Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(west of Burrard Bridge; 22)
Winding around Kitsilano Point towards Kits Beach, wa-
terfront Vanier Park is more a host than a destination. Home to three museums , it's also
the venue for the tents of the annual Bard on the Beach Shakespeare festival (
Click
stroll away via the seawall) and watch the kite flyers.
If you want to avoid the sweaty crush in English Bay during the Celebration of Light
fireworks event, bring your blanket and spread it out here. You'll have great views of
the aerial shenanigans among a far more convivial and family-friendly crowd.
OLD HASTINGS MILL STORE MUSEUM
MUSEUM
( 604-734-1212;
www.hastings-mill-museum.ca
; 1575 Alma St; admission by donation;
1am-4pm Tue-Sun mid-Jun-mid-Sep, reduced hours in winter; 4)
Built near Gastown in
1865, this wooden structure is Vancouver's oldest surviving building. Originally a store
for sawmill workers, it survived the Great Fire of 1886 and was used as a makeshift
morgue that fateful day. Saved from demolition by locals, it was floated here in the
1930s and now houses an eclectic array of pioneer-era and First Nations exhibits.
Staffed by volunteers, this charming little neighborhood museum is well worth a visit
if you're in the area. Ask about the old kitchen chair: it also survived the Great Fire and
is still on display.
VANCOUVER COMPOST DEMONSTRATION GARDEN
GARDEN
(
www.cityfarmer.info
;
2150 Maple St; 9am-4pm, reduced hours off-season; 4)
F
Don't be put off by the name: this verdant city garden is an oasis among the backstreets
of Kits. A rustic plot with a cob shed, compost toilet and wild and cultivated areas of
flowers and vegetables, it's a great place for gardeners to visit. You can chat to the staff
and volunteer to pull a few weeds yourself. Check out the fledgling monkey puzzle tree
and also peruse the cool beehive.
JERICHO BEACH
BEACH
(north foot of Alma St; 4)
Jericho is great if you just want to putter along the beach,
clamber over driftwood and catch stunning views of downtown. It's popular with locals
on summer evenings; expect impromptu but civilized beach gatherings where discreet
