Want to get intimate with some local history? On September 28th the Vancouver Heritage Foundation is organizing a new one-day-only exploration of the historic Grandview neighbourhood.

By registering for the Grandview Heritage Tour you’ll get to peek into ten of the legendary neighbourhood’s most interesting buildings, including a modernized Vancouver Special, the Dayton Boots Factory, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and more.

Here’s a bit of backstory about the hood from the Vancouver Heritage Foundation website:

“Developed around the expansion of the streetcar lines, the evolution of Grandview and Commercial Drive over many decades can be seen in historic homes of various sizes, legacy businesses and well-utilized community spaces. Starting with the opening of the interurban rail line from Vancouver to New Westminster in 1891, there are layers of history to explore here. Now well-known for the vibrancy of Commercial Drive with its array of restaurants, cafes and businesses along with the influences of the Italian community in the post-war years, the neighbourhood that has grown around this walkable district offers a wide variety of residential and commercial development. Once the eastern boundary of the City of Vancouver, the unique vibrant character includes modest cottages, apartments, large mansions, and creative heritage adaptations.”

The tour focuses on the area extending between Clark Drive and Nanaimo Street along East Hastings and East 1st, making it easily navigated on foot or by bike (highly recommended but weather-permitting). It’s also self-guided, which means you can do it at your own pace and in any order and depth, all while taking in the fresh fall air and scenery between stops, if you so please. Event volunteers will be handy along the way, locked and loaded with historical and eye-opening information about the venues and neighbourhood at large.

Tickets are $30 each, with funds directly supporting the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s awesome and essential efforts to preserve and promote our local history. Full details and registration can be found here.