Your Ultimate Guide to North Vancouver’s Shipyards District
Welcome to your ultimate guide to North Vancouver’s Shipyards District, a vibrant and historic waterfront area that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern flair.
Once the heart of North Vancouver’s bustling shipbuilding industry, this revitalized district now offers a dynamic mix of attractions, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you navigate the district’s best spots, from its iconic landmarks and waterfront parks to its eclectic shops and renowned eateries.
Join us as we uncover the stories and highlights that make the Shipyards District a must-visit destination.
Discover the Shipyards District in North Vancouver
The Shipyards District, also known as Lower Lonsdale, is a vibrant public space on the waterfront east of Lonsdale Quay. Once the city’s oldest neighborhood, it has evolved into North Shore’s downtown, bustling with a dynamic commercial scene and hosting year-round events.
In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about this lively neighborhood, from its rich history to the best ways to make the most of your visit!
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The Shipyards District: A Brief History
The Shipyards District in North Vancouver boasts a fascinating history linked to the Squamish Nation, who lived along the shoreline before Captain George Vancouver’s arrival in 1792. Lower Lonsdale later became a shipbuilding epicenter, with Wallace Shipyards (renamed multiple times) constructing over 450 vessels from 1906 to 1992, including significant ships for WWI and WWII. Notable among them is the St. Roch, the first ship to circumnavigate North America, now displayed at the Vancouver Maritime Museum. The district’s industrial decline gave way to community and business growth, leading to the Shipyards District’s reintroduction in 2017. The area won several awards in 2021 for its transformation, including the Cornerstone Award and Community Project Award.
What to Expect in the Shipyards District
The Shipyards District offers 84,000 square feet of mixed-use space along the waterfront, featuring restaurants, cafes, shops, attractions, and boutique hotels all within close proximity. Key venues include Shipbuilders’ Square, which hosts summer community events; the Pipe Shop, a restored event space; and Shipyard Commons, a covered plaza that becomes a skating rink in winter. The district also provides stunning, unobstructed views of Vancouver’s skyline and the North Shore mountains.
Best Times to Visit
The Shipyards District is a year-round destination, each season offering unique experiences:
- Summer (May – September): Enjoy vibrant outdoor spaces, plazas, water features, live performances, and events.
- Winter: Experience the region’s largest covered outdoor skating rink and cozy up in restaurants and cafes.
- Fall: Relax with outdoor activities amid the changing colors.
- Spring: Take leisurely strolls as the district blossoms.
Essential Information
- Rates: The Shipyards is a public space with no general admission fee. However, some activities and stores may require payment.
- Parking: One-hour free street parking is available. Both city-owned and private lots are nearby, with varying rates and hours. Pay parking options include the ICBC parkade, Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier, and Lonsdale Quay Market.
- Pets: Pet policies vary by event and location. Some restaurants allow dogs on patios, and Waterfront Park has an off-leash area. Pets may not be permitted at certain events.
Getting Around
- Walking/Biking: The district is pedestrian and biker-friendly with several routes connecting it to the North Shore and beyond.
- Buses: The Lonsdale Quay Transit Exchange offers access to Seabus and R2 RapidBus.
- Cars: Limited parking makes driving less convenient. Check parking options if traveling from Vancouver.
Where to Stay in North Vancouver
1. Lonsdale Quay Hotel
| Address: | 123 Carrie Cates Ct 3rd Floor, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7, Canada |
| Phone: | +1 604-986-6111 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.lonsdalequayhotel.com/ |
Centrally located with stunning views and nearby attractions. Service and amenities are inconsistent but the location is a highlight.
2. Seaside Hotel North Vancouver
| Address: | 123 Carrie Cates Ct 3rd Floor, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7, Canada |
| Phone: | +1 604-986-6111 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://seasidehotelvancouver.com/ |
Located on the waterfront with a fitness center, rooftop terrace, and restaurant.
3. North Vancouver Hotel
| Address: | 1800 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B6, Canada |
| Phone: | +1 604-987-4461 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.northvanhotel.com/ |
Ideal for visiting nearby attractions like the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain.
4. Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier
| Address: | 138 Victory Ship Way North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B1, Canada |
| Phone: | +1 877-986-7437 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.pinnaclepierhotel.com/ |
Close to Lonsdale Quay Market and Stanley Park, with a swimming pool and seafood restaurant.
Dining Options in North Vancouver
1. Fishworks
| Address: | 91 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E5 |
| Phone: | +1 778-340-3449 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.fishworks.ca/ |
Known for excellent service and fresh, local seafood.
2. Welcome Parlour
| Address: | 125 Victory Ship Way, North Van, Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver |
| Phone: | +1 604-971-5002 |
| Pricing: | $ |
| Website: | https://welcomeparlour.com/ |
Enjoy premium ice cream and beautiful sunset views.
3. The Gull Bar and Kitchen
| Address: | 175 1st St E, North Vancouver, BC V7L 1B2 |
| Phone: | +1 604-988-5585 |
| Pricing: | $$$ |
| Website: | https://www.thegull.ca/ |
Offers gourmet burgers and an impressive wine list.
4. Streetcar Brewing
| Address: | 123A 1st St E, North Vancouver, BC V7L 1B2 |
| Phone: | +1 604-770-2889 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.streetcarbrewing.ca/ |
A hidden gem for craft beers, complemented by nearby fried chicken.
5. Nicli Pizzeria + Bar
| Address: | 3142 Highland Blvd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2X6 |
| Phone: | +1 604-770-1240 |
| Pricing: | $$ |
| Website: | https://www.niclipizzeria.com/ |
Renowned for thin-crust pizza and delicious tiramisu.
Shopping Spots in North Vancouver
1. AmoVino Wine + Spirits
Specializes in organic and ethically crafted wines.
Address: 200 – 120 Lonsdale Avenue Suite Genius, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-770-3102
2. Wild Honey Goods
A creative vintage clothing store with a unique selection.
Address: 106 W 1st St Unit 205, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3H2
3. Foxy Farm Market
Offers local produce and specialty foods.
Address: 108 W 1st St, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1A9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-770-4937
4. Mo’s General Store
Features local coffee, dairy, and baked goods
Address: 51 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-928-7827
Activities to Enjoy in North Vancouver
1. Shipyards Night Market
A summer highlight with food trucks, live music, and artisan crafts.
Location: Shipbuilders’ Square
Parking: Free at ICBC parkade after 6 PM or take the SeaBus from Vancouver’s Waterfront Station to Lonsdale pier.
2. Skating Rink
A large covered rink in winter, transforming into a Splash Park in summer.
Location: Shipyard Commons
Skate Rentals: CAD 7 for adults, CAD 5 for children.
3. Lonsdale Quay Market & Food Hall
A historic market with revitalized features and global cuisine.
Location: 123 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3K7
4. Shipyards Festival
A lively music festival with multiple stages and diverse performances.
Location: Various stages within the Shipyards District.
5. MONOVA Museum
Explore North Vancouver’s history with interactive exhibits.
Address: 115 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1A7
Phone: +1 604-990-3700
Hours: Thursday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Friday-Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: CAD 14
6. Cates Deck
Enjoy drinks and outdoor movies in a designated public space.
Location: Cates Deck, North Vancouver, BC
