The “West End” area of downtown Vancouver was originally purchased in 1862 by the “Three Greenhorn Englishmen” with the intentions of establishing a brickworks industry and clay mining site. Due to the nature of the earth, this idea was quickly scrapped; the land was sold and soon became an upscale neighbourhood full of grand mansions know as Blue Blood Alley. With the rise of another local neighbourhood (Shaughnessy), the West End became more a welcoming home to new immigrants and a rising middle-class.
Today, a multicultural and diverse population inhabit the mix of century-old homes, historic mansions and buildings with modern high rises throughout. Home to several parks, schools, community centres and gardens, and even an off-leash dog park, the West End provides a luxurious oasis outside of the hustle and bustle of downtown Vancouver. The West End has a unique landscape and recognizable beauty. It is bordered by three bodies of water: English Bay, Coal Harbour, and Lost Lagoon.
We love our beautiful neighbourhood! We encourage you to walk around and enjoy the sights while you're out searching for our geocache. Please be sure to avoid muggles walking their puggles, families with little tykes and cyclists on bikes. Don't be scared to branch out, look around, and explore our neighbourhood; there are many treasures (not just our cache!) to be found. Have fun!