7 natural wonders that every Vancouverite should experience

Part of what makes Vancouver such a fantastic place to live in is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds our city.

But here’s the catch – this city has so many beautiful spots that the chances are you still haven’t seen them all. And who can blame you. After all how many other cities boast the same kind of natural beauty that Vancouver has to offer.

To help you seek out some of Vancouver’s natural wonders there’s a new combo pass that’s letting you score cheaper admission to check out some of the city’s coolest locations. Right now you can experience the VanDusen Botanical Garden and Bloedel Conservatory, two of Vancouver’s favourite attractions, at a discounted rate. If you grab this offer before June 30 then you and your family can enjoy a family combo admission pass for only $30 ($11 savings), while solos can get an individual combo pass for only $12 ($6 savings). Passes can be redeemed anytime this summer before August 31.

To celebrate, we’ve put together a list of just some of the natural beauty why Vancouverites can enjoy just steps away from their front door.

Wildlife

You might not notice them while you walk down Vancouver’s urban streets, but a little known fact is that you’ll see a variety of different birds while walking through the VanDusen Botanical Garden.  Hummingbirds, herons, eagles, hawks, and even owls reside in the garden. Chances are you might even spot turtles, fish, coyotes, and much more.

Incredible landscaping

First of all, you’ve got to check out the VanDusen Garden’s Elizabethan Maze. It’s made of 3000 pyramidal cedars called the Thuja occidentalis ‘Fastiaga,’ which were planted back in 1981.

Art

Nature is best when combined with art. That’s the idea behind VanDusen Garden’s sculptures, including fountains that are placed throughout the garden. Stroll through and you’ll also get to check out creations from the Vancouver International Stone Sculpture Symposium, hosted by the Vancouver School of Art.

The highest viewpoint

Did you know that the Bloedel Conservatory is the highest viewpoint in Vancouver? At the top of Queen Elizabeth Park you’ll get a bird’s-eye-view of the city. Just sit back and relax while you gaze over masses of trees to capture our stunning city skyline.

A rainforest

Yes, you read that right. The conservatory’s curved dome is amazing in itself, but walk in and your mind will be blown. You’ll see 500 species of plants from around the world. That’s not to mention the impressive collections of fig trees, palms, tropical flowers, exotic fruit, and much more. You can check out a full list of its plant life here.

Fantastic architecture

You might have heard others talk about this one, but you need to experience it yourself. The Bloedel Conservatory’s roof not only keeps visitors safe, but is stunning. Its dome structure is made of more than 1400 individual panels that have been replaced as part of a multi-phase project. The award-winning ‘Living Building’ visitor centre at VanDusen Botanical Garden is stunning with its orchid-inspired design and is one of the city’s most iconic buildings, as well as a model of sustainability.

Tropical birds

You’ll see lots of different animals in the Bloedel Conservatory, but its resident population of more than 100 free-flying birds are especially noteworthy. Listen to the exotic calls of the Turaco, Rosella parrot, Laughing Thrush, and more. Learn about other birds you can see by clicking here.

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Available for individuals or families until June 30, Vancouver’s special combo admission pass can be used anytime until the end of August. Use it at the Bloedel Conservatory or VanDusen Gardens by bringing your electronic or paper receipt to the admission desks.

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