Vancouver is a city dense with diversity, opportunity, and gorgeous nature. I was surprised to find that some of the best nature spots can be found smack dab in the middle of it all at VanDusen Botanical Garden. Here is a nut-shell explanation of why you should go visit this exceptional garden in Vancouver.
The VanDusen Botanical Garden
This 55-acre oasis can be found close to the Oakridge skytrain station at 5151 Oak st. It’s easy to get to and makes for a colourful outing with family and friends. Plan ahead or go now, as this garden is beautiful at any time throughout the year.
Gardens like this have always had a knack for romance and ambiance, so consider taking a date here if you’re looking for ideas. Go wander through the towering sunflowers, and watch as honey bees collect their nectar.
In August the sunflowers are like something out of a cartoon, they’re so tall! There is a “Bloom Calendar” on Vandusen’s website that can guide you through what to expect during the changing seasons in the garden.
More than just flowers…
VanDusen is vibrant with life and offers lots of green spaces to explore. In addition to the abundance of flowers, there is an open field or two where you can play frisbee or entertain a picnic, do cartwheels, or whatever you like really.
A fun spot to explore is the Elizabethian Maze. Getting in and out of this labyrinth can prove difficult but entertaining! There are also ponds that add to the tranquil atmosphere, and benches spread throughout for people to rest and enjoy the scenery.
A (very) brief history & more
VanDusen used to be a golf course and was opened to the public as a garden in 1975. The garden is named after a large financial donor named W. J. VanDusen. Being now well established, there are lots of opportunities to get involved with this beautiful place. You can buy general admission for the day, or become a member for year-round access ($47.00+).
The price of admission fluctuates depending on the season, being cheaper in winter months and slightly more costly in the summer for obvious reasons. There is a senior and student discount, and children under the age of 4 get to go in for free.
There is no shortage of things to learn before going and also during your visit. You’ll want to come more than once if you can, there’s always something new to see. You can request to host events here as well as explore the various educational programs that the garden supports.
Volunteering at the garden is also encouraged to any who are interested (both young & old). Vandusen also hosts spring and summer nature camps in addition to weekend nature clubs.
There’s something for everyone here, and their website does a good job of organizing it all in a user-friendly manner. If you’re needing a breath of fresh air and you’d like to stay local, Vandusen could be the answer to your prayers.
~ Another spot to discover when you come to visit Vandusen ~
Thoughts to Writings 