Why the West End might be Vancouver's most iconic neighbourhood

The West End of Vancouver is one of the easiest neighbourhoods to explore, as it’s located right in the city’s downtown core. It’s widely renowned as one of the most beautiful areas to live in, as has even been named the best neighbourhood in Canada by the Canadian Institute of Planners.

In fact, there’s an argument to be made that this is the most “Vancouver” neighbourhood in the city.

Situated at the gateway to Stanley Park, the neighbourhood is bordered by the park and waterfront on one side and the bustling streets of Denman and Davie on the other. With plenty of options for dining, socializing, and eclectic apartment living, it’s a popular location for residents and visitors alike.

And while it may be tough finding a place downtown that fits your needs, companies like Hollyburn Properties are constantly updating their listings with affordable, well-managed options.

Imagine being able to step outside and be right next to nature, or being able to grab a bite to eat just minutes from where you live. Or better yet, think about heading home after a night out and not having it cost you an arm and a leg on cab fares.

Here’s why we’re making the case for the diverse yet tight-knit neighbourhood that is the West End.

Foodie paradise

The West End is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars that represent the diversity of the people who live there. There’s something from every corner of the world from Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, India… you name it!

Head to Robson Street to grab a bowl of Ramen Danbo’s famous Fukuoka-style Tonkotsu ramen (the line is definitely worth it). Denman and Davie are similarly dotted with diverse eats: think spicy curries at Banana Leaf, traditional African cuisine at Simba’s Grill, and handmade perogies at Ukranian Village.

You’ll never be bored after the sun sets, either. The West End is a neighbourhood that knows its nightlife — so there are plenty of pubs, bars, and clubs (like Celebrities) to make sure you have a good time any night of the week.

Community-living

Picture a small community within the heart of downtown, where you can get to know your neighbours and make friends easily in a place that’s right next to an abundance of outdoor activities.

Spend your weekends biking around the neighbourhood, along the Seawall, and into the many parks (Sunset Beach Park and Alexandra Park are local gems!). If you don’t own your own bike, you can easily rent one along Denman Street or from a Mobi stand. Plus, there are dedicated bike lanes throughout the West End to ensure rider safety.

Beyond the natural attractions that make it easy to get outside with friends and family, the area is home to community gardens, the West End Public Library, community centres, and similar places for locals to mix and mingle. Even if you don’t have an extensive network when you move here, you likely will soon.

Convenience

If convenience is the main draw of a neighbourhood for you, you’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere as convenient as the West End. It’s just a five-minute bus ride to the City Centre or Burrard Business District, though you can easily walk or bike to work downtown, too.

With its abundance of retail, grocery, and transit options, this area really can’t be beaten. You’ll no longer have to make the trek to the shops you love to frequent — and grocery shopping will never be easier. If you’re in the mood for something special, be sure to check out the unique stores and gourmet food and wine markets on Davie as well.

Finding the perfect place to live can be a tough and lengthy process, but Hollyburn Properties‘ West End buildings make it easy for you to find somewhere to live that you love, right in the heart of a vibrant and connected neighbourhood.

Picture this: within minutes, you can be at your desk at the office or at school, at a table at your favourite restaurant, taking a walk along the Seawall, or relaxing at Stanley Park. You’ll be surrounded by a thriving, friendly community that meets your needs, no matter what they are.

Hollyburn Properties is a Canadian property management, real estate investment, and purpose-built rental development company, currently managing and operating four commercial properties and 86 rental apartment communities nationwide.

With newly renovated buildings, you can look forward to spacious and functional floorplans, all located in convenient neighbourhoods.

For more information or to find an apartment today, visit Hollyburn.com.