Vancouver is renowned as a world-class destination for nature enthusiasts, and a favourite spot for locals and visitors is ready to welcome them as the warm weather seasons arrive.
VanDusen Botanical Garden is a 55-acre garden oasis located centrally on Oak St. and West 37th Avenue, and is the perfect spot for walks with friends, reconnecting with the outdoors, and even discovering a new hobby.
I had a chance to recently explore the massive Garden, and quickly learned that VanDusen was filled with unique sights and activities for all ages.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
The journey into VanDusen Botanical Garden begins at the Visitor Centre, where the helpful staff welcome everyone and help them find where they want to go first.
Guests can become a member on site to enjoy unlimited daily admission and express entry to the Garden as well as the lush tropical paradise of Bloedel Conservatory atop Queen Elizabeth Park.
You can also purchase your membership online and immediately start accessing the variety of benefits, including discounts at the Garden gift shop, select special events, educational classes and programs, and nature camps for children.
The Visitor Centre is home to the Discovery Room, filled with interactive activities and hands-on displays like a dugout skull canoe and several wooden paddles.
Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation
The sun was starting to come through the morning clouds, so I headed outside to the massive nature sanctuary to begin seeing the sights.
Whether it’s your first or your hundredth visit to VanDusen Botanical Garden, there is always something beautiful to discover around every corner. To help you find all the hidden gems, vibrant planted areas, and serene lakes, be sure to grab a map at the entrance to guide your adventure.
Guided walking and cart tours are available daily in the afternoon, and make for a great way to explore the garden, especially in the summer.
Livingstone Lake and Heron Lake are wonderful spots for a leisurely stroll or a sit on one of the many chairs and benches available.
Keep an eye out for wildlife popping by to say hello, including majestic herons and adorable geese and goslings.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
VanDusen is a popular stop for flower lovers, and there’s plenty in bloom at VanDusen year-round.
I got to stop and smell the roses during my visit, go on a walk through the rhododendrons, and peruse the perennials.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
Make sure your camera or smartphone is fully charged, as you’ll be taking plenty of photos during your trip.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
Further into the garden are the Gitksan Story Poles, The Mosquito People, carved by Earl and Brian Muldoe, and Al of the Gispudwad by Arthur Sterritt.
The more than 40-year-old poles were carved to preserve knowledge, history and stories of the Gitksan people, and are worth the walk to find them beside Forest Lake.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
I then made my way over to the peaceful stone garden and meditation garden before stopping by the iconic hedge maze. Do you think you have what it takes to make it through?
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
VanDusen Botanical Garden is also a great place for those with a green thumb. Right beside the maze is the Learning Garden, a welcoming, accessible space for guests of all ages to learn where our food comes from. There is even a vegetable garden and an apple orchard to check out, but please, no harvesting, no matter how delicious everything looks.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
If you are working up an appetite by exploring the outdoors, make your way over to the Garden Cafe or Shaughnessy Restaurant to treat yourself to some delicious food and tasty drinks.
Whether you’re looking for cocktails and share plates with picturesque garden views, or craving a coffee with a yummy baked treat, VanDusen has got you covered.
Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation
Your membership even offers partner discounts at the Garden Cafe, Shaughnessy Restaurant, local businesses and garden centres, and select events and classes.
Plus, your membership includes unlimited daily admission and express entry to Bloedel Conservatory atop Queen Elizabeth Park, which adds even more value.
VanDusen Botanical Garden is open year-round with plenty of activities on its calendar, so I am already looking forward to my next trip to the nature sanctuary.
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