kids Market is a bustling indoor two-story market packed with an array of activities, shops, and services.
It’s an absolute paradise for the little ones, offering ample space for running and jumping around! From climbing structures and bumper cars to tunnels and beyond, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
While entry is free, some play areas and activities may require a small fee.
Apps to Download for a Trip to the Vancouver Aquatic Center
Transit: Get live updates on Vancouver buses and trains, including service alerts, bus capacity predictions, and real-time vehicle locations
Street Food Vancouver App: Locate nearby food trucks on a map and check their operating hours.
Paybyphone: app for cashless parking in Vancouver that enables payment and registration.
Uber: book a ride anywhere in Vancouver. Let’s you track the driver’s location in real-time on the app and provide an estimated time of arrival.
