Named one of  North America’s coolest streets (and understandably so!), Main Street in Vancouver boasts a seemingly never-ending array of cafes, eateries, breweries and vintage shops, with no shortage of good people-watching.

Below, Vancouver local, Alison of @600sqftandababy guides us on a kid-friendly tour of her go-to spots in her Main Street / Mount Pleasant neighbourhood.

Vancouver’s Main Street: Where to Eat, Drink, Play and Shop

EAT

Budgie’s Burritos // 44 Kingsway

I love their vegetarian burritos (Poser with hot salsa, black beans and cabbage, if you were wondering) and they have the cheapest and best kids menu in town.

Don’t Argue! Pizzeria // 3240 Main Street

On a Friday evening with the sun streaming through the windows we can bring the kids and grab slices or a pie and a glass of cider/beer.  Feels like we can still get out and enjoy ourselves (with kids).

Burdock and Co. // 2702 Main Street

On the rare occasion we have a sitter, I love that we can walk a block and feel like we are in another world.  Drinking natural wines and eating whatever they are serving because it never disappoints.

DRINK

Elysian Coffee // various locations

It’s a beautiful, minimal space with light wood, concrete and felt topped metal stools.  I love their coffee but they also hire the most wonderful people who are always kind to me and my kids even if we aren’t always the perfect guests (ie. spilled coffee, too many strollers, no-cookie-today tantrums).

33 Acres // 15 West 8th Avenue

Main Street is full of breweries (you can do an entire tour within a few blocks) but 33 is the place for me.  I like their Sunshine beer and their white walls and plants.

PLAY

Collage Collage // 3697 Main Street

One of my favourite shops for anything kid related (and art for me!).  It is also the only art class that can keep my very physical boy to sit still.  The owner Erin has the best taste in kids books.  The shop and classes are run by artists and I am constantly inspired by the projects they put together.

Mount Pleasant Park // 3161 Ontario Street

We go to pretty much every park within a 15 block radius but our favourite is Mount Pleasant with a newer playground, skate park, basketball courts, community garden and grass fields.

SHOP

Much and Little // 2541 Main Street

I have been buying most of my gifts here for years and sometimes something special for me.  The owner Sarah has impeccable taste and carries home wares, accessories, a small assortment for kids and an expanding line of ethical clothes for women.  If my home and closet wall from Much and Little, I would be in heaven.

Vancouver Special // 3612 Main Street

Carrying all the Scandinavian and modern designs of my dreams.  I save up and purchase items here that are beautiful, timeless and high quality.

About Alison

Alison is mama to a toddler and a baby, choosing to live small in a 1 bedroom apartment in Vancouver and documenting her journey.  She enjoys the central city life and walking to all her favourite cute coffee shops and restaurants.

Instagram @600sqftandababy | Website 600SQFTANDABABY

All photos by Alison Mazurek