Summary
Vancouver, BC features a user-friendly rapid transit system (metro) known as the Canada Line / SkyTrain, designed for both residents and visitors.
The Canada Line operates primarily underground and traverses north-south, linking Downtown Vancouver to Vancouver International Airport and Richmond, BC. Conversely, the SkyTrain functions as an elevated train, facilitating transportation northwest-southeast, connecting Downtown Vancouver with East Vancouver, Burnaby, BC, and Surrey, BC.
Both the Canada Line and the SkyTrain services are managed by Translink, the public transportation authority serving Metro Vancouver. Furthermore, Translink oversees all Metro Vancouver buses and SeaBuses. Departure and arrival schedules, alongside ticket information, can be accessed via the official Translink website.
Acquiring Tickets
All Canada Line and SkyTrain stations are equipped with ticket machines, allowing you to purchase tickets using cash, debit, or credit cards. Upon purchasing your ticket, the machine will prompt you to indicate your destination, thereby determining if you require a ticket for “one zone,” “two zones,” or “three zones” (i.e., whether your destination falls within one zone or spans two).
Schedules and Maps
Presently, there is no standalone Translink application. Nevertheless, you may utilize their mobile version of the website on your device to explore Canada Line and SkyTrain schedules and route maps. Additionally, maps detailing all Canada Line and SkyTrain routes, as well as stations, are prominently displayed in each station and within all train compartments.
Notable Attractions Near Canada Line Stations
Discovering Vancouver via the Canada Line is not only efficient and affordable, but it also eliminates parking concerns.
- Waterfront Station is conveniently located within walking distance of Canada Place, the Downtown Vancouver waterfront, Gastown, and the Herb Museum.
- Vancouver City Centre Station is within walking proximity to numerous Downtown Vancouver attractions, such as the Vancouver Art Gallery, Robson Square, Robson Street, and various shopping options.
- Yaletown-Roundhouse Station is conveniently situated close to Yaletown’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene, the Roundhouse Community Centre, and the Aquabus to Granville Island.
- Broadway-City Hall Station is within walking distance of Vancouver City Hall.
- Oakridge – 41st Avenue Station affords access to Oakridge Centre Mall, recognized as one of the leading shopping destinations in Vancouver.
- Bridgeport Station is conveniently located near the Richmond Night Market, one of the largest summer night markets in Vancouver.
Notable Attractions Near SkyTrain Stations
- Stadium-Chinatown Station is within walking distance of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown.
- Main Street-Science World Station is positioned across the street from Science World, a prominent attraction for children in Vancouver.
- Commercial-Broadway Station is a short walk from dining and shopping along Commercial Drive, and Trout Lake.
- Metrotown Station is adjacent to Metropolis at Metrotown, the largest shopping center in British Columbia.
