The VanDusen Botanical Garden, located in the heart of Vancouver, is a sprawling 55-acre garden that offers visitors a stunning array of plant collections from around the world. Opened in 1975, the garden is named after local lumberman and philanthropist Whitford Julian VanDusen, who helped fund its development. With over 7,500 plant species and varieties, the garden is a paradise for nature lovers, horticulturists, and anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy the beauty of diverse landscapes.
VanDusen Botanical Garden features a variety of themed gardens and ecosystems, including the serene Japanese garden, a formal hedge maze, and a vibrant rose garden. Visitors can explore lush meadows, tranquil ponds, and winding paths that offer a peaceful retreat from the urban environment. The garden also hosts seasonal events and educational programs, making it a year-round destination for all ages.
What to Explore at VanDusen Botanical Garden
One of the highlights of VanDusen Botanical Garden is the range of themed areas that transport visitors to different parts of the world. The Elizabethan hedge maze, made from 3,000 pyramidal cedars, is a fun and challenging attraction for families and visitors of all ages. The Japanese garden, with its tranquil pond and carefully pruned trees, provides a peaceful space for meditation and reflection, while the Mediterranean garden showcases plants adapted to warm, dry climates.
Throughout the year, VanDusen transforms with the seasons. In spring, the garden bursts into life with colorful displays of cherry blossoms, rhododendrons, and magnolias. In summer, visitors can stroll through the fragrant rose garden and enjoy the vibrant colors of perennials. Autumn brings a dazzling display of fall foliage, while winter is celebrated with the annual Festival of Lights, where the garden is illuminated with millions of twinkling lights.
VanDusen Botanical Garden also offers educational programs, guided tours, and workshops focused on gardening, plant conservation, and sustainability. The garden’s visitor center, a strikingly modern LEED-certified building, houses a café and gift shop, adding to the visitor experience.
For more information and to plan your visit, check out the official website:
https://vandusengarden.org/
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