Vancouver Hotel for Four Nights

[kpgibbs]

We will be staying in Vancouver for four night post cruise. Can anyone recommend a good hotel close to attractions? We would like to be close to HOHO. We have looked at several hotels and just can't decide.

[martincath]

Without being too cheeky, could you provide a bit more info (e.g. which hotels you've already considered, your budget, any preferred chains for point-earning or -spending)

 

Every downtown hotel is close to several sites popular with visitors; even using your criterion of 'close to HOHO' leaves it wide open if you define 'close' as 'within five minutes leisurely walk'...

 

Blue Horizon does spring to mind, as they have a HOHO stop right outside - but there are other hotels much closer to e.g. Stanley Park, Art Gallery, Canada Place, Gastown, Yaletown etc. for attractions.

[kpgibbs]

No preferred chain really. I will be with my mother and she has a hard time walking very far. Since I have never been there, I don't really know what I want to be close to. We know we will have to spend at least $200 a night.

 

You start looking at hotels and they all start looking alike. I hope this helps. Oh we would also like free breakfast.

[Putterdude]

Vancouver's downtown is quite compact so all of the downtown hotels are pretty much within a mile of Canada Place. However, here is a list of many 3*+ hotels that are within 6 to 8 blocks of Canada Place:

 

The Pan Pacific (part of Canada Place)

Fairmont Waterfront (across the street from Canada Place)

Fairmont Pacific Rim

Marriott Pinnacle

Renaissance

Hyatt Regency

Fairmont Vancouver

Auberge

Coast Coal Harbour

Delta Suites

Metropolitan

Four Seasons

Rosewood Georgia

Sutton Place (about 8.5 blocks)

Sheraton at the Wall Centre (about 10 blocks)

le Soleil

The Wedgewood

 

All of these will be within a few blocks of a HOHO stop or in some instances have the HOHOs stop in front. One hotel that is not included in the list but well worth a mention because it is very popular with cruisers and has a HOHO stop in front is the Blue Horizon on Robson Street.

[martincath]

PD has covered most of the downtown core hotels close to HOHO stops above - you could also consider the Hampton Inn in Yaletown, a block from the Sandman (no free brekkie here, but rates cheap enough adding on brekkie probably puts it on par with the Hampton) which has a HOHO stop outside. Hampton also offers a shuttle to any downtown location, including the pier, though it's first-come first-served so no guarantees of timely availability.

 

Rosedale on Robson is a block away from the central library, another HOHO stop (in fact the best HOHO stop if you start early, as the Trolley begins here before anywhere else). No free brekkie, but it's all-suites so you have a full kitchen available to make your own meals.

 

The Residence Inn on Hornby does offer a free (hot) breakfast daily, and is also an official HOHO stop for the trolley. I didn't list this first just because there are no real 'sights' within a few blocks despite checking off your HOHO & Brekkie boxes. Since you don't seem sure which sights you will want to spend time at, and the HOHO routes are pretty good about getting you to or near many of the big hits this hotel could work out very well for you.

[Rhonbru]

we are staying a blue horizon after our alaskan cruise, I picked it because it had good transport nearby and was close to stanley park, the bus that took you to the bridge and grouse mountain stops outside.

[Urban trekker]

"I didn't list this first just because there are no real 'sights' within a few blocks"

 

Well my condo is a block away and some people say it is a sight to behold.

 

Seriously MartinCath is mostly correct about the Residence Inn but it is only a short downhill walk to the Granville Island Ferries plus at least one of the HOHO's includes the ferries in their ticket price.

 

Cheers!

 

Dennis

[Cruise NH]

One more plus for the Residence Inn is they have guest laundry facilities, always helpful before going on a cruise.

[kpgibbs]

Thank you for all your help. You all have been great!

[Putterdude]

 

Well my condo is a block away and some people say it is a sight to behold.

 

But I have been by your condo dozens of time and you are never home, you need a sign that readS "UT LIVES HERE".:D

[Urban trekker]

"you need a sign that readS "UT LIVES HERE"

 

As I am not a commerical unit - there are some in my complex - I wouldn't be able to have any outside signage as per our strata by-laws.

 

Enjoy watching the game and GO CANADA GO!!!!

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

[martincath]

"I didn't list this first just because there are no real 'sights' within a few blocks"

 

Well my condo is a block away and some people say it is a sight to behold.

 

Seriously MartinCath is mostly correct about the Residence Inn but it is only a short downhill walk to the Granville Island Ferries plus at least one of the HOHO's includes the ferries in their ticket price.

 

Cheers!

 

Dennis

How could I forget your condo Dennis... is it still #1 on Tripadvisor for rooftop beer-fuelled firework-watching? ;)

 

I left out mentioning the ferries to GI being walkable from the Residence Inn because they may well not be for kpgibbs' mom - GI Ferries (who do indeed have a ticket included with the Trolley HOHO) leaves from a half-mile away at the back of the Aquatic Centre, and even the Aquabus Hornby dock isn't much closer at well over half-a-kilometre.

 

Kpgibbs - the Trolley does stop on Beach Ave at the Aquatic Centre and they point you to the ferry dock if you want to use your included ticket to get to Granville Island. It's quicker than waiting for the trolley to go all the way over the bridge and back down the other side, and drops you off right at the back of the Public Market - much shorter walk than from the HOHO stop for the island, probably much easier for your mom.

[Putterdude]

"you need a sign that readS "UT LIVES HERE"

 

As I am not a commerical unit - there are some in my complex - I wouldn't be able to have any outside signage as per our strata by-laws.

 

Enjoy watching the game and GO CANADA GO!!!!

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

 

Strata, what is a strata....with the change to the Condominium Act aren't they all Condominium Councils now? And aren't you President of your council? Now you see if they put a sign up like I described with some kind of a strong box at the entrance to your building I am certain all that read these threads would treat your abode as a shrine and deposit large donations in your honour thus reducing your Condo fees. There will be no fee for this bit of advice.;)

 

Hey, there are a lot of sad American hockey fans down here....but most don't know anything about hockey.

[Urban trekker]

Actually it is now the Strata Property Act which has replaced the old Condominium Act and as President until next AGM I am expected to set an example and not disobey the by-laws - don't really want to have to fine myself.

 

If the Americans were sad and bitter yesterday what are they today - a 43 year scoring the only goal needed to beat them

 

Final score FINLAND 5 USA 0

 

Kessler didn't look very pleased yesterday and will probably be even madder at our first home game when the team honors our Olympic medalists - We will have at least 2 gold and 2 silver medallists on our team Hamhuis, Luongo, D Sedin and Edler - don't think we have any Finns in our lineup

 

Cheers!

 

Dennis

[ell52]

 

Kessler didn't look very pleased yesterday and will probably be even madder at our first home game when the team honors our Olympic medalists - We will have at least 2 gold and 2 silver medallists on our team Hamhuis, Luongo, D Sedin and Edler - don't think we have any Finns in our lineup

 

I still think of Sami Salo as a Canuck. :(

[Urban trekker]

Forgot about him for the Finns - surprised that he wasn't hurt.

 

Quite the rant by our twit coach - wants the Swedes to win because the 2 Canucks might not be in the lineup.

 

I know Lou won't play - is Hamhuis hurt - in a defensive game which the Canadians seem to be playing his skills are a lot better than the offensive minded Subban.

 

Oh right this started as a hotel thread.

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

[BCHappyGal]

Info on Vancouver from a local!

 

My favorite must do attractions are

 

1) Grouse Mountain – http://www.grousemountain.com – this is a wonderful scenic mountain only about 15 mins from downtown Vancouver. Ride the airtram to the top for lots of fun activities that include a loggers show, birds of prey show, 2 movies (1 about the Vancouver area and 1 about the 2 Grizzly Bears who make their home on Grouse Mtn) ride a chair lift higher up the mountain to visit the wind turbine that generates approximately 30% of the power required for Grouse Mountain Resort and visit with 2 live Grizzly Bears. Thrill to a 2 hour Zip Line Tour. Enjoy a meal in any of the restaurants. Caveat only spend the money to go up on a clear day.

2) Capilano Suspension Bridge – http://www.capbridge.com – this is Vancouver’s oldest tourist attraction and I still enjoy visiting it! Located on Capilano Road just before you reach the Grouse Mountain parking lot. Walk across a suspension Bridge over the Capilano Gorge, wonder the trails thru the rain forest, walk thru the treetops on the new Tree Top Adventure, traverse a Cliff Top walk, visit the trading post for a huge selection of souvenirs, watch native weavers and/or carvers at work.

3) Capilano Fish Hatchery is also located on Capilano Road and is a great place to view salmon jumping up the fish ladders to get around the Cleveland Dam. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capilano_River_Regional_Park

4) Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge – http://www.lynncanyon.ca - is also located in North Vancouver and is much less touristy than Capilano but it also is not as spectacular. The bridge is slightly higher above the water but much shorter in span. Located in a Provincial Park this bridge comes with some nice hiking trails and you will find an ecology centre in the park as well as picnic tables and a food concession outlet. Should you choose to enjoy the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge always cross the suspension bridge first and then hike down the trail to the lower (Twin Falls wooden) bridge to cross back over the Lynn Valley River and return to your car – that way you are hiking downhill rather than uphill. It is also free to visit this suspension bridge!

5) Stanley Park – http://www.vancouver.ca/parks/parks/stanley/ - is the crown jewel of Vancouver's parks. As one of North America's largest urban parks, covering over a 1000 acres and offering an abundance of activities. Enjoy the totem pole collection near the Brockton Point Light House, hiking trails, beaches, water parks for the kids (young & old), rose gardens, miniature train, petting zoo, aquarium –http://www.vanaqua.org – many view points, and several restaurants.

6) Vancouver Aquarium – http://www.vanaqua.org – is Canada’s largest aquarium and is committed to the conservation of marine life and education. Located in Stanley Park this is a fun place for the family to visit.

7) Gas Town – the location where Vancouver originated. The name is derived from a very colorful character named Gassy Jack who was one of the first settlers in the area and a salon keeper – while in Gas Town don’t miss your photo op with the statue of Gassy Jack and by the Steam Clock.

8) At the start of Gas Town is the Harbor Centre Tower http://www.vancouverlookout.com a great spot to start your tour of Vancouver with a birds eye view of the city. Either take the elevator up to the lookout level or go to the top and enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant.

9) China Town is only about 6 blocks over from Gas Town and is the largest China Town north of San Francisco. While in China Town enjoy a visit to the Dr Sun Yat Sen Classical Gardens http://www.vancouverchinesegarden.com and also make sure you visit the world’s thinnest building it is only 6’ wide!

10) Granville Island – http://www.granvilleisland.com – is a huge public market area which not only sells fruit & veggies but you can also buy frozen fish to be shipped to your home. Many artists make this their home and you can watch them at work in their studios – making this a great place to buy unique souvenirs. The Granville Island Brewery is also located here and you can stop in for a free tour & tastes. There are theatres for live performances and many fine restaurants. A fun way to get to Granville Island is via the Aquabus – http://www.theaquabus.com

11) Burnaby Village Museum – http://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca – is an open air museum with over 30 restored homes, shops, school, church and a 1912 carousel situated on 10 acres

12) Gulf of Georgia Cannery – http://www.gulfofgeorgiacannery.com – is a restored fishing cannery located in the historic fishing village of Steveston (part of Richmond). Here you see exhibits that showcase the history of the fishing industry in British Columbia. Once finished in the museum it is great fun to walk along the fishing docks and see the fishing boats which are selling their catch. There are also some excellent restaurants located here.

13) The Vancouver Maritime Museum located on the shore of English Bay is fun for the whole family with lots of hands on exhibits for the kid in all of us. Here to you will find the ship St Roch which the RCMP sailed from Vancouver to Halifax via the Northwest Passage and then completed the return journey in 1944. You actually get to tour this ship. http://www.vancouvermaritimemuseum.com

14) Queen Elizabeth Park http://www.vancouver.ca/parks/parks/queenelizabeth The 130 acre (52 hectare) park is one of the most beautifully maintained public parks in the world. Second only to Stanley Park in annual visitations, it receives nearly 6 million people a year who marvel at its superior standard of garden plantings.

The park was originally quarried for its rock which served to build Vancouver's first roadways. In 1929 the Board proceeded to acquire the property which had become an abandoned eyesore but still served as the site for two holding reservoirs for the City's drinking water. Dedicated as a park by King George VI and his consort, Queen Elizabeth (the present Queen's mother) on their much lauded visit to Vancouver in 1939.

15) Fort Langley is the restored wooden fort built by the Hudson’s Bay Company as a trading post. It is the origin of British Columbia and was the first capital. This Fort is operated by the Federal Parks Board. http://www.fortlangley.org

16) If you are a wine lover you might want to rent a car and spend a day visiting a few of the many excellent wineries located in the Fraser Valley only about a 1 hour drive from your hotel. Almost all of the wineries offer free tastes & tours. Two of the wineries have excellent restaurants on the premises. This makes for a very fun and relaxing day. Check out the Fraser Valley Wine Association web site for a map of winery locations and a brief description of each winery http://www.fvwa.ca

17) If you are a real animal lover than don’t miss “Mountain View Conservation & Breeding Centre” It is located in Fort Langley about an hour drive from downtown Vancouver. Mountain View Conservation and Breeding Centre is a leading non-profit Canadian facility that breeds endangered species in family groups for re-introduction back into their natural habitat in Canada and around the world. This facility is not a zoo their goal is to breed rare and endangered wildlife and re-introduce these animals back into their natural habitats. Presently Mountainview hosts over 50 species of the world’s most threatened animals and birds. See animals such as the spotted dog from Africa, Giraffes, and much much more. Here you do not wonder around as in a zoo rather you are given a guided tour with commentary on each animal group. Check it out at http://www.mtnviewconservation.org

18) VanDusen Botanical Garden is a scenic 55- acre garden of international renown – a living museum of plants collected from around the world and artistically displayed amidst rolling lawns, woodlands and five tranquil lakes, all in the heart of Vancouver and just 15 minutes from downtown.

Due to Vancouver’s mild climate, plants bloom at the Garden year-round. This same climate creates a unique environment where plants from varying climate regions thrive and grow – at VanDusen you will see plants from the southern hemisphere, tropical areas and the high Arctic tundra along side native species. The Elizabethan Maze (one of only six in North America) provides year-round fun.

19) UBC Botanical Garden located at the University of British Columbia covers 110 acres and includes an Alpine, Asian, Native, Food, and Japanese Gardens. http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org

20) Enjoy a FREE walking tour of Vancouver. The Gastown tour starts in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery and ends at the statue of Gassy Jack in Gastown. The Downtown tour starts at the Vancouver Art Gallery and ends at the Olympic Cauldron. The China Town tour starts at the Vancouver Art Gallery and ends at the Chinese memorial statue. All of these tours start at 11am. The Granville Island Tour starts at 3pm at the bus stop just at the entrance to Granville Island. Check these tours out at http://www.tourguys.ca The Tour Guys have added an afternoon walking tour of Granville Island and 2 evening tours….

21) A new addition I have just found for the FOODIES in the gang! Check out http://www.offtheeatentrack.com this company offers culinary tasting tours of various areas of Vancouver. I did the Railtown Urban Eats tour and it was Fabulous! This tour would blend well with the free walking tour offered by http://www.tourguys.ca … you could easily do the free walking tour and then meet up with this tour company for this tour for your lunch - the food is plentiful & wonderful you will not leave this tour hungry!

 

 

 

 

Vancouver has a bunch of hop-on hop-off buses

 

http://www.vancouverpinkbustours.com/

 

http://www.vancouvertrolley.com/tours/hop-on-hop-off

 

http://bigbus.ca/home/

[Putterdude]

Actually it is now the Strata Property Act which has replaced the old Condominium Act and as President until next AGM I am expected to set an example and not disobey the by-laws - don't really want to have to fine myself.

 

Well you taught me something. Way back it was the Strata Titles Act which as I recall was patterned after a British Act of the same name. Then when the Condominium Act was introduced in the late 90's I thought it was a step forward. I was aware that the act had been amended but didn't realize that it had been repealed and replaced with the Strata Property Act. It's kind of funny as in many places you speak of a strata council or strata fee's (which I am apt to do) people look at you like you have two heads.

 

As for the rest of it, I was just have fun...I hope you realize that.

[kpgibbs]

Thank you everyone for your continued input. You have been so much help.

Yes, many sad Americans. I love hockey. Since USA couldn’t win it than I prefer Canada to win it. Heck most if not all of the US team was Canadians anyway.

[Urban trekker]

"I was just have fun...I hope you realize that.'

 

Yes that is how I ttok it - having a little fun is great.

 

Well back to boring NHL hockey in a day or too.

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

[Putterdude]

 

Well back to boring NHL hockey in a day or too.

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

 

After the Olympic hockey.....boring!