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Vancouver, Canada

Our flagship store is now open.

Discover Monos in person

Where it all began – the Monos flagship store is now open in the heart of our hometown of Vancouver. Experience our collection and get inspired for your upcoming journey.

2131 W 4th Ave, Vancouver BC, V5N 1K7

Store Hours

Monday—Friday

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• 604-739-2182 Primary
• 1-866-739-2182 Tollfree
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• www.wanderlustore.com

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Wanderlust is Canada's largest travel store. Located in Kitsilano, a suburb of Vancouver, Wanderlust has been supporting world travellers with books, maps and accessories for over 20 years. We are your one stop travel shop. We carry over 10,000 travel titles, thousands of maps and travel accessories in addition to a great selection of luggage-everything you need to set off on your next holiday. Our staff are extremely well travelled and experienced with finding the right products for your trip. Come in and see us today! more... See more text

Products and Services

• Travel Accessories ,
• Travel Store ,
• Power Adapters Converters & Transformers ,
• Travel Games & Diaries ,
• Luggage & Bags ,
• Mosquito Nets & Repellant ,
• First Aid Kits & Swiss Army Knives ,
• Toiletry Kits ,
• Neck Pillows & Travel Blankets ,
• Luggage Scales & Compression Bags ,
• Travel Hairdryers & Straighteners ,
• Luggage Locks ,
• Packing Cubes & Folding Boards ,
• Maglites & Booklights ,
• Straps & Tags ,
• Money Belts & Anti-Theft Bags ,
• Water Purification & No Jet-Lag Pills ,
• Sunblock & Towels ,
• Quick-Dry Underwear ,
• Carry-On Bottle Sets & Waterproof Cases ,

Opening Hours *Holiday hours

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Meet the owner

Nothing is more exciting than planning a vacation, but it can also be fraught with questions, concerns and shopping needs. Look no further than Wanderlust , the largest travel store in Canada, dedicated to serving travellers with maps, books, luggage and other travel accessories. Whether you’re looking for that informative book to tell you all about the secrets of your planned destination, or advice on what to bring on your next trip, the Wanderlust staff have you covered.

Since 1989, Wanderlust has been serving Vancouver’s travelling community with their massive store stocked with travel necessities. One side of the shop is dedicated to maps and educational and informative books while the other side houses luggage, packing kits, carry-ons and other needs such as TSA-approved bottles and other easy storage and folding items to make packing a breeze.

Ratings & Reviews - Wanderlust

Great products, b...

Great products, but the staff are unapproachable. There are a couple of men working there that you just don't want to speak to, i actually got told of for touching a wallet. It did say do not touch (which I obviously did not see) but I am 50, and to get told of like a child is insane. My wife was currently spending almost a $100 while this happened I should have asked her to refund her purchases but we needed them. We will vote by not returning. This is all based on 3 visits not just one.

If you're going on a trip travel here first!

Wanderlust is conveniently located on 4th avenue in Kits and they offer everything for travelers from serious to armchair. With a great selection of guides, maps and books they have everything you need to plan your next expedition. And once you've planned it they also provide all of the accessories you could possible need as well! Travel lights, power adapters and all kinds of other items are available to meet your needs. But then, of course, you're going to need something to pack all of your items. Good thing Wanderlust carries luggage as well! Like the title of the review says...if you're going on a trip travel to Wanderlust first!

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Appears in one Smart List

The first stop on your itinerary: vancouver travel stores.

The folks at Wanderlust, Canada’s biggest travel store and conveniently located on West 4th Avenue in Kits, have thought of everything that could make your next trip just that much easier. Power adapters so you’ll never be without your ever-needed devices in places like Europe or Africa; travel-sized games to ease boredom on those long flights; even quick-dry underwear for those unexpected river-crossings or downpours. Their huge selection of books, maps and luggage will also set you on your way.

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• Wanderlust Travel Store - Vancouver
• Vancouver, BC

Now is the best time to purchase your next Eagle Creek! Save up to 20% off all items. You don’t want to miss out 😍

Alert 🚨 receive up to 50% off select ! Deals like this don’t come around often so get in quick. You don’t want to miss out! Shop all deals on our website wanderlustore.com 🙌

It is with a sad heart that we must close our doors temporarily. Our online store is still open, please do visit us at wanderlustore.com We can still be reached via email, or you can leave us a voicemail, should you have any questions or require further information on any products. Please see any new updates regarding the store here. Thank-you for all your support during this unprecedented event, it means so much to us. Hope to see you all real soon. Please keep safe and healthy.

This is how we roll! We have a whole bunch of toilet paper in-store! If you are running low please come visit us to stock up 😊

Small businesses need your support now more than ever! If able please shop with us online and receive a $20 shop credit for every $100 spent to go towards your next purchase! Website is in our bio ❤️

Due to the current situation we have adjusted our hours. We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes. Hours may change as we continue to monitor the situation. Please keep up to date on any changes here. Stay safe, Team Wanderlust ❤️

COVID-19 update from Team Wanderlust. @ Wanderlust Travel Store - Vancouver

We love the new Unicorn Magic Mug. The glitter helps brighten any day ❤️

With what is happening you may want to block it all out. We have eye masks and ear plugs for that! As a business we are taking extra precautions to keep our customers and staff safe. Please remember to wash your hands regularly and don’t touch your face. Our thoughts are with everyone affected ❤️

Leave everything to us, we’ve got you covered!

The new Popsoda luggage from is perfect for your next trip! It’s super lightweight meaning you can buy more on your travels! Coming in dark blue and black this is a must have for the overpacker 😉

Our office for the week is in New Orleans and it’s beautiful! We are attending the Travel Goods Show and discovering the newest and most innovative travel products! We wish we could stay here forever 😍 @ New Orleans, Louisiana

Vacationers can now look forward to enjoying every day of their trip without losing precious holiday time combatting the nasty symptoms of . Take on your flight home as well, and be ready to step right back into your life without needing extra recovery time. Coming back to reality post-vacay is already tough enough! 😝 & have a great flight! photo cred:

Our recommendation is that you visit the local tourism offices. They have so much insider knowledge of the city and can give you some great tips! They also offer discounts on attractions and transport.

No Matter What Duffels and Cargo Haulers (old model) from are now 20% off! Be quick as supplies are limited 😍🎉

Last chance to trade in your old luggage and receive a deal on a new A Case for Giving promotion ends tomorrow so don’t miss out!

Looking for your next everyday purse? Look no further as has you covered with their Bryant Pouch and Broadway Crossbody! They are both the perfect size when just taking the essentials with you. Check it out in-store and online now 😍

and your dog, what more could you want on an adventure?! The trusty migrate duffel now comes in new colours! The duffel comes in 40L, 60L, 90L as a convertible backpack and 110L, 130L as a wheeled duffel with backpack capability. Check them out in-store and online now! 🤩

This we recommend writing down your hotel name and address just in case your phone battery dies. There is nothing worse then trying to communicate to a taxi driver where you want to go without any information! What’s your favourite ?

Happy Valentines Day from Wanderlust ❤️ We hope you have a day filled with love and travel! If you are last minute shopping we have some great options like compression socks, miniwallet, travel wallet, canteen, Best Ever Travel Tips and eye mask. Check out this and more in-store and online 😍

has all new designs! The Dragonfly has a beautiful duo chrome finish that is forever shifting colours when you move the canteen around. This is definitely a favourite in-store 💜💙💚

Check out new vegan friendly options! The Yard Miniwallets have a vibrant non-leather exterior with micro texture. They feel incredible in your hand! This is a great option when on the go and the bright colour will ensure you never lose it in your bag! Check it out in-store now 🙌

This we recommend taking compression bags when trying to save space. has some great options to help you pack for your next adventure! Check them out in-store and online ✈️

💝 GIVEAWAY ALERT 💝 We’ve got a special giveaway for all our residents gearing up for couples travel this 2020! ✔️No-Jet-Lag has been clinically proven to both prevent and relieve symptoms of jet lag, so you can get to exploring & enjoying, faster! One lucky winner will receive this lovely Fly Away Passport Cover + 2 packs of No-Jet-Lag for them & their sweetheart 😍 To enter: 1️⃣ ❤️ this photo 2️⃣ Follow + 3️⃣ Tag your Valentine in the comments 💘 Contest ends Feb 14, 2020 🔚 Pick up your prize in store at Wanderlust Travel Store in Vancouver. Good luck!

New in store alert 🚨 We have the Coco Balm from in three amazing flavours; Ocean Mint, Pina Colada and Groove Cherry. This moisturising lip balm has aloe vera and coconut oil making it perfect for everyday use! I may or may not have one on me at all times 🙈

This we are highlighting Iguassu Falls in Argentina and Brazil. We highly recommend seeing the falls from both sides as each offers a unique view. If you aren’t afraid of heights definitely take a helicopter tour, the view up there is incredible!

Looking for a great deal? Look no further as we have discontinued items from for 20% off! Get your next travel bag in-store or online now 🎉

A Case for Giving is back! We have partnered once again with , providing support to youth and **erelief, the longest standing r**e crisis centre in Canada. Bring your gently used suitcase (must be on wheels and be able to roll) into Wanderlust Travel Store Vancouver and you'll receive a credit towards a new Briggs & Riley Suitcase. If your donated bag is any brand other than B&R you'll save $50, if your donated bag is a B&R you'll save $100! It's a great time to save on a fantastic brand of luggage and give to a great cause.

This we are focusing on Canada! Beautiful places are not too far from home, like Lake Louise. During the winter the lake freezes over and you can see people skating and playing hockey! The hosts great winter activities like snowshoeing and sleigh rides, they even feature an ice castle! ❄️❄️ 📸

The new Arcane series from is perfect for your next adventure! The sleek design and fun, bright colours will be perfect for any occasion. Check out Arcane now! 🙌

Our first day back in 2020 and we are so excited for the year! What are you most excited for in 2020?

The sale of the year ends tomorrow! Check out your next luggage piece in-store or online. Holiday hours tomorrow are 12-5pm.

🌟Wanderlust’s 12 Days of Giveaways🌟 Its the final day and we have a very exciting giveaway! You can win a Sympatico Carry-on in matte black 🙌🎉 HOW TO ENTER 1️⃣Follow us and 2️⃣Like this post 3️⃣Tag 2 friends T’s & C’s One prize per person during the 12 Days of Giveaways promotion. The prize must be collected from in-store. Promotion is being run in-store and on Instagram. Winners will be announced December 28th. You will have one week to confirm your win, otherwise the runner up will win.

🌟Wanderlust’s 12 Days of Giveaways🌟 Day eleven you can win an inflatable solar light from in collaboration with 💡 HOW TO ENTER 1️⃣Follow us and and 2️⃣Like this post 3️⃣Tag 2 friends T’s & C’s One prize per person during the 12 Days of Giveaways promotion. The prize must be collected from in-store. Promotion is being run in-store and on Instagram. Winners will be announced December 28th. You will have one week to confirm your win, otherwise the runner up will win.

🌟Wanderlust’s 12 Days of Giveaways🌟 Day ten we have a pen and notebook set! Such a great gift idea as well 📖 HOW TO ENTER 1️⃣Follow us and 2️⃣Like this post 3️⃣Tag 2 friends T’s & C’s One prize per person during the 12 Days of Giveaways promotion. The prize must be collected from in-store. Promotion is being run in-store and on Instagram. Winners will be announced December 28th. You will have one week to confirm your win, otherwise the runner up will win.

1929 West 4th Avenue Vancouver , BC V6J1M7

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(604) 739-2182

https://www.wanderlustore.com/

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Happy Valentines Day from Wanderlust ❤️ We hope you have a day filled with love and travel! If you are last minute shopping we have some great options like @sockwellusa compression socks, @secrid miniwallet, @herschelsupply travel wallet, @corkcicle canteen, @lonelyplanet Best Ever Travel Tips and @ilovemybucky eye mask. Check out this and more in-store and online 😍

Happy Halloween 🎃 Celebrate in style with the bright orange Bryant Bag from @baggallini Fill it with goodies from @secrid and @lamy_official @lamycanada . . . #halloween #happyhalloween #baggallini #secrid #secridwallet #lamy #spider #spooky #web #celebrate

The new @secrid Crystalline Miniwallet is stunning! The crystals are blinding in any lighting and are sure to make a statement. This is the perfect gift. Alternatively you could keep it for yourself, it’s too pretty to give away right?! . . . #secrid #crystalline #crystal #wallet #shine #riseandshine #wanderlusttravelstore #travel #blinding #sparkle

Check-out our new @herschelsupply Trade Luggage! We are loving the design and shape of these bags, the colours are also stunning! This is Dark Shadow, we also have Ash Rose, Silverbirch/Ash Rose Fade and Orange Vermillion. Around the bag is the Cypress Green Luggage Belt with hello printed in multiple languages! Such a great way to personalise your bag and make it stand out in a crowd. Check them out in-store now before we sell out! . . . #herschel #herscheltravel #wanderlust #exploremore #luggage #hello #traveltheworld

Made in Germany, timeless design, a constant focus on the customers needs. Find your new favourite pen in our store, and find out more @lamy_official

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Your Adventure Starts Here

We are Canada’s largest travel store located in Kitsilano, a suburb of Vancouver BC. Wanderlust has been supporting world travelers with books, maps, accessories, and luggage for over 20 years. We are your one stop travel shop. With over 10,000 travel titles, thousands of maps and accessories, and a wide variety of luggage we have everything you need to set off on your next holiday.

wan·der·lust

wǒn'dər-lǔst’ / noun

A strong desire to travel and see the world

 ... 

Spot us in:

Lonely Planet guide to Vancouver on pg.176

"...this store has been inspiring itchy feet for years...while the book selection is among Vancouver's best, it's the gadgets that are the most intriguing..."

Moon Guide to Vancouver on pg.182

"Best travel store"

"...the staff know their stock, whether it's what kind of plug adapter you need or which backpacks for different body shapes, and they're quick to make recommendations"

Fodor's Travel Guide to Vancouver and Victoria on pg.161

"...travelers love this shop..feeds everyone's wanderlust..."

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Top 10 Places to Shop in Vancouver

Whether you're shopping for back-to-school fashion, holiday gifts, home decor, or just for fun, Vancouver is the place to be. From luxury brands to inexpensive imports, you'll find what you need at these top 10 Vancouver shopping destinations and neighborhoods .

Downtown Shopping - Robson Street & Alberni Street

When it comes to Vancouver shopping—particularly for fashion—it's hard to beat the world-famous Robson Street. On Robson, you'll find a wide variety of mid-range shops, ranging from international brand names like Zara and Banana Republic to Canadian retailers like Le Chateau and Plenty. From Robson, it's a quick walk to Pacific Centre Mall , ​which has similar shops. 

For luxury retailers—including Tiffany's, Hermes and Gucci—walk one block north to Alberni Street, Vancouver's version of Rodeo Drive.

South Granville

South Granville is one of the best Vancouver shopping streets: it's the perfect place to shop for fashion, antique and modern furniture, books, home accessories, and cookware, and contemporary art. Shops range from famous, international stores, like Williams-Sonoma and Pottery Barn Kids, to small, unique local boutiques. 

Home to high-end independent fashion—including the gorgeous menswear at Roden Gray and the perfect jeans at Dutil Denim—as well as the best interior design stores (Inform Interiors) in the city, Gastown is another premiere Vancouver shopping destination. You'll also find plenty of First Nations art galleries , antique shops, and streetwear, too.

Main Street

For Vancouver shopping that's unique, trendy, and Canadian-designed, Main Street—from 20th Avenue to 22nd Avenue—is the place to go. Find fabulous local- and independent designers at Twigg and Hottie, designer men's and women's wear at Eugene Choo, and local jewelry and bargain fashions at Barefoot Contessa.

West 4th Avenue

Situated in the heart of Kitsilano and walking distance from the beach, West 4th Avenue is a well-known Vancouver shopping destination for maternity wear and baby accessories, athletic clothes and equipment (especially yoga!), and kitschy shops like the Candy Aisle.

Granville Island

One of Vancouver's most famous landmarks, Granville Island is packed with fabulous shopping; it's definitely not just for tourists! Shoppers will find toys galore at the Kids Market, plus locally-owned stores full of home decor, jewelry, and First Nations art. It's also, of course, home to the Granville Island Public Market.

Home to a wide variety of stores, Vancouver shopping in Chinatown holds more surprises than you may expect. It's the ideal place to shop for Chinese imports, furniture and clothes, unique gifts, home decor (and not just Chinese decor), and jewelry. There are plenty of fresh fruit markets, food markets, Chinese medicine shops, and Chinese-language books, music, and DVDs, too.​

Metropolis at Metrotown

As immense as its name implies—it is the biggest mall in B.C.—Metropolis at Metrotown is one heck of a shopping center: It has over 450 stores, plus restaurants, movie theatres, and unique events. Located in Burnaby, this mall is just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver by SkyTrain .

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Vancouver shopping includes an array of department stores, but the two best are the mid-range Hudson Bay Company (The Bay) and the high-end Holt Renfrew. The Bay is the most popular store for wedding registries; it carries furniture, appliances, and housewares as well as fashion. Holt Renfrew—which has only one location in Vancouver, in downtown—specializes in fashion-only, carrying high-end designer labels.

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Kerrisdale Village—located in southwest Vancouver—has all its shops on one street (41st Avenue from Maple to Larch), making it easy to stroll and browse. Full of locally-owned shops and boutiques, the district is perfect for shopping for gifts, specialty foods, and high-end kids' clothes.

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36 Kids Market

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47 community thrift & vintage frock shoppe, 48 oak + fort, 49 inform interiors, 50 kool thing vintage, top searches in vancouver, popular road trips from vancouver, what's the weather like in vancouver.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Vancouver for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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The best shopping in Vancouver

Ready for thrift stores, antique delights and fabulous cookware? Welcome to Vancouver.

Whether you know it yet or not, Vancouver is a shopping city. You can spend hours (or days) here perusing the best that the city has to offer, and there will always be stores you didn’t get the chance to visit. 

Of course, much of the action happens on Robson Street, Vancouver’s famous shopping strip, or at the sprawling Metropolis shopping mall in the city’s metrotown. But when you know where to look, you’ll find fantastic shopping opportunities all over the city. From sports gear to double denim, here are the best spots for shopping in Vancouver. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Vancouver 🍻 The best bars in Vancouver 🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Vancouver 🏨 The best hotels in Vancouver

This guide was written by Gerrish Lopez . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guideline s . 

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Best shopping in Vancouver

1.  Red Cat Records

As other record shops fall one by one, vinyl fans still flock to Red Cat's two locations (the original is on Main Street) for an eclectic selection of music and highly knowledgeable staff. The shop is named for a very large cat named Buddy, who was a fixture at the shop—and even inspired a concept album ( My Name is Buddy ) by guitarist Ry Cooder—until his passing in 2006. 

2.  Lululemon

Sure you can find Lululemon all over the world, but the yoga-slash-athletic wear chain started in Kitsilano in 1998, so the West 4th location is definitely worth a visit. Get your yoga pants and running gear here.

3.  John Fluevog

Another iconic, Vancouver-born brand, John Fluevog has been known for its unique, well-made shoes since its namesake designer co-founded the company in 1970. The flagship location in Gastown feels like an art gallery, which is fitting as the shoes are works of art. While they may be a little pricey, these shoes will last and are sure to make a statement.

4.  Inform Interiors

Whether you’re looking for a new piece of furniture or you just appreciate exceptional design, Inform Interiors in Gastown is worth a visit. The company is owned by Niels Bendtsen, designer of the Ribbon chair that is now in the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Browse classic and contemporary furniture, lighting, home accessories, and a bookstore dedicated to architecture and design.

5.  The Paper Hound

Book lovers can’t get enough of this eclectic shop, which carries new, used, and rare books. The classics are well represented, but spend some time poking around the 9,000-plus books to find some of the more eccentric titles on offer. Pro tip: Follow The Paper Hound’s Instagram account for pics of rare titles alongside clever commentary.

6.  Eugene Choo

Main Street is full of trendy, locally-owned shops featuring Canadian designers, but we like the selection at local staple Eugene Choo. The shop features a range of Canadian designers and curated unisex threads that range from casual to classic. The shop is also housed in a cottage that used to be a  small mercantile. 

7.  The Latest Scoop

This independent lifestyle concept store started in 2004 as a pop-up shop featuring quality goods from around the world. Now with multiple locations, The Latest Scoop offers a curated selection of women’s fashion, home décor, furniture, and gifts with an eye towards beauty and affordability. The pop-up vibe remains, as inventory is constantly changing.

8.  Dutil Denim

If you're looking for the perfect pair of jeans, Dutil Denim is your best bet. The huge selection of denim includes premium brands and a range of styles, sizes, shades, and even denim types (raw selvedge, eco-friendly and the like). Attentive staff are there to help you get the best fit, whether you prefer boot-cut, skinny, or relaxed.

9.  Roden Gray

This Gastown shop features contemporary men’s fashions from top international brands, many of which aren’t available anywhere else in the city. Prices are on the higher side, but you won’t find a better selection of clothing, shoes, belts, and accessories. There’s even a selection of candles, perfumes, books, and magazines to complete the vibe.

10.  Ming Wo Cookware

Ming Wo has been in business since 1917, although the original Chinatown location closed in 2020. All the more reason to pay a visit to the other two spots. Marvel at the extensive selection of knives, pans, bakeware, and other cooking accessories as you dream of being as talented as the Vancouver chefs who have shopped here for generations.

11.  Holt Renfrew

Brands like Gucci, Dior, Balmain, and other top designers are the standard at this chic, high-end Canadian department store. Treat yourself to top names in shoes, accessories, handbags, and beauty. You’ll find fashions for both men and women, and personal shopping assistance is available if you need a second pair of arms. 

12.  Devil May Wear

Head to Devil May Wear for fashionable intimates that are both sexy and sustainable. In addition to unique, eco-friendly lingerie, the shop offers a selection of women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home goods. Most products are made locally in their Main Street studio, and the shops offer the broadest range of sizes possible, with free small alterations available.

13.  Old Faithful Shop

Located in a historic 1903 building in Gastown, Old Faithful Shop’s airy, modern interior sets the stage for beautiful, well-designed home goods that are destined to become the trusty, go-to pieces that you can rely on for years. Find kitchenware, lighting, bath goods, furniture, pantry items, and more, all designed to last.

14.  Hill's Native Art

Hill’s Native Art has one of the largest collections of First Nations and Inuit art in North America, with authentic pieces from emerging and internationally-renowned Native artists, representing each Northwest Coast tribe. Take your time while examining a variety of prints, carvings, totem poles, paintings, jewelry, crafts, and clothing. It’s a beautiful shop to browse and a great place to find uniquely Canadian art for the home.

15.  Gravitypope

This beautiful boutique on West 4th in Kitsilano carries a large selection of stylish shoes for men and women in elegant digs. With '60s Sputnik chandeliers hanging overhead and large marble tables displaying the goods, you’ll want to take in the atmosphere while browsing for the perfect pair. A footwear institution, Gravitypope started in Edmonton and has grown to include several locations that also sell clothing and accessories.

16.  Comor Sports

This outdoor store’s motto is “Go play outside,” and they’ll help you do that. Vancouver is a top destination for outdoor activities, so for the best ski, snowboard, and bike selection, Comor Sports has you covered. The staff are all outdoor enthusiasts, so you know you’ll get just what you need for your next outdoor adventure.

17.  Front & Company

This longtime favourite on Main Street features high-quality consignment clothing, vintage jewelry, collectibles, and antiques alongside unique gifts and items for the home. Never stale or stagnant, the consignment inventory always matches current trends.

18.  Hills of Kerrisdale

This clothing shop has been in business since 1914, and the building still has the vintage feel of an early 19th-century shop. Though it’s proud of its history (it is owned by a third generation of the Hill family), Hills of Kerrisdale’s merch is thoroughly modern, with top fashion brands for men and women. Stop in for a bit of history and a great shopping experience.

19.  Attic Treasures and Mid Century Modern

Mid-century modern decor is the specialty at this East Vancouver shop, but you’ll also find vintage furniture, fixtures and housewares from the 1920s to the '70s. Pick up some tiki mugs or an art deco piece to add a bit of kitsch to your home.

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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver — From Stunning Hikes to Incredible Cultural Experiences

Here are 20 of the top things to do in Vancouver.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s beauty is notable, with its majestic mountains, stunning skyline, and sparkling sea luring visitors from around the world. But the city is more than just good looks — it has personality too. Culture and cuisine shine here, the people are friendly, and it’s a safe and welcoming city. Whether you take a trek through the trees, meander through the metropolitan streets, cycle the seawall, or stroll through the shops, one thing’s for certain: you’re sure to get in your steps in this city. With the help of Candace Campo (ancestral name Xets’emits’a, Shíshálh Nation), artist and owner/operator of Talaysay Tours ; Rodolfo Parra, chief concierge of JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas Autograph Collection Hotel ; and Alex Chen, executive chef, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar , we’re sharing the best things to do in Vancouver.

Related: T+L’s Guide to Vancouver

Take an Indigenous-led Talking Totems tour.

Courtesy of Talaysay Tours

The best way to start a visit to Vancouver is to learn about the area’s beginnings. Located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the city that is now known as Vancouver has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Towering totem poles have stood erect in Stanley Park since 1920, and the Talking Totems tour offered by Talaysay Tours provides an eye-opening journey from past to present through the stories shared by an engaging Indigenous guide.

Grab goodies at the Granville Island Public Market.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s most celebrated chefs shop at the Granville Island Public Market , like Chef Chen, who picks up fresh sausages from Oyama Sausage Co and warm loaves of bread from Terra Breads when he wants to make a standout charcuterie on his days off. Campo loves it here too, sharing, “My dad and I ate everything here, from Chinese and Greek to Ukrainian and West Coast seafood. Then we’d explore the art studios, walk the boardwalk, and listen to live music.”

Take a tranquil stroll through the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

vkyryl/Getty Images

The first Chinese “scholar’s garden” to be built outside of Asia, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is one of the city’s most ornamental green spaces — and it’s right in the heart of clamorous Chinatown. A mirror-calm pond houses colorful carp, and twisted trees and quiet covered walkways provide a tranquil space to stroll. Make time for a free guided tour, and be sure to conclude your visit with a complimentary cup of traditional Chinese tea.

Shop the Lonsdale Quay.

Leopoldine Bauer/Travel + Leisure

“The Seabus ferry ride to the Lonsdale Quay from downtown Vancouver is a fun must-do experience on its own,” shares Parra. “Once you’re there, walk through the local artisan shops, explore the pier that overlooks a picturesque view of the Vancouver skyline, and then grab a table at Tap & Barrel Shipyards and enjoy the views.”

Admire art at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

As Western Canada’s largest public art museum, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a top attraction for art enthusiasts. Browse the works of Emily Carr, British Columbia’s beloved painter, and explore the blockbuster international shows and contemporary collections found throughout the three-story historic space. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Vancouver for Lower Prices, Beautiful Weather, and Outdoor Adventures

Take a day trip to Bowen Island.

Alex_533/Getty Images

“I highly recommend taking a day trip to Bowen Island , located in the middle of Howe Sound, just a short flight or ferry ride away. While there, experience the purest form of the West Coast. Explore the local farmers market, hike up to Dorman Point Lookout, or kayak along the shoreline and experience the stunning beauty BC has to offer,” shares Parra of his top-recommended day trip from the city.

See sea creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Set in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is Canada’s largest. Get up-close (and in some cases, hands-on) with the over 65,000 aquatic animals that are housed here, including charming sea otters and swimming sea lions (one weighing in at nearly 1,900 pounds). Not only is this a top tourist spot, but the site is also a center for marine research, ocean literacy, and climate activism.

Walk around the Capilano River Hatchery.

L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty Images

Built to save the declining salmon stocks in the area, the Capilano River Hatchery is a popular place for a hike. “We like to take our dogs for a walk around the hatchery,” shares Chen. “We hike around the canyon and see schools of salmon spawning there, then have a late picnic lunch by the water, with treats from nearby Thomas Haas .”

Meander through the Vancouver Mural Festival.

A self-guided walking tour of the Vancouver Mural Festival (Aug. 4-13 this year) will give you a great perspective of the city through an artistic lens. Over 300 murals and public art displays can be spotted in neighborhoods throughout Vancouver, featuring the works of both local and international artists.

Visit Olympic Village by boat.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

First created as a housing hub for athletes during the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village has now become a popular spot for pub hops and patio dining. “Take the Aquabus — just steps from the Douglas — to Olympic Village where you can explore the local microbreweries such as 33 Acres Brewing and enjoy a day of brewery hopping, a big part of Vancouver culture. While you’re there, enjoy a bite to eat at Argo Café , a hidden gem located in Olympic Village,” shares Parra on how to enjoy the experience.

Browse the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art.

Located up the street from the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art honors hailed Haida artist Bill Reid, who was known for building bridges between Indigenous and settler people through his work as an artist, broadcaster, and community activist. The space showcases some of his artwork, as well as works of art by contemporary Indigenous artists.

Entertain the family at Science World.

Vancouver’s oceanfront orb is a sight to see, but inside the geodesic dome is a multi-level space for science exploration that the kids (and parents!) are sure to enjoy. At Science World , you can get hands-on with learning galleries, watch engaging science showcases, and catch a show on the largest domed screen on the planet, the Omnimax Theatre, which puts you in the center of the action.

Eat seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in Steveston.

pilesasmiles/Getty Images

Chef Chen lives in Steveston — a 30-minute drive from Vancouver — and enjoys riding his bike around the dyke towards Gary Point Park with his family. “I would ride down to the dock to check out the catch of the day. I love the side stripe prawns, and will often pick up a fresh Dungeness crab for dinner,” he shares of the city’s seafood capital. Don’t feel like cooking it yourself? The area is full of seaside seafood spots serving everything from casual fish and chips to upscale fine dining.

Dine around the world at the Richmond Night Market.

Andrew Chin/Getty Images

During the summer months, a visit to Richmond Night Market — the largest outdoor market of its kind in North America — is a must for foodies. There are over 110 food stalls here, serving 600+ dishes and drinks from all around the world. You’ll find Pan-Asian snacks, along with food offerings from Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, and other parts of the world. Live entertainment and endless snacking make for a fun-filled evening here.

Snowshoe the Howe Sound Crest Trail.

Jau-Cheng Liou/Getty Images

Found 30 minutes by car from Vancouver, the Howe Sound Crest Trail in West Vancouver is a quiet alternative to the more popular local mountains, and it’s a preferred spot by Campo for winter snowshoeing. “While snowshoeing is something I often do for winter work, I love when I can bring friends and family on an adventure to check out the Howe Sound Crest Trail, overlooking Átl'ka7tsem (Howe Sound). Our peoples have traveled these mountains for generations and I like to think I am a part of this legacy and tradition,” shares Campo of her personal connection to the experience.

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

See Howe Sound from a bird’s-eye view with a ride in an enclosed gondola up to the peak of Grouse Mountain . At the top, hike around weaving trails, and meet Coola and Grinder, a pair of orphaned grizzly bears who call the mountaintop habitat home. Kids can climb their way through the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure, and thrill-seekers can try the zipline.

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Vancouver has a rich Chinese-Canadian history, with one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country. The Chinatown Storytelling Centre is a new addition to the area and the first exhibit of its kind in Canada. Inside, you’ll find a showcase of the stories and people who have shaped the city’s past, present, and future through interactive exhibits.

SUP the Salish Sea.

edb3_16/Getty Images

Campo loves stand-up paddleboarding on the water, especially on Vancouver’s North Shore in the early hours of the morning. “I have on many occasions sat in my car and waited for daylight to launch my paddleboard and paddle from Ch’tl’am (Ambleside) to Dundarave,” she shares. Once she’s far from shore, Campo sings traditional Salish songs and watches as cormorants, loons, harbor seals, and even salmon swim past her board. “They don't see you as a threat and on occasion will swim right up to you,” she explains of one of her favorite pastimes.

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Since 1883, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has been a top tourist spot. Visit to teeter across the bridge that hangs 230 feet above the forest floor and reaches a distance of 450 feet long. While you’re there, creep along the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway that dangles over the canyon, and take a trek through Treetop Adventures, a series of seven smaller suspension bridges connected to treehouses and towering viewing platforms.

Play at Creekside Park.

Adjacent to Science World, Creekside Park is home to Vancouver’s largest playground (which cost nearly $1 million to build), featuring nature-inspired climbing structures, a massive tube slide, and a zippy zipline. Water and sand play areas keep little ones busy, and a rubberized surface makes the playground more accessible for people with mobility challenges. Water views of False Creek and tree-shaded sitting areas make for the perfect picnic spot.

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Vancouver's best bookstores for a rainy day

Jul 16, 2019 • 4 min read

Inside The Paper Hound bookstore in Vancouver © John Lee / Lonely Planet

Western Canada’s biggest city is a browser’s paradise for rainy-day bookstore fans – and several intriguing new shops have cracked open their covers here in recent years, adding to a bulging bookcase of older independent favorites loved by dog-eared locals. Need some rainy-day refuges? Check out Vancouver's best bookstores.

New editions

Bucking the idea that print is finished and e-reading reigns supreme, Vancouver ’s wave of new edition bookstores gathered pace with The Paper Hound . Opened in 2013, this small, edge-of-downtown emporium is an inviting bolthole lined with shelves brimming with used volumes reaching almost to the ceiling.

Well organized into eclectic categories ranging from 'Indomitable Orphans' to 'Rants and Incendiary Tracts,' the store’s cleverly curated collection lures general interest book fans as well as those hip readers who crave attractive, tactile tomes in the same way they love vintage vinyl.

Need recommendations? The friendly staff here has plenty of suggestions for where to browse in-store. But if the rain suddenly relents, make sure you check out the higgledy-piggledy display of bargain books on the rack outside as well.

Main Street meander

Another store with an enticing outdoor bargain rack, tiny Y’s Books is a highlight of Main Street’s independent shopping scene. Step inside for a perfectly cozy stormy weather escape: jazz soundtrack, vintage globes and typewriters and Shmi, the longhaired gray cat who casts a snoozy eye over proceedings from a small box near the antiquarian books.

Used and general interest – from 'Narrative Non-Fiction' to 'Food and Drink' – are the approaches at Y’s. And for such a compact space, they offer a surprisingly comprehensive selection. Where else can you find vintage Ian Rankin novels and technical books on German theater just a few inches from each other?

Chinatown’s secret room

On the Chinatown end of Main, head along East Georgia Street and you’ll soon reach Massy Books . This permanent, two-floored sequel to a pop-up shop that once operated a few blocks away opened here in 2018. And while the larger space means a greater selection of used books – including Vancouver’s best gathering of First Nations-themed volumes – there’s also room for a reincarnated feature that was wildly popular at the old pop-up shop.

Head to the back of the main floor and you may find a bookcase that seems slightly detached from the wall. Push on it and it will swing open to reveal a hidden room where the store’s older editions and rare books are kept. Can’t find the way in? Brush up on your sleuthing skills by pouring over some of the store’s in-stock detective novels – or just ask at the front desk.

Vintage volumes

Not all Vancouver's best bookstores have opened in recent years, though. In fact, many of the city’s finest page-turners have been here for decades. Local mini-chain Book Warehouse gathered fresh impetus when it attracted new owners a few years back, while three-store, used-book king Pulpfiction continues to lure regulars and hook newbies, especially at its large Main Street branch.

But Vancouver’s favorite used bookshop is right downtown – just a few steps from The Paper Hound . Dominating the corner of Richards Street and West Pender like a one-sided bookend, MacLeod’s Books is a near-legendary treasure trove of jam-packed shelves and teetering tome piles just begging to be explored. Have an hour or two to spare on a pewter-skied rainy day? Fold up your umbrella and dive in.

Specialist hotspots

If generalist browsing seems too time-consuming, Vancouver also has some great specialty bookstores. White Dwarf Books is a brilliant sci-fi and fantasy store; Wanderlust combines travel gear with a huge array of travel books (check out their displays of yesteryear guidebooks); and interior store Vancouver Special has a sidewall bristling with inspiring large-format design books.

But if you have the children in tow, beeline straight to Kidsbooks . This vast, ever-friendly Kitsilano favorite is crammed with titles for every junior age and inclination, from bath-ready picture books to the latest teen-accessible vampire love story. And it’s not just about kids here: there’s also a brilliantly curated boutique selection of books for adults as well.

Beyond the bestsellers

For an alternative take on literature for both kids and adults, hunt down hidden gem Lucky’s Books & Comics . This rec-room-like little space is one of Vancouver’s coolest independent stores. Lined with esoteric storybooks, graphic novels, oddball zines and homemade chapbooks, almost everything here feels passionately original.

Another shop ideal for rainy day hunkering is just up Main at the Regional Assembly of Text . Vancouver’s analogue answer to the death of print, this charming stationery store hosts letter-writing clubs on vintage typewriters and stocks must-have journals and handmade cards. But it’s also a magnet for fans of unique books: browse hundreds of one-off chapbooks in the under-stairs reading room or buy some of the quirky tomes created by the store’s owners – from Make the Most of Toast to One Shrew Too Few . Looking for a one-of-a-kind bookish Vancouver souvenir? You just found it.

This article was written in October 2018 and updated in July 2019

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/pocket-vancouver-2

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LA Times Today: Glorious things to do in Vancouver, the ‘California of Canada’

Watch l.a. times today at 7 p.m. on spectrum news 1 on channel 1 or live stream on the spectrum news app. palos verdes peninsula and orange county viewers can watch on cox systems on channel 99..

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