Yaletown
From industrial warehouses to a chic urban neighbourhood, discover the best of Vancouver's past and present.

Once a contaminated and run-down area of factories and railway buildings, Yaletown is a stunning example of urban transformation. Following the 1986 World's Fair, this former industrial heartland was reborn into one of Vancouver's most fashionable neighbourhoods. Today, historic brick warehouses stand alongside modern glass towers, housing trendy boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and stylish residences, all connected by leafy streets and beautiful waterfront parks.
Why Visit Yaletown?
- Historic Charm: The converted red-brick warehouses on Hamilton and Mainland streets give the area a unique, historic character.
- World-Class Dining: Yaletown is a premier dining destination, famous for its concentration of excellent restaurants and bustling sidewalk patios.
- Waterfront Access: The neighbourhood borders the False Creek seawall, offering beautiful parks and stunning water views.
- Boutique Shopping: Discover a curated selection of independent boutiques, high-end furniture stores, and specialty shops.
- Direct SkyTrain Access: The Canada Line's Yaletown–Roundhouse Station drops you right in the middle of the action.
What to See & Do
- Stroll Mainland & Hamilton Streets: Walk along the old loading docks, now converted into some of the city's best restaurant patios, and admire the heritage architecture.
- Visit the Roundhouse Community Centre: See the beautifully restored CPR Roundhouse, which houses Engine #374, the first passenger train to arrive in Vancouver in 1887.
- Walk the Seawall: Enjoy a walk, run, or bike ride along the scenic False Creek seawall.
- Relax in David Lam Park: A large, beautiful waterfront park with open fields, sculptures, and stunning views of False Creek.
- Ride a Ferry: Hop on a mini-ferry (Aquabus or False Creek Ferries) from the Yaletown dock for a scenic trip to Granville Island.
Food & Drink Options
- Yaletown is one of Vancouver's top dining districts. You'll find a huge concentration of restaurants, pubs, and cafes, especially along Mainland and Hamilton streets.
- The area is particularly known for its vibrant patio scene, making it a perfect spot for brunch, happy hour, or dinner on a sunny day.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Look for the Loading Docks: The raised patios that line the streets are built on the original warehouse loading docks, a key part of the neighbourhood's unique charm.
- It's Very Dog-Friendly: Yaletown is known for its love of dogs; you'll see many four-legged friends enjoying the parks and patios.
- Explore the Side Streets: While Mainland and Hamilton are the main drags, don't be afraid to explore the quieter side streets for hidden gems.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Granville Island (via ferry)
- BC Place Stadium & Rogers Arena
- Vancouver Public Library
Directions
SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Canada Line | Yaletown–Roundhouse Station | 0 Minutes |
How to get to Yaletown by SkyTrain
No bus needed. The Yaletown–Roundhouse Station is located in the heart of the neighbourhood.
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 Yaletown:
Photo Gallery
-
Yaletown High rise Apartments seen from False Creek cc licensed photo by Robert Werner -
Looking across False Creek from David Lam Park in Yaletown cc licensed photo by Arnold C -
Photo Credit: vancityvisual - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Hub☺ - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vancityvisual - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Phil~ - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Nick Harris1 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: lytfyre - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Christine Rondeau - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: colink. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: colink. - cc license via Flickr
Video
To view this video, please provide consent for cookies and/or disable any ad blockers.
We use cookies to display embedded YouTube content. For more information, see our
Privacy and Cookies Policy.