When many people think of North Vancouver, they may envision endless opportunities for adventure. However, there are plenty of unique ways to experience the city, even if you don’t own hiking boots or a mountain bike. From the quaint ocean-side community of Deep Cove to the vibrant Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you commute via Sea Bus, SUV, or kayak, this mountainside community will invite you to slow down, take a deep breath and feel more connected to nature. 
Here are ten ways to explore North Vancouver:
1. A creative croissant and a coffee at NemesisÂ
This coffee shop and bakery may have two other outposts in the Vancouver Region, but its waterfront location in Lower Lonsdale is by far the most picturesque. Nemesis cultivates a palpable atmosphere with its well-curated playlists and stylish aesthetic. Still, it is so much more than just another third-wave coffee shop– in addition to its broad selection of small-roast beans, it is famed for its flaky, inventive pastries that are as gorgeous as they are delicious.Â
2. A trip to the Polygon Gallery
After you polish off your treats at Nemesis, head to the other side of its aluminum-clad building to enter the Polygon Gallery. This stunning architectural landmark is known for its adventurous programming and diverse array of modern artists. After you’ve observed the art, step outside onto the Polygon’s balcony to admire sweeping views of downtown Vancouver’s sparkling skyline.Â
3. Paddleboarding or Kayaking in Deep Cove
Deep Cove’s Quarry Rock became famous at the height of Vancouver’s social media-induced hiking craze. Despite the trail’s temporary closure, this idyllic community continues to be a lovely destination for weekend activities. Consider renting a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the area’s coastline and relish the tranquillity that comes with time spent on the water.Â
4. A Classic Doughnut from Honey in Deep Cove
Whether they serve as a reward at the end of an outdoor workout or a delicious way to bring a little joy to your day, there’s no denying the simple pleasure that comes from a freshly baked doughnut. Honey’s is a Deep Cove institution famed for cakey, sticky doughnuts that attract customers from far and wide. 
5. Eggs any style at Lift BakeryÂ
This warm and inviting Lower Lonsdale cafe makes for the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends over brunch. While you can often find its baked goods available at farmers' markets around the Vancouver area, nothing beats its classic brunch dishes and hot cups of coffee.Â
6. Fresh pasta at Orto
Nestled along a quiet lane off of Marine Drive is Orto, a farm-to-table restaurant that takes the term literally– during the summer months, the restaurant invites guests to dine in its vegetable garden. Dip fresh bread from the neighbouring bakery, Bad Dog Bread, into fragrant olive oil as you wait for handmade pasta dishes made with seasonal ingredients to be delivered to your garden-side table.Â
7. A brewery crawl along EsplanadeÂ
Beer and outdoor activities go hand-in-hand, so it’s no wonder North Vancouver’s notoriously active lifestyle has fostered a booming craft beer scene. Bike or Sea Bus over to Esplanade, a street home to multiple craft breweries, and spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area. With crowd-favourites like Beere and House of Funk, you’re sure to return home with a four-pack of a new favourite brew.Â
8. Finocchiona Pizza at Farina e Legna
Think of this Italian restaurant as the North Shore cousin of the Downtown Eastside institution Pizzeria Farina. This intimate restaurant’s wood oven takes centre stage, with a family-style menu that showcases local, seasonal produce and specialty ingredients imported directly from Italy.Â
9. The Dog Mountain Hike on Seymour MountainÂ
It might be an unpopular opinion, but the Grouse Grind is vastly overrated. Sure, it’s a uniquely challenging workout that every Vancouverite should attempt at some point in their life, but there is little reward to be enjoyed at the end of the 2.5-kilometre ascent. Over on Seymour Mountain is the Dog Mountain hike, a picturesque alternative that may not be as physically challenging but is far more interesting. This route takes you up rocky terrain and past mountaintop lakes and culminates with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountain ranges.Â
10. Lynn Canyon LoopÂ
This leisurely loop provides a welcome opportunity to begin the day surrounded by nature. Grab a coffee and a dog (if you have access to one!), and take a stroll through the woods as you greet your neighbours who all had the same lovely idea. If you’re looking for something to do in hot weather, park a camp chair in the Canyon’s shallow river and relax in the cool, knee-deep water. 
While possessing a North Vancouver postal code doesn’t necessitate owning an Arc’teryx raincoat, the city’s environment invites residents to ground themselves in nature– to sweat, breathe, and play. In North Vancouver, children can run barefoot through front lawn sprinklers and play street hockey in the cul-de-sac. At the same time, young professionals can find balance in outdoor recreation, a vibrant culinary scene, and ready access to downtown Vancouver.
If this sounds like somewhere you’d like to call home, contact a rennie advisor today to learn more about homes for sale in North Vancouver.
