Archie MontroseNestled in the heart of Vancouver, Granville Island holds a hidden gem – the iconic Granville Public Market. Once an industrial district, the market transformed into a vibrant hub.
Ready to immerse yourself in this culinary and artisanal haven? Our guide unveils the best of Granville Public Market – from local delights to unique crafts!
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know About Granville Public Market
- How to Get to Granville Public Market
- Where to Stay near the Granville Public Market
- Where to Eat in the Granville Public Market
- What to Do near the Granville Public Market
- Where to Shop in the Granville Public Market
- Apps to Download for a Trip to the Granville Public Market
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Granville Island is all-year round. The market’s kicking it every day, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. But if you wanna dodge the crazy crowds, hit it up early on a Tuesday morning.
Things to Know About Granville Public Market
Granville Public Market Hours
The Granville Island Public Market is open from 9am to 6pm, seven days a week. However, the Net Loft and Kids Market roll out at 10am and wrap up by 5pm.
Granville Public Market Parking
Parking at Granville Island is free before 11am and after 6pm. But watch out between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. – it’s a $2/hour charge on weekdays and $3/hour on weekends and holidays.
| Weekdays | Weekends + Holidays | |
| May 1 – Sep 30 | $3/hour | $4/hour |
| Oct 1 – Apr 30 | $2/hour | $3/hour |
You can snag parking for 15, 30, or 1-hour chunks, and there are a bunch of ways to do it. Hit up a pay station or roll with one of these apps – PayByPhone, Honk Mobile, ParkMobile, or ZipBy, with the code 2545.
Quick tip: If you grab parking until 6 p.m., it’s good till 11 a.m. the next day. And remember, overnight parking is allowed in the multi-level parkade on Old Bridge Street.
Granville Public Market 3-Hour Walking Tour
So, Granville Island can get pretty jam-packed, but guess what? You can dodge the crowds and breeze past those lines. Get in on a 3-hour Walking Tour, skip the lines, and feast on over 20 Canadian taste sensations!
Picture this: bread, charcuterie, Canadian cheeses, donuts, beer, sake, spirits – the whole shebang. Plus, the tour takes you beyond the Public Market, hitting up nearby shops and checking out some awesome local artisans.
How to Get to Granville Public Market
- Trains: Trains are the easiest (cheapest) transportation option in Vancouver. The Skytrain takes you all around Metro Vancouver, from downtown Vancouver to the neighboring cities of Burnaby, New Westminster, Port Moody and Coquitlam, and Surrey.
- Buses: Vancouver’s bus system is everywhere, seriously. It’s got routes all over the city, running non-stop 24/7.
- Taxis: You’ve got options like Yellow Cab, Vancouver Taxi, and Maclure’s Cabs.
- Car service: Want something more private? Grab your phone, download Uber, Evo, or Lyft, and book your own sweet ride. It’s all about getting around on your terms.
Where to Stay near the Granville Public Market
Granville Island Hotel
Address: 1253 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-7373
Pricing: $$
Location-wise, the Granville Island Hotel is the way to go. Not only is it located right at Granville Island, it’s also got awesome views of False Creek and the downtown core.
You’ll get fancy rooms, complete with living areas stocked with big 42-inch TVs, mini fridges, and comfy pull-out sofas. Toss in a bit extra cash, and you can score a super fancy penthouse with wall-to-wall windows and awesome whirlpool tubs.
The Parker Hotel
Address: 1379 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2R5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-7678
Pricing: $
Just a quick 6-minute drive from Granville Island, there’s The Parker Hotel. The rooms are pretty swanky, inspired by wine themes and decked out with stylish modern furnishings.
Once you’re inside, there’s a casual French eatery, a gym, a garden on the 9th floor, and an outdoor hot tub. Plus, you score some cool freebies like complimentary shuttles to downtown Vancouver, cruise ship terminals, and evening wine receptions.
GEC Granville Suites Hotel
Address: 718 Drake St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2W6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-669-9888
Pricing: $
GEC Granville Suites Hotel rocks a brick exterior, but once you step into the rooms, you’ll find a cozy setup with a warm, light-wood color vibe and soft lighting. Every room comes with a sitting area and city views, and the icing on the cake is that kids under 11 crash for free.
Inside, there’s a spot for American grub and a bar to chill. Other cool stuff? A rooftop deck, a gym, and bonus features like a hot tub, a sauna, and even some table tennis action.
Residence Inn by Marriott
Address: 1234 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1W2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-1234
Pricing: $$
At the Residence Inn by Marriott, you’ve got sleek studios rocking full kitchens and penthouse suites with epic balconies boasting bay views. This high-rise, long-stay hotel is packed with extras.
Dip in the indoor pool, unwind in the hot tub, hit the 24/7 gym, or hang out on the outdoor terrace. And that’s not all—enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, join the evening social, and take advantage of grocery delivery and the convenience store that’s open round the clock.
OPUS
Address: 322 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 866-642-6787
Pricing: $$
In the lively neighborhood of Yaletown, OPUS is the go-to spot—a chic hotel with rooms that pop with color and boast ergonomic chairs. Every room rocks a minibar, which we think is a pretty neat touch.
Studios and suites amp it up with soaking tubs, and the top-tier suite throws in a fireplace and a sweet wraparound balcony. Need some pampering? In-room spa treatments and dining are on the menu.
Where to Eat in the Granville Public Market
Market Grill
Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-1918
Pricing: $
For the ultimate classic take on everyone’s favorite comfort food, head to The Market Grill—where they serve up the best burgers in town. The vibe at Market Grill is chill and easygoing, and the dishes keep it simple without any fancy twists or super innovative stuff.
Don’t miss out on their whiskey burger. The subtle hint of whiskey takes the burger’s flavor to a whole new level, making it a timeless favorite.
Zara’s Italian Deli & Fresh Pasta
Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-2935
Pricing: $$
If you’re craving Italian classics like pasta, antipasti, sausages, and olive oils, Zara’s Italian Deli & Fresh Pasta is the spot. They’ve been serving up these delights since 1987, and their claim to fame is fresh pasta made with 100% durum wheat semolina flour.
While we can’t vouch for the other pasta joints, we’ve tried spinach ricotta ravioli elsewhere, and honestly, it doesn’t hold a candle to what Zara’s dishes out.
Salmon n’ Bannock
Address: 1128 W Broadway #7, Vancouver, BC V6H 1G5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-568-8971
Pricing: $
For a taste of Native Canadian cuisine, Salmon n’ Bannock is where it’s at. They serve up uniquely indigenous dishes featuring wild fish, game meat, and bannock.
If we had to recommend one standout, it’s gotta be the bison pot roast. Picture this: melt-in-your-mouth morsels of 24-hour-cooked meaty goodness, nestled between a gorgeous mash, seasonal veg, and topped with gravy.
Beach Ave Bar and Grill
Address: 1012 Beach Ave #1, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-676-2337
Pricing: $$
Right on downtown Vancouver’s waterfront, Beach Ave Bar and Grill brings you seaside dining with a West Coast twist. They’re dishing out delicious burgers, shareable plates, and some top-notch craft beer.
Our tip? Don’t miss the chicken sandwich. It’s a flavor-packed delight with crispy chicken breast, cajun butter, pickles, honey slaw, all sandwiched between brioche. Trust us, it’s a winner.
Terra Breads
Address: 1689 Johnston St #107, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-685-3102
Pricing: $$
Terra Breads has been the go-to spot for top-notch pastries and bread since ’93, and they don’t disappoint when it comes to presentation. Sure, it might be a tad pricier than some other spots around Granville Island, but take our word for it—it’s totally worth it.
The cinnamon cardamom cruffin and the raspberry dark chocolate scone are definite crowd-pleasers, but our personal fave has to be the almond croissant. It’s buttery, crispy, just the right amount of sweetness, and that perfect crunchy layer of almond.
What to Do near the Granville Public Market
Get Buzzed at The Granville Island Brewing Co.
Address: 1441 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-687-2739
This hip microbrewery spot is a really cool brewery right by the Granville Island Public Market. The beers here are endless—with options from lager, ale, draft, and IPA.
If you’re a hop enthusiast, the Juicy IPA is a dream come true. Packed with tropical fruit vibes and a zesty citrus punch, it’s a bold and refreshing choice. For a smoother, well-balanced experience, go for the English Bay Ale, boasting a delightful caramel maltiness.
Shop at Net Loft
Address: 1650 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-666-6655
Nestled in an industrial-chic building, the Net Loft is a shopping paradise featuring vendors peddling handmade pottery, artistic gift cards, stylish hats, Indigenous art products, and a whole lot more.
The Net Loft apart focuses on art, artisanal goods, and truly unique gift items. Practically everything you lay your eyes on in this place is crafted by talented artists based in BC. It’s a haven for those who appreciate the charm of handmade creations.
Check out the Exhibits at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design
Address: 520 E 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 0H2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-844-3800
The Emily Carr University of Art and Design isn’t just an art school—it’s a cultural hub that encapsulates Vancouver’s creative community. Being the top-notch art institution in the city, its presence on Granville Island adds an extra layer of vibrancy to the area.
All the galleries here are open to the public. You can explore the Libby Leshgold Gallery, the Michael O’Brian Exhibition Commons and RBC Media Gallery, the Urban Screen, and the Dr. Yosef Wosk Masterwork Teaching Collection.
Take a Tour on the Aquabus
Address: 1587 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-5858
If you’ve ever spotted those vibrant rainbow-colored Aquabus ferries cruising around False Creek, you’re in for a treat. They offer 25-minute sightseeing cruises that take you to Granville Island, downtown, and around False Creek.
Not only do you get to soak in Vancouver’s stunning waterfront views and the city skyline, but it’s also a major time-saver compared to hopping on public transit like the Skytrain or the bus. It’s like a scenic shortcut through the heart of the city.
Walk the Seawall
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-2222
Granville Island is practically a stone’s throw away from the South False Creek Sea Wall, so don’t pass up the chance to check it out. The Seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, providing a perfect route for biking, jogging, or simply enjoying leisurely strolls.
Take note that the Seawall is neatly divided into two distinct sections, each clearly marked. The path closest to the water is designated for walkers and joggers, while the inner path is reserved for cyclists and inline skaters.
Where to Shop in the Granville Public Market
V & J Plant Shop
Address: 1689 Johnston St #116, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-4439
When it comes to floral delights on Granville Island, V & J Plant Shop is the place to be. They’ve got an impressive array of everyday flowers, corporate arrangements, and bespoke wedding designs that’ll make your choices feel almost endless.
Their florists are like floral wizards, armed with loads of knowledge. They can craft custom flower arrangements tailored to your taste and preferences, making your floral dreams come to life.
Alarte Silks
Address: 1369 Railspur Alley, Vancouver, BC V6H 4G9, Canada
Phone: +1 778-370-4304
At Alarte Silks, it’s all about the exquisite Shibori shawls crafted from hand-pleated silk. Izabela Sauer, the artist, takes each piece to the next level by hand-painting and employing the ancient Japanese pleating technique, Shibori.
What makes these shawls stand out? The vibrant colors are nothing short of spectacular, and each piece is genuinely one-of-a-kind.
Anat Basanta Designs
Address: Granville Island, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3S3
Email: [email protected]
Anat Basanta Designs is your go-to spot for distinctive, handmade jewelry featuring ornamented “retro” patterns—think of designs reminiscent of kitschy wallpaper. Their collection spans a variety of jewelry types, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings.
What sets them apart is the textured patterns and woven silver, giving each piece a unique and eye-catching quality.
Armando’s Finest Quality Meats
Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-685-0359
Armando’s Finest Quality Meats offers a full-service meat shop with a focus on custom cuts and top-notch specialty products. Their range includes Canada Prime Graded Beef, Veal, AAA Beef, Wagyu, and White Stripe Lamb.
Here’s a tip: don’t miss out on their excellent lamb burgers. These grill up into a substantial size and are incredibly juicy—a real treat for anyone who enjoys a hearty and flavorful burger.
Beadworks
Address: 1666 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-2323
Beadworks is a treasure trove for bead enthusiasts. Their selection is vast, featuring Swarovski crystals, semi-precious beads and pendants, seed beads, as well as glass, wood, and bone beads.
They also offer a jewelry repair service. And for those eager to unleash their creativity, Beadworks also hosts workshops where you can learn the art of crafting your own unique jewelry designs.
Apps to Download for a Trip to the Granville Public Market
PayByPhone: pay for parking spots in the city.
Transit: real-time information and updates about bus times, bus capacity predictions, and real time vehicle locations.
OpenTable: make a reservation at popular restaurants in Vancouver.
Untappd: keep track of the beers you liked (and didn’t like), rate beers, and share your reviews with other beer enthusiasts.
