Introduction
West End British Columbia lies in downtown Vancouver, bounded by Stanley Park in the west, West Georgia Street to the north, Burrard Street to the east and Pacific Avenue to the south.For architecture lovers there’s a whole block of heritage homes dubbed Mole Hill, or art junkies will go for the funky, sometimes quirky, public art installations.
Lifestyle
The West End is a luminous and richly diverse kaleidoscope of hang outs for the urbanite, the socialite and the sport enthusiast. Although glass skyscrapers abound, there are tree lined streets and lanes and garden oasis cared for by volunteer “green thumbs.” If you like walking, cycling or jogging, it’s a Mecca.
Dollars & Sense
I’m hard pressed to find anything bad to say about the West End, except if you drive … it’s a nightmare. Surrounded by world-class parks and beaches, bustling with shops and eateries, minutes away from the downtown core, Coal Harbour and more, can anyone come up with another negative comment?
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The West End has two different schools: Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary. It is also home to the historic St. Paul’s Hospital (which has the distinction of being one of the first hospitals in the country to treat HIV/AIDS patients and is a world leader in clinical research), libraries and community centre.
2.9 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
This is one of the most walkable communities, yet it is within easy access to the Canada Line and transit. Many residents have tossed their car keys to opt for Car2Go … when and if they ever leave this little slice of heaven! With so many options of how to get in and out of the area it's
In the Area
Increased density and the appeal of living downtown have boosted the prices of real estate substantially over the last decade. Getting into this neighbourhood is not cheap; a condo/apartment will cost you, on average, half a million and up. There aren’t many single family homes here, and the relatively few are, by an large, heritage homes costing start around #1 million and go up from there.
Meet the Neighbours
According to Statistics Canada census 2011, the West End is the fourth most densely populated neighbourhood, with 44,560 predominantly white (61 per cent) professionals. The largest demographic age group is 20-39 at 48 per cent; followed by the 40 to 64 age bracket at 34 per cent, while seniors 65+ are at 13 per cent.
The Vibe
Along with its eccentricities, the West End is the second oldest and most diverse neighbourhood in the city. It’s really one of the city’s shining stars! At one time, the West End was dominated by white wealthy elite! Today, Davie Street is famous for its gay nightclubs and to the city’s best queer bars.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Sylvia Hotel
Built in 1913, this grand dame is a landmark heritage building standing proudly on English Bay. Covered in vines and an iconic neon sign, it boasts a fabulous cocktail lounge with live music thanks to talented local artists.
more infoWater Taxi
There’s no better way to see the West End than by water. A suggestion is to purchase a Hop On, Hop-Off Day Pass and really take in the spectacular scenery.
more infoExhile Bistro
This uber-healthy restaurant and cocktail bar serves up ethically and organically sourced ingredients (mostly plant based) translating into cuisine that tantalizes all of the senses. A truly fresh take on produce!
more infoStanley Park
Voted Best Park in the World 2014 by TripAdvisor, Stanley Park is a 400-hectare rainforest surrounded by water. Walk, hike, cycle, lounge on the beach, visit First Nations totem poles and much more !
more infoBlooming Flower Cart
Located just outside the West End Community Centre, the Blooming Flower Cart bursts with a plethora of brilliantly colourful blooms. It helps to raise money for seniors, the homeless and mentally challenged in the community.
The Fish House in Stanley Park
In one of the most beautiful and romantic settings in the city, you’ll find this history site. If you're craving seafood, make a beeline to the Fish House … your taste buds will thank you!
more info