Commercial Drive

Commercial Drive, affectionately known as 'The Drive,' is Vancouver's most eclectic and politically progressive neighborhood. Once the heart of Vancouver's Italian community (and still proud of that heritage), The Drive has evolved into a vibrant, multicultural corridor that perfectly embodies East Vancouver's counter-culture spirit.

In 2026, The Drive remains fiercely independent and community-oriented. This is where you'll find locally-owned cafes instead of Starbucks, vintage shops instead of chains, and political activism on every corner. The neighborhood wears its progressive values on its sleeve—literally, with colorful street murals, rainbow flags, and community bulletin boards packed with local events.

The Italian coffee culture legacy lives on in traditional espresso bars alongside new-wave cafes. Street-level patios buzz year-round with artists, activists, students, and families. The Drive is LGBTQ+ friendly, artist-friendly, and immigrant-friendly—a place where 'Keep East Van Weird' isn't just a slogan, it's a way of life.

With the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station providing rapid transit connections, The Drive has become increasingly popular while fiercely resisting gentrification and maintaining its authentic, gritty charm.

Commercial Drive's history reflects Vancouver's immigrant waves. Italian immigrants arrived in the early 1900s, establishing the 'Little Italy' character that persists today. The 1960s-70s brought counter-culture movements, leftist politics, and artist communities. In the 1980s-90s, The Drive became a hub for Vancouver's LGBTQ+ community and continued attracting artists priced out of other neighborhoods. The 2000s saw waves of Latin American and Portuguese immigrants. Throughout, The Drive has resisted chain stores and gentrification while maintaining fierce neighborhood pride and political activism. It's been the epicenter of East Van culture—where 'Keep East Van Weird' originated.

Demographics: Highly diverse and multicultural. Mix of long-time Italian residents, Latin American immigrants, LGBTQ+ community, artists, young professionals, students, and families. Age range skews younger (25-40) with significant renter population. Lower average incomes than West Side neighborhoods but high cultural capital. Strong community activism and neighborhood engagement.