Marine Building Vancouver
A 1930s Art Deco masterpiece, the Marine Building boasts an opulent lobby with intricate marine motifs and stunning brass elevators.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Marine Building Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1930s Art Deco masterpiece, the Marine Building boasts an opulent lobby with intricate marine motifs and stunning brass elevators.
"This building is a masterpiece, the entrance and lobby is wild."
Admire the Lobby
The lobby is open to the public during business hours. Don't miss the elevators! :elevator:
Look for Details
Seek out the intricate marine carvings and Art Deco motifs throughout the building. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Lobby
Ground floor
Step into a world of Art Deco splendor with intricate marine carvings and opulent finishes.
Art Deco Elevators
Lobby
Marvel at the beautifully preserved brass elevators, a true testament to 1930s craftsmanship.
Marine-Themed Details
Throughout the building's base
Discover hidden seahorses, oceanic decals, and other exquisite details that tell a story.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lobby Access & Hours
Architectural Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire the Lobby
The lobby is open to the public during business hours. Don't miss the elevators! :elevator:
Look for Details
Seek out the intricate marine carvings and Art Deco motifs throughout the building. :sparkles:
Check Basement Shops
A few shops are located in the basement, offering unique finds. :shopping_bags:
Family-Friendly Restrooms
There's an all-gender, accessible bathroom on the entrance level, great for families. :babychangingstation:
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire the Lobby
The lobby is open to the public during business hours. Don't miss the elevators! :elevator:
Look for Details
Seek out the intricate marine carvings and Art Deco motifs throughout the building. :sparkles:
Check Basement Shops
A few shops are located in the basement, offering unique finds. :shopping_bags:
Family-Friendly Restrooms
There's an all-gender, accessible bathroom on the entrance level, great for families. :babychangingstation:
Historical Context
Learn about its history as Vancouver's tallest building and its architectural significance. :book:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marine Building for its stunning and exceptionally well-preserved Art Deco architecture, particularly its opulent lobby and intricate marine-themed details. While it's primarily an office building, the accessible lobby offers a free glimpse into a bygone era of exquisite craftsmanship. Some note that access to certain areas or amenities like restrooms might require asking shop owners.
"The Marine Building in Vancouver is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. Built in 1930, it features intricate marine-themed details, beautiful brass elevators, and an opulent lobby. Though it’s primarily used as an office space, the impressive lobby is open to visitors. A must-see for architecture enthusiasts!"
Farnoosh Oa
"Architecturally brilliant. You don't get rhis character from the built environment any more anywhere. This is a beautiful space, so ecstatic that it has been retained in it's original style. The craftsmanship would have to be appreciated by most and surely will be a part of the walking tour that anyone visiting Vancouver must take in. Loved even just walking through the foyer and imagining the history of the era."
Chris Read
"Amazing architectural interior in the Art Deco style. Make sure to check out the 2nd floor for an awesome viewpoint."
Kristina Guerin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marine Building is centrally located downtown at 355 Burrard Street. It's easily accessible by public transit, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If you're driving, there are several parking garages in the vicinity. :bus:
Yes, there are several paid parking garages within a short walking distance of the Marine Building. Street parking can be limited and metered. :car:
Absolutely! If you're exploring downtown Vancouver, the Marine Building is easily walkable from many popular areas like Gastown and Canada Place. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Marine Building's lobby is free and open to the public during business hours. :ticket:
The lobby is typically open during standard business hours on weekdays, usually from around 8 AM to 5 PM. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit as it's an active office building. :clock:
The top floors are private office spaces and not generally accessible to the public. However, the lobby and second-floor mezzanine offer fantastic views and architectural details. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the building has accessible entrances and elevators. There's also a family-friendly, all-gender accessible washroom on the entrance level. :wheelchair:
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
The Marine Building is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, with significant influences from the Pacific Northwest style and traditional Northwest lodge aesthetics. :art:
The Marine Building was completed in 1930, and at the time of its opening, it was the tallest building in the British Empire. :calendar:
Originally built to house maritime businesses, it's renowned for its intricate marine-themed ornamentation and was a symbol of Vancouver's prosperity in the early 20th century. :ship:
Some visitors and former employees have reported feeling an 'airy presence' on the underground floors, though stories suggest any spirits are friendly. :ghost:
Yes, its iconic Art Deco design has made it a popular filming location. It famously served as the Daily Planet building in 'Smallville' and was used for elevator scenes in 'Altered Carbon'. :movie_camera:
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the grand lobby, the ornate elevators, and any visible marine-themed details. The second-floor mezzanine also offers a good vantage point. :camera:
Yes, photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the lobby for personal use. Be respectful of the office environment. :iphone:
The building's exterior is also impressive. Look for reflections in the modern buildings nearby, which can create unique photographic compositions. :reflection:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This makes a visit much more comfortable for parents. While the upper floors are offices, the grand lobby itself is a visual treat for children, with its unique animal carvings and opulent design providing a sense of wonder. It's a quick, engaging stop that can spark curiosity about history and design. 🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't forget to look for the oceanic decals and carvings throughout the building's base, which are a testament to the architects' vision. Many visitors recommend taking a moment to appreciate the building's historical context, understanding its significance as Vancouver's tallest building in 1930 and its role in the city's development.
📸 Photographers
When shooting the exterior, look for reflections in the surrounding modern buildings. These reflections can create dynamic and artistic compositions that highlight the Marine Building's classic lines against contemporary architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Deco Masterpiece
Key elements of its Art Deco design include the ornate elevators with their brass detailing and unique controls, the detailed carvings of marine life, and the overall sense of grandeur. Even the building's original function as a hub for maritime businesses is reflected in its design. Many visitors express awe at the level of detail and the preservation of its original style, noting that such craftsmanship is rarely seen in modern construction.
For those interested in architecture, the Marine Building is a must-visit. It stands as a testament to a bygone era of design and construction, offering a rich visual experience that continues to captivate visitors nearly a century later. Its status as a heritage building ensures its preservation for future generations to admire.
A Glimpse into History
The building has also found fame beyond its architectural merits, appearing in popular culture. It served as the exterior for the Daily Planet offices in the television series Smallville, and its distinctive elevators have been featured in shows like Altered Carbon. These appearances have introduced the building's unique character to a wider audience, further cementing its iconic status.
Beyond its cinematic appearances, the Marine Building has a reputation for being a place with a unique atmosphere. Some accounts mention 'friendly spirits' or an 'airy presence' on the lower floors, adding a touch of local lore and intrigue to its historical narrative.
Community Insights & Tips
Practical advice includes checking the building's business hours, as it is an active office space and access is limited outside of these times. Redditors also point out the presence of family-friendly restrooms on the entrance level, making it a convenient stop for those with young children.
For those looking to explore further, some mention that while the upper floors are private, the second-floor mezzanine offers a different perspective on the lobby's grandeur. The building's location downtown also makes it an easy addition to a walking tour of historical Vancouver.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit