If you step out of the Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain station and wander a few blocks south along Beatty Street, you'll find yourself in the high-end part of town: Yaletown. Or just head to the heart of the 'hood via the Canada Line (your stop is Yaletown-Roundhouse).
Somewhere between quirky and luxurious with a few wellness shots and spin classes here and there (more like everywhere), this neighbourhood is a nice and quiet part of the city to spend a day in. Characterized by boutiques, a busy seawall, health-inclusive food options, and some of the fanciest restaurants and bars, Yaletown has plenty to do and see.
Brunch is a city favourite (especially drag brunch) and 's Yaletown location is an egg-cellent spot, especially during patio season. Coffee and pastry lovers are welcome in the neighbourhood too. has great coffee and pastries, but the cinnamon bun is to die for and or are a must for killer croissants.
As summer weather rolls in, why not take brunch or coffee-and-pastry to-go and have a picnic at the neighbourhood's waterfront parks? For cloud-watching and a view of False Creek, lay out your picnic blanket at David Lam Park. Walk a little further towards the mouth of False Creek and you can feast your eyes on a more urban sight of Granville Bridge and Granville Island with small ferries and other ships sailing by.
Lay around on the grass all day if you please, but if not, hop onto one of the small ferries and sight-see from a new point of view. For the seasick folks, grab a bike or simply walk along the seawall in either direction for a scenic stroll. Count how many pups you see along the way! Yaletown is an uber pet-friendly neighbourhood. In fact, it is so pro-pets that you can find multiple pet stores in the area including designer dog clothing store and high quality dog food at .
If you're shopping for your pet, why not shop for yourself too? Get a Yaletown boutique makeover with curated pieces and brands at and or curated denim and indie brands at . Top off your new look with a pre-loved designer item from ' luxe Yaletown location. Consider your wardrobe refreshed.
You haven't been to Yaletown if you haven't enjoyed a restaurant dinner. The neighbourhood's variety of chefs will satisfy any cuisine craving.
Get a table at at the Opus for excellent pizza, pasta, and appetizers (their happy hour is excellent). For splurge-y special occasions head to if you're craving seafood or for a delicious steak. is great for high-end sushi and Japanese fare but don't sleep on the unassuming bar (it's a hidden gem). If you're craving an Italian dinner, dine at old school or the slightly more approachable and also awesome . Find all-vegetarian and vegan fare at , Morroccan at , and Greek (plus a bit of a scene) at . As for the lovebirds, is a date night staple.
Cheers to a great day in Yaletown! is a speakeasy-style underground bar with fun drinks and a neon club vibe while is just as it sounds– an NYC-style bar with billiards, foosball, pinball and darts to play as well. The is another great spot for a more laid-back boozy sips and late evening snacks.
A day in Yaletown is a day well spent.
With additional reporting by Lindsay William-Ross
