Clubbing has never been Vancouver’s strong point, though a recent extension of opening hours to 4am may inject some life into the scene.

Dance clubs concentrate along Granville Mall downtown, between Robson and Drake Streets. Touring bands play at the Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville St, V6Z 1K3, +16047397469), a 1929 art-deco dance hall with a sprung floor. Skybar (670 Smithe Street, V6B 1E3, +16046979199) is the celebrity-spotting place of the moment, though the queues can be daunting.

Pubs with a view, like Bridges (1696 Duranleau Street, Granville Island, V6H 3R9 , +16046874400), The Dockside Brewing Company (1253 Johnston Street, Granville Island, V6H 3R9, +16046857070), and Steamworks (375 Water Street, Gastown, V6B 5N3, +16046892739) are the locals’ choice for a low-key evening.

Vancouver’s gay scene is centred along Davie and Denman streets in the West End. As with the straight scene, coffee bars and pubs outnumber night clubs.

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