Lonsdale Quay Market, Vancouver - a group of people standing outside of a building
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Lonsdale Quay Market Vancouver

4.4
·8k reviews·North Vancouver, Canada

Waterfront market with shops, food, and stunning Vancouver harbor views, currently undergoing renovations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Lonsdale Quay Market, Vancouver - a group of people standing outside of a building

Lonsdale Quay Market Vancouver

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Waterfront market with shops, food, and stunning Vancouver harbor views, currently undergoing renovations.

4.4
(8k reviews)

"It's worth it just to take the Seabus across the inlet; it docks right at the quay."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Combine with Shipyards

Don't miss The Shipyards nearby for a more complete Lower Lonsdale experience. :world_map:

⛴️ Seabus Ride is a Must

Take the Seabus from downtown Vancouver; it docks right at the Quay and offers great city views. :ferry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Views

Waterfront Views

Upper levels and outdoor seating

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver harbor, Stanley Park, and the city skyline. Perfect for a scenic break.

Reddit
Local Food Vendors

Local Food Vendors

Market food hall

Sample diverse eats from local vendors, from fish & chips to international flavors and sweet treats.

Reddit
Unique Retailers

Unique Retailers

Market shops

Discover artisan crafts, souvenirs, and local products. Phoenix bookstore is a notable independent shop.

Reddit
King Taps Restaurant

King Taps Restaurant

South end of Lonsdale Quay

A large, two-story restaurant with beautiful water views, known for pizza, shareable plates, and cocktails.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Lonsdale Quay Market

While Lonsdale Quay Market offers great waterfront views and local shops, many Reddit users note it's currently undergoing significant renovations, impacting the number of open vendors and restaurants. Consider combining your visit with The Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale for a more complete experience. Reddit+1

Best Time to Visit for a Full Experience

To avoid potential closures and experience the market's full potential, aim for weekdays outside of peak renovation periods. Some Redditors suggest visiting during specific events like a night market if available, or focusing on the surrounding Shipyards area which is consistently vibrant. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings (event dependent)
Why
Potential for night markets/events
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Festivals and markets add vibrancy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Until next time vancouver! #fyp #vancouver #vancouverfood #halal #travel
@sahmd9
30.3K likes • 454.1K views

🎯 Combine with Shipyards

Don't miss The Shipyards nearby for a more complete Lower Lonsdale experience. Reddit :world_map:

⛴️ Seabus Ride is a Must

Take the Seabus from downtown Vancouver; it docks right at the Quay and offers great city views. Reddit :ferry:

also go multiple days its worth it!! #fyp #aritziawarehousesale #aritzia #vancouver #tipsandtricks
@angelinapratap
25.5K likes • 293K views
New spot in North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay - after waiting for what felt like forever, King Taps is finally open! 🎉 The water views are beautiful and the restaurant is huge! I recommend trying: • Pepperoni Pizza • Santorini Salad - I’m obsessed • Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich • Caramel Chocolate Mousse Trio - I’ve loved this for years, very sweet but reminds me of a Crunchie Bar in a light ...
laura.ullock
1.9K likes • 112.6K views

🍩 Donut Delights Nearby

Try outstanding donut shops like Cream Pony or Lucky's Donuts just a short walk away. Reddit :doughnut:

🛍️ Check for Night Markets

Look out for potential night markets or food truck events, especially during warmer months. Instagram :shopping_bags:

👇🏻Guide to Lonsdale Quay, North Vancouver 📍 1️⃣ How to reach there? 🚗 15 mins drive from Vancouver via lions gate bridge ⛴️ 15 mins by public transit from Waterfront station (downtown Vancouver) via seabus. It is schedule to leave every 10 mins throughout the day & drops right outside the market. 2️⃣Timings of the market: Monday to Friday- 9 am to 7 pm 3️⃣ Things to do: - Shopping at 60+ local ...
milestomacaroni
117 likes • 4.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Combine with Shipyards

Don't miss The Shipyards nearby for a more complete Lower Lonsdale experience. Reddit :world_map:

⛴️ Seabus Ride is a Must

Take the Seabus from downtown Vancouver; it docks right at the Quay and offers great city views. Reddit :ferry:

🍩 Donut Delights Nearby

Try outstanding donut shops like Cream Pony or Lucky's Donuts just a short walk away. Reddit :doughnut:

🛍️ Check for Night Markets

Look out for potential night markets or food truck events, especially during warmer months. Instagram :shopping_bags:

☕ Grab a Coffee

Enjoy a coffee from local spots like Nemesis Coffee or 49th Parallel. Instagram :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lonsdale Quay Market offers beautiful waterfront views and a historically vibrant atmosphere, though recent extensive renovations have impacted vendor availability. Visitors still appreciate the Seabus journey, the surrounding Shipyards area, and the potential for unique local finds and dining, despite some closures. Reddit+2

"A lively waterfront market with over 80 stalls and shops offering fresh seafood, baked goods, coffee, international eats, artisan crafts, and souvenirs. Great spot to grab fish & chips, gelato, or a local coffee while enjoying harbor views from the upstairs lookout. Friendly vendors and a vibrant atmosphere make it perfect for a casual stroll or light shopping. Open daily around 10:00–19:00."

Judy Huang

"Vibrant market with a great mix of fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and unique local products. The waterfront location makes it even more enjoyable with nice views while browsing. Plenty of food stalls and cafés to grab a quick bite. Friendly vendors and a lively atmosphere make it a fun place to visit for shopping or just wandering around."

Val T.

"Awesome, irresistiblely attractive to all people, Lonsdale Quay Market, situated in Northern Vancouver beside Vancouver harbour, offers an amazing & embracing atmosphere in terms of it's association with not only soothing-view of expanse of water with lineage of beautiful buildings, greeneries of Stanley Park on opposite side of water, ships gliding, sea planes flying - a view of harmony & forever-awarding-serinity, but also singers singing or playing instruments - people having brunch, lunch with drinking in bars or restaurants - buyers purchasing goods or food from farmer market - all these are creating an atmosphere of harmony & merry-go-round state while people are having care-free-but-disciplined approach.
It's an in unforgettably immersive environment."

sajedur rahman

What People Like

Stunning harbor views
Scenic Seabus ride
Vibrant atmosphere (historically)

What People Dislike

Ongoing renovations
Vendor closures
Reduced selection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the Seabus from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver. The ride is about 15 minutes and the Seabus docks directly at Lonsdale Quay. Instagram Alternatively, a 15-minute drive via the Lions Gate Bridge is also an option. Instagram

Yes, there is paid parking available at Lonsdale Quay. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Taking public transit via the Seabus is often recommended. Reddit

The market is generally open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, and on weekends. However, hours can vary, and some vendors may have different schedules. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Absolutely! The Seabus is the primary public transit option, arriving directly at the quay. Several bus routes also serve the Lonsdale Quay area, making it very accessible. Instagram

Many visitors recommend combining a visit to the market with exploring The Shipyards and the Lower Lonsdale area. The Seabus ride itself offers fantastic views and is a highlight for many. Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Lonsdale Quay Market itself is free. You only pay for any food, drinks, or items you purchase from the vendors. Instagram

There are no admission fees to enter Lonsdale Quay Market. It's a public space for browsing, shopping, and dining. Instagram

Yes, Lonsdale Quay sometimes hosts special events, including night markets and seasonal festivals. Keep an eye on their social media or local event listings for announcements. InstagramReddit

Recent reports and Reddit discussions indicate that Lonsdale Quay Market has been undergoing significant renovations for an extended period. This has led to some vendor closures and a less complete experience for visitors at times. Reddit+2

While the market itself may be impacted by renovations, many still find it worthwhile when combined with the adjacent Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale area, which offers great views and amenities. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market offers a variety of food options, including fresh seafood, baked goods, international cuisine, coffee, and snacks. While some favorite spots have closed due to renovations, there are still local vendors to explore. Reddit+1

Historically, Lonsdale Quay Market was known for its seafood. While some vendors have closed, you might still find some fresh seafood options, though it's less prominent than before. Reddit

Despite renovations, some popular spots include The Soup Meister's Nephew for soup Reddit and potentially vendors within the King Taps restaurant for pizza and shareable plates. Instagram It's best to check on-site for current open vendors. Reddit

While specific vendor offerings can change, the diverse nature of the market usually provides some vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices. Exploring the food stalls will reveal current options. Instagram

Yes, you can find good coffee at Lonsdale Quay Market. Nemesis Coffee and 49th Parallel are mentioned as popular spots in the area. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Vancouver skyline, Stanley Park, and the harbor activity. The upper levels of the market also provide great vantage points. Reddit

Generally, yes, you can take photos for personal use. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their products or stalls. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the waterfront views. Midday can be bright but still offers clear vistas. Reddit

Yes, drone usage is typically restricted in populated areas and near waterfronts for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Expect to capture scenic harbor shots, cityscapes, bustling market scenes, and architectural details of the quay and surrounding areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lonsdale Quay Market can be a fun outing for families, especially when combined with exploring The Shipyards. The Seabus ride itself is an adventure for kids, offering great views of the water and city. Instagram While the market's renovations might limit some food options, there are usually kid-friendly snacks and treats available. Reddit The open spaces around The Shipyards are great for running around, and during winter, there's often free ice skating available. Reddit Keep an eye out for any family-friendly events or markets that might be happening. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers from Vancouver

Lonsdale Quay Market is an ideal destination for a day trip from downtown Vancouver. The Seabus offers a scenic and efficient 15-minute journey directly to the quay, making it incredibly accessible. InstagramReddit While the market itself is undergoing renovations, the surrounding Lower Lonsdale area, including The Shipyards, provides plenty to see and do, from waterfront strolls to dining at places like King Taps. InstagramReddit+1 Don't forget to explore the unique shops and grab a coffee or a treat from nearby vendors. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Seabus ride itself is an affordable way to enjoy scenic views of Vancouver. InstagramReddit While some vendors at Lonsdale Quay Market might be pricier, you can often find more affordable food options like fish and chips or international snacks. Reddit Exploring The Shipyards and enjoying the free public spaces is a great way to experience the area without spending much. Reddit+1 Look for deals at local shops or consider packing your own snacks to enjoy by the water. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Lonsdale Quay Market Experience: What to Expect

Lonsdale Quay Market, situated on the North Vancouver waterfront, has historically been a vibrant hub for local vendors, food stalls, and unique shops. Visitors often praise its stunning harbor views and the lively atmosphere created by shoppers and performers. Reddit However, recent discussions on Reddit highlight that the market has been undergoing extensive renovations for a considerable time, leading to a reduced number of open businesses and a less complete experience than in the past. Reddit+2 This has led some to suggest that while the market itself might be a 'hard pass' for some, the surrounding area, particularly The Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale, remains a significant draw. Reddit+1

Despite the ongoing changes, the Seabus ride to Lonsdale Quay is consistently recommended as a highlight, offering spectacular views of the Vancouver skyline and harbor. InstagramReddit Once there, visitors can still find some local businesses, including the notable Phoenix bookstore, and enjoy the waterfront ambiance. Reddit The King Taps restaurant, a large establishment with waterfront seating, has also opened, adding another dining option. Instagram For those looking for specific treats, nearby donut shops like Cream Pony and Lucky's Donuts are highly recommended. Reddit

When planning your visit, it's advisable to manage expectations regarding the market's current state due to renovations. Consider it as part of a broader exploration of the Lower Lonsdale area, which offers a more consistently vibrant experience with its public spaces, restaurants, and views. Reddit+1 Checking for any special events, such as night markets, might also enhance your visit. InstagramReddit

Navigating Renovations and Finding the Best Bites

The current state of Lonsdale Quay Market is a frequent topic of discussion among visitors and locals. Many Reddit users report that significant renovations have been ongoing, impacting the availability of vendors and dining options. Reddit+2 This has led to a shift in focus for many, with the adjacent Shipyards area often cited as a more reliably engaging destination. Reddit+1 While some beloved food spots like Cheshire Cheese and Korean Fried Chicken are gone, Reddit the market still aims to offer a variety of culinary experiences. Reddit

For those seeking specific culinary delights, the market has historically been a place for fresh seafood and baked goods. Reddit While the selection may be reduced, exploring the remaining stalls is key. The Soup Meister's Nephew is a recommended spot for soup, Reddit and the new King Taps restaurant offers a more substantial dining experience with pizzas and shareable plates. Instagram Donut enthusiasts should make a point to visit nearby Cream Pony or Lucky's Donuts for exceptional treats. Reddit It's worth noting that the market's transformation aims to create a more modern food hall experience, but the timeline for completion has been extended, causing some frustration. Reddit+1

When visiting, be prepared for a potentially altered market landscape. Focus on enjoying the waterfront views, the Seabus journey, and exploring the broader Lower Lonsdale area. If you do visit the market, look for any remaining local gems and consider the nearby culinary hotspots for a more complete taste of the area. Reddit+2

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