I'll be in Vancouver for the first time and traveling alone. I'll be attending shows at the Orpheum Theater and have booked the Moda Hotel across the street. Can anyone give me feedback as to the area around the hotel? I'd also like some advice on what to do by myself for three days during the day without renting a car. Thanks in advance!
Maggi

I looked up the Moda Hotel and checked their location. You are in a good area and it is safe. When I went there a couple years ago, I walked down the streets in late evening and felt fine. You are only a block away from Robson Street. Lots of shopping and restaurants there. Good stuff!

Check out Granville Island. You could take a bus over there and it isn't too far at all. There's also Stanley Park. A lot of things in Stanley Park including the aquarium. It's one of my favourite aquariums I've ever been to. Gastown is a fun little area as well. Your hotel's website has some good information on local attractions you may want to check out.

I stayed at the Waterfront area (about 4-5 blocks from where you will be) and had no problems getting around without a car.

You gave me a lot of good suggestions, I will definitely check them out. I do love aquariums too. I'm relieved to hear the area is OK. I picked it specifically so I could walk across the street to the theater each night. Thanks!

Would you be coming out of the back of the Orpheum because the theater entrance is on Granville Street and the Hotel is on Seymour street which is one block behind the theater. The area used to be a little suspect years ago but has cleaned up it's image. As in all big cities, at night, just be aware of your surroundings. Just a few blocks a little further east of the hotel is the Yaletown neighbourhood that is full of shops and eateries (lots of the old buildings being revamped)--it's the latest "in place" to be. I was down Robson Street in January but was really disappointed in the whole thing. As an ex Vancouverite, it too has changed over the years and not necessarily for the better. Gastown too has deteriorated and I was really surprised at how seedy it had become--I wonder why they haven't made an effort to clean it up for the Olympics. Downtown Vancouver is walkable and interesting. Check out their library building just a block away from where you will be staying. It's a great city.

I don't know what entrance I will be using, but I will keep my eyes open. I took a look at pics of the library building and it certainly is interesting architecture. Thanks for the heads up!