Granville Street is more than just a road cutting through Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s a vibrant hub where culture, nightlife, and history converge, creating a dynamic space that reflects the city’s diverse spirit. From its historic theaters to its buzzing bars, Granville Street pulses with life, offering something for everyone.

A Brief History

Granville Street is named after Granville Leveson-Gower, the 2nd Earl Granville, who served as Britain’s Secretary of State for the Colonies in the 19th century. Before Vancouver became a city, the area was part of the Granville townsite. Over time, the street evolved into a bustling thoroughfare, eventually becoming a focal point for entertainment and commerce.

The iconic "Granville Entertainment District" emerged in the mid-20th century, earning a reputation as Vancouver’s go-to destination for nightlife. Its historic theaters and neon signs became defining features of the city’s identity.

Things to Do on Granville Street

Granville Street has something for every visitor, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a night owl:

Explore the Granville Entertainment District: The stretch between Robson and Drake streets is alive with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or to catch some of the city’s hottest DJs and bands.
Visit Historic Theaters: Granville Street is home to several historic theaters, such as the Orpheum. Opened in 1927, this stunning venue hosts concerts, performances, and events. Its grand architecture and ornate interiors make it a must-see for lovers of history and the arts.
Shop Till You Drop: Granville Street features a mix of trendy boutiques, high-end retailers, and quirky shops. From fashion to vintage records, you’ll find treasures around every corner.
Enjoy the Food Scene: Granville Street offers a diverse range of eateries, from casual diners to fine dining. Whether you’re craving sushi, tacos, or classic Canadian poutine, there’s a spot to satisfy your appetite.

The Iconic Neon Lights

In its heyday, Granville Street was adorned with a dazzling array of neon signs, earning it the nickname “The Great White Way of the West.” While many of these signs have disappeared over the years, the street retains a nostalgic charm. Efforts to preserve and restore some of these neon masterpieces have helped maintain Granville’s vibrant character.

Annual Events and Festivals

Granville Street often plays host to exciting events and festivals. During the summer months, the street transforms into a pedestrian-only zone for events like the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and street markets. These events breathe new life into the area, showcasing local talent and culture.

Tips for Visitors

Getting There: Granville Street is easily accessible by public transit, with several bus routes and the Canada Line stopping nearby.
Best Time to Visit: If you’re looking for nightlife, visit in the evening when the entertainment district comes alive. For shopping and dining, afternoons are ideal.
Stay Safe: While Granville Street is generally safe, it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.

Why Granville Street is Special

Granville Street is a microcosm of Vancouver’s urban energy. It’s where history meets modernity, where creativity flourishes, and where people come together to celebrate life. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its neon lights, the rhythm of live music, or the promise of a good meal, Granville Street is a place you won’t forget.

So, the next time you’re in Vancouver, make your way to Granville Street. It’s more than a destination; it’s an experience.

Another slide film, this time Provia 100F of this building. Again, because of the high dynamic range of the scene, situations like this would be better with negative film. There were more than 8 stops of dynamic range. Sill, I like the output a bit better than Ektachrome, and I like that film a lot. I would like to try velvia 100. So far on 8x10 has been a joy to use (velvia 50)

Same scene, at a different time of the day, with a hasselblad and portra 400. I feel this scene would have been better with provia/velvia/ektachrome because it was already really sunny in general, so not really too much dynamic range involved.

8x10 of the day. Granville