Robert WebbIf you’ve ever found yourself wandering through Vancouver’s East Village, you know it’s a neighborhood that feels like the city’s best-kept secret. The first time we found ourselves in Trout Lake, we ended up discovering our favorite, quiet place to walk at and hangout.
We also ended up discovering nice restaurants (we hung out a lot at Little Italy), and a mix of parks and amazing street art.
Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or just someone who appreciates a good craft beer, East Village is packed with hidden gems you’ll want to explore. Let me show you around!
- Where is Vancouver's East Village?
- How to Get to Vancouver's East Village
- What to Do and See in Vancouver's East Village
- Join the Eastside Culture Crawl
- Attend the Vancouver Fringe Festival
- Visit Trout Lake
- Hang Out at Hastings Park
- Chill at Dude Chilling Park
- Drop by Kensington Park
- Get to Know Commercial Drive
- Explore the Businesses in Little Italy
- Discover Chinatown
- Check Out the East Van Mural Art Walk
- Look Around Hastings-Sunrise
- Where to Eat and Drink in Vancouver's East Village
- Where to Shop in Vancouver's East Village
- FAQ
Where is Vancouver’s East Village?
East Village is nestled in the historic neighborhoods of Hastings-Sunrise and Grandview-Woodland, right in the heart of East Vancouver.
It runs along Hastings Street and offers a blend of trendy new restaurants and bars alongside long-standing, family-owned shops.
How to Get to Vancouver’s East Village
By car: from downtown Vancouver, head to W Georgia Street and go on the ramp to Chinatown. From there, turn right onto Main Street and a left onto Terminal Avenue. Then, keep driving onto E 1st Avenue and turn right onto Victoria Drive. Finally, turn left.
By public transit: board the 019 bus to Kingsway and get off at Victoria Drive. From there, East Vancouver is just a 10-minute walk away.
What to Do and See in Vancouver’s East Village
Join the Eastside Culture Crawl
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When: November 14th to November 17th, annually
Where: Victoria Drive, Columbia Street, First Avenue and the Burrard Inlet waterfront
Phone: 778-379-4545
Operating hours:
- Thursday and Friday: 5pm to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 6pm
The Eastside Culture Crawl is a vibrant four-day celebration of visual arts in Vancouver’s Eastside, spotlighting the talent of local artists.
This festival is packed with workshops, demos, artist talks, and studio tours. You’ll get to meet painters, sculptors, potters, and creators working with everything from jewelry to wood and glass.
Throughout the neighborhood, studios throw open their doors, and individual artists put on special exhibitions, making it the perfect opportunity to dive into the local arts scene.
Attend the Vancouver Fringe Festival
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When: September 5th until the 15th, annually
Where: 1398 Cartwright Street
Phone: +1 236-978-4919
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11am to 4pm
The Vancouver Fringe Festival is a lively, multi-day celebration of the performing arts. With a quirky “names out of a hat” selection process, every artist gets a shot at the spotlight, so you’ll find everything from first-time performers to seasoned pros.
The shows can be wildly unpredictable, ranging from wonderfully questionable to downright exceptional. It’s all part of the fun!
The performances are always a treat, and it’s totally worth catching as many as you can. We highly recommend checking out the preview show, where they pack in 40 performances, each giving you a 3-minute teaser.
Visit Trout Lake
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Address: 3300 Victoria Drive
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm
Trout Lake offers sandy beaches where you’ll find plenty of people simply relaxing and soaking in the peaceful vibes. If you’re taking the SkyTrain, hop off at Nanaimo Station and enjoy a 15-minute stroll north along Nanaimo St.
When you hit the second set of lights, take a left, and you’re just a quick five-minute walk from this serene little oasis. Open daily to all, the park is perfect for a leisurely walk, letting your dog roam, or even a BBQ by the lake.
With plenty of ducks, it’s a top spot for dogs to take a dip, and there’s a beach with a lifeguard during the summer. The lake’s water quality is closely monitored, so you can feel good about taking a swim.
Plus, the park has all the essentials: a concession stand, bathrooms, two kids’ playgrounds, ample parking, and a cozy community center.
Hang Out at Hastings Park
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Address: 2901 E Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 8pm
Hastings Park is amazing! It’s like getting four parks in one. Between Momiji Gardens, The Sanctuary, and The Italian Gardens, each space has its own unique charm and beauty.
Totally worth the visit! Whether you’re planning to BBQ, hang out with friends, or just relax, this park has it all. Plus, it’s home to several stadiums (Coliseum, Agrodome, Forum), horse racing, and even amusement rides in the summer.
Chill at Dude Chilling Park
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Address: 2390 Brunswick Street
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm
Dude Chilling Park is exactly what it sounds like—the perfect spot to kick back and relax. On sunny days, you’ll catch people doing yoga, strumming guitars, or joining in on spontaneous drum circles.
With its laid-back vibe, lush green spaces, and winding walking paths, it’s a great escape in the city. Plus, you can’t miss the famous “Dude Chilling” statue, a quirky reclining figure that totally captures the park’s chill energy.
Drop by Kensington Park
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Address: 5175 Dumfries Street
Phone: +1 604-718-6200
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm
Kensington Park is a neighborhood favorite, with well-kept facilities that make it a go-to spot for locals. While it’s not officially an off-leash dog park, you’ll often see dogs happily running around, especially on the beautifully revamped, almost fully gated field.
And this field is massive—about the size of three football stadiums! The park’s flat areas and downhill slopes make it a popular (and safe) spot for sledding when the snow hits.
Definitely one of East Van’s gems! This park has it all—a playground, skatepark, community center, and a couple of softball diamonds. Whether you’re out for a walk, a jog, or just enjoying the fresh air, it’s a great spot to unwind and get active.
Get to Know Commercial Drive
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Address: East Vancouver neighborhood of Grandview-Woodland
Commercial Drive, or simply “The Drive,” is a vibrant hotspot known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Just a quick 10-minute ride from downtown on the SkyTrain, then a short walk north, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by funky boutiques, open-air coffee spots, and markets.
The crowd is a mix of laid-back locals who seem to have ditched fashion magazines for good vibes. While a few places have given in to gentrification, most of the neighborhood still feels like a throwback to its old-school roots.
Explore the Businesses in Little Italy
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Address: Commercial Drive
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Little Italy on Commercial Drive is always buzzing with energy, hosting plenty of festivals and filled with cool, laid-back people. You’ll find a ton of character here, with an awesome variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars.
It’s definitely got a grittier vibe compared to Vancouver’s more polished areas, but that’s part of its charm. The Drive is steeped in history, with small businesses that have been local East Van favorites for years.
Discover Chinatown
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Address: 106 Keefer Street
Phone: 604-632-3808
Founded in 1885, Vancouver’s Chinatown is anchored around Pender Street and proudly holds the title of Canada’s largest Chinatown. Step through the impressive Millennium Gate, and you’ll find a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored.
There are plenty of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and attractions to check out, including the fascinating Chinese Canadian Museum and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
If you have an appreciation for architecture, don’t miss the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden—it’s a stunning display of design, focusing more on its intricate structures than on flora.
Check Out the East Van Mural Art Walk
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The East Van Mural Art Walk is an awesome experience that takes you on a scenic stroll through the vibrant streets of East Vancouver.
As you wander, you’ll soak up the sights, from quirky local shops and stunning architecture to captivating street art and breathtaking mountain views.
The adventure doesn’t end there! Your walk will take you to a popular local brewery, where VIP tables await your arrival. Enjoy a complimentary round of craft drinks—choose from beer, wine, or cocktails.
Look Around Hastings-Sunrise
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Address: Along Hastings Street’s East Village
Hastings-Sunrise is a vibrant, ethnically diverse working-class neighborhood that stretches from Clark to Boundary Road and from Nanaimo all the way to the waterfront. The vibe here is pretty chill and laid-back.
You’ll find everything from grocery stores to sushi and pizza joints, plus a wide array of restaurants.
And if you’re a fan of craft beer, you’re in luck—there are plenty of fantastic breweries nearby, as well as an abundance of eateries and bakeries along Hastings.
Not to mention, this area is home to the PNE (Pacific National Exhibition), an annual extravaganza filled with thrilling rides, games, concerts, and exhibitions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Vancouver’s East Village
Pallet Coffee Roasters
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Address: 395 Alexander Street
Phone: +1 604-336-9422
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Tuesday to Friday: 8am to 3pm
Good to know: Instagrammable interior
Pallet Coffee Roasters is a true hidden gem, featuring a spacious, sunlit area that’s perfect for hanging out, writing, or getting some work done.
The coffee here is excellent, and you can’t go wrong with their delectable baked goods—definitely make sure to try the gateau basque! It’s a delight to sit in this airy cafe, soaking up the sunshine while enjoying your treats. Plus, it’s a lot of fun to watch them roast the beans right on-site!
Platform 7
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Address: 2331 E Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-428-1455
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 5pm
Good to know: Serves single origin pour overs
Platform 7 Coffee is a charming cafe that exudes cozy, old train station vibes, making it a delightful spot to relax with a great drink. Step into the secret garden out back—it’s beautifully maintained and serves as a peaceful oasis on a hot day.
When you’re here, you can enjoy your coffee brewed in four different ways! Don’t miss out on their delicious coffee loaf, and the vanilla latte is a must-try as well. It’s the perfect place to unwind and savor every sip!
Tacofino Commissary
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Address: 2327 E Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-253-8226
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30am to pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30am to 10pm
- Sunday: 11:30am to 9pm
Good to know: Great for takeout
Tacofino Commissary is the perfect spot for a tasty bite and a refreshing drink! The menu has a delightful rotation, but if you’re a first-timer, the fish taco is a must-try. That said, you might find the other tacos even more flavorful!
The nachos and burritos are also fan favorites that you won’t want to miss. This place goes beyond just tacos—it’s a creative explosion of deliciousness wrapped in handheld goodness. The food is simply amazing!
As for the decor, it strikes a charming balance between urban chic and Mexican cantina, with the washrooms capturing that vibrant Mexican flair.
Red Wagon
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Address: 2128 E Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-568-4565
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9am to 9pm
- Sunday: 9am to 3pm
Good to know: Great comfort food menu
Red Wagon offers a fantastic urban diner experience in East Vancouver that instantly makes you feel at home. The friendly staff and warm atmosphere create a happy vibe as you settle in for a meal.
We went for the Super Trucker, swapping out bacon for pulled pork, and it was a delicious choice! The bacon was mouthwatering, the pancakes were light and fluffy, and the pork belly had just the right amount of crispiness.
Parallel 49 Brewing
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Address: 1950 Triumph Street
Phone: +1 604-558-2739
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11am to 12am
- Friday and Saturday: 11am to 1am
- Sunday: 11am to 12am
Good to know: 70 unique brews per year
Parallel 49 on Triumph St is the perfect spot to unwind, whether you’re soaking up the sun on the patio in summer or cozying up inside during the colder months.
It’s a great place to gather with friends over refreshing beers, ciders, and an array of vodka drinks, paired with some light bites. For lunch, we indulged in the wings and tacos. We say you go for the salt and vinegar wings and the poutine was fantastic.
Where to Shop in Vancouver’s East Village
Jackson’s General Store
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Address: 1490 Kingsway Avenue
Phone: +1 604-736-5651
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11am to 6pm
- Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Jackson’s General Store is a truly unique local gem that radiates warmth and care. Here, you’ll discover delightful treasures that are sure to make you smile, whether it’s a homemade sauce, a poetic line, a beautiful painting, or even a vintage toy.
If you find yourself in the neighborhood, popping into this shop is a must! They offer a fantastic selection of custom-printed goodies that let you proudly represent our East Van community, along with an eclectic assortment of collectibles that you won’t want to miss!
Donald’s Market
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Address: 2342 E Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-254-3014
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9am to 8pm
- Sunday: 9:30am to 8pm
Donald’s Market is a fantastic find, offering more variety than your average small market, all while maintaining competitive prices without that corporate feel. You’ll find excellent fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, and more—definitely a win for East Van.
Don’t miss their daily dollar bags of fruits and veggies—they’re a steal! Plus, there’s a great little tea shop inside and an absolutely wonderful Chinese food counter that you won’t want to pass up.
Trout Lake Farmers Market
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Address: Trout Lake John Hendry Park
Phone: +1 604-879-3276
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Saturday: 9am to 2pm
Trout Lake Farmers Market is a fantastic local gem brimming with a diverse array of food, snack, and craft stalls. The organic vegetables are incredibly fresh and mouthwatering, and it’s a delight to see foragers showcasing their unique finds.
With more vendors than many other farmers markets, the variety of products is impressive! And here’s the cherry on top: with Trout Lake right next door, you can grab fresh fruits, baked goods, and coffee, then head into the park for a lovely picnic.
