We’re ready to say that while summer is a fun time no matter what, this one has been a particularly challenging one. So, if you need a break and a little relaxation, we’ve rounded up some of the most relaxing places to visit around Vancouver. Lucky for us, there are quite a few places we have in mind.
Here are 10 of the most relaxing places around Vancouver.
Outside
Nitobe Memorial Garden
Our first pick is without a doubt one of our favourites off the list. This authentic Japanese garden offers a lovely little space to stroll around and take in the very peaceful water features, architecture and of course the plants themselves.
Where: 1895 Lower Mall
Cost: $5
VanDusen Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a little more variety during a garden visit, then VanDusen should be the perfect answer. Home to thousands of plants and blooming year-round, this spot is an amazing way to relax on a sunny afternoon. Check out the hedge labyrinth and the Korean pavilion as well.
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: $11.70
Jericho Beach Park
While Vancouver is home to some very busy beaches, there are also some that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a crowd at. Jericho Beach Park is maybe the best example of this, and has tons of beach space for you to relax on plus a nearby park to go stroll around in.
Where: 3941 Point Grey Road
Lighthouse Park
And of course, the North Shore is home to some fantastic spots to relax in as well. First up is Lighthouse Park, which is one of our favourite spots for an early morning walk, thanks to the sun rising over the city. And we don’t know why, but we’re oddly calmed by lighthouses.
Where: 4902 Beacon Lane, West Vancouver
Capilano River Regional Park
Ready to swap sounds of the ocean for those of a river? There’s no better place to do it than in Capilano River Regional Park. Home to a ton of relatively easy trails, many of which run alongside the river itself, this is a fantastic slice of BC’s most rugged terrain, and you don’t even have to leave the city!
Where: 5077 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Inside
Vancouver Art Gallery
We can’t write a list of places to relax in and not bring up art galleries. First up is the tried-and-true Vancouver Art Gallery, which also seems to have something new going on for temporary exhibitions and of course, a fantastic permanent one.
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Cost: Varies
Polygon Gallery
We almost prefer a trip to the Polygon when it comes to relaxing, since it also means a nice little trip on the SeaBus to get over there. While the exhibits here are smaller than those at the Vancouver Art Gallery, they still feature some incredible artists. Plus, the space itself is gorgeous!
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Museum of Vancouver
How much do you know about this old (but not really) city of ours? Well, no matter how much, we guarantee you’ll learn something new during a trip to the Museum of Vancouver. Plus, we find neon signs to be oddly calming, and that’s pretty much the top draw here!
Where: 1100 Chestnut Street
Cost: $10
Museum of Anthropology
For a little more general history in a gorgeous space, UBC’s Museum of Anthropology might be just what you need. Heads up here though, because the main hall is currently undergoing significant structural upgrades, which means no staring out of those massive windows.
Where: 6393 NW Marine Drive, UEL
Cost: $15
The Cinematheque
Our final recommendation is a classic- the movie theatre. However, not just any one of them. Nope, for this list, we’re recommending The Cinematheque, which has the great habit of showing older movies. Those always seem to be that much calmer than modern blockbusters.
Where: 1131 Howe Street
Cost: $12
Alright folks, that’s our list of some of the most relaxing places in Vancouver! We hope you enjoy your next visit to one of these spots.
