Secrets of Stanley Park Walking Tour
Highlights
- The secrets of Vancouver’s legendary Stanley Park.
- Explore the world-famous seawall, hidden corners, and wild forested trails.
- See famous crime scenes, glittering downtown vistas, historic totem poles, secret cemeteries, bizarre public art, and colossal old growth trees.
- Hear the true stories of why the park was opened, how the Lion’s Gate Bridge was built, and the what really went down on Deadman’s Island…
Quick Facts
- Price: $25
- Day: Wed & Sat
- Start time: 2:00 p.m.
- Suitable for ages 14+
- Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Dates: Jun 2017 – Nov 2017
- Book tickets: Click here to check availability and book now
- Start and finish: by the fountain outside the Aquarium entrance
The Secrets of Stanley Park
Stanley Park. It’s almost 1,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Half a million trees including giants hundreds of years old. Eagles soar overhead while salmon, seals and even the occasional whale swim in the surrounding waters. It’s the city of Vancouver’s greatest treasure.
But there’s more to this park than incredible scenery. It’s also been home to crime, riots, persecution, political intrigue, class warfare, logging, hunting, disease, military installations, remarkable public art, ecological catastrophes, secret construction mega-projects, poetry, scandal, and murder.
On your Secrets of Stanley Park walking tour you’ll discover the secrets that lurk in the shadows, on the hidden trails, and in the swirling waters. The Secrets of Stanley Park.
Your chance to explore Stanley Park
Stanley Park sits atop the Must Do List for just about every visitor to Vancouver. And it’s easy to see why. Bigger than New York City’s Central Park, framed by water on every side, overlooked by snow-capped mountains, and packed with wildlife.
But did you know the vast majority of visitors to the park never see a single trail? Bus tours cruise around the perimeter but are restricted from accessing the park’s interior. So here at Forbidden Vancouver we’ve put together a 2+ hour walking tour for those who really want to explore Stanley Park. Our expert local guides will take you from the world-famous seawall to dark forest trails, to former crime scenes to secret cemeteries.
THE FOREST
THE SHIPWRECKS
THE CRIME SCENES
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the walk?
- The walk takes up to 2.5 hours – total distance covered is around 3km, or 2 miles. The terrain is mostly flat, with the occasional incline. You need to be comfortable walking and standing for 2.5 hours.
How do I get to the start point?
- The start point is directly outside the Vancouver Aquarium, by the whale fountain.
- There is parking at the Aquarium. Please pay for at least 3 hours parking, so you don’t risk your parking expiring mid tour! Also bear in mind that parking can be hard to find during the summer, so please aim to arrive 30 minutes before the tour start time in July and August.
- The number 19 bus goes from downtown Vancouver to Stanley Park. The bus stop in Stanley Park is a 5 minute walk from the start point.
Is there a bathroom break?
- There is a break halfway through the walking tour – bathrooms and a concession stand are available.
Where does the walk finish?
- The walking tour finishes back outside the Vancouver Aquarium.
What do I need to bring with me?
- In the summer, bring a hat, sunglasses, sun screen, and water bottle. In the early and late season, wear suitable clothing for the weather – e.g. a rain jacket. And always wear comfortable shoes!
Can’t I just walk around Stanley Park on my own?
- You can! If you’d just like to see the park and admire the views then that’s a great choice. Secrets of Stanley Park is for people with an inquisitive mind, who like the idea of adventuring off the tourist track and discovering the remarkable history of Stanley Park – with an expert local guide for company!