NEXUS Science building
1 / 10

Olympic Village Vancouver

4.6
·143 reviews·Vancouver, Canada

A vibrant waterfront neighborhood built for the 2010 Olympics, offering stunning city views, great dining, and access to the False Creek Seawall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, pleasant strolls

CrowdLow
Loading map...
NEXUS Science building

Olympic Village Vancouver

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, pleasant strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant waterfront neighborhood built for the 2010 Olympics, offering stunning city views, great dining, and access to the False Creek Seawall.

4.6
(143 reviews)

"Everyone visiting Vancouver should take a walk around Olympic Village and False Creek."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Seawall Strolls

Walk or bike the Seawall for amazing city views. Great for dog owners, but watch out for sidewalk messes.

🍺 Craft Beer Havens

Explore numerous craft breweries and pubs like Craft and Tap & Barrel for local brews.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

False Creek Seawall

False Creek Seawall

Olympic Village Waterfront

Stroll or cycle along the scenic Seawall with breathtaking views of downtown Vancouver and False Creek.

Craft Beer Market & Tap & Barrel

Craft Beer Market & Tap & Barrel

Waterfront

Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers and delicious food with lively waterfront ambiance.

Science World

Science World

Adjacent to Olympic Village

An iconic geodesic dome housing interactive exhibits, perfect for families and curious minds.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Vibe

Olympic Village offers stunning False Creek views and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for walks and dining, but be aware of potential street noise and occasional sirens due to its proximity to downtown and social housing areas. Reddit+1

Navigating Parking & Transit

Free parking is scarce; consider metered street parking or lots like International Village (2 hrs free). The area is well-connected by SkyTrain and Aquabus, making transit a convenient option for exploring Vancouver. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Filled with murals and artwork, this unique village was beautiful, and the locals are so nice! Everyone knows each other. It has such small town vibes, and would be extremely picturesque in autumn and winter. 30 minutes from Nanaimo, you can find Chemainus. (food from Willow Street Cafe. 10/10) - - - #vancouverisland #victoriabc #bc #britishcolumbia #canada #travel #tourism #nanaimo #fyp #travelti...
@chase45411
10.1K likes • 352.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Seawall Strolls

Walk or bike the Seawall for amazing city views. Great for dog owners, but watch out for sidewalk messes. Reddit+1

🍺 Craft Beer Havens

Explore numerous craft breweries and pubs like Craft and Tap & Barrel for local brews. Reddit

📍 Vancouver on your bucket list? Here's how to conquer it with your kids ☺️ 1. The Olympic Village - such a fun, upbeat area with tons to do. We ate at Craft Beer Market and Tap & Barrel but there are lots of food options here. It's close to Science World and walking the area is beautiful! We happened to stumble upon a rowing competition - only seemed fitting 🚣🏼‍♀️ 2. Stanley Park - beaches, di...
thefulltimetravelmom
37 likes • 1.7K views
reddit.com

Olympic Village Things To Do

🥐 Bakery Delights

Olympic Village boasts top bakeries like Terra Breads and Pure Bread for delicious treats. Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Free parking is limited; consider metered spots or the International Village 2-hour free lot. Reddit

reddit.com

[deleted by user]

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Seawall Strolls

Walk or bike the Seawall for amazing city views. Great for dog owners, but watch out for sidewalk messes. Reddit+1

🍺 Craft Beer Havens

Explore numerous craft breweries and pubs like Craft and Tap & Barrel for local brews. Reddit

🥐 Bakery Delights

Olympic Village boasts top bakeries like Terra Breads and Pure Bread for delicious treats. Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Free parking is limited; consider metered spots or the International Village 2-hour free lot. Reddit

🚇 Transit Access

Conveniently located near SkyTrain lines and Aquabus for easy city exploration. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors love Olympic Village for its stunning waterfront location, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent dining and bakery options. The Seawall is a major highlight for walks and cycling. Some residents note potential street noise and occasional disturbances due to its urban setting and proximity to social housing.

"As always with tap and barrel, chicken strips and fries are amazing. The smashed avacado benny was a bit too sour for my taste but that's prob just me. The salad dressing was way too sour/salty/sweet? It was hard to eat. Other than that, we were seated 10 mins before our reservation time and had quick service."

Alex

"The Tap & Barrel is worth a visit. Good staff, service and drinks. The food looked pretty good too. All wrapped up in a lovely relaxed area. Recommended."

Eric

"Bakery, Italian Cafe, 2 fantastic bars, liquor store, banks, grocery store and London drugs which sells everything imaginable and aqua bus station to Granville Island and Yaletown. Definitely a good spot to check out."

Z.Ä.S

What People Like

Beautiful waterfront views
Great restaurants and bakeries
Scenic Seawall path

What People Dislike

Street noise
Occasional disturbances

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Olympic Village is easily accessible via the Canada Line and Expo Line SkyTrain at the Olympic Village station. The Aquabus also provides scenic ferry service to and from various False Creek locations, including Granville Island and Yaletown. Reddit

Yes, you can take the Expo Line SkyTrain from Waterfront Station directly to the Olympic Village station. Alternatively, the Aquabus offers a charming ride across False Creek. Reddit

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive. Metered street parking is available, and some lots offer limited free parking. Reddit

Walking or cycling the Seawall is highly recommended for enjoying the waterfront views. The Aquabus is also a great way to hop between attractions. Reddit+1

Yes, Olympic Village is very walkable, with a pleasant Seawall path and numerous shops and restaurants within easy reach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Olympic Village itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You only need tickets for specific attractions within or near the village, such as Science World. Reddit

Olympic Village is an open public space and is accessible at all times. Individual businesses and attractions within the village will have their own operating hours. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to explore the Olympic Village area. It's a vibrant neighborhood designed for public enjoyment. Reddit

Absolutely! The Olympic Village is a key access point to the False Creek Seawall, perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride. Reddit

No, Science World is a separate attraction adjacent to Olympic Village and requires its own admission ticket. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy waterfront strolls along the Seawall, dine at numerous restaurants and cafes, visit craft breweries, and explore nearby attractions like Science World. Reddit+1

Yes, Olympic Village has a great selection of restaurants, including popular spots like Tap & Barrel and Craft Beer Market, as well as bakeries and cafes. Reddit+1

Yes, it's family-friendly with attractions like Science World nearby and plenty of open space for kids to explore. The Seawall is also great for strollers. Instagram

Olympic Village offers stunning panoramic views of the False Creek waterfront and the downtown Vancouver skyline. Reddit+1

Some residents report street noise, especially on W 2nd Avenue, and occasional sirens due to its urban setting. Units facing away from the main street might be quieter. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic Science World dome, the False Creek Seawall with city skyline views, and the vibrant murals and public art scattered throughout the village. TikTok

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the waterfront and cityscapes. Evenings provide lovely city light views. TikTok

Look for the public art installations and murals, especially those mentioned by locals for their unique character. The reflections on False Creek can also create interesting shots. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive waterfront and city views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. It's best to check current restrictions before flying a drone in the area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Olympic Village is a fantastic spot for families. Science World, with its interactive exhibits housed in the iconic geodesic dome, is a must-visit for children of all ages. Instagram The Seawall is perfect for strollers and offers plenty of space for kids to run around safely. You can also enjoy picnics in the waterfront parks. Reddit

Many restaurants in the area are family-friendly, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. Consider taking the Aquabus for a fun and scenic ride across False Creek, which kids often find exciting. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

While Olympic Village has upscale dining, budget travelers can still enjoy its charm. Walking the Seawall is completely free and offers stunning views. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or seek out more affordable cafes and bakeries for meals. Reddit Utilizing Vancouver's excellent public transit system (SkyTrain and Aquabus) is a cost-effective way to reach the village and explore other parts of the city. Reddit

couples

Olympic Village offers a romantic setting with its waterfront views and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Seawall at sunset, followed by dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants. Reddit The area's craft breweries and cozy cafes also provide perfect spots for a relaxed date. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Living in Olympic Village: A Resident's Perspective

Olympic Village, originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, has transformed into a sought-after residential neighborhood. Many residents praise its convenience, walkability, and access to amenities like the Seawall and transit lines. The area boasts a high concentration of excellent bakeries, cafes, and restaurants, making it a culinary hotspot. Reddit+2

However, living here isn't without its considerations. Some residents mention street noise, particularly on W 2nd Avenue, and the presence of social housing nearby can lead to occasional disturbances like sirens or late-night noise. Reddit+2 Building quality has been a topic of discussion, with some older buildings potentially having unique heating/cooling systems or utility bills to consider. Reddit Despite these points, many find the vibrant atmosphere and proximity to downtown a worthwhile trade-off. Reddit+1

For those considering a move, it's advised to check specific building details, potential utility costs, and unit orientation to mitigate noise concerns. The urban lifestyle here is a significant draw, offering a dynamic living experience close to the heart of Vancouver. Reddit

Exploring the Olympic Village Seawall

The False Creek Seawall is a major draw for Olympic Village, offering miles of paved pathways perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. This scenic route provides stunning views of the downtown Vancouver skyline, the Burrard Bridge, and the bustling activity on False Creek. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. Reddit+1

From Olympic Village, you can easily connect to the broader Seawall network, extending your journey towards Granville Island, Yaletown, or even Stanley Park. Along the way, you'll pass by parks, public art installations, and various waterfront eateries. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's coastal beauty and vibrant urban life. Reddit+1

Pro-tip: Renting a bike is a popular way to cover more ground and fully appreciate the Seawall's length. Keep an eye out for rowing competitions or dragon boat races that often take place on False Creek, adding to the lively atmosphere. Instagram

Culinary Delights in Olympic Village

Olympic Village is a haven for foodies, boasting an impressive array of culinary options. It's particularly renowned for its high concentration of excellent bakeries, including Terra Breads, Pure Bread, and Small Victory, offering everything from artisanal bread to exquisite pastries. Reddit For those seeking a more substantial meal, waterfront establishments like Tap & Barrel and Craft Beer Market provide delicious food and a lively atmosphere with great views. InstagramReddit

The neighborhood also features classic diners like Laura's Coffee Shop and Argo Cafe for a taste of traditional Canadian fare. Reddit Beyond these, you'll find a diverse range of cafes, Italian eateries, and international cuisine options, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. The proximity to other vibrant Vancouver neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant and Chinatown also expands your dining possibilities. Reddit

When exploring, don't miss out on local favorites like Gusto Gelato for a sweet treat. The variety and quality of food options make Olympic Village a destination in itself for culinary exploration. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2