Meagen SetterImagine casually biking through Arbutus Greenway, rolling into the relaxed vibes of Kerrisdale. Trees lining the streets, cute shops – it’s a neighborhood asking for a closer look.
If you’re planning to explore this neighborhood, too, dive into our ultimate guide where we spill the beans on Kerrisdale’s coolest spots, from the buzzing Village to its movie-worthy scenes!
What is Kerrisdale known for?
Kerrisdale is best known for its popular shopping district called “the Village.” With its tree-lined streets and well-designed street furniture, Kerrisdale also stands out as a beautiful community in West Side, Vancouver.
“The Village,” short for Kensington Village, is a lively place with lots of shops, unique stores, and cozy cafes. Locals and visitors love the unique fashion stores and old-style shops there.
Beyond shopping, Kerrisdale is also known for being a charming neighborhood.It’s one of the first neighborhoods in the city to its street furniture, and with the pretty trees on the sidewalk, the community looks really inviting.
What is Kerrisdale in Vancouver?
Kerrisdale, Vancouver, has a heartwarming history that began in 1867 when the Irish McCleery brothers started farming the lush meadows which are now part of the beautiful McCleery Golf Course.
In 1905, the neighborhood got its name, Kerrisdale, thanks to an early resident’s choice, inspired by her family home in Kerrydale, Scotland. (By the way, Kerrydale means “little seat of the fairies,” which if you think about it kind of fits the neighborhood’s beauty.)
In 1902, a train first connected Kerrisdale to the canneries on Steveston and farms on Lulu Island, starting a period of growth. Later on, the BC Electric Railway took over the train line, helping Kerrisdale grow even more.
By 1908, Kerrisdale joined Point Grey as a new municipality and made what’s now Kerrisdale Centennial Park its political center.
Around the same time, its general store, post office, and the iconic Bowser Block in 1912 shaped Kerrisdale’s character. Then, streetcars started running on 41st Avenue, boosting the area around 41st Ave. and West Boulevard.
Throughout the 20th century, Kerrisdale played various roles, from hosting Vancouver’s first rock concert (concert venues vancouver) in 1956 at the Cyclone Taylor Arena to embracing cultural diversity along West 41st Avenue.
Today, Kerrisdale maintains its warm charm. Sure, there may be more residents in the neighborhood who’ve seen a bit more of life, but it’s still a dignified, calm, and really lovely place.
Things to Know
Language: English
Currency: Canadian Dollar
Parking: If you’re bringing your car to Kerrisdale, you can park at Kerrisdale Parkade on Yew Street at West 42nd Ave. There are 225 parking stalls here and you can park at CAD 4.95 per hour for around 2 hours and 30 minutes max.
Specific spots in the neighborhood, like the community centre, have their own designated parking spaces.
Demographics: Kerrisdale’s population in 2020 is generally well-educated and professional, but the number of residents participating in the workforce has been on the decline.
Probably because most people here belong to the older population, with Kerrisdale having the second-highest average age in Vancouver in 2020.
The neighborhood is also getting more diverse. More people from different backgrounds and who speak languages other than English are joining in and calling Kerrisdale their home.
It’s interesting that this shift aligns with changes in income and family structures. Many of the households with lower incomes are from people new to the area, and there’s a rise in families led by single parents.
Best Time to Go
Considering the weather, the best time to go to Kerrisdale is during the summer season from June to August. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor patios and exploring parks.
It’s a lively time with many tourists around. Some people skip it for the same reason, though, since the place can get crowded, and prices might be a bit higher during peak tourist season.
Winter, from December to February, is charming too, with festive decorations and cool weather.
How to Get Around Kerrisdale in Vancouver
- Cars: Centered along 41st Avenue, Kerrisdale is easily accessible by car. From downtown, it only takes around 10 minutes of driving to reach Kerrisdale.
- Buses: There are two bus stations just a few metres away from Kerrisdale: Westbound W 41 Ave @ East Blvd, and Southbound West Blvd @ W 41 Ave. Bus #16 and R4 both stop near the area.
- Trains: While Kerrisdale doesn’t have a direct train station, nearby transit options like the Canada Line SkyTrain offer efficient connections to and from the neighborhood. Marine Drive Station is a 15-minute walk away from Kerrisdale.
- Taxis or Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis are readily available in Kerrisdale. If you’re taking the taxi to downtown, your fare may be around CAD 32.65 to 59.92.
- You can also order a ride via Uber and Lyft.
- Bikes: Kerrisdale is one of the most bikeable neighborhoods in Vancouver. While other neighborhoods in the city provided good bike infrastructure but also had higher collision risks in 2020, Kerrisdale was one of the safest bike friendly areas.
What to Do in Kerrisdale, Vancouver
Go Thrift Shopping
Kerrisdale is a great spot for thrift shopping. You’ll find various second-hand stores offering a mix of clothing, books, and unique items. Take a leisurely stroll through these shops, and you might discover some hidden gems.
Visit Popular Filming Locations
Seth Rogen, who grew up in Kerrisdale, shared his high school experiences at Point Grey Secondary in the film Superbad. Kerrisdale, in turn, has been a backdrop for several film and TV productions.
Walk around and you might recognize familiar scenes from Final Destination, MacGyver, and Once Upon a Time. Even Riverdale and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before filmed in Kerrisdale!
Have a Look at the Kerrisdale Clock
Gastown has the famous steam clock. Kerrisdale has its own clock, standing tall since 1929. The Kerrisdale Clock is a simple but special clock with black and gold colors at West 41st Avenue and Yew Street.
People in the neighborhood love it and often gather around it during events. Taking a moment to look at this old clock is like taking a little trip back in time and feeling the community’s history.
Blend In for Kerrisdale Days
Kerrisdale Days brings the community together for various events. While the specifics might vary, it’s a chance to experience local festivities, perhaps enjoying live music or trying out some local treats.
Check the schedule and join in for a taste of Kerrisdale life.
Start a Bakery Crawl
If you have a sweet tooth, Kerrisdale is home to a number of good bakeries. Go on a bakery crawl, trying out pastries, cakes, and other delectable treats from different local spots.
Look for COBS, Faubourg, Saint Germain, Moore’s Bakery, Sweet E’s Pastries and Sweets, and many more. It’s a delightful way to explore the neighborhood’s culinary offerings.
Explore the Local Parks
Kerrisdale is home to beautiful parks like Elm Park and Kerrisdale Park.
Elm Park has a cool pond and lots of green space, perfect for a chill walk or picnic. Kerrisdale Park is great for families with a big playground and sports stuff.
Both parks give Kerrisdale a nice mix of peaceful and active vibes, making it a sweet spot for everyone in the neighborhood.
Bike along Arbutus Greenway
Enjoy a fun bike ride along the Arbutus Greenway in Kerrisdale. This 8.5-kilometer path takes you from the Fraser River to Granville Island, offering a mix of uphill and downhill stretches.
It’s praised as an easy bike route in the city, making it suitable for various riders. After your ride, treat yourself to a visit to Granville Island as a rewarding way to end your biking adventure.
But make sure that you’re riding safe!
Where to Stay in Kerrisdale, Vancouver
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
Address: 1133 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6E 3T3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-9211
Price: $$
Thirteen minutes away from Kerrisdale on a car, Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront sits on Coal Harbour and offers generous views of the majestic North Shore mountains.
If you want to explore the area along the seawall and on to Kerrisdale, the hotel lends a bike to their guests!
On another day, you can sit and relax on the Hop-on, Hop-off bus which stops right outside the hotel.
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
Address: 655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-1234
Price: $$
A little over 10 minutes and you can get from Hyatt Regency Vancouver to Kerrisdale. If you’re taking public transportation, you’ll only need around 30 minutes.
This hotel also enjoys a perfect location. You can easily go to Robson Street, Rogers Arena, and other attractions if you decide to stay here.
EXchange Hotel Vancouver
Address: 475 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2B3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-563-4693
Price: $$
EXchange Hotel Vancouver is one of the heritage restoration masterpieces in the city. Once inside, you’ll be quick to spot traces of the original Stock Exchange Building while enjoying the sophisticated design and modern amenities.
While the hotel is just steps away from Stanley Park, Chinatown, and Gastown, it’s also a good place to stay if you’re planning to visit Kerrisdale.
Taking the #16 bus can get you to the vicinity of Kerrisdale in less than 30 minutes. All that’s left to do from the moment you alight is walk for three minutes to your destination.
Paradox Hotel Vancouver
Address: 1161 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0C6, Canada
Phone: +1 236-900-6001
Price: $$
Another hotel downtown that can be a great home base for your trip to Kerrisdale is Paradox Hotel. Especially if you’re planning to have a good time aside from shopping.
That it’s so close to Kitsilano Beach is one good reason to stay here, but add to that the Karma Lounge, where you can enjoy some live music, mingle with friends, or lounge at the back for the ultimate night out.
Where to Eat in Kerrisdale, Vancouver
Secret Garden Tea Company
Address: 2138 W 40th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1W5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-261-3070
Price: $$
Secret Garden is one of the oldest tea houses in the city. To enjoy their high tea, book a reservation for two hours at 11:30 AM or 2 PM on weekdays, or 11 AM, 1:30 PM, or 4 PM on weekends.
Or you can easily walk in for breakfast or lunch. Either way, you’ll savor freshly baked pastries in a charming setting with a touch of Victorian flair.
COBS Bread Bakery Kerrisdale
Address: 2174 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Z1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-261-5383
Price: $
COBS Bread is a familiar sight to you if you live in Vancouver. The one on Kerrisdale gives the same selections, leaning more towards bread than pastries.
You can grab staples like Sunflower Flax Sourdough Loaf and Country Grain Loaf. But if you’re feeling a little adventurous, give their gourmet hamburger or hot dog buns a try for a tasty twist.
ZUBU Ramen – Kerrisdale
Address: 2129 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 778-379-8889
Price: $$
The ambiance at ZUBU Ramen is great even when it’s packed. That enhances the dining experience, and brings out the lovely flavors of their ramen even more.
The broth varies based on your order, but all options are tasty and honestly, quite filling. You can also swing by for Happy Hour and have a go at snack items like Ebi Mayo and Salmon Taco.
Fish Café
Address: 2053 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Y7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-267-3474
Price: $$
If you’re like us who enjoy frequent trips to Steveston for fresh catches, you’ll have a great time at Fish Cafe.
Here, you can order your seafood and choose if you want it deep fried, grilled, or blackened, choose a dipping sauce and a side. Depending on the season, you can get your hands on some fresh prawns, scallops, salmon, snapper, swordfish, and more!
Donair Dude
Address: 2175 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-263-0356
Price: $$
Donair Dude is a new spot in Kerrisdale that offers budget-friendly Mediterranean cuisine. Customers are drawn to the place for its inviting atmosphere and reasonable prices.
You can explore their menu, which includes options like the chicken donair wrap, poutine, or kofte platter. For an even better deal, consider trying one of their value meals, available for CAD 11.49 when ordered online.
Minerva’s
Address: 2411 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 2A5, Canada
Phone: +1 604 263 1774
Price: $$
Minerva’s claim to fame is Ryan Reynolds calling it his favorite restaurant (in the entire world!).Once you dive into a plate of their hearty pasta or savor their tzatziki and pita, you’ll quickly realize Ryan’s praise might not be an exaggeration.
The incredible flavors and generous portions make it feel like a great value for your money. Then again, Ryan Reynolds!
Where to Shop in Kerrisdale
Hill’s of Kerrisdale
Address: 2125 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Z3, Canada
Phone: +1 604 266 9177
Hours: Tuesday, 9 AM – 6 PM
Wednesday to Friday, 10 AM – 7 PM
Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Hill’s of Kerrisdale has been around since the 1920s, and they’ve grown a lot since then. Now, they’ve got a bit of everything – jewelry, stylish clothes for guys and gals, and dry goods.
They sell famous brands like North Face, Levi’s, Dr. Martens, and New Balance. There are even more brands – about 30 to 50 more, so it’s a good idea to visit and just look for some awesome things you’ll like.
Petit Pont Kerrisdale
Address: 2045 West 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Y7, Canada
Phone: +1 604 332 8822
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM – 6 PM
If you’re on the hunt for cute stuff like Jellycat bunnies, bears, or boiled eggs for a little one, head over to Petit Point.
Plus, they have other cool brands like Armani Junior, Moschino, Il Gufo, and Petit Bateau. You can grab things like cotton suits, fuzzy dresses, and adorable hats for awesome gifts!
Style Reissue
Address: 6031 West Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6M 3X2, Canada
Phone: +1 236 818 2839
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Style Reissue may be new in town with its store opening this year, but it’s been selling cool stuff online since the pandemic. The owner knows their stuff, with over 15 years of experience in selling fancy second-hand things.
If you’re into fashion that’s good for the planet, Style Reissue is the place to be in Kerrisdale. They’re all about sustainable fashion and making sure you look good while keeping it eco-friendly.
Tips for Visiting Kerrisdale
- Enjoy night strolls: Kerrisdale is generally safe for evening walks, with well-lit streets and a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a peaceful stroll and experience the neighborhood’s charm after dark.
- Bring your car for convenience. As much as Kerrisdale is well-connected by buses, using a car can offer more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore nearby areas. Consider your itinerary and transportation preferences.
- Check the local events calendar. Especially for Kerrisdale Days or other community celebrations. Timing your visit with these events can add a vibrant touch to your experience.
- Prepare for the weather. Vancouver weather can be unpredictable. Bring a light jacket or umbrella, especially if you plan to explore the parks or stroll along Kerrisdale’s streets.
- Listen to the locals. Ask locals for their favorite spots. Whether it’s a hidden café or a scenic viewpoint, tapping into local recommendations can uncover unique gems in Kerrisdale.
