VanDusen Botanical Garden
VanDusen Botanical Garden located in the heart of Vancouver features a collection of over 7500 varieties of plants from around the world

VanDusen Botanical Garden once a full-length golf course that was slated to be developed for housing in the 1970s was saved through the efforts of group of citizens and the Vancouver Parks Board. The project was funded equally by the City of Vancouver, the Province and Mr. W.J. VanDusen.
First opened in 1975 this spectacular garden has gained an international reputation with its diverse collection of over 7500 varieties of plants from around the world. These are all displayed in a beautiful setting among lawns, ponds and rock work with views of the north-shore mountains beyond. Words cannot adequately describe the beauty of this Vancouver gem, so be sure to click on the photo and video tab to see some examples the amazing beauty you will experience there.
The displays are great at any time of the year, but they are, no doubt, at their very best during the spring and summer months.
VanDusen Botanical Garden does have a small admission fee. Visit their official website linked above for current rates.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesVanDusen Botanical Garden Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Phone: (604) 257-8463
Official Website: VanDusen Botanical Garden
VanDusen Botanical Garden Reviews
Rated
VanDusen Garden is truly a gem in the heart of the city, and it holds a special place in our hearts. We adopted a tree here in memory of our parents, making it not just a garden but a living tribute filled with love and memories. We visit every week to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The rose garden is stunning, and with every visit, there’s something new to discover—different flowers and plants that bloom throughout the seasons, making each trip unique and refreshing.
The Festival of Lights is a magical experience on its own. The combination of mesmerizing lights, enchanting music, and the serene atmosphere transforms the garden into a wonderland.
VanDusen is more than just a garden; it’s a place of beauty, tranquility, and connection. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to unwind, find inspiration, or simply enjoy nature at its finest.
Parisa P - a month ago
Need to buy tickets online to enter the light festival, tickets sell out for popular times early. Recommend going late (around 8pm) to avoid the crowds and in the rain/colder days (if you don't mind) to avoid the crowds. We went first weekend it opened on November 30 and it was perfect, we stayed for 1.5 hours and saw everything. Similar display to 2023 but we still had a great time. Popcorn was not great, the hot chocolate was wonderful. There is also a mini donut stand and a pretzel stand. The light show is every 20 minutes by the lake from the top of the hour and lasts about 5 minutes. The park is impressive and beautiful, the light festival is only part of the park, in the spring/summer the whole park is open and it is incredible. There is a maze and so many gardens to walk through, I recommend to come again in summer. This is my go to attraction for out of town visitors.
Shawn - a month ago
I took a winter plant identification course here so I had access to the garden for the day. Even in winter there's lots to see and there aren't any crowds to fight through.
The coffee I bought was good but the book selection in the shop is weak.
Check the garden's website for courses that might interest you. So far I've taken two I they were both good.
Taking a long walk through the garden on a sunny January day was glorious. Come explore!
Vas Sladek - a month ago
Vandusen Festival of Lights is a great activity during for the holiday season. The venue is very accessible. Online ticket cost 28CAD and should be book in advance.
The place was huge and the lights display were nice. This year they added more food vendors which were great.
Highly recommend visiting this place. It’s house for both kids and adults.
Just Me Traveling - 2 months ago
I visited VanDusen Botanical Garden in November, and while it was a pleasant experience, I think the garden truly shines in spring or summer when the flowers are in full bloom. The fall colors were nice, but I imagine the vibrant landscapes are even more beautiful during warmer months. One highlight for me was the hedge maze. It was fun. Overall, it’s a great place to visit any time of year, but I’ll definitely return in the spring or summer for the full experience.
Mahdad Nour - 3 months ago
Directions
Skytrain and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Canada Line | Oakridge - 41st Station | 1 or 6 Minutes |
How to get to VanDusen Botanical Garden by Skytrain and Bus
Get off the Canada Line at Oakridge - 41st Station and turn left out of the station. Cross over to the far (North) side of 41st Avenue and take the #41 or #43 UBC bus westbound on 41st Avenue. After a very short bus ride, get off at Oak Street, walk back to the corner, go left and walk 4 blocks up Oak Street to West 37th Avenue (about 6 minutes). If you don't wish to walk the 4 blocks you can take the #17 UBC bus North to West 37th Avenue from the other side of Oak Street.
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Accommodations near VanDusen Botanical Garden:
Photo Gallery
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VanDusen Botanical Gardens cc licensed photo by Stan Shebs -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wlcutler - cc license via Flickr
Video
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