Stanley Park
Discover Stanley Park—Vancouver's 1,001-acre natural oasis and the top-rated urban park in the world.
At 1,001 acres, Stanley Park is one of the world's largest and most beloved urban parks. Located on the edge of downtown Vancouver, this forested oasis is almost entirely surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. Attracting over 8 million visitors a year, it's a place where you can walk among giant cedar trees, stroll along a world-famous seawall, and enjoy stunning views, all just minutes from the city's skyscrapers.
Why Visit Stanley Park?
- The Seawall: Walk, run, or cycle the famous 9 km (5.5 mi) seawall that loops around the entire park, offering spectacular ocean and mountain views.
- Lush Rainforest: Explore over 27 km of forest trails that wind through a magnificent West Coast rainforest with centuries-old trees.
- Cultural Landmarks: Discover the iconic First Nations totem poles at Brockton Point, the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture, and the historic 9 O'Clock Gun.
- Abundant Attractions: The park is home to the Vancouver Aquarium, beautiful gardens, sandy beaches, and the charming Stanley Park Miniature Railway.
What to See & Do
- Walk or Cycle the Seawall: The number one activity. Allow 2-3 hours to walk the full loop or 1 hour to cycle. Bike rentals are available near the park entrance on Denman Street.
- Visit the Totem Poles: See the impressive collection of nine totem poles at Brockton Point, British Columbia's most-visited tourist attraction.
- Explore the Trails: Escape the crowds on the interior trails. Walk around the serene Beaver Lake or find the famous Hollow Tree, a 700-800 year old cedar stump.
- Relax at a Beach: Enjoy the sandy shores of Second Beach or Third Beach, or cool off at the Second Beach outdoor pool in the summer.
- Enjoy the Views from Prospect Point: The highest point in the park offers stunning views of the Lions Gate Bridge and the North Shore mountains.
Food & Drink Options
- The Teahouse: Located near Third Beach, offering upscale West Coast cuisine with spectacular ocean and mountain views. Perfect for a romantic dinner.
- The Prospect Point Cafe: A more casual spot at the park's highest viewpoint, serving burgers, fish & chips, and ice cream with incredible views.
- Stanley Park Pavilion: A historic building near the main entrance offering a restaurant, bar, and coffee shop.
- Concession Stands: During warmer months, you'll find several concession stands throughout the park serving snacks, hot dogs, and refreshments.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Seawall Direction: The seawall path is one-way for cyclists and rollerbladers (counter-clockwise). Walkers can go in either direction but should stay to the inside lane.
- Download a Map: Download a Detailed Stanley Park PDF Map and guide.
- Listen for the 9 O'Clock Gun: If you're in the park in the evening, listen for the boom of this historic cannon, fired every night at 9 p.m. from Brockton Point.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Vancouver Aquarium: Located within Stanley Park itself.
- The West End: The park entrance is adjacent to this vibrant residential neighbourhood, with many shops and restaurants along Denman and Davie Streets.
- English Bay Beach: Just a short walk from the south side of the park.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoStanley Park Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
Phone: (604) 681-6728
Official Website: Stanley Park
Stanley Park Reviews
Rated out of 5
This park is a stunning blend of natural beauty and urban charm, offering a unique experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. The picturesque trees, beautifully designed walkways, and serene bay views create the perfect setting for relaxation or an active day out.
One of the most captivating features is the view of the skyscrapers juxtaposed against nature, along with the mesmerizing sight of vessels passing by and water airplanes landing and taking off—it’s truly a photographer's dream!
The park is free to visit, which makes it even more appealing. For those seeking adventure, you can rent a boat or a bike to explore further. The dedicated cycling track is great for riders of all skill levels. After your activities, the nearby seafood options provide a delicious way to wrap up your visit.
This park is a gem that offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for tranquility, a place to exercise, or a fun outing with family and friends. Highly recommended!
Lalit Kaswan - a year ago
Wonderland of trees and wildlife!! The seawall is spectacular and a perfect place for a daily dog walk, run or bike ride. Even rollerblading is permitted! A few restaurants are located within the park’s boundaries and one gift shop. I love this place so much and highly recommend visiting. You could spend days just exploring the trails and sights.
Oceanna S - a year ago
We had a great day at this park so much to do. The Aquarium was awesome and food was good. There is a lovely beach area to take a picnic. If you have kids they will love it. The walks are interesting you won't regret going. Take lots of water
kerry hallatt - a year ago
This park is amazing! The views of the water are visually stunning! The path is pretty clean and there is space for both cyclists and pedestrians. The wall around the entire park will take a very long time but I highly recommend walking the path rather than taking a bicycle to truly get to capture the beauty of the park. There are tons of places to sit, take pictures, and a couple beaches on the side as well!
Daljot Gill - 2 years ago
Stanley Park feels like a true jungle in the heart of the city—an amazing escape from the hustle and bustle. If you’re seeking peace and quiet, and you love birds and small animals, this is the perfect place to explore. You can spend hours discovering its wonders, from lush forest trails to serene lakes and breathtaking ocean views. With playgrounds, restaurants, a pool, and the sea, there’s something for everyone. Every time I walk through the park, I find something new to enjoy and marvel at—it’s truly a magical experience.
Ebrahim Rafie - a year ago
Directions
| Skytrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Burrard Station | 2 Minutes |
| Canada Line | Waterfront Station | 2 Minutes |
How to get to Stanley Park by Skytrain
From Burrard SkyTrain Station take the Burrard Street Exit. Walk to your left (North) along Burrard Street 1 block to West Pender Street. Cross to the far side of Pender and look for the westbound #19 Stanley Park Bus Stop to your left. From Waterfront Station on the Canada Line exit onto Granville Street and walk south 1 block to Pender Street. Proceed left around the corner onto Pender to the westbound #19 Stanley Park Bus Stop. Take the #19 Stanley Park Bus to its terminus just inside the park.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Stanley Park:
Photo Gallery
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Beautiful Gardens in Stanley Park cc licensed photo by keepitsurreal -
A view from above of the famous seawall surrounding Stanley Park -
Looking towards the Yacht Club at the entrance to Stanley Park -
Looking east toward the Lions Gate bridge from the Seawall -
View toward Downtown Vancouver from the Stanley Park Seawall -
Looking across Lost Lagoon toward the residential highrises in Vancouver's West End -
Kids cooling down on a hot summer day in one of Stanley Parks waterparks -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Czar Hey - cc license via Flickr
