Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Commercial Drive, located within the city of Vancouver, spans from Powell Street at its northern tip, close to the waterfront, and stretches southward through the central area of the Grandview–Woodland neighborhood until it reaches the Victoria Diversion near Trout Lake. The region's identity is significantly shaped by the presence of businesses, cultural establishments, and the local community along Commercial Drive, to the extent that it is more prominently recognized as "The Drive" rather than being defined by its official civic boundaries.

Commercial Drive stands as a diverse urban region where residential and commercial activities intermingle seamlessly. The locale boasts a notable abundance of ethnic eateries, vegetarian restaurants, enterprises, and publicly subsidized housing. While property costs remain notably lower than those on Vancouver's western side, the area doesn't compromise on quality city services and serves as a pivotal hub for local transit. Over the years, it has magnetized successive waves of immigrants to Vancouver, becoming a focal point for vibrant Italian, Asian, Latin American, East Indian, and African communities.

Commercial Drive boasts a multitude of local ethnic boutiques and community organizations, adorned with Edwardian-style historic structures. The avenue is adorned with Europeanesque cafés, bars, as well as unique boutiques and lively entertainment spaces. Spanning from Venables to Broadway, this vibrant stretch of Commercial Drive hosts over 90 restaurants, including charming coffee bars among them.

It is also home to an active street festival culture; notable annual events include the Vancouver Dyke March in August and the Parade of Lost Souls in October.