Cyclists on green roof deck of Vancouver's Convention Centre. Route hooks into the 30 km. Seaside-Seawall path that runs into Coal Harbour and Stanley Park. 2011. Photo by J. Chong
Ever cycled or strolled a large deck below a living, green roof downtown in any city? In Vancouver it’s possible : wind your way leisurely onto the roof deck of the new Vancouver Convention Centre from the bike-pedestrian path in Coal Harbour before you cycle into Stanley Park. In fact, you can still be on a bike-pedestrian path while enjoying the scenery on the roof deck.
The Convention Centre’s green roof is the largest, non-industrial green roof in North America to date.
You will marvel at various sights along the way to and onto the deck –a huge raindrop public art sculpture, the 2010 Winter Olympics flame sculpture, or an orca whale sculpture, that is fashioned Lego-like, as an optical illusion.
Public art sculpture, "The Raindrop", just below the roof deck. Vancouver Convention Centre 2011. Photo by J. Chong
When you bike along the deck paths lined with grassy slopes and verges, you will be unable to resist stopping several times for photo shots of panoramic ocean mountain-sky scenes with sea planes taking off from the harbor to shuttle commuters and visitors between Vancouver and the Gulf Islands. Or resist snapping photos of public outdoor art against the backdrop of Vancouver’s waterfront of magnificent mountains.
Along 30 km. Seaside-Seawall bike-pedestrian path to Vancouver Convention Centre with its living green roof 2011. Photo by J. Chong
Bring your own bike or there are bike rentals right by the bike path beside the Convention Centre. This area is also where visitors can book and board seaplanes for daily flights to the islands. (Seaplanes are too small to accommodate a bike.)
Afterwards, cycle and explore the upscale Coal Harbour area with cafes, marina, and areas along the shoreline with park benches and some grassy areas to rest. It’s perfect to also bring a small snack and watch the world sail, fly, cycle, roller blade, jog or stroll by.
View of seaplane launch area at Coal Harbour 2011. Photo by J. Chong
9:14 am
You cannot beat the scenery on this ride. Totally love the biking scene in Vancouver BC. My wife and I are always out rain or shine on our tandem we purchased from Joe at English Bay Bike Rentals on Davie.
10:33 am
Overall, Vancouver is a city that provides sport and active living opportunities for people of all ages. Hockey, baseball, tennis, football, basketball golf or evenwindsurfing, there is something for everyone.
3:38 am
Over all information is very important our life and we are the active living opportunity for people of all age the game is very interesting in this environment and active to every work.