During Family Day, Is Granville Island Open?

Happy Family Day from Granville Island! The Public Market and Net Loft are open regular hours today, with parking free until 7:30 pm PST. Granville Island is a popular Vancouver spot for tourists and locals alike, known for its vibrant market, many shops, art galleries, and fun things for children. The former home of Emily Carr College of Art and Design, Granville Island is a posh, artsy neighborhood filled with quaint shops, eateries, breweries, and year-round arts and cultural festivals.

Granville Island Water Park is open from Victoria Day long weekend to Labour Day long weekend. The full community center includes tennis courts, saunas, kayaking, canoeing, a youth lounge, licensed daycare, and recreational activities for all ages. Banks, post offices, and Vancouver Public Libraries are open regular hours this Family Day long weekend.

The Granville Island Public Market is open from 9 am to 6 pm, and the Science World is open from 9:30 am to 4 pm. The Granville Island Public Market and Net Loft are open daily, including statutory holidays. The @vsbcoalition, in partnership with CMHC-Granville Island, will be presenting a free two-day event transforming Lot 55 into an all-ages, family-friendly event.

Stroll along the waterfront pathways on Granville Island, which is a great place to enjoy being outdoors, whether it’s winter or summer. The Granville Island Public Market and Net Loft are open daily, and parking is free until 7:30 pm PST.

Can You Walk Across To Granville Island?

To reach Granville Island, the best method is walking, particularly from downtown Vancouver via the Granville Street Bridge. As you approach the bridge, stairs on your left will guide you directly to the island. Google Maps may incorrectly indicate that walking across the bridge isn’t permitted, but it is indeed allowed. For those traveling from the city, it's recommended to loop under the bridge to access the island. Parking on Granville Island is quite limited, so using public transport (like bus 50 from downtown) or alternative methods such as biking, walking, or the Aquabus water taxi is advisable.

While driving is an option, it might not be the most convenient approach due to parking constraints, especially during peak times. The Granville Street Bridge is often busy, and accessing the island is much more pleasant via the Burrard Street Bridge or a scenic walk along the false creek seawall, which offers picturesque views.

For pedestrians, it takes about 15 minutes to walk from downtown to the south end of Hornby Street leading to the island. Once on Granville Island, visitors will find shops, food vendors, theaters, and art studios best explored on foot, aligning with the island's people-friendly atmosphere. Respect for pedestrians while driving is emphasized due to the area's busy foot traffic. Ultimately, Granville Island showcases a perfect blend of community activities and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

Is Granville Worth A Visit?

Yes, Granville is undoubtedly worth a visit. Renowned as the "Monaco of the North," this elegant seaside resort located in Normandy captivates with its stunning views from the Upper Town and ramparts, particularly as the light shifts over the English Channel. Its charm lies in the walled old town, characterized by cobbled streets, historic townhouses, and robust ramparts, making a stroll through the Haute-Ville a delightful experience. The scenic Roc headland is easily accessible from the town center, providing visitors with picturesque walks.

Granville also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and rich maritime heritage, earning recognition as a recommended detour for tourists. The Plage du Plat Gousset, located along the seafront, is a favorite spot for families. Visitors can explore lovely shops, bakeries, and cafes while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Granville’s unique architecture and panoramic views from the fortified headland overlooking the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel further enhance its appeal. With plenty of activities and attractions to discover, a trip to Granville promises to be both enjoyable and memorable.

Where Can I Park On Granville Island?

Driving to Granville Island accesses through the main street at Anderson St. and Lamey’s Mill Rd., with on-site parking options including both free (for one to two hours) and paid spaces. Notably, the Kids Market is situated next to the street entrance, making it a popular shopping destination for children. Four Evo Car Share stalls are designated on the island, with parking for these vehicles allowed anywhere on the Island. Paid parking can be acquired at pay stations or via specified apps using lot code 1670; parking purchased until 10 PM remains valid until 9 AM the following day.

Parking options are limited, especially during busy times, so consider parking on surrounding streets to avoid frustration. Accessible modes to Granville Island include bus, aquabus, car, bike, or on foot. Notably, both False Creek Ferries and Aquabus offer water taxi services connecting to Granville Island and nearby attractions like Yaletown and Science World. Since 2019, managed parking has been implemented to alleviate demand and traffic.

Overnight parking is allowed solely in the multi-level parkade on Old Bridge Street. There are also several streets nearby with metered parking available for $1 per hour for those seeking alternatives to on-Island parking.

What'S Closed On Family Day In Canada?

Most businesses, including provincial offices and schools for grades K-6, will be closed today, though post offices remain open. Family Day on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, affects various services and closures across several provinces, including Ontario, Alberta, and New Brunswick. While Family Day isn't a federal holiday, it results in the closure of schools, libraries, administrative offices, and many retail stores, with public transport also affected. Certain organizations will observe various operating hours on this day.

In New Brunswick, most retailers will close for this holiday; similarly, schools, universities, and colleges will also shut down. Family Day is acknowledged in these provinces but does not have federal recognition, leading to some businesses and services closing. Toronto will see banks, government services, and libraries closed, while Canada Post offices will operate normally.

For family activities, many cultural sites and attractions in Toronto will be open, offering diverse events for the holiday. Residents are advised to check schedules as several businesses may have adjusted operating hours or remain closed. Making plans ahead of time is essential, especially regarding grocery and alcohol purchases, as many stores will shut down in observance of the holiday.

Should You Visit Granville Island With Your Kids?

Granville Island is a bustling urban oasis in Vancouver, known for its vibrant atmosphere filled with creativity, culture, and cuisine. A must-visit for families, especially with kids, is the Kids Market, a mini shopping center designed specifically for children, offering over 25 shops filled with fun items and activities. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences such as magic shows, juggling acts, and the nearby water park, ensuring a delightful day for the little ones.

Granville Island features an array of attractions, including art galleries, locally-owned shops, and restaurants. Families can explore cobblestone paths, enjoy street performances, and partake in water-based activities on False Creek. For a well-rounded visit, it’s recommended to dedicate an entire day to Granville Island to fully experience the top ten family-friendly activities, including the playground at Sutcliff Park and Lee's Donuts. This vibrant destination promises memorable, screen-free fun for everyone.

How Long Does It Take To Walk Around Granville Island?

Granville Island, a 37-acre haven in the heart of Vancouver, BC, offers a variety of experiences best explored on foot. Accessible by bus, boat, or car, it hosts shops, studios, food vendors, hotels, and theaters. A visit can take three to four hours if you're pressed for time. From downtown, you can walk across the Granville Street Bridge to reach the island. Alternatively, catch the bus (number 50) or the ferry back to downtown afterward.

A leisurely stroll around Granville Island takes about 30 minutes, during which you can wander the shops and markets. The seawall offers a scenic 3. 63km walk to Kitsilano Beach, enhancing your exploration of the area. To stay hydrated, consider carrying a water bottle as you explore the picturesque surroundings.

For those who prefer guided experiences, a hop-on hop-off tour covers 16 notable spots around Vancouver, including Granville Island. If driving, be mindful of limited parking availability, particularly on busy days, necessitating parking outside and a walk in. Granville Island is a cultural hotspot, also offering options for dining or attending a play at the Arts Club or the Waterfront Theatre post-exploration. Whether you spend just a couple of hours indulging in the Granville Island Public Market or plan a fuller day of activities, the choice is yours!

How Long Do People Spend At Granville Island?

Granville Island, a vibrant area in Vancouver, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, attracting 10. 5 million visitors annually. Depending on your interests, your time on the island can vary. A couple of hours might suffice if you just want to stroll around and explore the Public Market. For a more immersive experience, plan for at least half a day, allowing time for meals, refreshments, and leisurely shopping. Many recommend around three hours to fully enjoy a lunch and a relaxed walk among the shops. If the weather is unfavorable, you may consider shorter visits of one to two hours.

The island features an array of attractions, including a food tour at the Public Market, scenic views from the Aquabus, and opportunities for whale watching. While budget-friendly activities abound, it’s easy to spend freely here. Granville Island is a unique shopping district located under the Granville Street Bridge, perfect for a full day of activities. Visitors should plan to spend a minimum of two nights in Vancouver to fully experience major attractions like Granville Island and Stanley Park. Whether you spend a couple of hours or an entire day, Granville Island promises a delightful experience.

What Is Open On Family Day Vancouver?

On Family Day, Monday, February 19, 2024, several establishments in Metro Vancouver will be open. Grocery stores such as Walmart, Safeway, Save-on-Foods, No Frills, and IGA will operate alongside BC Liquor stores, which will have reduced hours from 11 am to 6 pm. Pharmacies' hours will vary by location. The CF Pacific Centre will also have reduced hours from 11 am to 7 pm. Notable attractions that will remain open include the Vancouver Art Gallery, Science World, and Granville Island Public Market, though individual store hours may differ.

In addition to shopping, families are encouraged to participate in various activities. Events like the Fan Expo Vancouver, a Vancouver Aquarium exhibit, and Lunar New Year celebrations will take place. Parks, gardens, and beaches will be open, with the Robson Square Ice Rink available from 9 am to 9 pm. Visitors can also enjoy the Polygon Gallery (10 am to 5 pm) and special events like Love Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge. The City of Richmond is hosting over 40 Family Day activities, including scavenger hunts and craft workshops.

What To Do At Granville Island?

Granville Island's top attraction is the iconic Public Market, open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. A key spot for locals, the market features artisan stalls filled with local produce and gourmet foods, providing a sensory feast for visitors. Granville Island offers a range of activities, from food shopping to enjoying local brews at Granville Island Brewing, and even exploring art galleries. There’s something for everyone, including children’s activities, shopping, dining, and special events.

Strolling through Railspur Alley reveals a lively atmosphere brimming with creativity and diversity. Whether you’re looking to browse the bustling market, paddle in False Creek, or soak in the scenery, Granville Island’s unique character leaves lasting memories. With a multitude of options catering to various budgets—from casual eateries to high-end dining—it's no wonder this destination is beloved. Engage in water activities, delve into local arts, and savor delicious meals during your visit. Granville Island is a vibrant blend of culture and cuisine, making it a must-see in Vancouver.