Shipyards District Lower Lonsdale
A revitalized historic waterfront district in North Vancouver, offering vibrant markets, scenic views, and a lively community atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively night market atmosphere
Shipyards District Lower Lonsdale
Best Time
Lively night market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revitalized historic waterfront district in North Vancouver, offering vibrant markets, scenic views, and a lively community atmosphere.
"The Shipyards District is a fantastic place to spend a day, with great ambiance, family fun, and festive vibes."
🎯 Free Admission Fun
Enjoy the Shipyards Night Market and Christmas Market without an entry fee! :moneywithwings:
⛸️ Skate for Free!
Bring your own skates to the Shipyards Skate Plaza for free fun, or rent for a small fee. :ice_skate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shipyards Night Market
The Shipyards
Vibrant Friday night market with food trucks, artisan vendors, live music, and a lively atmosphere. Free admission!
Shipyards Christmas Market
The Shipyards
Magical holiday market featuring twinkling lights, local crafts, festive treats, and a free outdoor skating rink.
Waterfront Promenade & Views
Lower Lonsdale Waterfront
Stroll along the scenic waterfront, enjoy ocean views, and spot occasional marine life like seals.
The Polygon Gallery
Adjacent to The Shipyards
Contemporary art gallery showcasing diverse exhibitions with stunning waterfront architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Fridays & Festive Fun
Getting There & Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Fun
Enjoy the Shipyards Night Market and Christmas Market without an entry fee! :moneywithwings:
⛸️ Skate for Free!
Bring your own skates to the Shipyards Skate Plaza for free fun, or rent for a small fee. :ice_skate:
🚢 Easy SeaBus Access
A quick 15-minute SeaBus ride from downtown Vancouver makes getting here a breeze. :ferry:
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Discover unique crafts and goods from over 80 local vendors at the markets. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Fun
Enjoy the Shipyards Night Market and Christmas Market without an entry fee! :moneywithwings:
⛸️ Skate for Free!
Bring your own skates to the Shipyards Skate Plaza for free fun, or rent for a small fee. :ice_skate:
🚢 Easy SeaBus Access
A quick 15-minute SeaBus ride from downtown Vancouver makes getting here a breeze. :ferry:
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Discover unique crafts and goods from over 80 local vendors at the markets. :shopping_bags:
🌊 Waterfront Strolls
Enjoy scenic walks along the Spirit Trail with beautiful ocean views. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Shipyards District, particularly its vibrant summer Night Market and enchanting Christmas Market, both offering free admission and a lively atmosphere. The scenic waterfront views, accessible location via SeaBus, and family-friendly activities like ice skating are frequently praised. While generally positive, some may find the markets can get crowded during peak times.
"The Shipyard Christmas Market is a great activity during the holiday season. This night market is FREE entrance. There were a lot of vendors onsite and the location was perfect! It was by the lonsdale quay by the water, the view at night was fantastic. Highly recommend this place."
Just Me Traveling
"Great place to spend a day in North Vancouver.
Visiting the market, walking through the dock, having lunch or dinner in one of the many restaurants around it. Shipyard has a great ambiance, family and festive"
Sandra Gutierrez Montoya
"It's our first time to visit this place and we had so much fun walking on their trail! You'll love it if you're a nature lover coz you'll enjoy the waterfront view and there's a lot of people with their dogs, too!"
Helen Alvarez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver to the Lonsdale Quay terminal. From there, it's a short, scenic 15-minute walk to The Shipyards District.
Yes, there is paid parking available in the vicinity, including at the Lonsdale Quay parkade. However, taking public transit like the SeaBus is often recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Absolutely! The Spirit Trail runs along the waterfront, offering a beautiful and accessible cycling route to The Shipyards.
SeaBus typically runs frequently throughout the day and into the evening. It's best to check the TransLink website for the most up-to-date schedules.
The area is generally accessible with paved walkways and ramps. The waterfront promenade is flat and easy to navigate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Shipyards District itself is free to explore. The popular Shipyards Night Market and Christmas Market also offer free admission.
The Shipyards Night Market typically runs every Friday from May to September, from 3 PM to 10 PM.
The Christmas Market usually runs from late November through December, with specific hours varying. Check local listings for exact dates and times.
You can skate for free if you bring your own skates. Skate rentals are available for a fee, typically around $7.
Yes, The Shipyards hosts various events throughout the year, including the Night Market, Christmas Market, and sometimes unique festivals like the Hong Kong Market.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of vendors, including local artisans selling crafts, jewelry, and art, as well as numerous food trucks and stalls offering various cuisines.
Explore the waterfront promenade, visit The Polygon Gallery, enjoy the outdoor skating rink (seasonal), and discover the many shops, breweries, and restaurants in the Lower Lonsdale area.
Yes, the area is very family-friendly. Kids can enjoy the skating rink, the waterfront for exploring, and there are often interactive elements at the markets.
It's not uncommon to spot seals in the water near The Shipyards, especially during the warmer months.
The Shipyards District has a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere, especially during events. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of entertainment, dining, and scenic views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Night Market is a food lover's paradise, featuring a wide array of food trucks and vendors offering everything from international street food to local favorites.
Yes, several restaurants in the area offer stunning ocean views and patio seating, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
Lower Lonsdale boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from casual cafes and breweries to fine dining establishments.
Yes, you'll find several cozy cafes in The Shipyards District and Lower Lonsdale, perfect for a coffee break.
Absolutely! You can grab take-out from Lonsdale Quay or local eateries and enjoy a picnic with waterfront views.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade offers fantastic views of the Vancouver skyline, Burrard Inlet, and the working shipyard. The architecture of The Polygon Gallery and the festive lights during the Christmas Market are also great subjects.
Yes, the west-facing waterfront provides beautiful sunset views over the water and the city.
The Shipyards District is ideal for landscape, cityscape, street photography, and event photography, especially during the markets.
Keep an eye out for interesting vessels docked at the shipyard, including occasional submarines, which offer unique photographic subjects.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. For vibrant market scenes, evenings during the Night Market or Christmas Market are excellent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shipyards Night Market Experience
Many visitors highlight the market's lively vibe and the opportunity to discover local talent. It's a great place to sample different foods, find unique souvenirs, and enjoy the summer air by the water. The proximity to the SeaBus terminal also makes it incredibly convenient to access from downtown Vancouver. The market often features a dance floor, adding to the festive and communal feel of the event.
Pro-tip: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds, especially if you have specific food trucks or vendors in mind. The market runs from 3 PM to 10 PM, offering ample time to explore and enjoy the offerings.
A Festive Winter Wonderland: The Shipyards Christmas Market
The Christmas Market features a variety of local vendors selling handmade gifts, festive treats, and seasonal goods, making it a perfect spot for holiday shopping. A major draw for families and visitors of all ages is the free outdoor skating rink, where you can enjoy a classic winter activity with stunning views. While bringing your own skates is free, rentals are available for a small fee.
Reviews often praise the market's festive ambiance and the beautiful waterfront setting, especially at night when the lights are illuminated. It's considered a must-visit for those looking for holiday activities in the Vancouver area, offering a charming and cost-effective way to celebrate the season.
Exploring Lower Lonsdale's Charm
Beyond the seasonal markets, Lower Lonsdale offers year-round attractions. The Polygon Gallery is a prominent cultural institution showcasing contemporary art, while the waterfront promenade and Spirit Trail provide scenic routes for walking, cycling, and enjoying the ocean air. The area is also known for its lively brewery district, offering a chance to sample local craft beers.
Many residents and visitors appreciate Lower Lonsdale for its blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. It's a place where you can enjoy fine dining with ocean views, browse unique shops, or simply relax by the water. The convenient SeaBus connection further enhances its appeal, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit