Canadian Neighbourhoods Named Among the World’s Coolest
According to a global ranking by media company Time Out, two Canadian neighbourhoods have secured spots among the coolest urban areas in the world for 2026. Downtown St. Catharines landed at No. 9 globally, while Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant earned the No. 35 spot on the list, which evaluates community spirit, independent businesses, food and drink, nightlife, and liveability.
The Time Out Global list relies on nominations from a worldwide network of local experts and editors. This year’s top ranking went to Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, South Korea, known for its mix of historic hanoks, pochas, and craft workshops. Across global cities, the publication reports that downtown areas are experiencing a revival driven by new restaurants, music venues, galleries, and cafés.
Downtown St. Catharines Earns Top Ten Global Ranking
Positioned along the Niagara region’s cultural spotlight, Downtown St. Catharines features a waterfront setting, vintage boutiques, and record shops. According to Time Out, the historic downtown centres around St. Paul Street, one of Ontario’s few curved main streets. Over 100 heritage buildings line the neighbourhood, some dating back to the early 19th century.
The area also incorporates significant green space, including Montebello Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect behind New York City’s Central Park. Furthermore, the city maintains deep historical ties to the Underground Railroad. Recent local events include Emancipation Day STC celebrations that marked the 175th anniversary of Harriet Tubman’s arrival in St. Catharines, where she resided for nearly ten years.
Pro Tip: September and October offer prime visiting conditions for Downtown St. Catharines, aligning with autumn harvest season at surrounding Niagara farms and wineries, alongside programming at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.
Mount Pleasant Represents Vancouver on the Global List
Coming in at No. 35, Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood is recognized by locals for its colourful murals, bike-friendly streets, and active community scene. Recent civic additions include a new public space at the plaza at Main and 14th, while the neighbourhood’s historic brewery and vintage retail scenes continue to attract visitors.
According to Time Out, Mount Pleasant sits roughly a 12-minute drive from Oakridge Park, which hosts Time Out Market Vancouver. The broader international ranking features diverse urban enclaves, ranging from L’Ocean District in Rabat, Morocco, to Neos Kosmos in Athens, Greece, and Chinatown in Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canadian neighbourhoods made the Time Out list?
Downtown St. Catharines ranked No. 9 globally, and Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant ranked No. 35.
What criteria does Time Out use to evaluate neighbourhoods?
Neighbourhoods are evaluated based on food and drink, nightlife, independent businesses, liveability, and sense of community.
Which neighbourhood ranked No. 1 in the world?
Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, South Korea, claimed the top spot on the 2026 ranking.
Explore More Travel Stories
Have you visited either of Canada’s top-ranked neighbourhoods? Share your favourite local spots in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more city guides.