Museum of Anthropology
Vancouver is a city that takes its buildings seriously. Heritage buildings reflect images of an illustrious past, while modern ones suggest the evocative beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Examine the organic, West Coast landmarks of world-renowned Arthur Erickson. Gaze at the elliptical face of Library Square . Reflect on the art deco glory of the Marine Building . Imagine you're about to set sail on the ocean at Canada Place. Picture the raucous action of yesteryear in the historic buildings of Gastown .
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Much-photographed Canada Place is one of the most recognized landmarks in Vancouver.
Built originally as Canada Pavilion for Expo '86, the design pays homage to the country's maritime heritage and recognizes the province as Canada's gateway to the Pacific.
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Naturally thrilling since 1889, Capilano Suspension Bridge is breathtakingly suspended 135 m (450 ft) across, 70 m (230 ft) above Capilano River. Cross over to Treetops Adventure & walk from one magnificent Douglas fir to another via 7 elevated suspension bridges, some reaching as high as 30 m (100 ft) above the forest floor.
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The museum showcases over 13,000 pieces of First Nations and international artifacts. Highlights include the immense doors at the main entrance, carved by four master Gitxsan artists and the totem poles in the Great Hall.
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Designed in 1979 by the internationally award-winning architect Arthur Erickson, the seven-storey Vancouver Law Courts are part of a three-block structure known as Robson Square. Erickson designed the law courts to be both symbolically and physically accessible, and he succeeded.
The most distinguishing feature is the large sloping glass roof, serving as a welcome invitation to the public to enter, enjoy the public surroundings or participate in the judicial process. The concrete building is softened by an array of plants and waterfalls.
The Vancouver Law Courts are located in the downtown core.
Simon Fraser University emerges from the top of Burnaby Mountain to overlook the city below.
Designed by Arthur Erickson with Geoffrey Massey in 1963, Simon Fraser University's construction presented its own unique challenges. By cutting into the hillsides, allowing the school to actually hug the summit, Erickson created the illusion that the buildings and mountain were actually part of each other.
Visitors (not to mention students and professors) enjoy dramatic views of Burrard Inlet and the Lower Mainland.
Simon Fraser University is a half-hour drive east of downtown Vancouver.
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Simon Fraser University website .
Designed by Moshe Safdie and Associates with Downs Archambault and Partners, the Vancouver Library Square became an instant landmark upon its completion in 1995.
The largest capital project ever undertaken by the city, the square contains Vancouver's Central Library (public), a federal government office tower as well as retail shops and services. It occupies a complete city block.
The seven-storey, rectangular-box structure houses book stacks and library services. This is surrounded by a free-standing elliptical wall which features reading areas accessible by bridges. The library has a environmentally-friendly 'green' roof providing a large garden.
The glass-roofed concourse serves as an entry foyer. Here, visitors will find lots of pedestrian activity, shops and eateries.
Vancouver Library Square is located just southeast of the downtown core, within easy walking distance.
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Vancouver Library website .
The historic district of Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood. Still as colourful as ever, it is a favourite destination of tourists.
A daytime stroll down its cobblestone streets reveals artist studios, designers' shops, First Nations' galleries and antique stores in refurbished heritage buildings. Gastown is also home to the world's first steam-powered clock, now one of the city's most photographed attractions.
Gastown's structures share a common Late Victorian and Edwardian commercial vernacular indicative of the region's development in the late 19th century. Visitors are encouraged to check out the old Canadian Pacific Railway Station of 191 for a tangible example of the decorative tastes of the time.
Gastown is within easy walking distance of downtown Vancouver.
A word or two on your visit:
• Approximate time required: 1-2 hours
A word or two on safety:
• Be mindful of the fact that Gastown, while very safe, is partially located in a more graphic part of the city
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Gastown website .