Vancouver is an impressive city. With beautiful buildings from years long past, there is a history to be observed in its architecture. However, that's not all. Being at the forefront of modernity, there is an excellent representation of modern buildings as well, peppered throughout the city, which brings harmony and fusion of the ages to live in the city. Make sure to visit these impressive structures on your next visit to Canada!
Holy Rosary Cathedral
Standing in downtown Vancouver since 1899, the Holy Rosary Cathedral is a shining example of the kind of French Gothic architecture that can be found in the city. With two bell towers and 21 stained-glass windows, the location is now home to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver and is a legally protected building, a great place to take in some culture.
Marine Building
This building is praised as the most impressive example of Art Deco in Canada, and laying eyes on the magnificent structure will surely make anyone agree. Constructed in 1930, the marine symbols in the stonework and brass fixtures are a sight to behold, and the building itself has been the site of the TV show Smallville, as well as a main fixture of Vancouver's architectural scene.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Located in the former Vancouver courthouse, the history seeps out of the very foundations of the Vancouver Art Gallery. Being the largest art museum in Western Canada, this makes a great stop off from a Vancouver hotel near Cruise Terminal, as the neoclassical architecture from the 1930s takes your breath away. In 1980, this building became a Canadian National Historic Site, so make sure to visit for a glimpse into history.
Science World
The Science World building was built for Expo 86 and stood as the Expo building for the World Fair 1986, featuring a unique golf ball design with 391 lights and 766 triangles. This unique architecture comes alive at night, with the reflections of lights and triangles sparkling in the water. The building itself was designed by R. Buckminster Fuller, an American inventor who patented 28 kinds of inventions, including this structure.