Christ Church Cathedral

Beautiful Gothic building surrounded by modern skyscrapers

Noteworthy for: This is where the British Royal Family come to worship whenever they're in town.
Talk of the town: The church organ once used a human 'blower' to power it, who charged CAD 5 per hour for his services. A mechanical organ was eventually installed in 1911.

This squat structure nestled between 21st century buildings might not look like much, but this pretty Victorian church was a prominent landmark in its day. The 32 stained-glass windows inside are a stunning attraction, including one designed by William Morris, the most celebrated champion of the 19th century 'Arts and Crafts' movement. The cathedral is actually built of timber, some of which can be seen inside, and the exterior sandstone facade is just that, a mask under which the true church stands.
The church committee actually moved to have the cathedral demolished in the 1970s, intending to replace it with a more modern structure. But Vancouverites campaigned to save it and won. It's a popular venue for small plays, art exhibitions and other cultural events, and in 2003 it became one of the first Canadian institutions to preside over same-sex marriages, cementing Vancouver's reputation as a progressive, tolerant city.