When talk turns to the ultimate urban park, most people’s minds automatically conjure up images of Central Park, New York City’s crowning jewel. Granted, 843 acres is impressive, especially when ringed by the skyscrapers of one of the world’s busiest cities but it still is nothing compared to Vancouver’s counterpart, Stanley Park. In fact, Stanley Park just puts it to shame. I mean, sorry New Yorkers, but you just can’t compete. You may as well go home. Go on…

Stanley Park is located on a peninsula jutting out into the waters surrounding downtown Vancouver. Established in the 1880's, it provides over 1,000 acres of lush woodlands, manicured lawns and open meadows. Vancouverites spend their weekends enjoying this special place and walking, jogging, biking and rollerblading along the 5 1/2 mile seawall that surrounds the park. In fact, on a busy summer day, if you sat down and relaxed on the seawall, over 1,000 people would venture passed you every hour.    

Featuring many playgrounds, a miniature train and lots of room to roam, families with small children use the park on a regular basis however the park is not just for families. From the oversized heated outdoor pool on the beach to the Lost Lagoon and from the aquarium to the rhododendron garden, there truly is something for everyone in this much-loved city park. In fact, Stanley Park is much more than “just” an urban park offering a bit of respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, it is a “way” of life for residents and visitors alike.