The largest gay population in Western Canada lives in this ocean-wrapped and snow-capped city. Its gay community is centred around two distinctly different neighbourhoods - the West End and Commercial Drive, both of which enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, coffee shops, pubs and boutiques catering to gays and lesbians.
Neighbourhoods & Nightlife
West End
A high-density residential neighbourhood just west of downtown and snuggled up to Stanley Park, the West End is an engaging mix of high-rises and surviving heritage homes, greenery and action, a mix of retirees, immigrants, urban youth and gay residents. The epicentre of the scene is the stretch of Davie Street between Burrard and Jervis, known as Davie Village with its cluster of cafes, casual eateries, pubs, nightclubs and shops offering designer clothing and sleek housewares. Davie St. intersects with Denman Street at English Bay beach. Denman has almost as many rainbows along its length as Davie. It's a wonderful stroll for people-watching or just to go for the gelato! Follow the seawall along the beach and in no time you are 1000 acre Stanley Park.
Commercial Drive
Commercial Drive, known locally as "The Drive", is a popular neighbourhood for Vancouver's thriving lesbian community. This funky, East side neighbourhood is packed with reasonably priced ethnic restaurants, cafes, shops and services. The Drive can be easily accessed by car and transit.
Nightlife
Vancouver is also home to a variety of gay and gay-friendly bars, pubs, cabarets and nightclubs. Whether you're looking for a candlelight dinner or a night on the town, Vancouver will satisfy all your cravings.
More information at www.tourismvancouver.com
