Stories and photos by Michelle Fedosoff (unless otherwise indicated)
Stanley Park is located in the heart of Vancouver, surrounded by the Burrard Inlet and English Bay. Originally used by the Indigenous Peoples, it was eventually turned into Vancouver’s first city park in 1886.
The park is not without controversy, with the eviction of indigenous people and Chinese workers, the military base, logging, and the construction of the seawall and Lost lagoon.
Today the park is designated a National Historic Site of Canada and has been named the best park in the world by the Travelers’ Choice Awards.
The majority of the park is forested with approximately half a million cedar and redwood trees within its thousand acres, and the city is dedicated to keeping it in as natural state as possible. The park holds many attractions and it is easy to spend the day here.
Seawall
The seawall is a 5-mile (8 km) path around the outer edge of the park. It runs beside the Pacific Ocean and it perfect for viewing purple starfish at low tide and, if lucky enough, the seals looking for fish. The seawall is divided into 2 lanes, one for pedestrians and a one-way for cyclists. It is paved and flat so it’s easy for everyone to use. There are several options for stopping; washroom facilities, benches for resting, play areas for the kids, and places to eat.
Scenic Drive
The Scenic Drive is a one way drive around and through Stanley Park. It is a great way to get a quick look at the park and offers many places to pull out for views. It is pay parking throughout the park, but one ticket allows you to park in several locations.
The Totem Poles at Brockton Point
The totem poles at Brockton Point are a collection of totem poles representing the First Nation Peoples throughout British Columbia. Each carving on the pole represents an event and has a meaning. There are also three other totem poles located in the park waiting for you to find.
Second Beach
Second Beach is family friendly. This is the location of the lifeguard attended outdoor pool, the children’s playground, and sandy beach. A great place for a picnic with tables provided as well as a concession and coffee vendor and public washrooms. No reason to leave the area for several hours.
Stanley Park Pitch and Putt Golf Course
Stanley Park Pitch and Putt Golf Course is a pretty par 3 course surrounded by trees and mature rhododendrons. During summer months there is a fee to play and services available to rent clubs and balls. In winter, the course is open and play is free but the course is only maintained at basic levels.
Lost Lagoon
Lost Lagoon is a manmade lake in the park with a 1-mile natural walking trail around it. The trail is flat except for the bridge and has many benches for resting or just sitting. This is a popular place to bird watch with many different species of ducks, Canadian Geese, and white swans nesting in the area. If you are patient enough, you will also be treated to a visit by the raccoons in the area and maybe the local beaver. The Stanley Park Nature House is also located here and a great place to stop for some information on the wildlife, or maybe a tour with a ranger.
Horse Drawn Carriages in Stanley Park
Horse drawn carriages will take you for a 1-hour ride through the forest pulled by a pair of Clydesdale horses. The professional guide will provide you with history and basic information about the park, the redwood forest, and some of the wildlife living in the park.
The Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is located in the middle of the park and is home to the dolphin habitat and the rain forest walk. It is also home to the otter exhibit, which will make everyone smile – those otters are just such characters.
The Vancouver Aquarium has some touching and learning pools, and it is committed to animal rehabilitation and release.
A gift shop is located at the exit.
Wildlife in Stanley Park
Wildlife viewing is a must and is easy. Stanley Park sees 8 million visitors each year, and the wildlife are used to humans watching them. They are not bothered at all. On any given day you will find ducks, geese, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, beaver, otters, seals, and squirrels. In the spring you will see the cute babies. Just remember these are wild animals, so no feeding them. Please stay quiet and keep your distance.
The Teahouse Restaurant
The Teahouse is a favorite spot for a snack or a meal. Originally an officer’s mess hall and then later a residence, the Teahouse is an iconic restaurant with a delicious menu and stunning views to the Burrard Inlet. It’s a great place to watch a sunset.
They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and during the summer guests can enjoy the lovely patio.
Purchase Local Art
There are three areas in Stanley Park that artists are allowed to set up and work. Painter’s Circle, the Japanese Memorial, and the Vancouver Aquarium. You will find painters, sketch artists, and sculptors all displaying their work and producing more. Browse through the art and purchase a special souvenir to take home with you.
Stanley Park Train
Take the Stanely Park train on its 2 km, 15-minute ride through the forest and over the trestles. At certain times of the year, the rides are themed. Easter, Halloween Ghost Ride, Bright Lights Christmas Train and Dog Days for you and your canine companion. The train is wheelchair accessible.
These are just twelve of the fun things to do in Stanley Park. You might find that you have run out of time for everything. That’s okay. Just return the next day and continue exploring. You will always find something fun and entertaining to do in Vancouver’s Stanley Park.
