If you are traveling from the Fairview neighborhood in Vancouver, BC, the most straightforward way to reach Vancouver General Hospital involves taking a short drive or public transportation. Start by heading southwest on West 12th Avenue, which provides direct access to major routes leading to the hospital campus.
For those opting for public transit, you can catch a bus on West 10th Avenue that heads eastbound toward the hospital area. Bus routes 009 or 025, for example, typically make stops near Vancouver General Hospital. The ride generally lasts around 10-15 minutes from Fairview, providing a convenient and reliable option.
If you prefer to drive, follow West 12th Avenue eastbound, then turn onto Grosvenor Street. Parking is available on-site, with designated zones for visitors and patients. The hospital’s location in the Vancouver, BC area makes it easily accessible via several main roads, including Vancouver Street and Granville Street.
For an optimal travel experience, consider checking real-time transit schedules or GPS navigation to account for any traffic or route changes. Whether by car or public transit, arriving at Vancouver General Hospital from Fairview can be quick and stress-free with these clear directions.
Step-by-step route options using public transportation and driving
To travel from Fairview to Vancouver General Hospital, drive north on Willow Street, then take the exit onto BC-1 East (Trans-Canada Highway). Follow BC-1 East for approximately 4 km, then take the BC-99 South exit toward Vancouver. Continue on BC-99 South for about 8 km until you reach the Downtown area. Use the West Broadway/Broadway Street exit and turn right onto West Broadway, then turn left onto Laurel Street. Vancouver General Hospital will be on your right after about 1 km.
Public transportation route
Board the #33 or #50 bus from Fairview area on West Broadway heading east. Ride for approximately 10 stops, a journey of around 15 minutes, until reaching the Oak Street/3594 West Broadway stop. Transfer to the #17 or #135 bus heading south on Oak Street. Ride for 8 stops over roughly 12 minutes, then disembark at the W 12th Ave at Laurel St stop. Walk north on Laurel Street for about 300 meters to arrive at Vancouver General Hospital.
Alternative transit combination
Take the Canada Line SkyTrain from Olympic Village Station in the Fairview neighborhood towards Richmond-Brighouse station. Ride for 9 minutes, then transfer at Waterfront Station to the Expo Line heading east. Continue on the Expo Line for 4 stations, approximately 8 minutes, and get off at King Edward Station. Walk east on King Edward Avenue for about 500 meters, then turn left onto Laurel Street. Vancouver General Hospital is located nearby, within walking distance from the station.
Tips for navigating traffic, parking, and transit schedules for a smooth trip
Check real-time traffic updates on BC Highway Cams or through local apps before your departure to avoid unexpected delays on the way from Fairview to Vancouver General Hospital. This allows you to choose the fastest route and adjust your timing accordingly.
Reserve parking online in advance if possible, using services like the Vancouver Parking Corporation, to secure a spot near the hospital. Arriving early during peak hours, typically between 7:30–9:30 AM and 3:30–5:30 PM, can help you find parking more easily and avoid heavy traffic congestion.
Consult the TransLink schedule online to plan your transit connection. Southbound bus routes, such as the 99 B-Line or 10, operate frequently during rush hours, with buses arriving every 5–10 minutes. Check for service alerts or schedule changes especially during weekends or holidays in BC and throughout Canada.
If you opt for transit, consider using the Compass Card for seamless access across buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, reducing wait times and fare hassles. Transit apps provide live updates on delays or cancellations, enabling better trip coordination.
To minimize waiting at busy transit stops, arrive 5–10 minutes before the scheduled bus or train departure. Adjust your timing in advance to align with transportation schedules, particularly during peak hours when delays are more common.
Keep a backup plan ready, such as a nearby ride-share pickup point or alternative transit route, in case of sudden changes in traffic or transit service disruptions. Staying flexible ensures your trip remains smooth despite unforeseen circumstances.