Discover What's New on the Waterfront: Exciting Updates You Can't Miss!

The Evolution of the Vancouver Waterfront

It’s been a few years since the first restaurants opened on the newly developed Vancouver Waterfront, marking a historic moment as residents and visitors gained urban riverfront access for the first time in over a century. Quickly becoming the most Instagram-worthy locale in the city, the Grant Street Pier offers a unique experience of standing over the river, attracting people from all walks of life to enjoy the outdoor amenities.

Waterfront Park: A Family-Friendly Oasis

One of the most beloved additions is the Headwaters Wall, a family-friendly water feature and play area in the City of Vancouver’s Waterfront Park. Crowds of children with their parents splash around in the shallow stream, while onlookers marvel at the hand-etched map and topographical cast. In the evening, catch the sunset while strolling along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, and savor dessert at The Yard Milkshake Bar for some over-the-top ice cream creations.

Riverfront Dining: A Culinary Adventure

Casual and upscale dining options abound along the riverfront, including:

• Willamette Valley Vineyards: Located in the Don Building above Maryhill Winery.
• Ruse Brewing Crust Collective: A Portland-based brewery serving Detroit-style pizza.
• The Waterfront Taphouse: Serving upscale pub fare from its second-story spot overlooking the Grant Street Pier.
• Stack 571: Grilling up mouth-watering gourmet burgers with an impressive list of whiskey.
• WildFin: Offering seasonal, newspaper-themed walk-up window for quick bites.
• Grassa: A Portland-based casual pasta shop that opened in summer 2022.

Waterfront Wine and Cocktails: Sip and Savor

The Waterfront has become prime real estate for tasting rooms on the Columbia River. Eight tasting stops, including:

• Amavi Cellars and Pepper Bridge Winery
• Valo Cellars
• Barnard Griffin Winery
• Brian Carter Cellars
• Airfield Estates

These stops offer a fantastic Waterfront Wine Walk. For cocktails and tapas, check out DOSALAS Latin Kitchen + Tequila Bar, featuring elevated Mexican and Caribbean flavors from its polished second-story space overlooking the Grant St. Pier.

Where to Stay: Modern Comforts with a View

The AC Hotel by Marriott offers sleek, contemporary designs with a European flair. Enjoy panoramic views of the Columbia, quality, timeless design, comfort, and authenticity. Don’t miss the AC Lounge on the ground floor for elevated Mediterranean dishes and enticing cocktails. Plus, book a spa treatment at the on-site Vancouver Wellness Center.

Next door, Hotel Indigo delivers stylish décor and a fun atmosphere with pet-friendly accommodations. Enjoy premiere Northwest restaurants within the building, like Portland steakhouse El Gaucho and Seattle mainstay 13 Coins. For more information, check out our Waterfront Hotels page.

For nearby lodging outside the Waterfront, consider:

• Downtown’s Hilton Vancouver: Less than a half-mile walk from the waterfront, across from Esther Short Park.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton: Located near the “old” waterfront, it’s a short distance from McMenamins on the Columbia and Beaches Restaurant. The Waterfront Renaissance Trail connects the two sections along the shore.

The Vancouver Waterfront is continuously evolving, offering something new and exciting with each visit. Whether you're exploring new dining options, tasting exquisite wines, or enjoying the scenic trails and parks, there's always a reason to come back and experience this vibrant urban oasis.