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Home » Recent posts » Where Art Meets Architecture: Allure of The Polygon Gallery

Where Art Meets Architecture: Allure of The Polygon Gallery

Guide to Polygon Gallery in Vancouver
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Being the largest non-profit photographic gallery in Western Canada, the Polygon Gallery not only showcases cutting-edge contemporary art but also offers stunning views of the city skyline and Burrard Inlet!

If you’re interested in contemporary art, photography, and cultural experiences, keep reading to discover what makes this cultural institution a must-visit destination in Vancouver.

Time Zone

Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)

Best Time to Go

The best time to go to the Polygon Gallery in Vancouver is all-year round. The gallery showcases different exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts of all kinds.

Things to Know

Currency: Canadian Dollar

Language: English

Calling Code: +1  

How to Get to the Polygon Gallery in Vancouver

By car: head to Hornby Street and take a left to W Georgia Street. Exit onto Marine Drive, and continue onto 3rd Street W. Then, turn right onto Forbes Avenue and drive onto Esplanade Avenue. Finally, take a right to Lonsdale Avenue. 

By public transit: Take the SeaBus to the North Shore waterfront. Then, head to the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal. The Polygon Gallery’s main entrance will approximately be 700 metres west.

Is the Polygon Gallery free?

Is the Polygon Gallery free

Admission to the Polygon Gallery in Vancouver is by donation. The gallery is supported by the BMO Financial Group, which continuously supports the arts and cultural initiatives in the community. 

This allows visitors to enjoy contemporary photography and media arts exhibitions without financial barriers.

Where to Stay near the Polygon Gallery

Seaside Hotel

Address: 125 Victory Ship Way #130, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0G5, Canada

Phone: +1 604-973-1473

Pricing: $

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Nestled in a stunning waterfront setting, the Seaside Hotel sits at the hub of North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. Just a quick 3-minute stroll away lies the Polygon Gallery.

Inside, you’re greeted by the hotel’s effortlessly stylish ambiance, with rooms adorned in reclaimed wood décor. As a boutique establishment, it may not boast a lot of amenities, but its prime location more than compensates for that.

Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier

Address: 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-7437

Pricing: $

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Located in the historic Wallace Shipyards, this huge hotel is quite fancy, with elegantly designed rooms—each featuring luxurious amenities and stunning waterfront views. Rooms here have balconies and marble and glass bathrooms.

The hotel’s waterfront setting is simply breathtaking, providing unparalleled views that are truly remarkable. With its proximity to nearby attractions and dining spots, it’s an ideal accommodation choice for both business and leisure travelers alike.

Lonsdale Quay Hotel

Address: 123 Carrie Cates Ct 3rd Floor, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-6111

Pricing: $

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Perched on Vancouver’s north shore, the Lonsdale Quay Hotel enjoys a prime waterfront position, offering stunning vistas of the bustling harbor and downtown Vancouver.

The hotel boasts a fantastic on-site restaurant, adding to its allure. Moreover, the bustling market downstairs provides a myriad of culinary options, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste bud.

Pan Pacific Vancouver

Address: 999 Canada Pl #300, Vancouver, BC V6C 3B5, Canada

Phone: +1 604-662-8111

Pricing: $$

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While the Pan Pacific Vancouver may not situate you directly in North Vancouver, its proximity to the Canada Place cruise ship terminal means you’re just a ferry ride away from reaching the Polygon Gallery.

Rooms feature Italian marble bathrooms, modern decor, and chaise lounges. Additionally, guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a luxurious spa for the ultimate relaxation experience.

Where to Eat near the Polygon Gallery

Burgoo Bistro Lonsdale

Address: 3 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-904-0933

Pricing: $$

Website

Burgoo Bistro is a go-to for comfort food, offering a delectable selection ranging from burgers and chicken dishes to mac and cheese, sandwiches, and salads. The comfort food section of the menu comes highly recommended.

With its charming ambiance and delicious cuisine, Burgoo Bistro is a delightful spot to unwind and indulge in a leisurely afternoon on your visit to the Polygon Gallery.

Tap & Barrel • Shipyards

Address: 8 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2, Canada

Phone: +1 604-638-2339

Pricing: $$

Website

Tap & Barrel • Shipyards is a lively spot to drop by for drinks and a tasty meal. As a proudly Vancouver-born restaurant, it specializes in regional cuisine paired with local craft beer and top-notch wine selections.

Among their standout dishes, the waffle fries are a definite favorite, while the wings and squid also come highly recommended. For those craving something heavier, don’t miss out on the seriously delicious tuna burger—it’s a real winner.

Sharky’s Chophouse & Eatery

Address: 123 Carrie Cates Ct #106, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7, Canada

Phone: +1 604-969-9693

Pricing: $$

Website

Nestled within Lonsdale Quay, Sharky’s Chophouse & Eatery is renowned for its exquisite steak offerings. 

With a variety of at least four types of meat and three delectable sides available at all times—including options like mashed potatoes, cheese pierogies, mixed vegetables, and occasionally beef stew.

For a truly memorable dining experience, take your meal outside and dine by the dock, where you can enjoy your food while watching the boats gracefully pass by.

Raglan’s Bistro

Address: 15 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-988-8203

Pricing: $$$

Website

Raglan’s Bistro offers a laid-back atmosphere with a tiki vibe, serving up cocktails alongside a menu of comforting classics. Situated in the heart of North Vancouver, it’s a hip spot with eclectic decor and a diverse range of music.

Their poutine is a standout, particularly the pulled pork or chicken variations—guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied. With alcohol also on the menu, it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends and enjoy a relaxed evening out.

Anatoli Souvlaki

Address: 5 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-985-9853

Pricing: $$$

Website

Anatoli Souvlaki was opened by Helen and Thomas in the spring of 1984. They had a dream of bringing the food of Greece to North Vancouver. We’re going straight to our recommendation: the souvlaki plate.

This dish was a labor of love for Helen & Thomas, combining perfectly grilled meat with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce.

During summer, Raglan’s Bistro boasts a fantastic outdoor patio experience. Positioned alongside the road, it offers opportunities for people-watching, all while enjoying the ambiance of sparkling lights adorning the trees.

What to Do in and near the Polygon Gallery

Explore the Exhibits

Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-1351

Website

Inside the gallery, you’ll find a vast array of exhibits spread across multiple rooms, showcasing a diverse collection of art. Each room is adorned with art displayed on the walls, complemented by additional exhibits positioned in the center. 

You’ll also discover art installations in smaller rooms and hallways throughout the gallery. The majority of the displays feature photographs and artworks by Canadian artists.

Join the Workshops

Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-1351

Website

The Polygon Gallery offers a variety of distinctive monthly events, ranging from artist talks and book signings to engaging workshops and beyond. 

Particularly noteworthy are the workshops facilitated by Indigenous artists and knowledge holders during the summer months, providing enriching cultural experiences.

To stay updated on the latest events, visitors can easily access the Polygon Gallery’s website, where they’ll find details on upcoming events, current exhibitions, and gallery hours.

Shop Rare Photo Books at the Diane Evans Bookstore

Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-1351

Website

Since its inception in 1970, this bookstore has been a haven for lovers of photography, offering a curated selection of international photobooks, magazines, and postcards. 

Renowned publishers such as Aperture, Steidl, Mack Books, and the Archive of Modern Conflict are proudly featured alongside the store’s own publications, creating a diverse and captivating collection.

Score Cool Knick Knacks at the Polygon Gallery Shop

Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-1351

Website

At The Polygon Shop, you’ll find a meticulously curated array of products including design-focused homeware, jewelry, and unique gifts. 

They take pride in featuring items crafted by local makers and collectives from Vancouver and the North Shore, alongside renowned international brands like Polaroid, Lomography, and Aperture. 

Check out the Lonsdale Public Market

Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-1351

Website

Established in 1986, the Lonsdale Quay Public Market has been a prominent fixture on the North Vancouver waterfront, bustling with over 60 locally-owned and operated businesses.

Following a visit to the Polygon Gallery, this marketplace serves as an ideal destination to procure fresh produce and locally crafted artisan products. 

What sets the public market apart is its commitment to independently-owned and operated stores, ensuring a unique and authentic shopping experience devoid of big chain retail stores. It’s a true gem for supporting local businesses.

Stop by the Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA)

Address: 115 Esplanade W, North Vancouver, BC V7M 0G7, Canada

Phone: +1 604-990-3700

Website

Located in the vibrant heart of North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale, MONOVA offers a captivating exploration of the area’s rich history, focusing on both the Shipyards District itself and the municipalities of North Vancouver.

Beyond its regular displays housed within its building, MONOVA also offers an immersive experience through guided walking tours around the Shipyards District during the summer months. 

Hang out at the Shipbuilders’ Pier

Address: North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7, Canada

Website

The Shipbuilders’ Pier stands as a prominent feature in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale and Shipyards District, stretching approximately 700 feet in length and 50 feet in width.

Its expansive dimensions offer ample room for pedestrians to stroll along its length, with occasional accommodation for vehicles when necessary.

Surrounding the pier, visitors can discover a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, adding to the bustling atmosphere of the area.

Enjoy Wide-Angle Views of Vancouver at Waterfront Park

Media credit: igorsaringer

Address: Block, 200 Esplanade W, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

Phone: +1 604-985-7761

Website

Waterfront Park offers a picturesque retreat featuring various attractions. Hosting lively festivals, a dedicated dog park, and a charming small Japanese garden.

Additionally, Waterfront Park serves as a gateway to the Spirit Trail, a scenic pathway that traces the waterfront from the bustling Shipyards District to West Vancouver. 

This connection allows visitors to embark on leisurely strolls or bike rides along the waterfront, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Moovit: current schedule and step-by-step directions for buses, ferries, and the Skytrain that pass through Lonsdale Quay.
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Vancouver Transit Live: search and view live updates of Vancouver’s bus schedules coming to the stops near you.
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North Shore Taxi: taxi service in North and West Vancouver. Book a taxi anywhere and get a fare estimate right away.
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Doordash: food delivery service in North Vancouver.
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