Waterfront Station
Vancouver's grand 1914 railway station, now a bustling transit hub and a beautiful historic landmark in its own right.
As the main transit hub for downtown Vancouver, it's almost certain you'll pass through Waterfront Station during your visit. But more than just a place to catch a train, this grand and majestic building is a destination in itself. Built in 1914 as the western terminus for the Canadian Pacific Railway, it stands today as a beautifully preserved piece of Vancouver's history, connecting the city's past and present.
Why Visit Waterfront Station?
- Stunning Architecture: Admire the grand neoclassical style, from the stately exterior columns to the magnificent main hall with its high ceilings and historic details.
- The Heart of Transit: It's the only station that serves all three SkyTrain lines (Expo, Millennium, and Canada), as well as the SeaBus to North Vancouver and the West Coast Express commuter train.
- Historic Significance: Feel the history in a building that once welcomed transcontinental passenger trains from across Canada.
- Prime Location: It serves as the perfect gateway to historic Gastown on one side and the Canada Place cruise ship terminal on the other.
What to See & Do
- Admire the Grand Hall: Look up to see the beautiful paintings of Canadian landscapes and the two large, historic clocks on the east and west walls.
- Take Photos: The station's symmetry, columns, and period details make it a favourite spot for photographers.
- Start Your Journey: Use the station as your starting point to explore the city. Grab a map and plan your day's adventure.
Food & Drink Options
- The station building contains a food court with a variety of quick-service options.
- A popular A&W restaurant is located right in the main hall.
- The surrounding area, especially Gastown, is packed with some of the city's best pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Don't Just Rush Through: Even if you're catching a train, take a moment to pause in the main hall and appreciate the architecture.
- It's More Than SkyTrain: Remember this is also your connection to the SeaBus for a scenic trip across the harbour to North Vancouver's Lonsdale Quay.
- Look for the Details: Notice the terrazzo flooring and the original brass fixtures that add to the station's historic charm.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Gastown: Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood is right next door.
- Canada Place: The iconic cruise ship terminal and FlyOver Canada attraction are a short walk west.
- Vancouver Lookout: Get a 360° view of the city from atop the nearby Harbour Centre.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: 601 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1G1, Canada
Phone: (604) 953-3333
Official Website: Waterfront Station
Waterfront Station Reviews
Rated out of 5
Beautiful and calming. If you're feeling alone and stressed go there you'll find your peace.
Gitu Sharma - 2 months ago
The picture shown here is bright but in reality, it's the opposite. Each time I go here, it's all dark. The only lit places are the businesses themselves.
Relatively busy with people in all different directions. Transit police, Security or Vancouver finest, VPD are around but I don't think I have ever seen an incident at this location at all.
Been to many Main Stations throughout the world from NYC Penn Station, Boston South Station to our Waterfront Station inside and outside is fairly clean
604Eats - 4 months ago
This station is fantastic! There are trains to Production Way, Surrey, Metrotown, YVR Airport and Richmond. The SeaBus to Lonsdale is also quite enjoyable. There is also a commuter train service to Mission on weekdays. Sone buses the serve this station include 44 UBC, 50 Olympic Village station and 10 Marine Dr Stn
Hello - 11 months ago
It's not just a transit station, it's a historic landmark and a central meeting point in Vancouver. It's also close to popular areas like Gastown and Canada Place, making it a great starting point for exploring the city.
Jo D - 6 months ago
This station feels different on a completely different level.
It has character — the architecture, ceiling height, and details make it feel more than just a transit point. At the same time, it remains functional and easy to navigate.
A rare balance: a place where you don’t just pass through, but actually pause for a moment.
Igor - 6 months ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo and Canada Lines | Waterfront Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Waterfront Station by SkyTrain
If coming on the Canada Line, exit onto Granville and walk north one block to Cordova Street where you can enter the Grand Hall. The Expo Line exits directly into the Grand Hall of this historic Vancouver landmark.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Waterfront Station:
Photo Gallery
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Beautiful Details and Architectural Features Highlight the Main Hall of Waterfront Station -
View showing the back side of this historic building -
Symmetric Arches and Columns Leading into the Main Hall of Waterfront Station -
Photo Credit: IQRemix - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: sillygwailo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr
