Granville Island is an oasis in the middle of the city where you’ll find renovated warehouses that have been transformed into theatres, artists' studios, craft shops, and a thriving public market. The visitor-friendly Island is home to restaurants and marinas and has its own brewery.

Located in this giant sandbar is a variety of interesting tourist attractions, restaurants and free entertainment. A walk out on the island begins with the Kids Only Market, where youngsters can play to their hearts' delight, laugh at the clowns and have their faces painted. 

The famous Granville Island Market is a Vancouver attraction that most people don't want to miss. It’s a 4,000 square foot indoor emporium featuring stalls selling seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, poultry, meat and cheese. Bridges' deck is a great place to go to wave at passing fishermen who are coming or going with their catches.

Much of Granville's charm also comes with the buskers and free street entertainment. Two days are never the same. You'll see anything from magicians to musicians to jugglers on the island. Several festivals are held on the island each year as well including:

• The duMaurier Jazz Festival
• The Vancouver International Writers' and Readers' Festival
• The Bluegrass Festival
• Comedy Festival
• New Play Festival and Festival of Lights

Don’t worry; getting to Granville Island is easy. There's plenty of free parking, you can take the bus, taxi or walk across to the island.