Kitsilano is a vibrant neighbourhood on Vancouver’s west side known for its unique coastal lifestyle as well as the parks, beaches, and businesses that foster it. From 4th Avenue to Greek Town, Jericho Beach to Kits Pool, there are endless ways to fill your day.
Here are ten things to see, eat, and do in Kitsilano:
1. An Evening Trip to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Housed inside the Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver locals will remember the Space Centre as a favourite elementary school field trip destination – whether it be for the gorgeous planetarium or the hope of dehydrated astronaut ice cream at the end of the visit. Adults will be thrilled to learn that on Friday nights, the GMS Observatory, located right next door, is open until midnight so that visitors can take in awe-inspiring views of the cosmos through the ½ metre Cassegrain telescope.
2. A Morning Swim in Kitsilano Pool
Every weekend in the summer, families flock to Kitsilano Beach’s ocean-side swimming pool to seek refuge from the heat. The best time to go, however, is early in the morning. With expansive views of the mountains and the sound of waves lapping against the shore, your morning workout becomes a meditative experience.
3. A Spin Class at Method Cycling
With the Sea Wall, Arbutus Greenway and Point Grey Road at your doorstep, Kitsilano has countless bike-friendly routes that are popular amongst commuters and athletes alike. Road cyclists will keep up their cardio at this challenging indoor cycling studio in the off-season. You won’t find any fancy choreography or dim lighting here – these classes prioritize high-intensity intervals and expertly-designed drills to challenge even the most competitive cyclists.
4. A Workout and Brunch at Turf
Turf is known for its ability to cultivate a true sense of community and quintessential Kitsilano atmosphere. With a fitness studio, a retail shop, and a bistro all under one roof, weekend mornings at this low-key neighbourhood spot buzz with excitement. Work up a sweat at one of their inventive cardio classes and enjoy a healthy brunch out on the patio while you take in the vibrant atmosphere.
5. The Kitsilano Farmers Market
Located in the parking lot outside Kitsilano Secondary School, this joyful market takes place every Saturday from May to October. Bounties of seasonal produce and artisanal goods make it a lovely alternative to your weekly shop at the supermarket. For those who might not be as willing to battle the crowds in the name of heirloom tomatoes, it’s a great place to grab a crêpe and sit in the park while you watch a cricket match.
6. A Latte with Housemade Almond Milk at Be Fresh Market
This quaint independent grocer sits at the intersection of Cypress Street and 1st: a quiet, leafy street home to crispy french fries, frozen bananas dipped in chocolate, and one of the best 60-minute facials you’ll ever have. Come to this grocery store for its excellent selection of provisions from local vendors and stay for a coffee with the creamiest homemade almond milk in the city.
7. Cacio e Pepe at La Quercia
Located at the far end of Kitsilano by Jericho Beach is La Quercia, an Italian wine bar beloved by locals. Don’t let its inconspicuous exterior fool you – this restaurant has mastered the art of fresh pasta made with seasonal ingredients. If you’re in the area around lunchtime, grab a sandwich from their deli and take it to go for a picnic by the water.
8. Tuna Gomae at Temaki
There are a number of high-end sushi restaurants in the surrounding area, but none compare to the simple delight that is this family-run institution at Broadway and Arbutus. This casual spot is a weeknight staple for Kitsilano residents, so be sure to make a reservation if you’re planning to visit.
9. A Patio Crawl Along Yew Street
This steep stretch from Kits Beach to West 4th is densely populated with restaurants and bars. In the warmer months, crowds spill out onto the street, making the act of waiting for a table a party in itself. Grab a spot on a patio – they’re all great – and sip on a cocktail as you watch swarms of happily sunburnt beach-goers make the trek up the hill on their way back from the beach.
10. Diplomat Cake from Bon Ton Pastry & Confectionery
This almost one-hundred-year-old bakery is a legendary destination for those looking to relish the serotonin that comes from purchasing a tiny, fancy treat. Located right in the middle of Greek Town, the Bon Ton is a great place to conclude a day of exploring the western end of Broadway. Pick up a Diplomat Cake before your next dinner party or opt for a box of smaller pastries and enjoy sampling every single one until you find your favourite.
Kitsilano’s reputation for being fuelled by sun salutations and workout gear is not unwarranted, but a closer look at this neighbourhood reveals its rich texture, evoking a life filled with salty air, long walks, comforting food, and above all, a true sense of community. If this sounds like a neighbourhood you’d like to call yours, contact a rennie advisor to learn more about homes for sale in Kitsilano.
Here are ten things to see, eat, and do in Kitsilano:
1. An Evening Trip to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Housed inside the Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver locals will remember the Space Centre as a favourite elementary school field trip destination – whether it be for the gorgeous planetarium or the hope of dehydrated astronaut ice cream at the end of the visit. Adults will be thrilled to learn that on Friday nights, the GMS Observatory, located right next door, is open until midnight so that visitors can take in awe-inspiring views of the cosmos through the ½ metre Cassegrain telescope.
2. A Morning Swim in Kitsilano Pool
Every weekend in the summer, families flock to Kitsilano Beach’s ocean-side swimming pool to seek refuge from the heat. The best time to go, however, is early in the morning. With expansive views of the mountains and the sound of waves lapping against the shore, your morning workout becomes a meditative experience.
3. A Spin Class at Method Cycling
With the Sea Wall, Arbutus Greenway and Point Grey Road at your doorstep, Kitsilano has countless bike-friendly routes that are popular amongst commuters and athletes alike. Road cyclists will keep up their cardio at this challenging indoor cycling studio in the off-season. You won’t find any fancy choreography or dim lighting here – these classes prioritize high-intensity intervals and expertly-designed drills to challenge even the most competitive cyclists.
Turf is known for its ability to cultivate a true sense of community and quintessential Kitsilano atmosphere. With a fitness studio, a retail shop, and a bistro all under one roof, weekend mornings at this low-key neighbourhood spot buzz with excitement. Work up a sweat at one of their inventive cardio classes and enjoy a healthy brunch out on the patio while you take in the vibrant atmosphere.
5. The Kitsilano Farmers Market
Located in the parking lot outside Kitsilano Secondary School, this joyful market takes place every Saturday from May to October. Bounties of seasonal produce and artisanal goods make it a lovely alternative to your weekly shop at the supermarket. For those who might not be as willing to battle the crowds in the name of heirloom tomatoes, it’s a great place to grab a crêpe and sit in the park while you watch a cricket match.
6. A Latte with Housemade Almond Milk at Be Fresh Market
This quaint independent grocer sits at the intersection of Cypress Street and 1st: a quiet, leafy street home to crispy french fries, frozen bananas dipped in chocolate, and one of the best 60-minute facials you’ll ever have. Come to this grocery store for its excellent selection of provisions from local vendors and stay for a coffee with the creamiest homemade almond milk in the city.
7. Cacio e Pepe at La Quercia
Located at the far end of Kitsilano by Jericho Beach is La Quercia, an Italian wine bar beloved by locals. Don’t let its inconspicuous exterior fool you – this restaurant has mastered the art of fresh pasta made with seasonal ingredients. If you’re in the area around lunchtime, grab a sandwich from their deli and take it to go for a picnic by the water.
8. Tuna Gomae at Temaki
There are a number of high-end sushi restaurants in the surrounding area, but none compare to the simple delight that is this family-run institution at Broadway and Arbutus. This casual spot is a weeknight staple for Kitsilano residents, so be sure to make a reservation if you’re planning to visit.
This steep stretch from Kits Beach to West 4th is densely populated with restaurants and bars. In the warmer months, crowds spill out onto the street, making the act of waiting for a table a party in itself. Grab a spot on a patio – they’re all great – and sip on a cocktail as you watch swarms of happily sunburnt beach-goers make the trek up the hill on their way back from the beach.
10. Diplomat Cake from Bon Ton Pastry & Confectionery
This almost one-hundred-year-old bakery is a legendary destination for those looking to relish the serotonin that comes from purchasing a tiny, fancy treat. Located right in the middle of Greek Town, the Bon Ton is a great place to conclude a day of exploring the western end of Broadway. Pick up a Diplomat Cake before your next dinner party or opt for a box of smaller pastries and enjoy sampling every single one until you find your favourite.
Kitsilano’s reputation for being fuelled by sun salutations and workout gear is not unwarranted, but a closer look at this neighbourhood reveals its rich texture, evoking a life filled with salty air, long walks, comforting food, and above all, a true sense of community. If this sounds like a neighbourhood you’d like to call yours, contact a rennie advisor to learn more about homes for sale in Kitsilano.
