The Area - West End

Beautiful old homes are nestled among high-rises in the West End, one of the most densely populated communities in North America. The neighbourhood is a gem: situated to the west of downtown’s central business district between Burrard Street and Stanley Park, the West End acts as an all-access gateway to the waterfront and the park, with its shaded walkways and endless trails for biking, running and in-line skating. The population of this area, also the heart of the city’s gay community, is on average younger than the rest of the city: 50 percent of residents are between 20 and 40. Playing host to a number of Vancouver’s civic celebrations in the summer months (Pride Parade and the Celebration of Light, to name two), this neighbourhood is also popular with locals for its culturally diverse and (even better) affordable eateries.

Eat:
The daily sandwich special from the to-go counter at Raincity Grill. Open from late spring until early fall, it’s just a short walk to English Bay. 1193 Denman St., (604) 685-7337.

Drink:
The Loco Limonata (made with gold tequila, mango liqueur, mango lemonade, muddled fresh mango and chili peppers) at Lolita’s South of the Border Cantina. 1326 Davie St., (604) 696-9996.

Browse:
The renaissance of the West End’s original shopping strip, including Open Sundaes with its dessert-inspired bath bombs. 982 Denman St., (604) 694-1644; and the tasteful fashions at Graham Ling’s You & Whose Army, 922 Denman St., (604) 633-2769.