Granville Street is a pleasant place to wander during the day and it’s an excellent place to get all your souvenir and gift shopping done in one go. However, it’s when night falls that the vibrant character of this entertainment district really emerges. Head here in the early evening for dinner at one of the many restaurants that line the street. Take in a show at one of the area’s theaters or music venues. Afterward, spend some time bar hopping or finish the night in a club.

Visit Granville Street nowadays and it’s hard to miss the signs that this party hub has a long history as a cultural destination. Look up and be amazed by the sea of neon signs that have built up over time, making this part of the city literally one of the brightest. Some of the establishments that still draw the biggest crowds today are ones that have stood for decades. See live music at the stunning Commodore Ballroom, an art deco masterpiece that has stood since 1929. The Orpheum Theatre was built in 1927 and is another excellent place to see a modern performance in a historic setting.

The Vogue Theatre is a little bit newer, having opened in 1941, but it offers an equally diverse array of classic and contemporary musical acts, comedy shows and more. As with the other two, a huge selection of nightlife is to be found minutes, or even seconds, away. Finish watching a show and head straight to a bar or club to keep the momentum of your evening going.

Before your night out, set aside an hour or two to browse the stores along the street, as well as the Pacific Centre mall. This huge building houses three department stores alongside many smaller retail units. Find everything from luxury brands to budget chain stores under its roof.

Granville Street is well served by buses, which run through the night. So, if choose this street for your evening out, you won’t need to drive home.