Stanley Park is a 405-hectare (1,001-acre) public park that borders the downtown of Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada, and is mostly surrounded by waters of Burrard Inlet and English Bay.
The park has a long history. The land was originally used by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years before British Columbia was colonized by the British during the 1858 Fraser Canyon Gold Rush and was one of the first areas to be explored in the city. For many years after colonization, the future park with its abundant resources would also be home to non-Indigenous settlers. The land was later turned into Vancouver's first park when the city incorporated in 1886. It was named after Lord Stanley, 16th Earl of Derby, a British politician who had recently been appointed Governor General. It was originally known as Coal Peninsula and was set aside for military fortifications to guard the entrance to Vancouver harbour. In 1886 Vancouver city council successfully sought a lease of the park which was granted for $1 per year. In September 1888 Lord Stanley opened the park in his name.
Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Ramon Echavarria | Mar 18, 2018
Competing for one of my favorite parks ever due to the simplicity of the trails combined with the wonderful scenery. It ranges from beautiful beaches, serene forests, and an epic bike trail that shows you all of the aforementioned locales. Beaver Lake wasn't anything special and I would've loved to see the flower garden in view. Next time
Terrence Stagniton | Apr 3, 2018
If you want to see Beavers up close, head to the end of this lake nearest Second Beach. Their lodge is the "island" just near the stone bridge - they often swim around the shore near the island and also swim up the stream towards the Second Beach. Head out early in the morning - or (more conveniently) head there about an hour before it goes dark. Respect them and keep quiet - and they'll swim up and down posing for photos. While there, also look around for Raccoons - lots of them hang out looking for trash to raid.
Sean Lundy | Mar 2, 2018
Expansive park with tons to do! You can see the buildings that were created for the 2010 Olympics from the area that the Totems are located. You could visit the aquarium (which is world renowned). It's a beautiful place for an afternoon hike. You can fish here. There are many heritage statues. The park is also filled with beautiful, old trees and acts as a nice escape from the city proper. Great place to take your dog!
Viken Mekhtarian | Jan 19, 2018
One of the most photogenic part of Vancouver- a rain forest in the middle (edge) of the city. The pars is very popular with tourists who walk or bike the sea wall on bikes . you can rent bikes-just off the entrance to the park. The park is so big it will easily take two hours to walk it but it’s worth every step. The Sea wall covers some stunning views of the surrounding areas and great little spots for mingling. The park also houses the Vancouver Aquarium and the Second Beach outdoor swimming pool. A gorgeous sprawling pool at the edge of the ocean with a 50 meter roped off lanes which are very popular with the long distance swimmers and triathletes.
Dariya Boklashchuk | Mar 15, 2018
I've lived in Vancouver for 17 years and the seawall at Stanley park hasn't changed, its as beautiful as ever and an amazing walk that takes about 2 1/2 hours. On the way you'll stop by through 3 beaches, 1 waterpark, 1 aquarium, 1 outdoor pool, a giant playground and a lighthouse. There are tons of smaller trails on the inside and a beautiful rose garden you can go through or a couple lakes to see as well (but those are a little more swampy in the trails). Overall its an amazing park and totally deserves 5+ stars, also because its so darn close to downtown Vancouver :)
Adam Frank | Apr 23, 2018
Beautiful wilderness right in the city. Stanley park is gorgeous with lots of life. We caught the sunset in March on a sunny day. Felt very safe walking back at night. It is really a great way to see beautiful Vancouver. You could spend days exploring the park fully.
Tom D | Apr 17, 2018
Stanley Park will always hold a special place in my heart. Not only is it a Stunning Vancouver landmark but it is a versatile and inviting space to explore. With both great Walking/Biking routes along side a car path you're able to visit by any mean and at any point in the day. I'll guarantee that you will fall in love with this international sensation and find It's hard to leave!
Kat Chan | Apr 30, 2018
Enjoyed biking around the huge park! We rented a bike from a nearby store. This is one of the best parks I've ever been to. It was relaxing as it was right beside the water and the view was awesome! Better to spend half day here, bike or walk around and have a picnic. Will definitely recommend this park!
Kyle Rieder | May 8, 2018
Best bike ride in the world around the seawall. Also iconic views from prospect point. Great beaches - recommend English Bay for tourists, Second Beach for families, Third Beach for locals. Third more accepting of alcohol consumption, that being said is still illegal and should be concealed. Best restaurant is the Tea house which is more fine dining.
David M | Apr 16, 2018
Whilst hiking through the park, I had the most remarkable experience when I encountered a small flock of birds. I held out my hand and they perched themselves on my hand. This is only one of the magical aspects of this amazing park. Completely in love with the forest and the clear water that gently laps the coast
Paula Marth | Jun 8, 2018
A must see attraction. We only had a couple of hours so we drove around the park stopping at the main points. It is absolutely stunning and breathtaking. The park is kept very clean and well kept. The beaches were so pretty and the path is well worth a walk. It would have been nice to have a bike and go through it. Next time I will give myself the entire day there!
Dawn | May 25, 2018
Vancouver's green gem. An oasis of walkers, joggers and cyclists. Families and couples and groups of friends and loners alike are enjoying the sights and sounds of this amazing park. The lagoon is filled with geese and gosling's right now and the Flora and trees in full leaf are stunning. So much wildlife to spot. Anytime is a great time to visit this beautiful park with extensive seawall.
Vi Nguyen | May 11, 2018
This was one of the most amazing parks I've visited. Parking isn't free but if you have a bike you won't have to pay for parking. The beach was beautiful and so were the people playing music and singing on the beach. This is place is really special. If you are a tourist I strongly recommend it. You can get a feel of the local lives here.
Robert Michels | Jun 3, 2018
The best location for sightseeing in Vancouver and very enjoyable for both tourists and locals. Amazing views of downtown, the North Shore and even English Bay if you bike or walk around the seawall. It also features a nice Lake (Beaver Lake), the Vancouver Aquarium, the totem poles, a sports complex, and countless trails, stone of which are bike friendly.
Christopher Robins | Jun 7, 2018
A gorgeous and expansive park located between central and northern Vancouver! This park is loaded with beautiful trails that give you a glimpse into what the area must have looked liked hundreds of years ago! Trails interweave throughout the entire park passing through old forests and aquatic animal habitats alike. Parking is accessible every where (paid) and the park is additionally ideal for passing cars and cyclists alike. I highly suggest parking and walking around but quotes busses also available for the less active (or those who fear getting lost) The park is also home to a beautiful rose garden, a few beaches, and a few refreshment stations here and there. A must go to for all!
Andru Valpy | Aug 14, 2018
By far the best place to go in Vancouver! This sprawling park has a bit of everything! Most love the Vancouver Sea Wall, which runs along the entire length of the park and offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains. It's easy to get lost in the beauty of it! There are plenty of gardens located within the grounds, including the lost lagoon and Beaver Lake. The miniature railway is a fun attraction with children, as well as the Vancouver Aquarium. Within the grounds are a variety of statues and monuments, including the Japanese Canadian War Memorial, to honour those who served in WWI. There are a variety of dining options within the park depending on your cravings. There are splash pads located on the north side of the park, perfect for hot summer days. Third Beach is also popular for swimming as is Second Beach (complete with the Second Beach Swimming Pool). Finally, Prospect Point is a great vantage point to take in, especially during sun-rise and sun set! You can get a great view of the mountains and the Lions Gate Bridge.
Ben Hua | Aug 14, 2018
Awesome place to go biking or rollerblading. 100% would recommend to go with kids. Lovely scenery with an amazing view of the ocean. There are plenty of places to sit around. Playgrounds here are good for children. Maintenance at this park is definitely up to date with many garbage disposals and places to wash up. If your looking for a nice place to go especially during the summer, this park is my number one choice!
Valerie Yeo | Aug 10, 2018
Love the view. Great place to spend the whole day with the family. You get to see the Lion gate bridge from the park. Plenty of parking lots if you decided to drive. There is also a water park which we didn't get to explore. You can also rent a bike and cycle all the way around the park and back. Explore the park at your own pace, you'll be surprised what it has to offer.
S. Gregory | Aug 6, 2018
Absolutely stunning park. Fun for the kids, adventurers, sightseers, photographers, and those who just like to relax. I was surprised at the variety and the simplicity of so many things to do. Things that I would have never thought to be as enjoyable as it was. While others activities exceeded my expectations. People can rent and bike around the park. There are nature trails throughout the park. Plenty of green space to have a picnic. There are cafes with vegetarian options and they sell kombucha! There are also plenty of benches to just sit and enjoy the greenery, mountains and the water. There's even a small water area for kids to play and dry off. I could stay out here for hours.
alaul azim | Aug 15, 2018
Very nice place in Vancouver. You can easily spend a day here. Long biking trail, spectacular views, horse cart riding, aquarium, water park , lots of other activities. It is a compact place of fun. Also big waves of sea. If you pay parking once, you can park your car at any parking lot, you don't need to pay again.
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