Stanley Park

There are several ways to experience the beauty and history of Stanley Park. Pass by on a Vancouver sightseeing tour, take a guided tour along its wooded trails, or check out the First Nations Interpretive Walking Tour, which explains the local indigenous history and culture.

Alternatively, get creative on a guided photography tour of the temperate rain forest before exploring the park’s winding cycling and hiking paths. Meanwhile, families with kids can stop at the Vancouver Aquarium and the Stanley Park Miniature Train.

• A free shuttle bus travels around the park, though many opt to bike or walk instead.

• Old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages offer 1-hour tours and are a great—and romantic—way to get an overview of the area.

• Restaurants and cafés are scattered throughout the park.

• Stanley Park is wheelchair and stroller accessible for the most part, but some more rugged trails may be off-limits.

Stanley Park is located at the west end of downtown Vancouver and the park’s information booth is located near the Georgia Street entrance. Walking and cycling paths lead from downtown to the peninsula where the park is located, but the TransLink #19 bus and Skytrain are also options. Alternatively, park your car nearby using a daily parking pass.

The park is open year-round; March to November bring the mildest weather, and it can get quite cold in the winter. To have the park (more or less) to yourself, the best times to visit are typically early morning and mid- to late afternoon.

Certainly one of the best views in Stanley Park is from the seawall looking over to the Vancouver skyline and Coal Harbour. For natural beauty, it’s tough to beat the views of the surrounding mountains, but the rose garden and beaches come close. There’s also the wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers, and birds. Culturally-speaking, the First Nations art and totem poles are a must, while their scenic spots include the Lost Lagoon, Hollow Tree, and Beaver Lake.

Yes, visiting Stanley Park in Vancouver is worth it. This Vancouver must-visit gem blends stunning nature with recreational delights. Roam lush trails, soak in spectacular seawall vistas, and discover the captivating totem poles. Whether biking, strolling, or unwinding, Stanley Park guarantees an unforgettable and picturesque adventure.

To make the most of your day in Stanley Park, start with a stroll or bike ride along the Seawall, absorbing stunning waterfront views. Explore iconic landmarks like Totem Poles and the Lost Lagoon, then enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Cap off the day with a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium or a horse-drawn carriage tour.

Visiting Stanley Park is a wallet-friendly delight, as the park has no entrance fee. You can explore its vibrant landscapes, scenic trails, and iconic totem poles at no cost. However, specific attractions within the park, like the Vancouver Aquarium, Second Beach Pool, and Stanley Park Pitch & Putt, have individual admission fees.

Discover Stanley Park effortlessly without a car! Opt for eco-friendly choices like renting a bike, rollerblading around the Seawall, taking a horse-drawn carriage tour, or hiking through the park’s lush paths. Hop-on hop-off bus tours often stop outside the entrance, and public bus number 19 drops visitors in the heart of the park.

The 6-mile (10-kilometer) Seawall is the most scenic part of Stanley Park, offering breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and cityscape. Comprised of the park’s entire circumference, the iconic loop provides a picturesque route for walking, jogging, or cycling, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty while enjoying the serenity of the Pacific Ocean.

Maximize your Stanley Park adventure by dedicating a solid half-day. This timeframe lets you soak in the park's charm, stroll through landmarks like the Totem Poles and Seawall, and indulge in a laid-back break. Feel free to extend your visit if you're up for more, like cycling or a horse-drawn carriage tour.