Guide to visiting Vancouver

Planning a trip to Vancouver?
Get tips on what to see and getting around the city.

Parks

Work up a sweat or pack a picnic and explore at your own pace at one of three destination parks.

Stanley Park is a magnificent green oasis in the midst of an urban landscape. Explore 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest.

Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver and makes for spectacular views of the park, city, and mountains on the North Shore.

Hastings Park is one of Vancouver's largest urban parks with a combination of recreational activities, nature, and entertainment venues.

Gardens

Rain or shine, Vancouver's gardens inspire and soothe with their beauty.

There are admission fees to enter the featured gardens - check each garden's webpage for fees. 

Bloedel Conservatory is an indoor tropical paradise in Queen Elizabeth Park. 

  • Three different climate zones
  • 200+ free-flying exotic birds 
  • 500+ exotic plants and flowers
  • Healing garden that engages all of your senses
  • The Conservatory Gift Shop

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a 55-acre oasis. Explore an Elizabethan hedge maze and unwind in a serene setting. VanDusen has something for everyone to enjoy. 

  • Sculptures featuring artists like Bill Reid, David Marshall, and Sebastian
  • Guided, group, and self-guided tours
  • Cart tours for people with mobility issues
  • Indoor visitor centre
  • Casual dining and gift shop

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a tranquil garden in the heart of Vancouver's Chinatown. The stunning garden is an authentic representation of Ming Dynasty-era tradition. 

  • Winding paths, rocks, and lush plants
  • Unique rock forms, lily-covered pond, and pagoda
  • Beautiful vistas
  • Next to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park

Free gardens are also available, including the Ted and Mary Grieg Rhododendron Garden and Rose Garden in Stanley Park, and the Quarry Gardens and Rose Garden in Queen Elizabeth Park.

Seawall

The Seawall is divided into two marked sections:

  • Outer path (closest to the water): walkers and joggers
  • Inside path: cyclists and inline skaters

Follow the signs to make sure you use the Seawall safely.   

Vancouver's Seawall is the world's longest uninterrupted waterfront path. It extends from the Vancouver Convention Centre to Spanish Banks Park.

Parking

If you’re visiting someone who lives in a permit parking zone, you may be eligible for a visitor parking permit.

Steps to get a permit

  1. Make sure your vehicle is insured.
  2. Ensure you and your host have the required documents.
  3. Have your host apply in person when you arrive, with the required documents.   

How to get a permit

Metered parking

Motorcycles and scooters

Parking at parks

Transit

TransLink provides public transit in the Metro Vancouver area.

Public transit offers a range of options, making it easy to get around without a car during your visit. 

Travel by:

  • Bus
  • SkyTrain
  • SeaBus
  • West Coast Express

And combining any of these with cycling is easy!

Plan a trip with TransLink  

Events

Our calendar features events that the City of Vancouver and Vancouver Park Board produce, sponsor, and support with grants or contributions.

Resources