7 Retro Vancouver Things That Will Take You Back To The 1950s

It's a bop, duwop, duwop. 🎵
Contributor

If you're feeling very over 2020, then why not take it all the way back?

There are a ton of cool retro things to do in Vancouver that are perfect for anyone who wants to escape to the 1950s.

From bright colours and neon lights to places that seem simply stuck in time, you're going to want to take a date with you to these old-school spots.

No poodle skirt is required to feel like you've stepped onto the set of Grease right here in the city.

Museum of Vancouver's 1950s gallery

Price: $22

Address: 1100 Chestnut St., Vancouver, BC

Why You Need To Go: Once upon a time, Vancity had more neon lights than Las Vegas. You can relive that era by stepping into a retro exhibit that'll take you straight back to the 1950s.

Rocko's Diner

Price: 💸

Cuisine: Diner Food

Address: 32786 Lougheed Hwy., Mission, BC

Why You Need To Go: The "Riverdale Diner" is where the hit show's pilot was filmed and the set for Pop's was built just like it. Try one of their quarter-pound hot dogs with unique toppings or their maple bacon sundae.

Twilight Drive-In

Price: $30+

Address: 3350 260 St., Fraser Hwy, Langley Township, BC

Why You Need To Go: There's nothing like an old-fashioned drive-in to send you straight back to the 1950s. You can bring your doggo along and movies play rain or shine.

Neon Bowling

Price: $5.99+

Address: Grandview Lanes, 2195 Commercial Dr., Vancouver, BC

Why You Need To Go: There's something about glow-in-the-dark neon bowling that never gets old. At Grandview Lanes, it feels like nothing's changed there in 70 years — in a good way.

Glenburn Soda Fountain

Price: 💸

Cuisine: Ice cream

Address: 4090 Hastings St., Burnaby, BC

Why You Need To Go: In the mood for a throw-back treat? Look no further. They have 10 flavours of milkshakes like butterscotch and mocha, and a variety of sodas made with their 1931 Walrus Soda Fountain.

Shop For '50s Threads

Price: $5+

Address: Mintage Mall, 245 E. Broadway, Vancouver, BC

Why You Need To Go: Need a new look or just updating your current one? Get lost in this giant vintage paradise upstairs at this hidden gem shop.

Mary's On Davie

Price: 💸💸

Cuisine: Diner

Address: 1202 Davie St., Vancouver, BC 

Why You Need To Go: Diner food for carnivores and vegans alike. That's right, Mary's has gotten a facelift, and while it's still true to its '50s vibe, you can opt for meatless alternatives to some of their beloved dishes.

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

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