Exploring Bloedel Conservatory & VanDusen Garden Posted On: September 29, 2015 By: Ruth Chin Filed In: Greater Vancouver Although Vancouver’s world-renowned Stanley Park receives the most annual visits by tourists and locals alike, here are a couple of under the radar outdoor spots just a little further away from the downtown core but definitely worth exploring: VanDusen Botannical Garden and Bloedel Conservatory, both accessible by crossing either the Oak or Granville St Bridges and minutes from the city center. Both properties are open seven days a week: VanDusen is the larger open air property whereas the smaller Bloedel Conservatory situated at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park is a beautiful oasis filled with plants, trees and birds under a geodesic dome. In the latter, you can walk along the paths in a rainforest-like climate-controlled environment complete with lushly planted tropical flora and colourful fauna. One of it’s residents include a sulphur crested cockatoo that will say “hello” as well as more than a hundred free-flying birds including many varieties of parrots, pheasants and macaws. In Van Dusen Garden, you’ll find a sprawling landscape dotted with lakes, ponds, as well as a countless varieties of trees and flowering bushes. Of particular note in the Van Dusen Garden is The Maze, made of 3,000 cedars, ready for puzzle enthusiasts as well as the curious to have a bit of fun and adventure. And while you’re strolling the expanse of park, enjoy the art sculptures punctuated throughout the property as they are truly a visual tour-de-force. Insider tip: After your walk, take a closer look inside the LEED certified Visitor Centre, one of only a few living buildings in the world which includes Truffles Café, a great place for lunch as well as afternoon tea.