Granville Island — Island Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture. What's the story behind this place? In the 1970s, a polluted waterfront industrial site got a massive makeover and became one of Vancouver’s most beloved attractions: a tiny island packed with everything from a huge indoor public market and cozy artisan studios, to sunny cafes and a two-level kids’ market that makes little eyes go wide. With butchers, bakers, cheesemongers, florists, tea companies, fishmongers, craftspeople, confectioners, and produce vendors—not to mention a food court filled with delectable local eats—the bustling public market alone can keep your senses rapt for half a day. Locals will tell you that Oyama Sausage, Lee’s Donuts, Siegel’s Bagels, Benton Brothers Fine Cheese, Stuart’s Bakery, and Petit Ami are some of the stalls that top their lists, as well as the rotating range of artisans selling everything from greeting cards to jewelry to pottery. Across from the market is the Net Loft, a gathering of local shops including Maiwa (a fair trade importer of natural clothing, fabrics, and furniture from India), Paper Ya (paradise for anyone who loves handmade papers, quality pens, and beautiful writing books), and the Granville Island Hat Shop, which sells headgear from top hats on down. So what's the vibe? Tell us about what it's like actually being there. You can indulge just about any mood here. If you want to slow the pace, grab some chai at the Granville Island Tea Company, take a seat on the pier behind the market, and watch the boats come and go. If you want more buzz, head to the Granville Island Brewery. Those with a flair for the dramatic should head for the Arts Club or Vancouver TheatreSports. You can indulge your spiritual side at The Crystal Ark, and craft nerds will delight at Circle Craft, a store that features wares by a host of local artisans, or the Granville Island Broom Company, a curious shop dedicated entirely to (yep) handmade brooms. How easy is it to navigate? Is there a guide? There is no guide—unless you sign up for one of Vancouver Foodie Tours’ Granville Island Market Tours, which are regularly ranked among the best tours in the city. The two-hour outings run year-round, and come with more than 20 tastings, including organic breads, local charcuterie, B.C. cheeses, tasty donuts, all served up while you learn about the artisans behind them, as well as the history of the market itself. Who are we likely to see here? This is a top tourist attraction, to be sure, but it’s not a tourist trap; in fact, locals love it just as much, from young families to seniors to couples on a first date. At the height of summer it can be a bit of a zoo, especially on sunny weekends, so it's best to go early, but it almost never feels overcrowded. And while the island really shines on the sunny days—lunch on the market pier can’t be beat, unless you get a busker playing amplified pan flute—it’s also a lovely rainy-day hideaway. So before we plan a visit, anything else we should know, about logistics and beyond? Granville Island is heaven for foodies. Vancouver Foodie Tour will give you a good taste in a hurry, or you can easily elbow through solo, then pop over to the Net Loft for a little shopping. Right across from Malaspina Printmakers, Make Vancouver is also a fun spot for gifts. If you’re traveling with little ones, make sure to hit the Kids Market or cool off at the nearby water park. In summer there’s a great fish 'n' chips shack just off the island, too, called Go Fish. There's no admission fee, either, so budget travelers will have plenty to see without breaking the bank." - Jennifer Van Evra