Please Walk on the Grass – the Gardens at Stanley Park

Photo: Rob Weiss

Although the days may be getting shorter, and there may be a tinge of fall in the air, the gardens at Stanley Park are still a blaze of colour, and there remains plenty of summer to be enjoyed!  Certainly, most visitors to Stanley Park will gravitate to the totem poles at Brockton Point, world famous Vancouver Aquarium or the spectacular Seawall, however, I often enjoy venturing off the beaten track to stop and smell the flowers at the parks’ dazzling Rose Garden.

Photo: Rob Weiss

Meticulously crafted in 1920 by the Kiwanis Club, the Stanley Park Rose Garden showcases over 3,500 rose bushes. Welcoming signs invite you to kick off your sandals and walk on the grass. Assaulted by the fragrances and colours, I simply had to stop and soak it all in. Delicate petals swayed in the breeze, and my senses almost seemed assaulted by the vibrant colours of the flowers.  Off in the distance, I noticed a traditional pergola arbour covered with climbing roses and clematis strategically located as a focal point. Behind it, like a mountain ridge, Vancouver’s high-rise towers dotted the skyline. A gentle reminder that the gardens are located in the heart of a bustling city.

Photo: Rob Weiss

These well-tended flower beds attract aspiring gardeners from around the world. I was thrilled to find the park packed with city residents and tourists, all enjoying the dazzling display of colour. Young moms pushed strollers; toddlers ran on the grass and couples walked arm in arm. Passionate photographers worked to capture a bride and groom in all their glory, and just when I thought it couldn’t get any better one of Vancouver’s finest trotted through on horseback. Our local Police Mounted Unit regularly patrols the trails in Stanley Park, and today I was thrilled to observe one of our officers greeting visitors and patiently offering directions.

Photo: Rob Weiss

Frankly, I am not sure how long I spent admiring the gardens. Each bed seemed to be more magnificent than the last, and I took my time to examine the wide variety of plants featured throughout the park. Without much thought, I ambled along, enjoying the sights and sounds. To my great delight, I found I had unwittingly arrived at the Stanley Park Pavilion, home of Stanley’s Bar and Grill. A glass of chilled BC wine seemed to be an ideal ending to an afternoon in the park. Don’t you agree?

Photo: Rob Weiss

Getting There:

Download the 2017 official map and guide for Stanley Park and look for Point of Interest #29: Rose Garden. Remember to charge your camera battery and enjoy the late summer colours!