VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver is hosing 4 town halls to give people a chance to take a look at their 20-year comprehensive growth plan and chime in. 2 will be in person the other 2 will be online. The first is Tuesday night at 6:00 p.m.
This is part of the city’s “Our Vancouver” plan and vision. These town-hall style presentations allow for land-use disucssions. City leaders are hoping to create more 15 minute neighborhoods to allow residents to rely on their cars less.
VANCOUVER, WA – The Vancouver City Council on Tuesday issued a sweeping Public Declaration on Community Harm, Public Safety, and Human Dignity, formally denouncing the conduct of federal immigration enforcement agencies operating under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The declaration outlines the City’s position that certain federal immigration enforcement practices have caused harm to community members, undermined public trust, and threatened the safety and dignity of residents. In adopting the statement, councilmembers affirmed their intention to respond to what they described as a crisis using the full force of the City’s legal authority.
According to the declaration, the City views aggressive or opaque enforcement actions as creating fear among immigrant communities, discouraging residents from accessing essential services or cooperating with local authorities. The council emphasized that these outcomes run counter to local public safety goals and the City’s commitment to human rights and community well-being.
The document also signals Vancouver’s intent to review and, where permissible, limit cooperation between city agencies and federal immigration enforcement bodies. City leaders indicated that any such actions would be guided by existing law, with an emphasis on protecting civil liberties while maintaining public safety.
Councilmembers framed the declaration as both a policy statement and a call to action, underscoring the City’s responsibility to advocate for residents affected by federal enforcement practices. The declaration does not alter federal authority but asserts the City’s stance and its willingness to use legal tools available at the municipal level to mitigate local impacts.
City officials said the declaration reflects ongoing concerns raised by residents and community organizations and reaffirmed Vancouver’s commitment to dignity, safety, and equal treatment for all who live and work in the city.
Looking for the perfect Vancouver Christmas activity? The Shipyards Christmas Market on the North Shore is the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit. It has plenty to do for all ages, and the best part (in my opinion!) is their new festive-themed welcome pack for neurodiverse guests.
Around the holiday season, while I make wreaths and decorate for Christmas using nature, Kiddo and I also like our outdoor activities. Now in its second year, The Shipyards Christmas Market is quickly becoming one of the best holiday activities to do in Vancouver.
As anyone who lives in Vancouver knows, Christmas markets can be really, really busy, and that can be a barrier for families with neurodivergent or sensory processing tendencies.
Kiddo and I went during the day, and I highly recommend making your own daytime visit.
The Shipyards Christmas Market is totally FREE, with tons of food, live music, holiday decorations, beautiful views, and vendors to do some Christmas shopping.
Here’s everything you need to know about The Shipyards Christmas Market.
Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
Accessibility for Neurodivergent Families
Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association has put so much into working with businesses and attractions around the North Shore to promote neurodivergent tourism options and their sensory-friendly backpack loan program. It makes travelling around the North Shore accessible and friendly to families with different needs.
Neurospicy families visiting The Shipyards Christmas Market can pick up a holiday version of the sensory-friendly backpackat the Guest Services info booth. Inside, it has a set of noise-cancelling headphones, which can be super helpful as the market can get busy and overwhelming for some. The backpack is also a great size to carry around.
Grabbing a backpack at the Guest Services booth. Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
If you need more sensory support, you can go to the Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA), a block away from the Shipyards. It has the full backpack with lots of sensory toys in it, plus other helpful items like a rain poncho and an info sheet with tips for divergent-friendly tourism options in North Vancouver.
Noise-cancelling headphones are included with the backpack. Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
Anyone who wants to borrow a backpack can. You don’t have to be a neurospicy family to want less sensory input. The fact that the market is open early every day is such a gift. It’s quickly become one of my new favourite things to do for the holidays.
Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
When to Go to The Shipyards Christmas Market
The market is open from 11:00 AM until late every day (9 or 10 PM, depending on what day you go). Most folks go after sunset to enjoy the lights and beautiful views at night. It’s certainly magical, but the lines can be long, and there are definitely crowds. For families who want to see all the attractions, avoid lines, and enjoy the skating rink with plenty of space, I highly recommend a daytime visit.
The beautiful view of Downtown Vancouver from the market.
Kiddo and I went and toured the market shortly after they opened, and it was just as beautiful and festive. The lights and views were stunning during the day, and we got to experience so much more.
Poffertjes by the fire. Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
Pro tip: If you go during the day, you may miss some of the sparkly lights, but the views of the ocean and Vancouver are still beautiful. And the market itself is so festive at all times!
The sun sets so early this time of year, so by mid-afternoon, I could already see how busy it was getting.
Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
What to Expect at The Shipyards Christmas Market
While we went during the day, there was Christmas music playing everywhere alongside plenty of cool decorations. It felt so vibrant and cheery. There’s even ice skating and the chance to visit Santa’s chalet and get a photo with the big man himself.
The skating rink is under cover and less busy during the day. Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
Seasonal Treats
Kiddo and I enjoyed tasting all the different foods. Of course, we had to get some ooey gooey cookies with delicious hot cocoa full of mini marshmallows. And some tasty churros dipped in holiday sprinkles.
There were plenty of stands with famous European Christmas market fare, like mulled wine, bratwurst, pork hock, pierogi, spätzle (German egg noodles), Portuguese tart, and poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes).
Bratwurst was my favourite of the day, despite getting German mustard on my nose. Photo credit Susan Goble Wildflower Photography
I highly suggest coming with an empty stomach! Share with friends and family, so you can try as many items as possible. And enjoy the gorgeous views while you eat!
Maple syrup taffy is a wintertime Canadian staple.
Artisan Vendors
There are 140 vendors this year, so you’ll spend plenty of time just stopping by and browsing through the booths. So many of the vendors are locals, so it’s a really great spot to get some Christmas shopping done and support local businesses.
I saw plenty of handmade items, including soaps, canvas bags, jewelry, homeware, and way more. There were a couple of booths that catered to kids, and you bet Kiddo was there buying things.
The Shipyards Christmas Market is truly a special place and one of the newest traditions for our family, thanks to Vancouver’ North Shore Tourism Association. You bet we’ll be back again next year. Happy holidays!
More Ways to Explore Vancouver
A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.
If Vancouver is on your travel list, check out this promotion that can make your stay there much cheaper. Even if you weren’t planning to visit in the next few months, a $250 gift card might change your mind. This promotion can be used for stays through the end of March. Check out the details of this promotion below.
Offer Details
Get up to $250 in a Mastercard® pre-paid gift card with a minimum 2-night stay.
The 2-night stay qualifies for a total of $150, $200, $225 or $250 in a Prepaid Mastercard® card depending upon the hotel booked.
Stay must be between November 14, 2025 and March 31, 2026.
Bookings may be canceled up to 48 hours prior to check-in.
Booking subsequent nights as separate reservations will be treated the same as a single reservation for multiple nights.
Stay must be between November 14, 2025 and March 31, 2026.
Three bookings maximum.
Mastercard® gift card will be delivered at check-in.
Bookings can be made using VISA, MasterCard, or American Express.
This offer is limited and may end at any time.
Guru’s Wrap-Up
This is a pretty good promo if you want to visit Vancouver now through the end of March, although its currently low season there as you might imagine.
The offer is pretty simple. You book a hotel in Vancouver through StayVancouverHotels and you receive a Mastercard Gift Card. This should definitely give you a very cheap hotel stay if you’re planning to visit. The gift card will get you almost half of the cost back at several eligible hotels. You can book up to three stays, which must be a minimum of two nights each in order to earn the gift card.
Just keep in mind that bookings will be made in CAD, so use a card with no foreign transaction fees. Also you will not earn elite credits or points since you are booking through a third party.
VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Vancouver City Council on Monday unanimously approved a new city flag following months of community input and design collaboration.
The decision came after the city’s volunteer Flag Selection Committee presented its recommendation to the council during its meeting.
The design combines elements from submissions by Brooke Nugent and Nathan Hunter, whose work was selected from among 138 entries reviewed by the committee. The process included public feedback from more than 1,400 residents.
The new flag features a green field representing Vancouver’s forests, parks and commitment to sustainability. A white chevron in the shape of a “V” connects land and water, symbolizing progress and unity. The blue section represents the Columbia River, while the central emblem draws inspiration from landmarks including Fort Vancouver, the Salmon Run Bell Tower and the Grant Street Pier.
The flag will be formally raised for the first time at 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, at Vancouver City Hall, followed by a community introduction and prize presentation during the city’s annual tree lighting celebration.
Major League Soccer announced the finalists for its 2025 year-end awards on Thursday.
Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, who won last year’s Landon Donovan MLS MVP and whose three-year contract extension through 2028 was announced Thursday, is one of five finalists for the award again along with Denis Bouanga (Los Angeles FC), Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC), Evander (FC Cincinnati) and Sam Surridge (Nashville SC).
Messi led MLS in goals (29) and assists (19) this season. The other four finalists round out the top five goal-scorers, but Dreyer and Evander are the only two that are also in the top five for assists.
The three finalists for Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year are the Philadelphia Union’s Bradley Carnell, Vancouver Whitecaps’ Jesper Sorensen and San Diego’s Mikey Varas.
Dreyer, who signed with expansion side San Diego and had 19 goals and 19 assists to lead the squad to the top seed in the Western Conference, is also one of three finalists for MLS Newcomer of the Year, alongside Son Heung-Min (LAFC) and Philip Zinckernagel (Chicago Fire).
The MLS Young Player of the Year finalists (born on or after Jan. 1, 2003) are Orlando City’s Alex Freeman, Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna and the Seattle Sounders’ Obed Vargas.
The three finalists for MLS Defender of the Year are a pair of Philadelphia teammates in Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner as well as Tristan Blackmon of Vancouver.
MLS Goalkeeper of the Year finalists are Matt Freese of New York City FC, Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota United) and Yohei Takaoka (Vancouver), who led the league with 13 clean sheets.
The finalists for MLS Comeback Player of the Year are Houston Dynamo’s Lawrence Ennali, Nick Hagglund of Cincinnati and Toronto FC’s Richie Laryea.
Finally, the three finalists for the Audi Goals Drive Progress Impact Award, which honors an MLS player who showed outstanding dedication to charitable efforts and serving the community during the 2025 season, are Ryan Hollingshead (LAFC), Luna (RSL) and Brad Stuver (Austin FC).
The winners for these awards will be announced throughout the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, which began Wednesday night with Chicago beating Orlando and Portland beating Salt Lake in the wild-card matches.
MLS Goal of the Year and Save of the Year will be decided by an online vote and announced on Oct. 27.
The MLS Best XI will also be revealed at a later date.
The City of Vancouver has launched a small business loan program for underserved communities. Acquired Through MGN Online on 08/14/2025
VANCOUVER, WA – Starting this week, the City of Vancouver is accepting proposals from nonprofit Community Development Financial Institutions interested in helping to administer a new Revolving Loan Fund meant to promote economic development in underserved communities by increasing access to capital for businesses unable to secure traditional financing.
“This fund is a critical step toward expanding economic opportunity in communities that have historically faced barriers to growth,” said Small Business and Entrepreneurship Program Manager Victor Saldanha. “By partnering with a nonprofit CDFI, we are increasing access to capital while laying the groundwork for a locally rooted financial institution that can serve Vancouver’s small businesses for years to come.”
The fund will be initially capitalized using $1.2 million originally received from the American Rescue Plan Act.
The Revolving Loan Fund is part of the City’s Fourth Plain for All Investment Strategy and the recently adopted Five-Year Economic Development Strategy. It will initially promote economic development within the Fourth Plain Investment Area, but the plan is to eventually go citywide, according Saldanha.
The City wants to contract with a nonprofit CDFI to administer the fund, including securing additional capital to grow the lending capacity of the fund and assist the City.
Anyone interested will find Request for Proposal application instructions and proposal packets at cityofvancouver.bonfirehub.com. Proposals must be submitted through the City’s procurement portal no later than Dec. 10 at 3:00 p.m., PST.
VANCOUVER, Wash. – Fire crews responded early Monday to a small fire on the roof of a commercial building in Vancouver.
The Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched around 5 a.m. to NW Fruit Valley Road after a fire alarm was triggered. The response was upgraded to a full commercial structure assignment when a 911 caller reported a possible fire on the roof.
Firefighters arriving on scene found a small blaze that was mostly extinguished. Crews used chainsaws to cut through roofing material to ensure the fire was fully out, the department said in a news release.
Most responding units were cleared without needing to take action. No injuries were reported, and the business remains open and fully operational.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office.
VANCOUVER, Wash. — An ethics complaint filed against Vancouver City Councilor Kim Harless will move forward to an independent hearings examiner for investigation.
The city council voted 5-0 Monday to refer the complaint, which accuses Harless of failing to disclose a relationship with John Park, the director of a nonprofit that received city lodging-tax grants for Vancouver’s annual Pokémon GoFest event. Councilor Sarah Fox was absent from the vote, and Harless recused herself.
Harless said she consulted with city attorneys before the votes and was advised there was no conflict of interest because she was not engaged to or living with Park at the time. She called the complaint “incredibly invasive” and said it has taken a personal toll.
The council also voted to remove Harless as chair of the city’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee until the investigation concludes. The hearings examiner is expected to issue findings within 60 days.
VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver is getting a new flag and is moving closer to choosing it after narrowing down 138 different public submissions to 6 finalists.
The City formed the Vancouver Flag Committee and asked residents to come up with their interpretation of Vancouver’s identity. They chose 4 finalists…then used ideas from the submissions to create two composite flags.
The committee will lean on public comments, but will select the new Vancouver City Flag in late October…then adopt it in November.
VANCOUVER, WA – The Clark County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board is in the process of developing priorities to included in the 2026-2030 Developmental Disabilities Comprehensive Plan, and the group is looking for ideas.Specifically, the DDAB is looking for input from people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, their family members, provider organizations, educators, and others with an interest in supporting people with disabilities.
Clark County Community Services’ staff developed an online survey to collect the input, but there is also a paper version.They say it will take less than 10 minutes to complete and is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Chuukese and Vietnamese.
Officials say the feedback is used to understand available resources, and which services are needed in the community.Responses are confidential and anonymous.
VANCOUVER, Wash. – A person has died and two are injured after a shooting at the Vancouver Mall Halloween night.
Police first reported responding to a disturbance at the mall, and then later confirmed there had been a shooting.
What happened remains under investigation.
Police are asking people to avoid the area.
“Anyone that has been sheltering in place inside the mall can leave through any open exit,” VPD said in a tweet. “Anyone with information on this investigation is asked to call the VPD Tip Line at 360-487-7399.”
While I think all gardens are beautiful and look amazing in photos, there’s just something about a garden that goes into such detail you can’t help but be wowed the second you step in. Susan Koelink has what I like to call a magazine garden, and you’ll see why it’s been featured by many publications.
The stunning ‘Royal Sunset’ rose.
We break up your dreary cold weather to bring you some summer joy! Last summer, I had the pleasure of scouting some gardens for Garden Gate magazine throughout the Vancouver area.
Susan Koelink was one of the gardeners I met, and I toured her home gardening space. While I wish I could claim credit for finding this beautiful garden to share with you today, the truth is that Susan is a seasoned pro.
Susan has had her garden featured in multiple magazines many times, as well as hosted garden tours for people all over the world.
Her space is truly a magazine beautiful space. She puts perfection into the details but still exhibits creativity you won’t see in any other spaces.
Coral was one of her garden’s colour themes!
Let’s get into this virtual tour!
What Makes a Magazine Garden?
Over the past decade, I’ve attended quite a few Better Home & Gardens Stylemaker events. The first time I went, I was quite naïve at what went into creating a magazine article.
As bloggers, and now influencers, we all have access to post via our phone and laptops. Anyone can share their experiences and photos to a wider audience.
The March edition of Better Homes and Gardens features Susan’s garden.
But at the Stylemaker’s event, I got to truly see all the work they do to design and style a shoot. It’s like watching a Michelin star chef create a meal as opposed to a good home cook. The attention to detail and the overall considered thought go above and beyond.
It’s not necessarily about having style, but it’s knowing how to cultivate it and curate it to be exceptional. And that’s exactly what I saw in Susan’s garden. The level of effort that goes into the details make her garden truly magazine worthy.
Susan in her garden and patio.
Welcome to Susan Koelink’s Garden
At the back of the house, you’re greeted by a beautiful iron gate and the custom plaque reading “Weathercock House”, named after a rooster weather vane which sits atop of their house. Upon walking through, you’re immediately taken into this beautiful space that has a formal lawn backed by a water feature, pots with hostas, and a bronze frog spitting fountain.
I must take a moment to admire this fountain. The magazine and I took similar photos of it and were both clearly drawn to it. Even years apart, the frog has stayed in style. Susan’s garden has remained timeless ever since her big overhaul over two decades ago.
A Garden With History
Susan first moved into the house with her husband Tony in 1979. It was already landscaped with perennials and shrubs.
It wasn’t until the 2000s when their last child left the nest that they decided to put their personal stamp on it. They removed the basketball court, swing set, and even a sunroom that they didn’t use to make the space their own sanctuary.
This beautiful Japanese maple covers a sitting area in Susan’s garden.
Working with the landscape designer Ron Rule, they completely transformed the 66 x 120 ft. space.
Since then, the garden has been on many tours, both local and international, and featured in many magazines. In fact, it’s been featured in Garden Gate magazine three times! Twice in 2006 in March/April and May/June, as well as once in 2007 in November/December.
Over the past twenty years, Susan has collected some very special plants. She has over twenty different kinds of epimedium alone, plus some beautiful hellebores, peonies, and rhododendrons, as well as unusual perennials like P. peltatum. ‘Spotty Dotty and a Cardiocrinum Himalayan lily.
A stunning clematis in Susan’s garden, Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’
‘Lagerfeld’ rose
A Lasting Impact
Susan’s garden is a really great example of how good design can stand the test of time. The original magazine articles featuring the garden were nearly twenty years ago, and you can see in my pictures that the space has withheld its beauty and style.
The garden is really special partly because of its well-designed layout, which creates multiple beautiful spaces. Within the garden, there are three patios, a gorgeous woodland side path, and three areas of lawn. Amongst it all, you’ll notice great hardscaping details and amazing views.
One of the formal lawn areas.
A Colourful Theme
While many components of Susan’s garden are timeless, that doesn’t mean she experiments a little every year. For instance, this year her colour theme was a deep purple and coral.
The fence has been painted a deep purple, while the front door and steps have been painted orange with a purple doormat. This theme weaves its way throughout the garden, where you’ll see many spottings of orange and purple flowers sprinkled.
The painted purple fence.
Even Susan’s outfit for the day was in purple and orange!
Susan has an overall magic with colour. Her patios have a gorgeous selection of container planting, and she loves adding flowers for the hummingbirds.
Susan matched her front door and mat.
Perfection in the Details
It’s rare to see a gardener who has such an eye for detail. She makes small changes every year, while the key components remain the same.
The terracotta pots match the flowers.
Look at all the decorative features on the pots as well!
She picks a coral flower to sit in the birdbath during my visit, reflecting beautifully in the water.
A concrete bird amidst a bird’s nest of branches.
This birdbath statue is covered in a wreath of real branches for extra detail.
One beautiful detail I wasn’t able to capture was that the stained glass window mimicked the colours of the terracotta pot as well as its shape.
The garden is Susan’s passion, and it really shows.
Almost all of Susan’s containers had beautiful detailing.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Connor Zary scored 1:33 into overtime and the Calgary Flames opened their season with a 6-5 comeback win over the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday night.
Anthony Mantha had a goal and an assist to lead Calgary. Rasmus Andersson, Martin Pospisil, MacKenzie Weegar and Jonathan Huberdeau also scored for the Flames, who trailed 3-0 midway through the first period.
Brock Boeser had two goals and J.T. Miller, Daniel Sprong and Conor Garland also scored for the Canucks. Arturs Silovs stopped 20 shots for Vancouver.
Takeaways
Canucks: Squandered a 4-1 lead after the first period by giving up four unanswered goals to fall behind. Miller then tied it with 1:37 left in the third period.
Flames: Dan Vladar gave up four goals on 15 shots in the first period, but allowed only one more goal and finished with 20 saves for the win.
Key moment
Huberdeau, under pressure this season to produce more and live up to his $10.5-million salary, scored Calgary’s fifth goal at 10:40 of the third period to give the Flames a 5-4 lead. Stationed in the blue paint, he batted in a rebound off a shot by Brayden Pachal.
Key stat
Calgary blocked 21 shots to Vancouver’s 12.
Up next
The Canucks conclude their season-opening two-game homestand against Philadelphia on Friday night, and the Flames host the Flyers on Saturday night
VANCOUVER, Wash. – A man was shot and killed by police in Vancouver early Friday morning.
The incident began just before midnight, when a resident called 9-1-1 to report a neighbor was threatening to hurt another neighbor.
Another 9-1-1 call then came in that the same man had fired a gun into the air and had slashed a neighbor’s tires.
When law enforcement from multiple agencies arrived, they say the man ignored police commands, threatened to shoot deputies, and fired a high-powered rifle several times, including shattering the windshield of an armored police vehicle.
Police eventually returned fire and killed the man.
From the peaceful seaside vibes of Ambleside to the lively entertainment at the Shipyard District, the North Shore has plenty to offer for tourists and visitors alike. If you’re visiting Vancouver and would love to take in the local scenery and gardens, you have to try this one- or two-day tour to Vancouver’s North Shore.
Echinacea and other pollinator plants growing at Ambleside Butterfly Garden.
Vancouver has been my home for many years. It’s an alluring place to grow a garden. As a gardening community, Vancouver has so many different personalities.
You’ll find gardening styles inspired by traditional Japanese gardens, rainforests full of ferns and moss, botanical gardens with something blooming year-round, and even seaside pockets complete with imported palm trees.
Across the Vancouver Harbour and Burrard Inlet, the Vancouver’s North Shore is a popular destination for hiking and skiing and features some truly stunning, classic BC landscapes.
While you may have heard about the many famous public gardens like VanDusen Gardens, the Bloedel Conservatory, Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, UBC Botanical Garden, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and the Nitobe Japanese Garden; Vancouver’s North Shore is a definite must-see for anyone with a green thumb.
There is a distinct garden personality: upscale but not pretentious, rooted in traditional style, eco-conscious, and at one with the surrounding woodland. The North Shore is an area full of hidden gems, and I found surprises at every turn.
Recently, I was invited to tour the Vancouver’s North Shore gardens and plant hot spots by Garden BC. I’ve lived in Vancouver for decades, and yet there were places I’ve never been to. When I tell you that you’ll find some hidden gems here, they truly are local spots that only the insiders know about.
Luckily for you, I’m going to share all the dreamy green spaces I had the pleasure of visiting.
Here’s what the itinerary will look like…
Get fresh, locally grown, and sustainable produce at Loutet Farms.
Vancouver’s North Shore is comprised of North Vancouver and West Vancouver, where mountains meet oceanside. You can visit the North Shore like a local, treating and experiencing it like you’re part of the community. It’s a year-round destination where you can enjoy the greenery and wilderness every day of the year.
Gardens BC, officially the British Columbia Garden Tourism Coalition Society, is a non-profit organization that showcases the beauty of our province and helps plant lovers discover new gardens. Visit their website to find more garden destinations throughout the province!
Light reflection at Chiba Gardens.
Day One
I highly, highly recommend this tour to anybody coming to visit Vancouver. After you’ve seen the Vancouver top spots, dedicate at least a day to exploring the North Shore. Depending on what tickles your fancy below, follow either Day One or Day Two’s itinerary, or better yet, do them both!
Stop 1: Jam Café
100 1st St E, North Vancouver, BC V7L 1B1
I started off the first morning with a trip to the insanely popular Jam Café. A Vancouver staple, the North Shore location is one of their newest locations.
The food at Jam Café brings looooong lines, and I can see why. The interior is cool and fun, and the food is even more DECADENT. I had a chimichurri pork belly benny (how Canadians call Eggs Benedict!) with red onion jam (yum) and got to taste the blueberry pancakes and blackstone benny.
Stop by here for a guaranteed good breakfast to kick off your morning.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: Dine at Jam Café for breakfast from Monday through Thursday. You’ll have a better chance to skip the long weekend lines and start the day off perfectly.
Jam Cafe has other locations as well across the Vancouver area.
Stop 2: Park and Tilford Gardens
333 Brooksbank Avenue, North Vancouver, BC, Canada, V7J 3S8
Vancouver’s North Shore’s official botanical garden, Park and Tilford Gardens, consists of eight different themed gardens. Originally, it was created in 1957 as a marketing tool for Park and Tilford Distilleries. It was a gift to the North Shore and covers three acres.
When I say that there are hidden gems all over Vancouver’s North Shore, Park and Tilford Gardens is proof! Essentially, you go through a strip mall parking lot, and in between the JJ Bean and Starbucks coffee houses, you and end up in these beautiful, themed gardens full of plants, structures, and water features. You would never know, looking at large hedge on main street that such a treasure lies behind it.
You can’t miss this entrance sign!
Back when Kiddo was just 18 months old, we used to visit the Park and Tilford Gardens and sit in the light of the three spinning frog’s fountain. We used to tour the garden every other week during the year since it was a great place to take a baby, then toddler, who loved plants and gardens as much as his mother does.
The garden is free to enter and can get really busy with the locals. It’s just big enough to enjoy a coffee and a quiet stroll to see what’s blooming. It has great accessible pathways for people with disabilities and little, short lets that are still learning how to walk.
As Kiddo grew older, we visited the Park and Tilford Gardens about once a year. On one trip, we were sad to see that the three frog’s fountain had been stolen. Devastated that the frogs were taken, it was a time of learning and discussion about emotions for Kiddo—it’s important to respect our environment and that even things as small as a frog fountain can bring meaning to those who enjoy its spaces.
It’s been a few years since I visited, and I was eager to see it through a different lens, no longer the young mother enjoying the space, quiet, and the delight of her child amongst the plants. This time around, I was looking through the lens of a tour guide.
The Oriental Garden is one of eight different garden themes.
What I saw were unique gardens with their own personalities thriving together as one botanical garden. It celebrates plants and their ecology without using wasteful practices to sustain them. The gardens are lovingly tended to and planted with many annual plants grown onsite in the greenhouse next to the herb garden.
With the current summer water restrictions, there is no supplemental water, so the plants are left to sustain themselves.
This meant that the water features were also turned off during my visit. While I appreciate the city’s commitment to saving water, the gardens provide a habitat and safe haven for many wild species. Having the water features on could help the insects, birds, and mammals in the area that were likely suffering from the drought conditions as well.
Some of the plants were a bit dry and stressed. About 10% showed signs of stress or had grown crunchy, while 90% were still faring very well. That speaks quite highly for receiving no water for a month in the heat of the summer. When the rain came again, I went for a visit, and everything quickly bounced back to the green lushness it had for the entire year.
The changes of colour of the Japanese maples and ferns in the Native Garden and the Oriental Garden might be a personal favourite.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: You will find something unique no matter what season you come to tour the North Shore’s Park and Tilford Gardens. In the spring, there are plenty of bulbs. In the summer, you’ll see the blooming and cheerful annuals and perennials. There’s always the Native Garden and the Herb Garden to enjoy as well. And if you stop by in the winter, the gardens are decorated with lights for the festive Gardenwalk.
Enjoy a cup of coffee and go for a stroll.
Stop 3: The Ambleside Butterfly Garden
1460 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1C2
Just last year, I visited the Ambleside Butterfly Garden when attending the Harmony Arts Festival. I was with my friend from out of town and Kiddo, and I was utterly delighted. Both of them paused at the beauty of the garden. Still, they immediately lost me as I ran inside to meet all the plants and pollinators flying around.
While on my tour of the North Shore this summer, I arrived and again got promptly lost. Even though I followed Google Maps’ directions, I still couldn’t find it. Instead, I happened upon the community garden at Ambleside like I had the previous year and was again taken by it.
Ambleside Butterfly Gardens also seems to be under the names of Argyle Gardens and Argyle Village Pollinator Garden.
The Ambleside Butterfly Garden was started by a group of Master Gardeners and volunteers alongside the District of West Vancouver. They’ve planted a combination of 70% native plants and 30% hybrids that are all easy to grow and waterwise. Something blooms every day of the year to provide nectar and habitat to local pollinators.
The community space is a delight of beautiful vegetables and flowers growing together. High up is a central collection of hydrangeas and raised beds that tower over your head rather than how we typically look down in our gardens. Sweet peas, roses, and cosmos also tower over, and it’s such an interesting perspective.
The gardeners who care for this garden grow vegetables not only for their practicality but also to mix them amongst the annual and perennial flowers. They know the secret that to make a beautiful garden, you must attract pollinators to ensure the vegetables grow robust and fruitful.
But I got turned around when I went to see the Ambleside Butterfly Gardens. On Google Maps, they’re listed as the Ambleside Butterfly Garden, but it takes you to a parking lot on Bellevue Avenue near 17th St. The true location is just east of the Harmony Arts Festival Space on Argyle Ave, on the east side of the ferry building gallery.
On Google Maps, they’re listed as the Argyle Village Gardens, and the sign has been renamed to include all pollinators or to be considered a community garden space. Perhaps the butterfly garden project has changed, or it’s simply an evolution of the name.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal Tip: Put the address for Argyle Village Gardens in Google Maps to get to the right location. The address is 1460 Argyle Ave W. This is where you will find these beautiful pollinator gardens! I’ve recommended to Google Maps that they adjust the pin to show the true location, so maybe by the time you’re reading this, it’s been corrected.
The garden has a variety of pollinator-friendly flowers that are in full bloom, as well as a few vegetable plants and some community plots. The true showstopper of the garden was the two planted spaces on the exterior of the garden that host a variety of pollinator plants. And sure enough, they were buzzing with activity and even had a few pollinator baths that were being cared for.
Plenty of bees seen to be enjoying plants, such as these yarrow and echinops.
Stop 4: The Boatshed at Ambleside
1200 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7W 1C1
After spending the morning gazing at all those eye-catching flowers and plants, you’ll want to head to The Boatshed for a light lunch or snack. The location is just a short walk from Argyle Village Gardens along the seawall. Be sure to take your time to enjoy the seaside plants and the view of Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge.
At The Boatshed, I had tacos and a ginger beer for a light lunch between tours. The location, right on Ambleside Beach, can’t be beat. It makes you feel like you’re in this little seaside town when you’re really just in the heart of West Vancouver!
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: You can easily spend a full day at Ambleside Beach. You can walk along the seawall, enjoying both the beach and the plants that surround the area. There’s also the Boatshed container garden, the parking lot pollinator heavens, and the seaside plantings of hardy, drought-tolerant grasses and blooms.
Bonus Stop! GardenWorks North Vancouver
95 Philip Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1B5
GardenWorks has long been one of my favourite garden centres in the Lower Mainland, and I when I heard their newest location was in North Vancouver, I just had to stop by. Each GardenWorks location has a unique and individual style, so you can have a different garden shopping experience at each one.
GardenWorks is known for their buyers who stock not only the best and beautiful-est plants, but they also showcase some serious gift and home selections. Leave your partner at home and get some shopping therapy time at the store. It’s also my Kiddo’s favourite place to buy me gifts!
The new North Vancouver location didn’t disappoint. It flowed with the vibe of the North and West Vancouver garden styles, which are upscale and clean and lean toward plants that naturalize in a mountain environment.
They sell annuals and perennials for the garden, as well as indoor tropicals and succulents.
The garden centre looks small from the front, but as you go, it expands to massive proportions. It was created in an old bus terminal with high glass ceilings that give it an incredibly modern industrial vibe. It has the perfect air space, protected areas for plants to thrive, and a really comfortable shopping experience.
I enjoyed the beautiful selection of perennials, but even more impressive was the trees and shrubs. The hydrangea selection had some great varieties of panicle hydrangeas that would become the star of any garden.
I had a great chat with Tyler and Alex, the store manager and assistant manager, and asked for some suggestions of plants to use as the foundational plantings of my front garden containers. I wanted to change out my existing plants to create something that can have different designs throughout the season but also thrives in a container in full sun.
Beautiful plants and well stocked shelves at GardenWorks.
Their suggestions were fabulous and not what I had previously considered. The knowledge is truly there, as is the availability of high-quality plants. I highly recommend a stop at this garden centre.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: If you’re a tourist and don’t have a place to plant anything, I still recommend you stop at the indoor gift shop. It has so many things you just wouldn’t find anywhere else. I fell in love with some birdcage candleholders and an adorable cabbage dish that has made it onto my wish list for future Mother’s Days.
The indoor selection of gifts is vast and worth a stop.
Stop 5: Shipyards Night Market
19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2
Every year, I enjoy at least one evening at the Shipyards Night Market. It runs on Friday evenings during the warmer months and is definitely worth a visit if you’re here during this time. It’s fun, low-key, and accessible, as both dogs and children are welcome.
You’ll find plenty of delicious food and even more lovely people. Visit the shopping stalls and listen to the free live music.
While there, I popped over for a local craft beer, some vintage shopping, and a little bit of dancing before my sunset dinner reservation.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: The Shipyards Night Market is every Friday from May to September. It has free parking and admission and is one of the best options for a night market in the Lower Mainland, especially with the live music and beer gardens!
The Shipyards District is easily accessible from downtown Vancouver through the SeaBus.
Stop 7: Pier 7
25 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2
At this point, I was famished and happy to sit down for some wonderful views of downtown while eating fresh seafood at Pier 7.
Our table ordered the fresh-shucked oysters and burrata with a pistachio basil pesto and focaccia to start.
Then, we enjoyed the surf and turf, which included striploin, butter-poached lobster claw, tiger prawns, mashed potatoes, and seasonal veggies. We also had the seared halibut, which came with more potatoes, sauteed kale, and sundried tomatoes.
Of course, we also sipped on some bubbly while we enjoyed the view. The food was so balanced, but the best part was the service. We even got a visit from the chef!
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: Pier 7 is just a short walk from the Shipyards Night Market. I highly recommend coming on Friday night so you can visit both. Make a reservation in advance to ensure you get a good spot with a view.
Surf and turf at Pier 7.
Stop 8: The Pinnacle Hotel
138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B1
After a day of visiting some of the most beautiful gardens in town and eating THE best food, my head was truly ready to hit the pillow. Luckily for me, I was staying at the Pinnacle Hotel in The Shipyards, which houses Pier 7.
The location is really unmatched, as you can enjoy all the delights of the North Shore and are also very close to taking the SeaBus into downtown Vancouver.
And did I mention the view???? You can see all of Vancouver’s coastline and it’s just stunning. They also have a pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, and gym for you to use and unwind with at the end of your long day exploring.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: The entire Shipyards district and the hotel are dog-friendly. I met lots of furry visitors and gave them some scratches. I vowed to bring Ozzie the next time I visit!
The incredible views of Vancouver from the North Shore.
Day Two
If you’ve got the time and want to explore more of the North Shore, there’s plenty more to see. Here’s what I suggest as a second-day itinerary for those who want to see more of the gardens that the Vancouver area has to offer.
Stop 8: Pinnacle Hotel, The Lobby Restaurant
138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B1
The day starts off where yesterday ended! We ate right at the hotel at The Lobby Restaurant + Lounge at the Pinnacle Hotel. This restaurant highlights West Coast foods, but it was hinted that I HAD to order the Lobster Benny. It did not disappoint! This Eggs Benedict was prepared with garlic butter-sautéed lobster and hollandaise sauce, plus a side of potato lyonnaise.
Talk about delicious!
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: If you have a car, leave it parked for the morning and take the elevator to The Lobby restaurant. After breakfast, the stroll to Chiba Gardens will help you digest all the yummy food.
Enjoy the views of Vancouver while you walk in the Shipyards District.
Stop 9: Chiba Gardens
267 Esplanade W, North Vancouver, BC, CA, V7M 1A6
As a Master Gardener living in Vancouver for decades, there are very few gardens in the area I haven’t seen. Imagine my surprise when I saw that the itinerary had a garden I’d never heard of! The entrance is tucked away under a sea of foliage which makes for a magical but hidden garden.
Chiba Gardens is a traditional Japanese garden located on the northwest corner of Waterfront Park in North Vancouver. It is a short walk from the Shipyards. The garden opened in 1986 to honour North Vancouver’s sister city, Chiba.
Chiba donated two Japanese stone lanterns to North Vancouver, and local landscape architect, Toshimasa Ito, designed a garden to feature them.
The gifted stone lantern from Chiba.
Even if you don’t know the meaning behind the space, it feels quite special the moment you step in. Light filters through the tall maples onto the zigzag pathways that change from wood to stone to gravel. The lushness of the ferns, mosses, and native plantings chase every colour of green.
The circular pathways in the garden allow you to do a walking meditation where you can breathe deeply while finding peace in your mind amidst the city.
I chose to visit the Chiba Gardens after breakfast to do this walking meditation, resetting my intentions to be of gratitude and peace. It’s a great way to be thankful and accept the nourishment of a lovely meal while cooling off a heated body on a hot day.
The meditation pathway.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: I encourage everyone locally or on a North Shore garden tour to stop by the Chiba Gardens so they can slowly walk through the space and meditate. Try not to focus on any one element but take in the feeling of the entire space. Alternatively, slow down, sit, and focus on a tiny point on one tiny leaf or one reflection of light that comes through the maples, and just breathe in the calm peace.
Once you exit the Chiba Gardens, you’ll be reborn and ready for the excitement of Vancouver’s North Shore while feeling calm and full of gratitude.
Loutet Farm is the first urban farm located on public parkland in Canada. It’s a joint effort from the North Shore Neighbourhood House, North Vancouver, and UBC.
You can buy fresh produce as well as the locally grown flowers.
Located within a residential area, the farm grows plenty of produce right on the farm and is financially sustainable. This means all funds generated go back into operating the farm and creating jobs for North Shore residents.
The farm hosts tours, workshops, and other events. It also hosts a twice-weekly market where people can purchase locally grown and affordable produce and connect with other local vendors.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: You can buy fresh produce grown at Loutet Farm on Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM and Wednesdays from 2 to 6 PM during the growing season from May-end to October. Check out the markets if you’re in the area!
Local vendors also sell at the Saturday Community Market.
Bonus Stop: Gerry’s Garden
1400 Rufus Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2N2
Next door to Loutet Farm is Gerry’s Garden and it was such a wonderful surprise, a true bonus. The garden was started by 96-year-old resident Gerry MacPherson. After losing his son to cancer in 2007, he turned to gardening as a form of therapy.
What was once a beaten-up piece of land between Loutet Park and Brooksbank Elementary School, is now Gerry’s Garden. He spent 10 years turning it into a beautiful space full of perennials for everyone in the community to visit. It’s worth stopping by for a walk and to sit and listen to the birds in Gerry’s Garden.
This is exactly what Vancouver’s North Shore is all about—community and beautiful, natural spaces.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: Sit on the red benches throughout the space and take in all that has been lovingly planted in Gerry’s Garden. In the quiet, some things become more audible, like birdsong, buzzing bees, and perhaps some music from the band at the farm market.
Gerry’s garden has plenty of places to sit throughout.
Stop 11: Nook Restaurant, Shipyards
150 Victory Ship Way #160, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2
In the Shipyards District, you’ll find the most beautiful plates at Nook. For lunch, we had a tasting menu of lovely treats, including:
Marinated olives
Pate with port-glazed onions
Burrata and prosciutto
And their famous meatballs!
We also enjoyed some sips, including the Lampone (raspberry, lemon, and soda) and the Zenzero (lemon, ginger cordial, and soda).
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: bring your family! Kids, dogs, and everyone is welcome in the Shipyards District. Nook’s patio is on the Shipyards Splash Park, so you can sip and snack while spending a day with kiddos. Oh, and order the meatballs. Did I mention the meatballs?
Stop 12: Maplewood Flats / Wild Bird Trust of BC
2649 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver, BC V7H 1B1
I’ve gone to Maplewood Flats before for birding. It’s a birders paradise and an amazing spot to see other local wildlife. Probably because of the native plantings!
Located on the land of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation (TWN) and Coast Salish Peoples, you’ll find a space dedicated to celebrating the diversity of the North Shore. Before settlers came, the area consisted of contiguous mudflats that stretched across the Burrard Inlet. These spaces were used by the TWN to hunt and gather fish, shellfish, waterfowl, and more.
From salmonberry to hardhack to sword ferns, many native species cover the lands of Maplewood Flats. Walking down Maplewood Flats will allow you to see it all if you’re interested in the local flora and fauna.
My #NorthShoreLikeaLocal tip: Bring some bug spray or wear long sleeves. The native species are definitely thriving, and so are the food sources for those native species, especially the mosquitoes. Where there is life, there is beauty and history.
Sorbus aucuparia is an excellent food source for birds and is a native tree you can find all over.
Final Thoughts on Vancouver’s North Shore
Discovering the North Vancouver North Shore like a local was a really fun experience. I got to experience the restaurants and the vibrant waterfront, from the Shipyards to the peacefulness of Ambleside.
This is a great tour to discover the quieter side of Vancouver, all while experiencing the stunning gardens and history of the area. This can easily be a one-day tour, but it can also be extended into two for those who have the time for more exploration.
Again, a huge thank you to Vancouver’s North Shore and Gardens BC for inviting me on this tour and introducing a few new favourite spots.
Let me know which stops you try out and which ones are your favourite in the comments below!
But if you have some flexibility around where to live, there are cities and neighbourhoods in Canada where homes can be had for less than seven figures—lots of them, in fact. All but five of the 45 cities and regions analyzed by our partner Zoocasa in this year’s Where to Buy Real Estate in Canada report had benchmark prices below $1 million (as of the end of 2023).
See the list of Canadian cities and regions below, in order of most to least affordable (followed by neighbourhood data for Toronto and Vancouver). You can sort the data in each table by tapping on the column headers, or filter results using the last row. You can download the data to your device in Excel, CSV and PDF formats.
Canadian cities and regions with a benchmark price under $1 million
Prohibitively high prices around Greater Toronto and B.C.’s Lower Mainland can obscure the fact that the national average home price was a tad under $735,000 in 2023, according to the benchmark Zoocasa used in its analysis.
And even in the regions with benchmark prices above the $1-million threshold, the survey demonstrates there are more affordable neighbourhoods to be found. It should be noted our statistics do not differentiate between housing types, so don’t expect to find detached homes for these prices in these cities. But it’s still possible to get a toehold in the market with a condo or townhouse for less than $1 million, sometimes a lot less.
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Where to get a home for less than $1 million in Toronto
Our survey turned up no less than 106 neighbourhoods in the city of Toronto with benchmark prices below $1 million—the most affordable being Tandridge, with a benchmark price of just $484,269.
Toronto neighbourhoods
With prices like those, you might assume there’s something wrong with these neighbourhoods. Consider that a lot of them are coming up in the world. Tandridge, along with Rivalda Heights, Keelegate, Humbergate, Cook Village, Duncanwoods, Morningside, Woodbine Downs, South Steeles, Glenfield, Chapel Glen, Dorset Park, Glen Long and Mount Olive have all seen price appreciation of 50% or more over the past five years. Yorkwoods and University Village have both gone up more than 80%, and Beaumond Heights, an astonishing 113%!
Beyond those in the city of Toronto, we count an additional 65 neighbourhoods across the Greater Toronto Area where the benchmark price was below $1 million at the end of 2023.
Greater Toronto Area neighbourhoods
How much would a typical home in Toronto’s Tandridge neighbourhood cost you in monthly mortgage payments? Using a mortgage payment calculator, we find that with the minimum down payment of $24,213 and a mortgage of 25 years, you’d be looking at a monthly payment of $2,685—based on the lowest available five-year fixed mortgage rate on June 13. Add in taxes, insurance and fees, and you’d need a total of $40,706 in cash to close the deal. With 20% down ($96,854), the monthly payment would be $2,240 on a 25-year amortization.
Where to get a home for less than $1 million in Vancouver
In the city of Vancouver, which represents less than one-quarter of the Metro Vancouver population, we counted just six enclaves with benchmark prices under $1 million.
For more information on real estate trends and the top neighbourhoods in each region, as well as insights on the top-ranked regions nationally, return to the national page or select a region from the drop down menu.
Zoocasa is an award-winning consumer real estate search portal. It uses data and technology to deliver an intelligent, end-to-end real estate experience.
In the table below, you’ll find the best Vancouver neighbourhoods for real estate purchases. To view all the data, slide the columns right or left using your fingers or mouse. You can download the data to your device in Excel, CSV and PDF formats.
Source: Zoocasa
Top three neighbourhoods in Vancouver
The steep price tag of homes in Point Grey is justified by their extravagant features. Sprawling mansions grace expansive properties that seamlessly blend into meticulously maintained streets. In spite of a 2023 benchmark home price of $2,532,842, Point Grey has seen steady price growth in recent years. In many Vancouver neighbourhoods, the benchmark home price stalled or fell over the last year, but Point Grey’s benchmark price was 6% higher than in 2022. It was 24% higher than in 2020 and 14% higher than in 2018, earning Point Grey a value score of 3.9.
Point Grey’s housing stock is mainly luxury houses, and many of Vancouver’s premier amenities are nestled within or near this opulent community. Everything is conveniently within reach, from top-tier schools like Queen Mary Elementary, Lord Byng Secondary, Jules Quesnel Elementary and West Point Grey Academy to exceptional recreational facilities like Jericho Tennis Club, Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and Brock House. While Point Grey may seem like an exclusive gated community reserved for the elite, a mix of residents calls this neighbourhood home, including working professionals, business owners, faculty members of the University of British Columbia, artists, university students and young families. One drawback of Point Grey is its accessibility score of 1.9, which is the third-lowest in Vancouver.
One of the more expensive areas of the city, Dunbar is located near the University of British Columbia campus. It’s home to a mix of high-income people and older residents who bought in years ago. That’s why you’ll find everything from enormous mansions to small bungalows in this neighbourhood. And it’s why Dunbar had a 2023 benchmark home price of $3,044,625. However, home prices aren’t increasing as fast as those in other Vancouver neighbourhoods. The benchmark price remained unchanged last year, and it was 12% higher than in 2020 and just 7% higher than in 2018. As a result, Dunbar has a value score of 1.8. Its neighbourhood economics score of 5.0 helped propel it to the number two spot on our list.
Residents in this area love the local golf course and their easy access to the forested trails of Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Indeed, the area has a lot of parks—as well as riding stables nearby. While there are several great public schools in Dunbar, the area is known for its private schools, including Crofton House and St. George’s. Dunbar has a family feel, with many baseball diamonds and soccer fields for extracurricular activities. It’s no surprise that it has Vancouver’s highest concentration of households with children (at 51%). Because the housing stock is mostly single-family homes, Dunbar is not as accessible as other areas of the city, but it still has a decent accessibility score of 2.9 out of 5.
Killarney is perched on East Vancouver’s south-facing slope, offering a scenic view of the Fraser River. Housing costs in this area are relatively more reasonable compared to downtown, offering home buyers a balance between affordability and proximity to the city centre. But having seen significant price growth in recent years, homes here are also a great investment. Killarney’s 2023 benchmark home price was $1,677,192, which was 1% higher than in 2022, 30% higher than in 2020, and 27% higher than in 2018. That works out to a value score of 4.4.
As one of the newer neighbourhoods in Vancouver, Killarney radiates a stronger connection to nature and a distinct lack of congestion. However, it falls short in terms of accessibility, earning a neighbourhood accessibility score of only 0.7. Known for its tranquility, Killarney features small shopping plazas and residential cul-de-sacs. With four public schools, including the notable Killarney Secondary—the largest secondary school in Vancouver—the neighbourhood has a large number of households with children (47%).
What’s happened in the Vancouver real estate market?
In 2013, Vancouver home prices followed a trajectory similar to those in other markets; the benchmark price continuously climbed until it reached a peak of $1,210,700 in July, and then it gradually declined, finishing the year at $1,168,700. Despite higher borrowing costs last year, the Vancouver real estate market still experienced price growth, with the benchmark price rising by about 5% from January to December. Most of this price growth occurred in the first half of the year, driven by an exceptionally limited supply of homes.
Demand for the more affordable home types stalled, while the luxury market saw less of a slowdown. “The price of luxury homes went up quite a bit last year,” says Geoff Pershick, a local eXp real estate agent. (Zoocasa, the author of this study, is wholly owned by eXp World Holdings.) “More homes sold for more money than expected, and it speaks to the influx of capital that is coming to the area.”
High interest rates deterred many sellers from listing last year and prompted many buyers, including cash buyers, to postpone their purchases. But better conditions are already emerging for 2024.
“The global wealth shift is ushering in an increasingly diverse group of buyers to Vancouver,” says Pershick. “Last year’s uncertainties might have slowed down [real estate] activity, but with interest rates finding their footing and a sense of stability returning, I’m expecting a resurgence of cash buyers.”
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What’s next for real estate in Vancouver?
The number of Vancouver home sales was up about 6% month-over-month in January, and up about 45% month-over-month in February, according to Greater Vancouver Realtors. If this momentum continues, the Vancouver real estate market is poised to have a stronger year in 2024 than in 2023.
“As interest rates decline, we’re going to see a surge in buyers alongside a decrease in sellers within the Vancouver market,” says Pershick. “This imbalance will drive property prices up and shape a competitive landscape for potential home buyers.”
Though buyer sentiment is improving from 2023, the supply of Vancouver homes has remained scarce since last year, pushing the market further into seller’s territory. “Greater Vancouver is consistently grappling with supply challenges, and I don’t think that will change in 2024,” says Pershick.
Between December and January, the benchmark home prices in Port Coquitlam and Coquitlam increased by about 3% and 2%, respectively. In Port Moody, the benchmark home price dipped by about 1%, but home prices will likely climb as the spring market kicks off.
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Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond, B.C.
The city of Vancouver is bordered by Richmond to the south, and by Burnaby and New Westminster to the east. Burnaby and Richmond are B.C.’s third- and fourth-largest cities, respectively, each with a population above 200,000.
Best places to buy real estate in Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond
In the table below, you’ll find the top neighbourhoods for real estate purchases in Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond. To view all the data, slide the columns right or left using your fingers or mouse. You can download the data to your device in Excel, CSV and PDF formats.
Source: Zoocasa
Top three neighbourhoods in Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond
Situated in Richmond, Hamilton is just north of Annacis Island and the Annacis Channel, and west of Queensborough. Hamilton’s 2023 benchmark home price was $947,750 as a result of a consistent and stable increase in property values. The benchmark was 3% higher than in 2022, 37% higher than in 2020, and 22% higher than in 2018. This trend contributes to Hamilton’s impressive value score of 4.6.
Hamilton is a distinctive neighbourhood with a blend of residential properties, predominantly single-family homes, alongside businesses and recreational facilities. It offers various amenities such as the Hamilton Community Centre, Hamilton Highway Off-Leash Dog Park, and the Bridges Marina. The neighbourhood boasts several parks, including the well-kept and popular Hamilton Community Park. Locals appreciate the trails that lead to the waterfront, a popular spot for dogs to take a swim. Hamilton has the highest percentage of households with children (57%) in this part of Metro Vancouver, by a significant margin. Families can send their kids to Hamilton Elementary School, the Choice School for Gifted Children, or Queen Elizabeth Elementary School. However, Hamilton has the third-worst accessibility score among the three cities, at 0.3.
In the southwest corner of Richmond lies the historic community of Steveston, where the powerful Fraser River meets the Pacific Ocean. Steveston is bordered by Williams Road to the north, the Fraser River to the south, No 2 Road to the east, and the Strait of Georgia to the west. The neighbourhood’s 2023 benchmark home price was $1,529,183, considerably higher than those of surrounding neighbourhoods. Home prices in Steveston Village have been on a slight upward trajectory. The benchmark home price was 1% lower than in 2022, but 28% higher than in 2020 and 17% higher than in 2018. As a result, Steveston has a modest value score of 2.0. However, it has by far the highest neighbourhood economics score in the region (5.0), which helped push it to the top.
So, what brings buyers to this neighbourhood? Following the closure of the fish canneries, significant residential development has transformed the area, with the emergence of new luxurious condominiums and townhomes reshaping the landscape. Residents benefit from outstanding local dining options, unique boutiques, a picturesque boardwalk that is popular among both tourists and locals, beach access, parks, playgrounds and biking trails—all enhancing Steveston’s charm. While primarily residential, Steveston has several parks near schools like Diefenbaker and James McKinney Elementary, along with the expansive Manoah Steves Neighbourhood School Park, which features four sports fields, three ball diamonds and a playground. The neighbourhood has one of the highest concentrations of households with children (49%).
Nestled in North Burnaby, the Brentwood Park neighbourhood has traditionally offered a balanced mix of affordable single-family detached homes and condominiums. With The Amazing Brentwood housing spectacular developments, Brentwood Park is poised to become one of the largest urban destinations in North America. In 2023, the neighbourhood’s benchmark home price stood at $881,425. Home prices in Brentwood Park haven’t risen as rapidly as those in other neighbourhoods on our list. The 2023 benchmark price was 1% lower than in 2022, 18% higher than in 2020, and 11% higher than in 2018. This translates to a value score of 3.2. But Brentwood Park has one of the highest neighbourhood economics scores, 3.1, in this part of Metro Vancouver, behind only Steveston.
The neighbourhood boasts stunning views of Burnaby Mountain and the North Shore Mountains. Beecher Park offers forested areas, a sports field, a children’s playground and Beecher Creek, a local salmon spawning habitat connecting to Still Creek. Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool & Fitness Centre is well known for its swimming pool, children’s water play area, sauna and steam room, weight room, and more. The area is also home to the McGill Branch of the Burnaby Public Library. Public schools in Brentwood include Brentwood Park Elementary, for kindergarten to grade seven, and Alpha Secondary School, which offers an advanced placement program allowing students to take college-level courses while still in high school.
What happened in the real estate markets of Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond?
Real estate activity was stable in all three cities last year, and there was much less fervour compared to previous years. Home prices experienced modest price growth from January to December 2023, though this was due more to tight competition than increased demand.
Burnaby East experienced the most price growth, with the benchmark price rising about 7% from January to December. But the area is also the most expensive, with a December benchmark price of $1,157,400. New Westminster had the most affordable homes, with a benchmark home price of $815,600 in December, up about 4% from the beginning of the year. In Richmond, the benchmark home price rose from $1,109,200 in January to $1,153,400 in December—an increase of about 4%.
“Interest rates played a pivotal role in shaping affordability [in these areas], and there was a noticeable withdrawal from the market among potential buyers,” says Pershick. For the three cities combined, total home sales across all property types in 2023 came in below 2022 levels.
What’s next for real estate in Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond?
Between December 2023 and February 2024, benchmark home prices in all three cities inched upward, suggesting a stronger start to the year than in 2023. Of the three, Richmond’s benchmark price increased the most, rising about 2% to $1,173,100 in February. Burnaby South has also experienced a decent increase, with the benchmark price rising by about 2% to $1,113,500 over the same period.
As of February, year-to-date sales for detached properties in Burnaby and Richmond are up compared to 2023. However, it’s Burnaby condo apartments that have gotten the most attention, with year-to-date sales up by about 19%.
