This island is rich in North American history. Its industry boomed in the ‘20s and ‘30s but after the war many of the large plants left. It remained unnoticed until 1973 when the federal government got involved. Most of the remaining industries were persuaded to leave but the buildings were kept and given a facelift. Granville Island is now a hub of color and creativity, producing things like pottery, plays, children’s toys and chocolates. The heart of Granville island is the Public Market where specialty foods, fresh from the farm, overflow from every stall. It is a people place. It is not too trendy or touristy and there is more to do than just shop. In the courtyard people enjoy lunch on their laps, entertained by performers from the Folk, Jazz, Evergreen and Comedy Festivals. One can spend hours wandering the craft and art galleries, enjoying the waterfront scenes and simply being part of the easygoing atmosphere. You can purchase gifts that are common to B.C., such as native masks or jewellery, locally made pottery or weaving. The Island has boat rentals and there are a few houseboat communities where the residents of the island live. As well as the many take-out stands in the market (you can get fish and chips, deli fare, Japanese ...) there are restaurants on the island. Two companies run small ferries from downtown to the island. Today was cold and the Canadian football championship game is scheduled to start soon but there were still a lot of people there. We live just across the bridge from Granville Island and we like to come there even just for a short visit.
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