Let’s be real—Vancouver is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Sandwiched between mountains and the ocean, this city knows how to do green spaces right. Whether you’re after a forest escape, a scenic jog along the water, or just a quiet patch of grass to chill on, Vancouver’s parks have you covered.
Finding a Park in Vancouver
With over 230 parks in the city, you’re never far from a trailhead, a picnic table, or a beach. Want to find one that fits your vibe?
Pro tip: Local coffee shops often have maps or community boards with hidden gems you might not spot online.
Park Types
Not all parks are created equal, and that’s the beauty of it. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Regional Parks – Big, wild spaces like Pacific Spirit where you can get lost (and found) in the woods.
- Urban Parks – Think Stanley Park or Queen Elizabeth—huge, iconic, and packed with features.
- Neighborhood Parks – Cozy, local spots where you’ll find people walking dogs, tossing frisbees, or hanging out with coffee in hand.
- Special Use Parks – Spaces built around specific experiences like gardens, sports complexes, or conservation zones.
Beaches and Waterfront Parks
Vancouver’s connection to the water is a big part of its charm, and the beach parks? They’re the icing on the cake.
- Stanley Park
This one’s a no-brainer. With a rainforest, bike-friendly Seawall, totem poles, and two popular beaches (Second and Third), Stanley Park is basically a city within a park. You could spend all day here and still not see it all. - Kitsilano Beach Park
Kits Beach is where locals go to play. Beach volleyball, paddleboarding, a saltwater pool, and an amazing sunset view—what’s not to love? Grab a smoothie, find a patch of grass, and soak it in. - Jericho Beach
A bit more mellow than Kits, Jericho is great for a chill afternoon. You’ll see kayakers, kids building sandcastles, and maybe a heron fishing by the rocks. - Spanish Banks
Need some space to breathe? Spanish Banks stretches wide with quiet sands and gentle waves. Great for skimboarding or tidepool wandering when the water recedes.
Parks with Amenities
Looking for more than nature? These parks have got you covered.
- Queen Elizabeth Park
Sitting on Vancouver’s highest point (at 125m above sea level), it’s part garden wonderland, part city lookout. The Bloedel Conservatory is a mini jungle under glass, and the surrounding gardens are pure joy in spring and summer. - Trout Lake Park
A community favorite with something for everyone: a lake with a sandy beach, off-leash areas, walking paths, and a bustling farmers market on Saturdays. It feels like a backyard—but for the whole neighborhood. - VanDusen Botanical Garden
A peaceful retreat with themed gardens from around the world, a hedge maze, and some seriously Insta-worthy flower displays. It’s like a world tour, minus the passport.
Before You Go
Now, take a moment and get to know our Canada Hustle app. With this app, you can easily find the most beautiful parks around the city. Believe us when we say that the streets of Vancouver will feel like home.
Available for both Android and iOS users, you couldn’t ask for a better travel buddy. Love a rush, a good story, a walk around a garden, or a scenic escape? Canada Hustle makes sure you find it.
Get Out There
Whether you’re a trail runner, sunset chaser, dog walker, or full-on hammock napper, Vancouver’s parks invite you to go at your own pace. There’s something magical about stumbling upon a quiet grove in the middle of the city or watching the sun dip behind the mountains as you dig your toes into the sand.
So go ahead—lace up your shoes, pack some snacks, maybe bring a friend—and start exploring. With this many parks to choose from, you’ll find one (or ten) that’s yours.
Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Joshita
