On a trip to Vancouver you might ask the question – where is the best place to walk downtown? Knowing that there are endless streets and neighbourhoods in the city to choose from. This website was created to answer that, offering three self-guided walks in chosen downtown neighbourhoods from which to start exploring.

However, in terms of streets the list is endless but these ten would be popular choices, consistently attracting high levels of people due to their central locations, amenities, and attractions. Many of them are part of, or near to our self-guided tree walks.

Robson Street

Famous for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Robson Street is a vibrant thoroughfare in downtown Vancouver.

Experience this great street on our free self-guided walking route of the West End of Vancouver westendTREEmap.

Granville Street

Granville Street is a major entertainment and nightlife hub, lined with theaters, restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Close to the start and end point of our free self-guided walk of Kitsilano kitsTreeMap.

West Broadway

West Broadway is a bustling street in the Kitsilano neighborhood, offering a wide range of shops, eateries, and services.

Experience this great street on our free self-guided walking route of the Kitsilano Vancouver kitsTreeMap.

Main Street

Main Street is a hip and trendy area known for its boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and craft breweries. There are lots of hubs and areas where you will find people intermixed with residential sections.

Half-way between two of our walks of Vancouver westendTREEmap and driveTREEmap located on the Eastside of the city.

Commercial Drive

Also known as “The Drive,” Commercial Drive is a culturally diverse neighborhood with an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Joe’s Cafe (see picture) is one of the long standing institutions found on this street since 1976.

Experience this great street on our free self-guided walking route of the West End of Vancouver driveTreemap.

Denman Street

Located in Vancouver’s West End, Denman Street is renowned for its diverse dining options and scenic views of English Bay, it does not take long to walk from one side to the other. Here you can also access the world famous Seawall, one of the loveliest walking, cycling or running routes you will find anywhere in the world.

Experience this great street on our free self-guided walking route of the West End of Vancouver westendTREEmap.

Davie Street

A wonderful place to visit, Davie Street is a  thoroughfare in Vancouver’s West End, running from False Creek to English bay, it is known globally for its LGBTQ+ friendly establishments, shops, and events.

Often referred to as the “Davie Village,” this street gained prominence in the 1970s as a gathering place and safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals, because it offered a welcoming and inclusive environment amidst a backdrop of social change and activism. It is host to the annual Vancouver Pride Parade and Festival making it a cherished and iconic destination not only for the LGBTQ+ community but also for visitors seeking to experience Vancouver’s inclusive spirit and cultural diversity.

Experience this great street on our free self-guided walking route of the West End of Vancouver westendTREEmap.

Hastings Street

Hastings Street runs through several neighborhoods in Vancouver and is home to a mix of businesses, residential areas, and social services. One of the longest streets in Vancouver, running from Coal Harbour to Burnaby Mountain Parkway, it showcases a blend of contrasts and complexities. While parts of Hastings Street boast commercial activity and cultural landmarks, such as the iconic Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) grounds, other sections face socio-economic challenges, including homelessness and poverty that is both shocking and upsetting. However, it is not to be missed and if you have time, walking it in its entirety it will give you a good overview of the city’s diverse landscape.

Alberni Street

Alberni Street is known for its luxury boutiques, high-end retailers, and upscale dining options in downtown Vancouver. Experience this great street after taking our free self-guided walking route of the West End of Vancouver westendTREEmap as it is only one block away.

Water Street (Gastown)

Water Street in the historic Gastown neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets, heritage buildings, and trendy shops and restaurants.

Map shows hotspots of each street listed, not to be missed!

All these streets attract a diverse mix of locals and visitors, offering a wide range of experiences and activities to suit various interests and preferences. As a tourist, truly experiencing Vancouver you have to walk these streets to say you have really ‘done’ Vancouver. Each street offers a distinct snapshot of Vancouver’s different neighbourhoods, thus allowing you to connect with its diverse communities, and uncover the essence of this vibrant West Coast city.