Marpole is a mostly residential neighbourhood on the southern edge of the city of Vancouver. Its borders are Angus Drive to the west, 57th Avenue to the north, Ontario Street to the east and the Fraser to the south. Three bridges and a light rapid transit line across the Fraser River make it a bustling gateway to Vancouver from the south and from the city's international airport.

THE VIBE

Marpole is a juxtaposition of contradictions: not only does the combination of young students and senior citizens contribute to this feeling, but so does the pairing of quiet residential areas dotted with ample greenspace with the major arterials that run through the city. Plans to bridge the areas that feel somewhat cut off from each other due to being bisected by busy streets are in the works.

LIFESTYLE

This neighbourhood has a strong sense of history, particularly within its aging population. Archaeologists have found evidence that Marpole was inhabited as far back as 3,500 B.C. This is also one of Vancouver’s oldest settlements, which was called “Eburne Station” in 1860. The area received another boost when the Lulu railway and the BC Electric interurban train were built in 1908, increasing its accessibility to and from other areas of the Lower Mainland.

MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

The 2016 census recorded Marpole’s population as 24,460 and the median age as 41.6. Because this neighbourhood is a high-traffic area, it’s less expensive than most areas of the city, and students and seniors are taking advantage of the prices here, as well as many new Canadians. There are also several seniors’ homes in the neighbourhood. The area appeals to the “day trippers” and “night owls” who enjoy the proximity to not only the downtown core but also the vibrancy of nearby Richmond. Marpole is an eclectic mix of residents that have come together to form a real community.

IN THE AREA

The shopping in Marpole is along the Granville corridor, and although it is mostly smaller, independently owned shops, there are also some larger chain stores here. The lower mainland’s oldest community centre, Marpole Oakridge Community Centre, is located in this neighbourhood, too. There is also plenty of greenspace in Marpole: Winona Park has three terraced fields for football, Ebisu Park boasts a climbing rock and Oak Park features basketball courts and water park.

HOT SPOTS

Armadillo Boutique

Some serious savings on some serious fashions are available at this high-end discount boutique. Get brand-name clothing, for much, much less, and it will be your little secret.

Milltown Bar and Grill

Off the beaten path, on Richmond Island, this place is worth coming to on a sunny day, when you can watch the sailboats at nearby Milltown Marina while enjoying a burger and a craft beer.

Marpole Midden

This ancient Musqueam village and burial site was once inhabited by Coast Salish people from at least 4,000 years ago until about 200 years ago, when smallpox arrived on the Northwest Coast.