Getting to know this happenin’ zone’s waterside parks + trendsetting patios.

Ask any Vancouver resident their thoughts on Yaletown, a thriving neighborhood along the south side of downtown’s peninsula, and he or she likely has an opinion. Whether it’s a destination for weekend spin classes, a celebratory night on the town or simply enjoying some of the best people-watching around, it’s clear that this chic zone is a place to “see and be seen.”

Once the Western terminus for the Canadian Pacific Railway, Yaletown experienced a major transformation in 1986 when the waterfront along False Creek played host to many venues for the World’s Fair (or Expo 86). That land and the adjoining warehouse district now bustles with activity—dog walkers, shoppers, joggers, cyclists, brunch loyalists and bar hoppers. In this happening downtown zone, you’ll find everything from leafy parks and residential loft spaces to plastic surgeons’ offices, fitness centers, sidewalk cafes, cutting-edge boutiques and buzz-worthy eateries.

We partnered with Expedia.ca to bring you three ways to experience the best that this Vancouver neighborhood has to offer.

EXPLORE + GET CULTURED

Public art around the neighborhood abounds, and Roundhouse Community Centre displays the very first transcontinental passenger train to cross Canada in 1887. Grab a coffee to savor (try Small Victory, also loved for its scones and “cruffins”) as you wander the seawall that runs right along the water and connects two delightful green spaces: David Lam and George Wainborn parks.

INDULGE AT OPUS HOTEL

We’re hard-pressed to think of a better place to stay than Vancouver’s only boutique hotel to receive Forbes’ coveted four-star rating from 2013 through 2017. Trendy OPUS Hotel Vancouver is a breeze to get to from the airport, thanks to the SkyTrain that delivers you directly from YVR in 20 minutes.

Highlights of the personality-filled venue include its bright, vibrant decor, elevated amenities and outstanding service, as well as an on-site bar and Italian-inspired restaurant (La Pentola). The hotel has just launched its “Perfect Day Itineraries,” too, which means five curated maps that allow guests to experience the city from interesting new angles.

EAT, DRINK, + BE MERRY

There are countless ways to please your palate in this tasty part of town. If you’re thirsty (and craving something other than artisanal tea or coffee), head to Yaletown Brewing Co., Yaletown Distillery and the compact Long Table Distillery, an off-the-beaten-path gem that’s worth the walk. When it comes to mealtime, dig in at culinary hot spots that range from brand-new Fayuca (Mexican) and Minami (amazing Aburi-style sushi) to The Parlour, a stylish hub for oysters, poke bowls, pizzas and inventive cocktails.

Relish delectable mezze at The Greek by Anatoli and sensational sushi in the lobby lounge of the Fairmont Pacific Rim. And although increasingly high rent has sadly pushed out many of the “old guys,” some neighborhood staples remain. Take, for example, Blue Water Café, one of the city’s top seafood restaurants, and Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill, run by esteemed Italian chef Giuseppe (Pino) Posteraro. Looking for a sweet finale to your stay? Pop into Bella Gelateria for its award-winning Italian-style gelato and the alluring new Mister nitrogen ice cream bar.

Happy wandering!