One of the first places my friend took me during my first visit to Vancouver, British Columbia, was the sushi restaurant rumored to be Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s favorite. Miku Vancouver was a place I’ve never heard of, and with it being a Saturday evening, I didn’t think it was even possible to get a table. However, not only did we manage to get a table, but we also had an incredible view of the marina and the mountains.
Vancouver, British Columbia, may not be the first city in Canada that comes to mind for Black travelers, compared to Toronto and Montreal, but it deserves our attention. Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains is a city that boasts charm, a welcoming energy, adventure, incredible shopping, and world-class wellness.
This West Coast gem deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
The Black Experience in Vancouver
While Black representation across Canada is growing, Vancouver’s Black community is one of the smallest in the country, representing less than 2% of the total population (approximately 30,000), compared to 9% in Toronto.
There is no longer a Black neighborhood in Vancouver, but the city council recently recognized the historic Black community known as Hogan’s Alley. Previously known as the Park Lane community in Strathcona, Hogan’s Alley was the cultural heart of Vancouver’s Black community.
The area was a thriving cultural center that was home to Black-owned businesses and restaurants. Once known as the home to the largest Black and African diaspora, Black residents were displaced over decades by city planners for the urban renewal projects and the construction of the Georgia and Dunsmuir viaducts in 1972.
Where To Experience Black Culture In Vancouver
Although the population is small, Vancouver offers various ways to experience Black culture through art, history, and cuisine. Travelers can still learn about the contributions of Black residents in Vancouver through a self-guided tour of Hogan’s Alley murals.
The British Columbia Black History Awareness Society is a nonprofit organization that works to raise awareness of the history of Black people in British Columbia and celebrate their achievements in the arts, sports, science, and other fields. There’s a digital museum that people can explore on the organization’s website, and it’s an excellent resource for planning a trip around Black history.
For Black-owned restaurants, there is Juke Fried Chicken in Chinatown that offers a blend of Southern comfort food with Asian-inspired flavors. Jame Café is another spin on Southern classics, while local favorite Calabash Bistro is a go-to for Caribbean flavors. It’s also the perfect place to experience nightlife, serving as a space for dancing and showcasing the region’s independent artists.
What Else Makes Vancouver Worth Visiting
One of the first things you will notice about Vancouver is the number of people taking up space in its natural beauty. The landscapes and nature found in Vancouver are unmatched. When I asked locals about must-see attractions, the majority of activities involved exploring the outdoors, regardless of the season.
My first stop was Cycle City Vancouver, where I rented an e-bike steps away from my hotel, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. I biked to Stanley Park, Vancouver’s first and largest urban park, filled with scenic trails, beautiful beaches, and offering some of the best views of the city.
Crossing the legendary Capilano Suspension Bridge is perfect for people seeking adventure and not afraid of heights. It’s a top destination in British Columbia that takes you through a rainforest canopy as you walk the adrenaline-pumping bridge.
Aside from its natural beauty, Vancouver boasts a thriving art and entertainment scene. With Vancouver’s Destination Experience Pass, you will have access to festivals, art galleries, and museums, such as the Vancouver Art Gallery. If you are visiting on the weekend, you may find a public or pop-up market. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon a local market where small businesses are selling a mix of food, crafts, jewelry, local goods, and more.
The best times to visit Vancouver are the summer and fall months. In the summer, travelers will find the weather to be warmer, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors. It also coincides with the city’s epic festival season. Similarly, the fall has excellent weather, but it’s a tad cooler. It’s one of the most beautiful times of year to visit, as the colors change.
