Vancouver | Arts and Crafts Market
Granville Island
The most lived-in spot in Vancouver—not too far, not too pricey, but with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The indoor Public Market, the craft brewery, the ceramics studios, the street performers… once you go in you won't want to leave, and many locals come here to wander every weekend.
? Location and Transportation
A peninsula in False Creek, just a 5-minute ride from Downtown on the Aquabus mini-ferry ($4-6 round trip), or take the No. 50 bus across the bridge from Granville St.
? Public Market Hours
Open daily 9:00-19:00 (open year-round, except Christmas and New Year's). Admission to the market is free; you only pay for what you buy.
? Cost
Granville Island itself is free. The Aquabus ferry is about $4 CAD one-way; brewery tastings are $15-25 CAD; shopping at the market depends on your budget and needs.
? Highlights
Besides the market, there are also theaters, an art college, a kids' market, and about 300 artisan vendors. On weekends there are all kinds of street performers, and the atmosphere is very lively.
A Guide to Exploring Granville Island
Taking the Aquabus ferry over is the most quintessentially Vancouver way to go. This mini blue boat departs from the Hornby Street dock in Downtown and reaches Granville Island in 5 minutes, and along the way you can photograph False Creek and BC Place on the far shore.
Once you're inside, head to the Public Market first. From 9 to 11 in the morning is when there's the most fresh produce, and you can buy freshly cut salmon, seasonal fruit, and handmade bread. There are several food stalls inside the market, and buying a salmon chowder or some Dungeness crab is standard fare for many visitors.
The galleries and studio area around the market are worth an hour of slow wandering, where you can watch local artists at work—glassblowing, ceramics, hand-casting and more. Granville Island Brewing is Vancouver's oldest microbrewery, where you can go in to taste beer and have a meal.
Granville Island must-sees and must-eats
? The Public Market
Vancouver's most famous indoor market, with fresh produce, seafood, cheese, artisan breads, and prepared snacks all in abundance. Mornings have fewer people and the freshest ingredients. Be sure to try the fresh donuts at Lee’s Donuts and the bread at Stuart’s Bakery.
? Granville Island Brewing
Opened in 1984, it's one of the earliest microbreweries in western Canada. There are brewery tours (about $25) and tasting flights where you can sample a range of local craft beers. There's an attached pub and restaurant, perfect for a relaxing afternoon drink.
? Granville Island Stage
The performance hall of Emily Carr University of Art + Design hosts theater, dance and music performances year-round. If you're staying a few days in Vancouver, check that week's program—you might get a pleasant surprise.
? The Net Loft Arts District
An art space converted from an old factory, with multiple artist studios inside where you can see handmade jewelry, paintings, ceramics, and other creations. Some workshops let you watch the making process, which is very interesting.
? Aquabus Water Taxi
The way you get to Granville Island is an attraction in itself. The little blue ferries shuttle back and forth across False Creek, and it's the best way to soak up Vancouver's waterfront culture, as well as a great spot for sunset photos.
? Kids Market
The area kids love most, with toy stores, clothing, ice cream and all kinds of interactive play areas. A must for families with children, and there's no extra charge.
?️ Recommendations around Granville Island
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Vancouver Aquabus ferry
The Most Convenient Way to Get to Granville Island
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Vancouver Art & Granville tour
A local guide takes you deep into the arts district
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False Creek canoeing experience
Vancouver's downtown seen from the water
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❓ Frequently asked questions
How much time does Granville Island take?
The Public Market alone takes about 1-1.5 hours; if you include the brewery, the arts district, and a waterfront stroll, anything from half a day to a full day will do.
Where can you eat on Granville Island?
Inside the Public Market there are several food stalls, perfect for lunch; the Granville Island Brewing restaurant is good for a proper meal; and around the outside of the market there are several little cafés and restaurants.
Is it a good place to go on a rainy day?
Perfectly suited! The Public Market is an indoor space, so coming on a rainy day is actually more comfortable, and there are fewer people than on a sunny day. Bring an umbrella or wear a waterproof jacket—there's shelter everywhere.