Nightlife & the Arts in Vancouver

Vancouver Nightlife

With easy access to the sea and mountains, it's no surprise that Vancouver is such an outdoorsy kind of town, but once the sun goes down, the city's dwellers trade in their kayaks, hiking shoes, and North Face Windbreakers for something decidedly more chic.

There's plenty to choose from in just about every neighborhood: hipster Gastown has usurped Yaletown for the coolest cluster of late-night establishments and is now the place to go for swanky clubs and trendy wine bars. The gay-friendly West End is all about bumpin' and grindin' in retro bars and clubs, while a posh crowd of glitterati flocks to Yaletown's brewpubs and stylish lounges. Meanwhile, Kitsilano (the Venice Beach of Vancouver) attracts a laid-back bunch who like to sip beer and frilly cocktails on cool bar patios with killer views, especially in the summer. And with its fair share of galleries, film festivals, cutting-edge theater, comedy, opera, and ballet, Vancouver (also known as Hollywood North) also has all manner of cultural stimuli that you might be looking for.

View all nightlife

Browse Vancouver Nightlife

Fodor's Choice

Vancouver Fodor's Choice Nightlife

More about Fodor's Choice »

Browse Vancouver Nightlife By Location