One of Granville Island’s best-kept secrets, the spacious, covered picnic pavilion is tucked away in one of the more quiet corners of the island and overlooks a pretty duck pond. Often empty on rainy days, catch some serenity here at one of two picnic tables or grab your yoga mat and stretch out on the concrete floor – any day of the week. Tip: before you go, check online to ensure a community organization or other group hasn’t already booked the pavilion.
There are so many things to see and do on Granville Island; you can easily spend hours wandering among the independent boutiques, galleries and delicious food stalls. Whether you’re shopping together for unique Christmas gifts, homemade bath products, accessories or fine jewellery, the choices of goodies are endless! Stop by the Public Market and try some fresh baked goods, exquisite hand-made chocolates or a hot cup of fresh brewed coffee. After you spend the afternoon shopping and snacking, enjoy a romantic dinner at the award-winning Dockside Restaurant and finish off the evening with a play at the Arts Club Theatre.
Granville Island is one of the city's most-visited tourist hotspots largely thanks to the bustling market and beautiful views of downtown. There certainly are plenty of places to spend money here, but it’s just as much fun to people-watch in the many outdoor areas around the island. You can also do some great window shopping at the Net Loft.