TRAVEL VANCOUVER
(WITH DAY TOUR OF VICTORIA & WHISTLER)
GENERAL INFORMATION-Vancouver is a city in British Columbia, Canada. With its location near the mouth of the Fraser River. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. The city offers diverse ethnic neighbourhoods, old and new, and lots of options for shopping and dining. With its scenic views, mild climate, and friendly people, Vancouver is known around the world as a popular tourist attraction. Vancouver has hosted many international conferences and events, including the 2010 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Paralympics.
Streets in the City of Vancouver are generally laid out in a standard grid, with the main exception being areas that include large parks, hills and natural diversions. The streets on the grid run north-south and the avenues are east-west. The avenues, for the most part, are numbered, 1st through to 77th, with two major avenues breaking that pattern: Broadway, which should be 9th Avenue, and King Edward Avenue, which should be 25th Avenue.
Streets in the City of Vancouver are generally laid out in a standard grid, with the main exception being areas that include large parks, hills and natural diversions. The streets on the grid run north-south and the avenues are east-west. The avenues, for the most part, are numbered, 1st through to 77th, with two major avenues breaking that pattern: Broadway, which should be 9th Avenue, and King Edward Avenue, which should be 25th Avenue.
GEOGRAPHY- Vancouver is on the southwest corner of the province of British Columbia, surrounded on three sides by water. Vancouver is located on the mainland of North America, the westernmost of Canada's 10 provinces and three territories. The Canada-U.S. border is 38 kilometres (24 miles) south of downtown Vancouver. Across the Strait of Georgia and 96 kilometres (60 miles) to the south-west is British Columbia's capital city of Victoria, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
Frist Nation means- In Canada, "First Nations" is been replaced the deprecated term "Indians"—for the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Frist Nation means- In Canada, "First Nations" is been replaced the deprecated term "Indians"—for the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
HISTORY- The first Europeans to explore the area were Spanish Captain in 1791, then British Naval Captain George Vancouver in 1792. In 1827 Hudson's Bay Company built a trading post on the Fraser River. It was the first permanent non-native settlement in the Vancouver area. The city grew rapidly following completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) transcontinental line from Eastern Canada. As the first train to arrive in Vancouver on the transcontinental railway in May1887. That year Vancouver's population was 1,000 and increased to 26,00 in 1901.
AREA- 115.00 km2 (44.40 sq. miles) (city)
POPULATION-6,31,000(City)
CO-ORDINATES-49°15′N 123°6′W
TIME ZONE-UTC-8 Summer UTC-7
POPULATION-6,31,000(City)
CO-ORDINATES-49°15′N 123°6′W
TIME ZONE-UTC-8 Summer UTC-7
CLIMATE- Vancouver is one of Canada's warmest cities in the winter. While during summer months the inland temperatures are significantly higher.
TEM JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
AvM 7 8 10 13 17 20 22 22 19 13 9 6
AvL 1.4 1.6 3.4 5.6 8.8 11.7 13.7 13.8 10.8 7 3.5 0.8
TEM JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
AvM 7 8 10 13 17 20 22 22 19 13 9 6
AvL 1.4 1.6 3.4 5.6 8.8 11.7 13.7 13.8 10.8 7 3.5 0.8
AIRPORT- Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is located on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, about 12 km (7.5 mi) from Downtown Vancouver. YVR also retains the distinction of Best Canadian Airport 8th in 2013. Vancouver International Airport is one of eight Canadian airports that have US Border Preclearance facilities. When travellers from a preclearance port arrive in the U.S. they do so as domestic travellers but are still subject to re-inspection at the discretion of Customs and Border Protection. Vancouver International Airport has two terminals- the Main Terminal (Domestic & International) and the South Terminal.
Public Transportation from Airport-
Public Transportation from Airport-
- Canada Line- The Canada Line is Vancouver’s rapid transit rail connecting YVR to downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes and to downtown Richmond in 18 minutes. You can access trains from both the International and Domestic Terminals.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT-
Sky Train-SkyTrain is the rapid transit metropolitan rail system of Greater Vancouver. SkyTrain has a total of 47 stations on three lines: Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines.
i-Expo Line- The Expo Line connects Waterfront Station in Vancouver to King George Station in Surrey.
ii- Millennium Line-The Millennium Line connects Waterfront Station to VCC-Clark Station in Vancouver.
iii- Canada Line-The Canada Line connects Waterfront Station to YVR (Vancouver International Airport)–Airport station.
Adult Zone-i Zone-ii Zone-iii airport
$2.75 $4.00 $5.50 +$5.00
Sky Train-SkyTrain is the rapid transit metropolitan rail system of Greater Vancouver. SkyTrain has a total of 47 stations on three lines: Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines.
i-Expo Line- The Expo Line connects Waterfront Station in Vancouver to King George Station in Surrey.
ii- Millennium Line-The Millennium Line connects Waterfront Station to VCC-Clark Station in Vancouver.
iii- Canada Line-The Canada Line connects Waterfront Station to YVR (Vancouver International Airport)–Airport station.
Adult Zone-i Zone-ii Zone-iii airport
$2.75 $4.00 $5.50 +$5.00
Aqua Bus- Aquabus Ferries’ rainbow boats travel around False Creek providing service to locals, commuters, and tourists alike. Inexpensive and fun, the Aquabus and False Creek Ferry provide short rides across the False Creek Inlet, from the downtown side (north) to the Granville Island side (south). With stops at Science World, Plaza of Nations, Yaletown, the Aquatic Centre and others, these little ferries get you where you need to go in Vancouver. Timings- The Aquabus runs from 7am to 10:30pm in the summer (8:30pm in winter).
Route 1: Aquatic Centre - Granville Island -Every 5 minutes. 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
Route 2: Yaletown - Granville Island -Every 15 minutes. 8:25 am - 7:10 pm Fare=$4.50
Route 3: Science World - Granville -Every 15 minutes. 8:30 am - 7:10 pm Fare=$5.50
Route 4: Maritime Museum - Granville Island via Aquatic Centre Fare=$4.50
Every 15 minutes. 10:00 am - 5:00 pm weekends & holidays
Every 30 minutes. 10:15 am - 4:45 pm weekdays
Route 1: Aquatic Centre - Granville Island -Every 5 minutes. 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
Route 2: Yaletown - Granville Island -Every 15 minutes. 8:25 am - 7:10 pm Fare=$4.50
Route 3: Science World - Granville -Every 15 minutes. 8:30 am - 7:10 pm Fare=$5.50
Route 4: Maritime Museum - Granville Island via Aquatic Centre Fare=$4.50
Every 15 minutes. 10:00 am - 5:00 pm weekends & holidays
Every 30 minutes. 10:15 am - 4:45 pm weekdays
FERRY FROM VANCOVER TO VICTORIA-BC Ferries connects Vancouver to Victoria by ferry. The large network of vehicle ferries connects Vancouver Island British Columbia's mainland and smaller islands, like the Gulf Islands. The main route from Vancouver departs at Tsawwassen Terminal and arrives at Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, located 30 minutes from downtown Victoria.
Vancouver - Victoria (Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay)
Crossing Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Distance: 24 nautical miles
Tsawwassen- Ferry terminal at Tsawwassen is located 24 miles/38 kms south of Vancouver via Oak Street and Highways 99 and the South Fraser Perimeter Road. Total estimated driving time: about 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Swartz Bay- Ferry terminal at Swartz Bay is located 20 miles/32 kms north of Victoria at the end of Highway 17. Total estimated driving time from Victoria: 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Cruise Fare- Tsawwassen - Swartz Bay-One Way-$16.90
BC Ferries Connector- By the Wilson's Group- This is a direct service to the ferry terminals without any transfers. In addition to a relaxing ride on the coach, you will experience an amazing 95minute cruise, sailing through the spectacular Gulf Islands. Arriving on the other side, there are many drop off locations to suit your travel plans. Bus tickets may be purchased on selected* BC Ferries sailings between Vancouver and Victoria. The current (prevailing) BC Ferry Fare(s) will be added at the time of ticket purchase.
Fare- Vancouver Downtown - Victoria Downtown-One – Way-US$44.95
Vancouver - Victoria (Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay)
Crossing Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Distance: 24 nautical miles
Tsawwassen- Ferry terminal at Tsawwassen is located 24 miles/38 kms south of Vancouver via Oak Street and Highways 99 and the South Fraser Perimeter Road. Total estimated driving time: about 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Swartz Bay- Ferry terminal at Swartz Bay is located 20 miles/32 kms north of Victoria at the end of Highway 17. Total estimated driving time from Victoria: 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Cruise Fare- Tsawwassen - Swartz Bay-One Way-$16.90
BC Ferries Connector- By the Wilson's Group- This is a direct service to the ferry terminals without any transfers. In addition to a relaxing ride on the coach, you will experience an amazing 95minute cruise, sailing through the spectacular Gulf Islands. Arriving on the other side, there are many drop off locations to suit your travel plans. Bus tickets may be purchased on selected* BC Ferries sailings between Vancouver and Victoria. The current (prevailing) BC Ferry Fare(s) will be added at the time of ticket purchase.
Fare- Vancouver Downtown - Victoria Downtown-One – Way-US$44.95
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS AT VANCOUVER-
001-STANLEY PARK-Stanley Park is one of the city's main tourist attraction, situated on a peninsula at the north western edge of downtown Vancouver. This 400-hectare (1,000-acre) park is recognized as one of the greatest urban parks in the world. Named for Lord Frederick Stanley, Governor General of Canada in 1888, the City opened Stanley Park on September 27 of that year. As Vancouver's first park, with its ever-blooming gardens, pristine coastal areas and roughly 500,000 cedars, fir and hemlock trees.
A paved seawall path encircles the green space, and most visitors take the time to explore on foot or by bicycle. The park offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences for all ages and interests, including Canada’s largest aquarium and visitors can spend a full day exploring attractions. The view at Prospect Point is particularly beautiful, taking in the North Shore Mountains and busy Lions Gate Bridge.
A paved seawall path encircles the green space, and most visitors take the time to explore on foot or by bicycle. The park offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences for all ages and interests, including Canada’s largest aquarium and visitors can spend a full day exploring attractions. The view at Prospect Point is particularly beautiful, taking in the North Shore Mountains and busy Lions Gate Bridge.
i-Walk the Sea Wall-It's a roughly ten-kilometre loop starting in Coal Harbour and encircling the peninsula by way of Brockton Point, the Lions Gate Bridge, Third Beach, Second Beach, and Lost Lagoon. For walk ,there are lanes for walkers and bickers.
ii-Brockton Point-The totems are located near Brockton Oval, within sight of the seawall. The Totems represents First Nations cultures from throughout British Columbia.
iii-Stanley Park Pavillion-The wooden pavilion in Stanley Park housed the park administration building and was built a century ago, it is used as a restaurant and is handy to the Malkin Bowl outdoor performance venue, a lovely Rose Garden, and park trails.
iv-Stanley Park Miniature Railway- The Stanley Park Train is one of Vancouver's most popular attractions. It is a replica of Canadian Pacific Railway Engine #374, famous for pulling Canada's first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver in the late 1880s. Travel over trestles and through tunnels on your two-kilometre winding journey through the Stanley Park forest.
Timings- June 18 to September 5 (Summer Train) Monday to Sunday-10:00am to 5:00pm
Ticket-$6.00
Location- The Stanley Park Train is located on Pipeline Road in Stanley Park, via the West Georgia Street park entrance.
Timings- June 18 to September 5 (Summer Train) Monday to Sunday-10:00am to 5:00pm
Ticket-$6.00
Location- The Stanley Park Train is located on Pipeline Road in Stanley Park, via the West Georgia Street park entrance.
v-Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours- In old-fashioned carriages & fully narrated, one hour tours depart every 20-30 minutes daily. The tour includes a stop at the world famous Totem Poles and features the Rose Garden, the Lions Gate Bridge, a coastal Red-Cedar forest, Deadman's Island, the Girl in a Wetsuit Statue and the Empress of Japan Figurehead. Carriages seat 20 passengers.
Tickets- $39.99
Timing- April 1-June 30:9:40 am (1st dep.) to 5 pm (last dep.)
July1-September 5 (Labour Day): 9:30 am (1st dep.) to 5:30 pm (last dep.)
Location- From the horse-drawn tour kiosk at the Coal Harbour parking lot beside the information booth on Park Drive, just off the Georgia Street entrance to Stanley Park.
Tickets- $39.99
Timing- April 1-June 30:9:40 am (1st dep.) to 5 pm (last dep.)
July1-September 5 (Labour Day): 9:30 am (1st dep.) to 5:30 pm (last dep.)
Location- From the horse-drawn tour kiosk at the Coal Harbour parking lot beside the information booth on Park Drive, just off the Georgia Street entrance to Stanley Park.
vi- Stanley Park Shuttle- The Stanley Park Shuttle, in old-fashioned San Francisco-style trolleys, offers the most flexible transportation to 15 of the most popular stops in Stanley Park. The 45-minute tour is narrated and you can get on or off at any stop. There are well-marked Stanley Park Shuttle signs along the route.
Frequency- every 30 minutes.
Ticket-$10.00
Hours- daily from 11:00am - 6:45pm.
Frequency- every 30 minutes.
Ticket-$10.00
Hours- daily from 11:00am - 6:45pm.
viii-Vancouver Aquarium-The Vancouver Aquarium is Canada's largest aquarium and one of the most visited sites in Stanley Park. It is home to more than 70,000 creatures including beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, anacondas, three-toed sloths, eels and more, it is the first public aquarium when it opened in 1956.
Shows & Events-Throughout the year, the marine life housed in the Aquarium comes to life in the form of entertaining and educational shows that include the popular dolphin and beluga demonstrations, feedings, reef shark performances, and talks that focus on habitats, conservation and more.
Ticket-$31.00
Shows & Events-Throughout the year, the marine life housed in the Aquarium comes to life in the form of entertaining and educational shows that include the popular dolphin and beluga demonstrations, feedings, reef shark performances, and talks that focus on habitats, conservation and more.
Ticket-$31.00
002-CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE PARK- Built above the Capilano Canyon. There are three breath-taking perspectives - Capilano Suspension Bridge, Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk. Kia’palano was the name of a great Squamish chief who lived in this area. It is actually a First Nations’s name belonging to the Squamish Nation and originally spelled Kia’palano, meaning “beautiful river”. The development started in 1889 with a suspended footbridge made of hemp rope and cedar planks across the canyon.
i- Capilano Suspension Bridge- The 450 ft. (137m) long, 230 ft. (70m) high Capilano Suspension Bridge has thrilled visitors since 1889.
ii-Cliffwalk offers a bird’s-eye-view into one of the world’s last remaining coastal temperate rainforests. Comprised of a system of wooden walkways suspended alongside a glacier-carved granite cliff-face. With 16 anchor points in the cliff supporting the structure and two glass platforms.
iii-Tree Top Adventure- Treetops Adventure takes100 feet into the mid-story of a coastal rainforest on seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth trees. Nature guides provide hourly tours, explaining the importance of a West Coast temperate rainforest to the ecosystem.
Ticket-$37.95
Free Shuttle- May 1st – Sept 30th.
Free Shuttle- a-Canada Place: Canada Place Way near info kiosk
b-Melville Street: Entrance of Hyatt Hotel
c-Blue Horizon Hotel: 1225 Robson St.
d-Westin Bayshore: 1601 Bayshore Drive
Address- 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
i- Capilano Suspension Bridge- The 450 ft. (137m) long, 230 ft. (70m) high Capilano Suspension Bridge has thrilled visitors since 1889.
ii-Cliffwalk offers a bird’s-eye-view into one of the world’s last remaining coastal temperate rainforests. Comprised of a system of wooden walkways suspended alongside a glacier-carved granite cliff-face. With 16 anchor points in the cliff supporting the structure and two glass platforms.
iii-Tree Top Adventure- Treetops Adventure takes100 feet into the mid-story of a coastal rainforest on seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth trees. Nature guides provide hourly tours, explaining the importance of a West Coast temperate rainforest to the ecosystem.
Ticket-$37.95
Free Shuttle- May 1st – Sept 30th.
Free Shuttle- a-Canada Place: Canada Place Way near info kiosk
b-Melville Street: Entrance of Hyatt Hotel
c-Blue Horizon Hotel: 1225 Robson St.
d-Westin Bayshore: 1601 Bayshore Drive
Address- 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
003-GRANVILLE ISLAND-It is an island in the middle of a city. Once mainly industrial, Granville Island is now a thriving centre of activity with a relaxed and distinctive atmosphere. Artists and retailers have moved into converted warehouses alongside houseboats, theatres, galleries, and restaurants. It is filled with fine waterfront restaurants, theatres, galleries, studios, unique shops, cafes and the most spectacular fresh food market you’ve ever seen. The Granville Island Public Market is one of the most popular attractions selling fruit and vegetables, seafood, and a great variety of other specialties. Granville Bridge passes over the island. A walking tour of the market can be a great way to get an insider’s insight.
Ferry-Two companies, False Creek Ferries and Aquabus, provide ferry service from Granville Island to Downtown Vancouver.
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/city-guides/vancouver-walking-tour-1
Ferry-Two companies, False Creek Ferries and Aquabus, provide ferry service from Granville Island to Downtown Vancouver.
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/city-guides/vancouver-walking-tour-1
004-CANADA PLACE-Located in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown harbour front, Canada Place is an iconic national landmark. The five white sails atop Canada Place have been a Canadian icon, a recognizable landmark around the world since 1986, that identifies the Vancouver waterfront and Canada. The 90 foot sails are made of teflon coated fibreglass. The Canada Place Sails of Light are illuminated each evening from dusk to dawn, with seasonal vibrant colours, displays and animation. Canada Place was originally the site of an old cargo pier.
It is the home of the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver's World Trade Centre, and FlyOver Canada. It is also the main cruise ship terminal for the region, where most of Vancouver's famous cruises to Alaska originate. Canada Place can be reached via the SkyTrain line at the nearby Waterfront Station terminus.
It is the home of the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver's World Trade Centre, and FlyOver Canada. It is also the main cruise ship terminal for the region, where most of Vancouver's famous cruises to Alaska originate. Canada Place can be reached via the SkyTrain line at the nearby Waterfront Station terminus.
005-VANCOUVER LOOKOUT at HARBOUR CENTER- Harbour Centre is a skyscraper in the central business district of Downtown. The "Lookout" tower atop the office building makes it one of the tallest structures in Vancouver and a prominent landmark on the city's skyline. With its 360-degree viewing deck, it also serves as a tourist attraction with the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant, offering a physically unobstructed view of the city. Harbour Centre opened in 1977 and was officially opened on August 13, 1977 by Neil Armstrong. The complex is home to 28 floors of offices, the downtown campus of Simon Fraser University& shops.
a-Revolving Restaurant- Fine continental dining at 553 feet (167m) for an unobstructed view of Vancouver.
b-The Vancouver Lookout-The adventure starts with a 40 second glass elevator ride, elevating you 553.16 ft. (168.6 m) above ground to panoramic observation deck. From there, you’ll enjoy views of Historic Gastown-Coal Harbour- Stanley Park and more places. Sit, relax and contemplate the breath-taking views. Daily admission tickets are valid all day.
Ticket-$17.00
Opening- Monday through Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sundays and Statutory Holidays-Closed
Address- 555 West Hastings Street, Vancouver.
Location-near Canada Place (two blocks).
a-Revolving Restaurant- Fine continental dining at 553 feet (167m) for an unobstructed view of Vancouver.
b-The Vancouver Lookout-The adventure starts with a 40 second glass elevator ride, elevating you 553.16 ft. (168.6 m) above ground to panoramic observation deck. From there, you’ll enjoy views of Historic Gastown-Coal Harbour- Stanley Park and more places. Sit, relax and contemplate the breath-taking views. Daily admission tickets are valid all day.
Ticket-$17.00
Opening- Monday through Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sundays and Statutory Holidays-Closed
Address- 555 West Hastings Street, Vancouver.
Location-near Canada Place (two blocks).
006-VANCOVER CONVENTION CENTER-Vancouver Convention Centre offers one of the most beautiful settings in the world and convenient access. As British Columbia’s flagship convention centre, the facility hosts more than 500 events and welcomes hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. The Convention Centre first served as the Canada Pavilion for the World's Fair Expo in 1986. The Vancouver Convention Centre consists of two uniquely designed buildings, the iconic East building and connected West building. The Centre also features Canada’s largest waterfront ballroom with five-story high ceilings, open terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breath-taking mountain and harbour vistas.
007-FLYOVER CANADA- FlyOver Canada is an amazing multi-dimensional theatre flying experience at Canada Place in downtown Vancouver near the Convention Centre. The entire experience takes about 30 minutes and includes a short introductory film, the FlyOver Canada show, plus usually one other feature flying film presentation. You will take off into a huge dome screen with the latest in projection and ride technology creating a true flying experience (complete with wind, scents, and mist).
Ticket-$20.95
Ticket-$20.95
008-QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK- Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s horticultural jewel and draw for floral display enthusiasts and view-seekers, and as a popular backdrop for wedding photos. At 152 metres above sea level, it’s the highest point in Vancouver and makes for spectacular views of the park, city, and mountains on the North Shore. The 130-acre park featuring spectacular gardens, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory, tennis courts and pitch & putt golf, restaurant. Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the most frequented spots for wedding pictures in Vancouver. From the plaza, visitors can follow the winding paths down to the quarry gardens, ponds, lawns, and arboretum. The two quarry gardens are horticultural delights, with pathways and little bridges and mini waterfalls set amongst hundreds of plants and flowers.This is an exhausted Basalt stone quarry of Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) at 500ft above sea level.
Address-33rd Avenue and Cambie St, Vancouver.
Address-33rd Avenue and Cambie St, Vancouver.
009-BLOEDEL FLORAL CONSERVATORY- The Conservatory is located at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park. It is dedicated to the wonders of the natural world with an emphasis on plants and birds. Over 500 different plants from tropical and subtropical areas of the world are on display, and over 100 birds of various species call the Bloedel Conservatory home, free-flying within the spacious plexiglass dome. Take a stroll through a simulated tropical rainforest paradise, then explore the subtropics and desert climate zone. There are three simulated climates: tropical rainforest, sub-tropical, and desert. There are intertwining pathways through the facility to explore.
It was constructed through a very generous donation from Prentice Bloedel in 1969.
Ticket-$6.75
Opening- Summer (May 1- August 31)
9am - 8pm Mon to Fri
10am - 9pm Sat & Sun
It was constructed through a very generous donation from Prentice Bloedel in 1969.
Ticket-$6.75
Opening- Summer (May 1- August 31)
9am - 8pm Mon to Fri
10am - 9pm Sat & Sun
010-DR. SUN SEN CLASSICAL CHINESE GARDEN-The Stunning Garden is an authentic representation of Ming Dynasty-era tradition. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first classical Chinese Garden in all of Canada. It is the perfect place to visit year-round. Be enchanted by the Garden's winding paths, rocks, plants, and beautiful vistas. The jade green pond, koi fish, collection of 150-year old miniature trees and tai hu rock imported from China, are some of the delights the Garden offers. Built in 1986 by fifty-three master craftsmen from China and 950 crates of traditional material, it was constructed using 14th century methods - no glue, screws or power tools were used.
Ticket-$12.00
Hours of Operation-May 1-June 14 10:00am – 6:00pm
Public Tour Schedule-SUMMER (June 15 – August 31)
At-10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm
Tour-The 45-minute guided tour is integral to enhancing your experience in the Garden. With the rich information provided by the tour. It is a complimentary guided tour.
Location-The entrance is in the lane off Carrall St. between Pender St. and Keefer St.
Ticket-$12.00
Hours of Operation-May 1-June 14 10:00am – 6:00pm
Public Tour Schedule-SUMMER (June 15 – August 31)
At-10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm
Tour-The 45-minute guided tour is integral to enhancing your experience in the Garden. With the rich information provided by the tour. It is a complimentary guided tour.
Location-The entrance is in the lane off Carrall St. between Pender St. and Keefer St.
011-SCIENCE WORLD-It is a place to discover the wonders of science at Science World at TELUS World of Science. There are interactive displays, inspirational feature exhibitions, jaw-dropping live science demonstrations at Peter Brown Family Centre Stage and larger-than-life films in the OMNIMAX® Theatre. The building, is like a futuristic sphere located at waterfront & a landmark in Vancouver and was originally built for Expo 86, a World's Fair and it was referred to as Expo Centre during Expo 86.
Ticket-$23.25
Summer - June 30–September 5, 2016
Daily (except Thursday): 10am–6pm
Thursday: 10am–8pm
Location- just minutes from downtown at Main Street/Science World SkyTrain station. It is located at the end of False Creek.
Address-TELUS World of Science ,1455 Quebec St, Vancouver.
Ticket-$23.25
Summer - June 30–September 5, 2016
Daily (except Thursday): 10am–6pm
Thursday: 10am–8pm
Location- just minutes from downtown at Main Street/Science World SkyTrain station. It is located at the end of False Creek.
Address-TELUS World of Science ,1455 Quebec St, Vancouver.
012-HR MACMILLAN SPACE CENTRE- The H.R. MacMillan Planetarium was built in 1968 and was a gift from lumber magnate H.R. MacMillan to the citizens of Vancouver. With the advent of Space exploration during the 1960s, H.R. MacMillan wanted to provide a resource facility about Space for children and future generations. The centrepiece of the Space Centre is the Planetarium Star Theatre. With its 360-degree domed screen and precision Zeiss star projector, visitors will be immersed in the night sky and the stories of the Universe. At the Ground Station Canada where they will watch a live rocket launch, feel the heat of exploding “star” materials, or learn first-hand the fun and challenges of living in space.
Ticket-$15.00
Address- 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver.
Ticket-$15.00
Address- 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver.
013-MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY AT UBC -Museum of Anthropology is a part of University of British Columbia. The museum main focus is on the cultures from around the world, but particular emphasis on British Columbia First Nations. Exhibits display native art, including large totem poles in the Great Hall. It is home to over 500,000 cultural artefacts, including an immense collection of B.C. First Nations art and objects. The interesting building was originally part of a WWII-era fort and transformed the spaces into this world-class museum.
Hours-Daily 10am-5pm (until 9pm on Tuesday)
Admission- Adults $16.75
Address- 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver
Hours-Daily 10am-5pm (until 9pm on Tuesday)
Admission- Adults $16.75
Address- 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver
014-BC PLACE- BC Place is where the biggest and best events and exhibitions in British Columbia are held and it’s a state-of-the-art venue. Suspended above the field is the world’s second-largest 4-sided centre hung HD video board, which is surrounded by 54,500 seats and more than 50 suites and hospitality lounges. The “Northern Lights Display” is what we call our incredible 36-foot façade, lit up by thousands of energy-efficient LED lights, creating colour animations that bring life to the Vancouver skyline.
BC Place was built between 1981 and 1983 and opened on the 19th of June 1983.
The retractable roof over BC Place is truly a technological marvel. The cable-supported fabric roof is the largest of its kind in the world. The retractable centre portion of the roof measures approximately 100m x 85m – effectively covering the area of the entire playing surface.
BC Place is located on the south-eastern side of downtown Vancouver, almost on the shore of False Creek. SkyTrain station Stadium-Chinatown is located closest to the stadium, only two blocks away. The station is served by trains on the Expo and Millennium Lines.
Address-777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver.
BC Place was built between 1981 and 1983 and opened on the 19th of June 1983.
The retractable roof over BC Place is truly a technological marvel. The cable-supported fabric roof is the largest of its kind in the world. The retractable centre portion of the roof measures approximately 100m x 85m – effectively covering the area of the entire playing surface.
BC Place is located on the south-eastern side of downtown Vancouver, almost on the shore of False Creek. SkyTrain station Stadium-Chinatown is located closest to the stadium, only two blocks away. The station is served by trains on the Expo and Millennium Lines.
Address-777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver.
015-KISILANO BEACH-Kitsilano Beach, known as "Kits Beach". It is located on Cornwall Ave at the north end of Yew St. The Seawall runs alongside the beach and Kitsilano Pool is at the west side.
016-GROUSE MOUNTAIN-Grouse Mountain is the all-in-one, four-season mountain resort with a little something for everyone. It is located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
A-Summer Time-Summertime on Grouse Mountain is a great time for going for a hike, watching a lumberjack show, visiting wildlife refuge, taking a helicopter tour, paragliding, watching a Birds of Prey demonstration.
B-Winter Time-Winter includes great skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice-skating.
i- Skyride (all weather)- North America's largest aerial tramway system is your gateway to the majestic nature of The Peak of Vancouver, and an experience in itself. It takes visitors on a 1,600 metre (1 mile) aerial journey up the mountain to the Alpine Station, right next to the Peak Chalet, in just 8 minutes, 1100 metres (3,700 feet) above sea level.
Hours of Operation-The Skyride operates 365 days a year, departing every 15 minutes from 8:45am to 10:00pm.
In summer months, the first downhill Skyride departs at 7:30am.
A-Summer Time-Summertime on Grouse Mountain is a great time for going for a hike, watching a lumberjack show, visiting wildlife refuge, taking a helicopter tour, paragliding, watching a Birds of Prey demonstration.
B-Winter Time-Winter includes great skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice-skating.
i- Skyride (all weather)- North America's largest aerial tramway system is your gateway to the majestic nature of The Peak of Vancouver, and an experience in itself. It takes visitors on a 1,600 metre (1 mile) aerial journey up the mountain to the Alpine Station, right next to the Peak Chalet, in just 8 minutes, 1100 metres (3,700 feet) above sea level.
Hours of Operation-The Skyride operates 365 days a year, departing every 15 minutes from 8:45am to 10:00pm.
In summer months, the first downhill Skyride departs at 7:30am.
ii- Eye of The Wind (all weather)-The Eye of the Wind is a large wind turbine—the first in the world to have an elevator accessing a view POD™ observation area suspended directly below the hub of the massive 38-metre (125-foot) long blades, 20 storeys up. The viewPOD is encased in glass, including a segment of the floor, giving you a similar sensation to flying in the clear Plexiglas nose bubble of a jet helicopter.
iii-Wildlife Refuge (all weather)- The Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, a research, education, and conservation centre at the top of Grouse Mountain. Dedicated to becoming a world leader in preserving both flora and fauna at risk.
iv- Theatre in the Sky (all weather)-This high-definition electronic cinema shows a number of wildlife related movies in rotation throughout the day.
iii-Wildlife Refuge (all weather)- The Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, a research, education, and conservation centre at the top of Grouse Mountain. Dedicated to becoming a world leader in preserving both flora and fauna at risk.
iv- Theatre in the Sky (all weather)-This high-definition electronic cinema shows a number of wildlife related movies in rotation throughout the day.
v- Mountain Ziplines (all weather)-Start with the stunning trek around Blue Grouse Lake on the first few lines and then zip at top speeds of 80km/hr (50 mph) across the peaks of Grouse Mountain and Dam Mountain. The two-hour tour is open year-round, and the five-line circuit is fully dual-track.
017-GASTOWN-The Vancouver district known as Gastown, situated at the northeast corner of the downtown area, is considered to be the birthplace of this city. Gastown grew from a single tavern founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton back in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit. It is from Richards east to Main Street, and south to Hastings Street. A visit to Gastown should include a stroll along Water Street, continue to the end of Water Street to visit a statue of the man who started it all, Gassy Jack Deighton. The area has some excellent First Nations art galleries for traditional souvenirs.
i-"Gassy" Jack Deighton, a Yorkshire seaman, steamboat captain and barkeep who arrived in 1867 to open the area's first saloon.
ii-The Gastown Steam Clock-It was built in 1977 to cover a steam grate. The mini-steam engine at the base of the clock case takes up the role of the human "winder" by raising a series of ball weights and delivering the weights to the clock drive train. The steam also powers the clock's sound production, with whistles being used instead of bells to produce the Westminster "chime" and to signal the time.
Every quarter hour, the two-ton Steam Clock shows, whistling and shooting steam from its five whistles in its version of the Westminster Chime. On the hour it marks each hour with a toot from each whistle.
i-"Gassy" Jack Deighton, a Yorkshire seaman, steamboat captain and barkeep who arrived in 1867 to open the area's first saloon.
ii-The Gastown Steam Clock-It was built in 1977 to cover a steam grate. The mini-steam engine at the base of the clock case takes up the role of the human "winder" by raising a series of ball weights and delivering the weights to the clock drive train. The steam also powers the clock's sound production, with whistles being used instead of bells to produce the Westminster "chime" and to signal the time.
Every quarter hour, the two-ton Steam Clock shows, whistling and shooting steam from its five whistles in its version of the Westminster Chime. On the hour it marks each hour with a toot from each whistle.
018-CHINA TOWN-Located on the eastern side of downtown Vancouver, the bustling district is North America’s third largest Chinatown by population, after those in San Francisco and New York. Its roots trace back to the late 1800s, when early Chinese immigrants who arrived to work on B.C.’s railroads and in the mines were settled in a ghetto on the edge of the city. With time, the neighbourhood grew into a proud centre of Chinese culture, home to traditional restaurants, markets, temples and gardens, as well as a booming business district. Affordable prices allow you to choose gifts to bring back home. It is open throughout the season, and offers education, fun, food, and tradition for the whole family. One of the biggest attractions for Chinatown is the Night Market. In historical Alley is one of the best places to visit for more information on the historical aspect of Vancouver’s Chinatown.
019-ROBSON STREET- Robson Street is packed with stores and restaurants, from Granville St. to Jervis St. Home to over 100 shops, it's also the epicentre of downtown Vancouver's shopping district. Robson Street is a must-stroll for most visitors. One of Vancouver’s oldest commercial streets, it was once known as Robsonstrasse for the sheer number of German and European stores that opened up after the Second World War. Starting at the east end of Robson Street, a visit to BC Place Stadium can be done. Head west along Robson and you’ll walk past the Coliseum-like Vancouver Public Library, before coming to the iconic Vancouver Art Gallery, which is part of Robson Square. Within short walking distance of Robson are the department stores The Bay (Hudson Bay Company) and Holt Renfrew, the Pacific Centre Mall (at Robson and Granville), and high-end luxury brands like Gucci and Tiffany's (between Robson and W Georgia, on Burrard). Under the street you’ll find a covered event space that hosts ballroom dancing evenings in the summer, and a free, public ice skating rink in the winter.
Location- Robson Street is a short walk from any point of the downtown core. Surrounding neighbourhoods include Gastown, West End and Coal Harbour.
Sky Train- Robson Street is located three blocks West and one block South of the City Centre Canada Line Station.
Location- Robson Street is a short walk from any point of the downtown core. Surrounding neighbourhoods include Gastown, West End and Coal Harbour.
Sky Train- Robson Street is located three blocks West and one block South of the City Centre Canada Line Station.
020-GRANVILLE STREET-Located in the heart of Vancouver, Granville Street is main downtown entertainment district. Countless restaurants, bars and nightclubs make this a popular late-night hangout, on the weekends. Stretching from the start of Granville Street by Waterfront Station, south to the Granville Street Bridge. The Granville Street strip was once believed to have the highest concentration of neon in the world behind Shanghai. On this street are art deco Commodore Ballroom, Orpheum Theatre, Vogue Theatre, Pacific Centre shopping mall, Holt Renfrew and new Nordstrom.
21-FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER-Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is known as the 'Castle in the City’ and reflects timeless luxury and history of the city.
Location-on West Georgia Street at Burrard Street, in the heart of Downtown Vancouver.
Location-on West Georgia Street at Burrard Street, in the heart of Downtown Vancouver.
022- VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY- The Central Library opened in Downtown Vancouver on May 26, 1995. Centred on the block, the library is a nine-story rectangular box containing book stacks and services, surrounded by a free-standing, elliptical, colonnaded wall featuring reading and study areas that are accessed by bridges spanning skylit light wells. The building's exterior resembles the Colosseum.
Address- 350 ,West Georgia Street,Vancouver.
Address- 350 ,West Georgia Street,Vancouver.
023-WATERFRONT STATION- The Waterfront Station is a grand place, built in an era when travelling by train was synonymous with a sense of class and elegance. Located on Burrard Inlet between downtown’s historic Gastown and Canada Place, Waterfront Station is the sole northern terminus station of Canada Line as well as of the West Coast Express, Expo and Millennium SkyTrain Lines, and Seabus. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1915, the station was the Pacific terminus for their transcontinental passenger trains from Toronto and Montreal until it was taken over by VIA Rail in 1979.
Outside the station on the southeast corner of the building stands the bronze Angel of Victory statue by Coeur de Lion McCarthy. The statue was commissioned by the CPR in 1922 to commemorate its employees who had been killed in action during World War I. This statue was featured in an episode of the television series, The X-Files, which was filmed in Vancouver for most of its 9-year run.
Location- The station is within walking distance of Vancouver's historical Gastown district, the Canada Place cruise ship terminal.
Outside the station on the southeast corner of the building stands the bronze Angel of Victory statue by Coeur de Lion McCarthy. The statue was commissioned by the CPR in 1922 to commemorate its employees who had been killed in action during World War I. This statue was featured in an episode of the television series, The X-Files, which was filmed in Vancouver for most of its 9-year run.
Location- The station is within walking distance of Vancouver's historical Gastown district, the Canada Place cruise ship terminal.
024-MARINE BUILDING-The Marine Building in downtown Vancouver is one of the world's most exquisite examples of art deco architecture. When it opened in 1930, it had the distinction of being the tallest building in the British Empire. The terra cotta exterior is inlaid with reliefs of state of the art forms.
Address-355 Burrard Street,Vancouver.
Address-355 Burrard Street,Vancouver.
025- DIGITAL ORCA-It is a statue of a whale is frozen mid-leap. The statue was installed in 2009 for the Vancouver Convention Centre Art Project.
Location-at Jack Poole Plaza near Convention centre.
Location-at Jack Poole Plaza near Convention centre.
ACTIVITY & LOCAL TOURS ATVANCOUVER- (mention of tour companies are only for the example & for planning & budget)-
001-VANCOUVER SEAPLANE TOUR- Enjoy complete aerial views of the city, the North Shore Mountains and the surrounding parks and beaches. Tour duration is 30 minutes.
Duration- Tour flight duration is 20 minutes.
Meeting Point- at Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.
Price-US$97.05
By-http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
Duration- Tour flight duration is 20 minutes.
Meeting Point- at Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.
Price-US$97.05
By-http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
002- VANCOUVER WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE- See the fascinating killer whales, humpback whales and other marine animals that live at Vancouver's coast.
Duration- 5 hours at 11.00am.
Meeting Point- Hotel pick-up.
Price-US$105.33
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
Duration- 5 hours at 11.00am.
Meeting Point- Hotel pick-up.
Price-US$105.33
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
003- VANCOUVER HARBOR SUNSETDINNER CRUISE - You'll have the best spot in Vancouver to watch the sun slowly disappear into the Pacific Ocean. Tour starts at 7.00pm daily.
Duration- 2hrs 30 minutes.
Meeting point- at the Cruise Ship Terminal Harbour Cruises at Canada Place.
Price-US$74.21
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
Duration- 2hrs 30 minutes.
Meeting point- at the Cruise Ship Terminal Harbour Cruises at Canada Place.
Price-US$74.21
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
004- VANCOUVER BURRARD INLET SIGHTSEEING CRUISE*- Tour of Vancouver's waterfront sights on a fully-narrated cruise along Burrard Inlet, Canada’s Gateway to the Pacific. Have a view of the gorgeous city skyline and sail past the famous Stanley Park, the breath-taking North Shore Mountains, Lions Gate Bridge and more.
Price-US$28.73
Duration-one hour.
Departs from- Cruise Ship Terminal.
Departures- daily at 11:00 AM; 12:15 PM; 1:30 PM; 2:45 PM
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
Price-US$28.73
Duration-one hour.
Departs from- Cruise Ship Terminal.
Departures- daily at 11:00 AM; 12:15 PM; 1:30 PM; 2:45 PM
By- http://www.city-discovery.com/vancouver
005- 1-DAY CITY TOUR OF VANCOUVER*- visit Vancouver's Chinatown, Gas Town, Convention Centre, Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Queen Elizabeth Park, and more.
Price-US$45.00+US$38.00(optional-Capilano Bridge)
Meeting Point- different meeting points in the town.
Duration-10 hrs.
By- http://www.taketours.com/vancouver
Price-US$45.00+US$38.00(optional-Capilano Bridge)
Meeting Point- different meeting points in the town.
Duration-10 hrs.
By- http://www.taketours.com/vancouver
DAY OUT TOURS FROM VANCOUVER (mention of tour companies are only for the example & for planning & budget)-
i- From Vancouver- Full-Day Victoria Trip*- visit the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Thunderbird Park, Canada’s Chinatown, Mile "0" - the starting point of the world’s longest highway - and Beacon Hill Park, visit the world famous Butchart Gardens.
Price-US$98.00
Meeting Point-different meeting points in the town
Duration-back at 7.00pm.
By- http://www.tours4fun.com/one-day-victoria-tour-1
ii- Whistler and Shannon Falls Tour* – Enjoy the breath-taking views and scenic stops along the thrilling Sea-To-Sky Highway. Feel the mist of the spectacular Shannon Falls as you walk to the viewing deck. Once in Whistler, there is ample time to dine, shop, ride a bike or stroll the trails. Seasonally, opt to experience the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Price-US $107.65+US$53.00(optional-peak-to peak)
Meeting Point- Hotel pickup and drop off at Downtown Vancouver hotel, North Vancouver and Richmond. Pick-up 8:00 a.m. daily.
Duration-10hrs
By- http://www.taketours.com/vancouver
i- From Vancouver- Full-Day Victoria Trip*- visit the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Thunderbird Park, Canada’s Chinatown, Mile "0" - the starting point of the world’s longest highway - and Beacon Hill Park, visit the world famous Butchart Gardens.
Price-US$98.00
Meeting Point-different meeting points in the town
Duration-back at 7.00pm.
By- http://www.tours4fun.com/one-day-victoria-tour-1
ii- Whistler and Shannon Falls Tour* – Enjoy the breath-taking views and scenic stops along the thrilling Sea-To-Sky Highway. Feel the mist of the spectacular Shannon Falls as you walk to the viewing deck. Once in Whistler, there is ample time to dine, shop, ride a bike or stroll the trails. Seasonally, opt to experience the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Price-US $107.65+US$53.00(optional-peak-to peak)
Meeting Point- Hotel pickup and drop off at Downtown Vancouver hotel, North Vancouver and Richmond. Pick-up 8:00 a.m. daily.
Duration-10hrs
By- http://www.taketours.com/vancouver
TRAVEL VICTORIA
GENERAL INFORMATION-Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia. Named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Victoria have everything from gardens, fish and chips, English pubs, wineries, museums, petting zoos, festivals and so much more. There is truly something for everyone in Victoria. It’s also a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Victoria is about 100 kilometres (60 miles) from BC's largest city of Vancouver on the mainland.
HISTORY-When British naval explorer Captain James Cook reached the west coast of Vancouver Island in 1778, he was eager to trade with the Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka) people. Nearly a century later, British agent James Douglas was searching the Pacific Coast for a new Hudson's Bay Company headquarters. The discovery of gold in the Fraser River and the Cariboo brought a rapid influx of prospectors, merchants, pioneers and other colourful figures to BC in the 1860s. They came from around the world, arriving from as far away as China.
SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT VICTORIA
001-BUTCHART GARDENS-World famous Butchart Gardens is a wonderland containing spectacular theme gardens, exotic plants, streams and ponds. Butchart Gardens is located approximately half-hour (14 miles) drive from downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island. The Butchart Gardens is one of Victoria's most famous and popular attractions and a National Historic Site of Canada.
This Gardens is an effort to restore an exhausted stone quarry by Robert Pim Butchart and his wife Jennie, pioneers in the manufacture of Portland Cement in Canada. In 1909, when the limestone quarry was exhausted, they started making the Sunken Garden, which was completed in 1921. Each year over 1,000,000 bedding plants in some 700 varieties are used throughout The Gardens to ensure uninterrupted bloom from March through October.
In Summer from 15June to 15 September, plays of light and shadow in the evening titled 'Night Illuminations' done by the hidden lights. Thousands of lights cast a magical glow.
Saturday Night Fireworks- Only in the Summer (July & August), on Saturday nights the Firework show includes both aerial and ground displays. Show times and dates vary from year to year, and it is normally after 9.30pm.
i-Sunken Garden- It is considered the highlight of the Butchart Gardens. The approach to the Sunken Garden is carefully controlled. Beds and flowers are changed as per season.
ii- The Ross Fountain- Walking down to the floor of the old quarry takes you the Ross Fountain. Built in 1964, its 200 nozzles pump water 70 feet into the air in varying patterns and are illuminated at night.
iii- Concert Lawn & Stage-Here are domed Children’s Pavilion and Rose Carousel and two totem poles. From here walk through one of the finest dahlia gardens. From here Fire Works lawn is overlooked.
iv- Rose Garden- Near the Concert Lawn, bordered by magnificent Pacific Giant delphiniums, the garden has an extensive collection of Hybrid Tea Roses. Discover the frog fountain and “wishing well”.
v- Japanese Garden- Jennie Butchart, with assistant Isaburo Kishida, an expert Japanese landscaper, completed this garden in 1906.This area is filled with Japanese maples and beech trees and a meandering path with pond, and bridges.
vi-Italian Garden- After the Japanese Garden, there is a Star Pond. It has a frog fountain at its centre. Beyond the pond, is the Italian Garden.
vii- Mediterranean Garden –This is near the car parking area and a small garden.
Timings & Tickets -
Spring-April 1 – June 14 9:00 am – 5:00 pm $29.90
Summer- June 15 –Sept 3 9:00 am – 10:00 pm $32.10
Address- 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay.
This Gardens is an effort to restore an exhausted stone quarry by Robert Pim Butchart and his wife Jennie, pioneers in the manufacture of Portland Cement in Canada. In 1909, when the limestone quarry was exhausted, they started making the Sunken Garden, which was completed in 1921. Each year over 1,000,000 bedding plants in some 700 varieties are used throughout The Gardens to ensure uninterrupted bloom from March through October.
In Summer from 15June to 15 September, plays of light and shadow in the evening titled 'Night Illuminations' done by the hidden lights. Thousands of lights cast a magical glow.
Saturday Night Fireworks- Only in the Summer (July & August), on Saturday nights the Firework show includes both aerial and ground displays. Show times and dates vary from year to year, and it is normally after 9.30pm.
i-Sunken Garden- It is considered the highlight of the Butchart Gardens. The approach to the Sunken Garden is carefully controlled. Beds and flowers are changed as per season.
ii- The Ross Fountain- Walking down to the floor of the old quarry takes you the Ross Fountain. Built in 1964, its 200 nozzles pump water 70 feet into the air in varying patterns and are illuminated at night.
iii- Concert Lawn & Stage-Here are domed Children’s Pavilion and Rose Carousel and two totem poles. From here walk through one of the finest dahlia gardens. From here Fire Works lawn is overlooked.
iv- Rose Garden- Near the Concert Lawn, bordered by magnificent Pacific Giant delphiniums, the garden has an extensive collection of Hybrid Tea Roses. Discover the frog fountain and “wishing well”.
v- Japanese Garden- Jennie Butchart, with assistant Isaburo Kishida, an expert Japanese landscaper, completed this garden in 1906.This area is filled with Japanese maples and beech trees and a meandering path with pond, and bridges.
vi-Italian Garden- After the Japanese Garden, there is a Star Pond. It has a frog fountain at its centre. Beyond the pond, is the Italian Garden.
vii- Mediterranean Garden –This is near the car parking area and a small garden.
Timings & Tickets -
Spring-April 1 – June 14 9:00 am – 5:00 pm $29.90
Summer- June 15 –Sept 3 9:00 am – 10:00 pm $32.10
Address- 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay.
002-FAIRMONT EMPRESS HOTEL- Victoria’s first hotel is still the grandest, and the highly awarded hotels in the country. The Fairmont Empress has played host to kings, queens, movie stars and distinguished guests from around the world. Famous people have stayed here, including Edward Prince of Wales, Queen Elizabeth and Shirley Temple. It has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada due to its national significance.
The hotel was built between 1904 and 1908 was built in the Edwardian style, by the Canadian Pacific's steamship line. This luxury hotel offers 464 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, and expansive meeting and wedding space and offers a unique lifestyle experience with personalized, attentive service.
The Empress has been participating in this time-honoured Victorian tradition since opening of its doors. The afternoon tea is served every day between noon and 3:45 p.m. During the summer, the service is $58 CAD (roughly $58 USD) per person, but the price drops to $47 CAD during the winter months. Bookings are essential.
Location- The Fairmont Empress Hotel has a grandstand location on Government Street in the city centre and adjacent to the Victoria Convention Centre, the Legislative Buildings, the Royal BC Museum.
Address- 721 Government Street, Victoria.
The hotel was built between 1904 and 1908 was built in the Edwardian style, by the Canadian Pacific's steamship line. This luxury hotel offers 464 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, and expansive meeting and wedding space and offers a unique lifestyle experience with personalized, attentive service.
The Empress has been participating in this time-honoured Victorian tradition since opening of its doors. The afternoon tea is served every day between noon and 3:45 p.m. During the summer, the service is $58 CAD (roughly $58 USD) per person, but the price drops to $47 CAD during the winter months. Bookings are essential.
Location- The Fairmont Empress Hotel has a grandstand location on Government Street in the city centre and adjacent to the Victoria Convention Centre, the Legislative Buildings, the Royal BC Museum.
Address- 721 Government Street, Victoria.
003-PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS-The Parliament buildings and grounds are among the most beautiful in the world. The Parliament was built between 1893 and 1898.
A statue of Queen Victoria stands on the front lawn as well a statue of a soldier to commemorate the province's World War I, World War II and Korean War dead. Atop the central dome is a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver.
Public Entry- When Parliament is sitting, visitors are welcome to come in and see Parliament in action. Public tours of Parliament are conducted on days when Parliament is not sitting. The Parliament Buildings are open to the public from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. During the busy summer season, the Parliament Buildings are open for tours seven days a week, including statutory holidays. Guided tours are free and last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Visitors to Parliament House are required to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the building.
Location- Located on Victoria's Inner Harbour, many of Victoria's other major attractions are right next s to the BC Legislature, these included the Royal British Columbia Museum, the Undersea Gardens, the Royal British Columbia Wax Museum and diagonally across from The Empress Hotel.
Address- 501 Belleville Street ,Victoria.
A statue of Queen Victoria stands on the front lawn as well a statue of a soldier to commemorate the province's World War I, World War II and Korean War dead. Atop the central dome is a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver.
Public Entry- When Parliament is sitting, visitors are welcome to come in and see Parliament in action. Public tours of Parliament are conducted on days when Parliament is not sitting. The Parliament Buildings are open to the public from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. During the busy summer season, the Parliament Buildings are open for tours seven days a week, including statutory holidays. Guided tours are free and last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Visitors to Parliament House are required to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the building.
Location- Located on Victoria's Inner Harbour, many of Victoria's other major attractions are right next s to the BC Legislature, these included the Royal British Columbia Museum, the Undersea Gardens, the Royal British Columbia Wax Museum and diagonally across from The Empress Hotel.
Address- 501 Belleville Street ,Victoria.
004-ROYAL BRITISH COLUMBIA MUSEUM- Founded in 1886, Victoria’s largest museum tells the story of BC through seven million objects and documents. The Royal BC Museum includes three permanent galleries-- modern history, natural history, and local First Nations’ history. You will probably want two to four hours to enjoy the exhibitions in the Royal BC Museum.
Location- The Royal BC Museum is located right on Belleville Street at the border between beautiful downtown Victoria and the historic James Bay, just steps from the Empress Hotel, the BC Legislative Assembly, and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Timings-Museum: Monday to Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm (Lobby opens at 9:45am)
Ticket-$16.00
Address-Royal BC Museum,675- Belleville Street.
Location- The Royal BC Museum is located right on Belleville Street at the border between beautiful downtown Victoria and the historic James Bay, just steps from the Empress Hotel, the BC Legislative Assembly, and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Timings-Museum: Monday to Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm (Lobby opens at 9:45am)
Ticket-$16.00
Address-Royal BC Museum,675- Belleville Street.
005-CRAIGDARROCH CASTLE- Craigdarroch Castle is a National Historic Site, completed in 1890, built by Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, Scottish immigrants who made their fortune from Vancouver Island coal. Craigdarroch Castle is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The fortune Dunsmuir amassed is reflected in every piece of the finest wood, stone and glass meticulously tooled to create Craigdarroch Castle. This legendary Victorian mansion, built on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria announced to the world that Robert Dunsmuir was the richest and most important man in Western Canada. Once you’ve entered the circular room at the main entrance, your self-guided tour begins. You will be treated to 39 rooms, most of which are furnished lavishly in the 1890s-1900s period.
Tour- Tours are self-guided, and takes you 45 minutes to an hour to tour through the Castle. It is an easy climb up the 87 stairs, stopping on all of the four floors to tour the various rooms and then to the Tower for a panoramic view of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains.
Opening-Open daily: 10 am – 4:30 pm.
Address- Craigdarroch Castle,1050 Joan Crescent (Off Fort Street),Victoria.
Tour- Tours are self-guided, and takes you 45 minutes to an hour to tour through the Castle. It is an easy climb up the 87 stairs, stopping on all of the four floors to tour the various rooms and then to the Tower for a panoramic view of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains.
Opening-Open daily: 10 am – 4:30 pm.
Address- Craigdarroch Castle,1050 Joan Crescent (Off Fort Street),Victoria.
006-GOVERNMENT HOUSE- Government House is the office and official residence of the Lieutenant Governor and the ceremonial home of all British Columbians. Since 1865, there have been three Government Houses on this site. Old building succumbed to fire. The current Government House officially opened on May 19, 1959.The area of the premises is 36 acres.
Public Tours- Government House offers one Saturday a month, at 10am and 11am a tour to the public. Admission is free and no booking is required.
Ticket-$13.95
Opening- June 15th to September 6th (9am – 7pm).
Location-1401, Rockland Avenue, Victoria.
Public Tours- Government House offers one Saturday a month, at 10am and 11am a tour to the public. Admission is free and no booking is required.
Ticket-$13.95
Opening- June 15th to September 6th (9am – 7pm).
Location-1401, Rockland Avenue, Victoria.
007-FISHERMAN'S WHARF- Fisherman’s Wharf was built after the Second World War to accommodate commercial fishing vessels. Fisherman's Wharf is a unique marine destination with a distinct flavour. Working fishing vessels, pleasure boats with live-aboard residents, float homes and commercial businesses are all moored at the docks. This unique marine destination offers food and ice cream kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Adventures include whale watching and wildlife-viewing tours, kayak rentals and fishing charters. The eastern end of Fisherman’s Wharf is populated largely by colourful float homes, which serves as permanent homes to their owners, just steps from the bustling and festive commercial plaza so popular with tourists and visitors.
Location- A scenic 10-minute walk from downtown. The Fisherman’s Wharf marina is located northeast of the Shoal Point condominiums. And around the corner from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and the Ogden Point cruise ship terminal,
Location- A scenic 10-minute walk from downtown. The Fisherman’s Wharf marina is located northeast of the Shoal Point condominiums. And around the corner from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and the Ogden Point cruise ship terminal,
008-MINIATURE WORLD- The little people's Wonderful World of Smallness, walk down its road -- step into the Story Books of fact, fiction and fantasy. Miniature World is the greatest little show on earth. Over 85 great little attractions that include the world’s smallest operational sawmill, two of the largest doll houses, and one of the longest model railways. See Circus World, Space 2201, Frontier land, Fantasyland and much more.
Ticket-$15+Tax
Summer Hours-May 7, 2015 -September 26th- 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Address- 649 Humboldt Street ,Victoria.
Ticket-$15+Tax
Summer Hours-May 7, 2015 -September 26th- 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Address- 649 Humboldt Street ,Victoria.
009-CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL- Christ Church Cathedral was built in the Gothic style of the thirteenth century. Only the Nave was initially completed, and this portion of the building was consecrated in 1929. The western towers were completed in the 1950s and the reconstruction of the East End, completed and consecrated in 1991 renders the Cathedral one of Canada's largest and most impressive churches.
Christ Church Cathedral is the Episcopal seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of British Columbia.
It's right next to Pioneer Square and an easy walk from any point in the Downtown area.
Christ Church Cathedral is the Episcopal seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of British Columbia.
It's right next to Pioneer Square and an easy walk from any point in the Downtown area.
010-VICTORIA HARBOUR & INNER HARBOUR- The Victoria Harbour - including the Inner Harbour - is one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. Recreational vessels and small cruise ships can moor in the centre of this famous heritage city, just steps from its historic streets and distinctive architecture. During the summer months, the harbour is the focus of festivals, shows and music. The harbour also serves whale watching and tours, float planes, an International Ferry terminal with connections to Port Angeles, Bellingham and Seattle, and a water taxi service. The Inner Harbour is fully within the City of Victoria, separating the city's downtown on its east side from the Victoria West neighbourhood.
TRAVEL WHISTLER
GENERAL INFORMATION-Located in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia just two hours north ,125 km (78 mi), of Vancouver. Whistler is the Canada’s favourite year-round destination. Famous ski village Whistler sits at the feet of two immense mountains- Whistler and Blackcomb with a base Village, epic skiing and snowboarding, four championship golf courses, unbeatable shopping, restaurants and bars, accommodation to suit every budget, hiking trails, spas and the best mountain bike park in the world. It is the biggest winter sports area in North America, and the village provides immediate access to some of the best skiing around. Whistler Mountain (2,182 meters) and Blackcomb Mountain (2,284 meters), the two peaks that rise above Whistler Village. The mountains are accessed primarily via three gondolas, Blackcomb Excalibur Gondola and Whistler Mountain Village Gondola in the Village, and the Whistler Creekside Gondola to the south in the Creekside area. It co-hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics with Vancouver. Only one main road, Highway 99 (also known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway), connects the area's attractions and communities. This scenic drive rates as one of Canada's most spectacular road trips. The Village is the central neighbourhood of the town of Whistler, located at the base of both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It is divided into several areas - the Village, Village North and Upper Village. Whistler Village is where locals and visitors mingle throughout the year, coming and going from outdoor adventures. Whistler’s the annual Oktoberfest in October. Whistler hosts this celebration of Beer and Bratwurst, featuring oom-pah-pah bands, dancers and traditional Oktoberfest fare. Whistler’s popular Farmers Market is held every Sunday in the Upper Village from mid-June to early October. Enjoy live entertainment and shop for local arts and crafts, and fresh, organic and local produce.
SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT WHISTLER-
001-WHISTLER BLACKCOMB- Whistler Blackcomb is a major ski resort and is the largest ski resort in North America, opened in January 1966.The resort has the largest ski area on the continent: over 28,000 hectares (7,000 acres) of ski and snowboard terrain, with over 200 marked trails, 12 massive Alpine bowls, 3 glaciers, and 33 lifts. Whistler Mountain (elevation 7,160 feet/2,182 m) and Blackcomb Mountain (elevation 7,494 feet/2,284 metres) competed with each other for two decades before merging in 1997. You can just as easily explore one mountain as the other. Each offers a complimentary perspective on its companion and each has a loyal following of ski and snowboard devotees. Whistler Blackcomb even offers summer skiing and snowboarding at elevation 7,600 feet (2,330 metres) on the high-alpine glaciated snow of Horstman Glacier on Blackcomb Mountain.
002-PEAK 2 PEAK GONDOLA RIDE-The world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola was built for sightseers, skiers and snowboarders alike. Board the longest and highest lift in the world for an unparalleled perspective of British Columbia’s rooftop views of snow covered peaks to riding through the mist of the clouds. Distance between Whistler & Blackcomb gondola stations: 4.4 km/2.73 miles. Highest point: 436 m/ 1,427 ft. Ride time: 11 minutes. World’s longest unsupported span for a lift of this kind at 3.024km/1.88miles. It is also a World’s highest lift at 436m/1,427ft above the valley floor. A glance down to Fitzsimmons Creek is also awe-inspiring - at points the gondola is nearly half a kilometre above the valley floor. At the peak, loop-hiking trails introduce the alpine terrain. There is also a tea hut for warm ups, as the temperatures can be cooler at higher elevations.
Whistler-Blackcomb's Peak-2-Peak Gondola, visitors can now ride up one mountain, catch the Peak-2-Peak to the other mountain and return to town on a different gondola.
It takes approximately 25 minutes to ride the Whistler Gondola (4957m long-1157m vertical lift)/open-air chairlifts up to the PEAK 2 PEAK, 20 minutes to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK each way and 25 minutes to return to the Village by Wizard Express (2233m long-565m vertical lift-7 minutes ride)+ Solar Coaster Express(1895m long-623m vertical lift-6 minutes ride). So the time required is at least 2 hours to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and return to the Village.
Once on the mountain top there are other things to do: enjoy the PEAK 2 PEAK Viewing Gallery and the Samsung Alpine Theatre, casual and full service on-mountain dining and in summer, mountain-top BBQs and alpine hiking trails.
Your ticket includes unlimited crossings on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola for the day during regular operating hours.
Ticket- Adults $53.
Bus Stop-Gondola Transit Exchange.
Whistler-Blackcomb's Peak-2-Peak Gondola, visitors can now ride up one mountain, catch the Peak-2-Peak to the other mountain and return to town on a different gondola.
It takes approximately 25 minutes to ride the Whistler Gondola (4957m long-1157m vertical lift)/open-air chairlifts up to the PEAK 2 PEAK, 20 minutes to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK each way and 25 minutes to return to the Village by Wizard Express (2233m long-565m vertical lift-7 minutes ride)+ Solar Coaster Express(1895m long-623m vertical lift-6 minutes ride). So the time required is at least 2 hours to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and return to the Village.
Once on the mountain top there are other things to do: enjoy the PEAK 2 PEAK Viewing Gallery and the Samsung Alpine Theatre, casual and full service on-mountain dining and in summer, mountain-top BBQs and alpine hiking trails.
Your ticket includes unlimited crossings on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola for the day during regular operating hours.
Ticket- Adults $53.
Bus Stop-Gondola Transit Exchange.
003-SQUAMISH-LIL'WAT CULTURAL CENTRE-The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is an authentic cultural activity for the whole family. It was created to celebrate the joint history of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations. Whistler's beautiful and modern First Nations museum is home to a collection of carvings, weavings, and stories that introduce the history and culture of the local Squamish and Lil'wat peoples. Both nations include Whistler in their traditional territory and have lived on and from this land for longer than memory. View a multimedia film the 12-minute film runs every 20 minutes in the 80-seat theatre. See the artist-in-residence programs feature Salish weaving, heritage canoe carving, and cedar basket weaving. Have the Cultural Forest Walk is a nature loop alive with indigenous plants.
Ticket-$18.00
Hours-Open Daily 9:30am – 5:00pm
Location-Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is located at 4584 Blackcomb Way (adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Whistler and The Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village).
Address- 4584 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Ticket-$18.00
Hours-Open Daily 9:30am – 5:00pm
Location-Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is located at 4584 Blackcomb Way (adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Whistler and The Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village).
Address- 4584 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
004-WHISTLER OLYMPIC PARK- Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games were held at the venue. Today, it remains an active centre for world-class competitors while preserving the winter legacy for the enjoyment. Here is130 kilometres of picturesque ski and snowshoe trails. Here is biathlon (skiing with target shooting,) ski jumping, tobogganing and baseboarding.
a- The Whistler Sliding Centre- The Whistler Sliding Centre is home to the fastest ice track in the world. Visitors are invited to tour the state-of-the-art facility, or experience the action first-hand with passenger bobsleigh and skeleton rides down part of the 1,450 meter-long ice track.( the last day of summer operation was September 6, the Park will be opening for winter on November 26).
a- The Whistler Sliding Centre- The Whistler Sliding Centre is home to the fastest ice track in the world. Visitors are invited to tour the state-of-the-art facility, or experience the action first-hand with passenger bobsleigh and skeleton rides down part of the 1,450 meter-long ice track.( the last day of summer operation was September 6, the Park will be opening for winter on November 26).
005- VILLAGE SQUARE-It is located in the heart of Whistler Village. It is the place where people gather after a day of skiing or mountain bike riding to enjoy a drink at one of the sidewalk cafes.
006- VILLAGE STROLL- During the summer months, the Village Stroll is decorated with beautiful hanging baskets and flower gardens. The promenade meanders from the Marketplace at the north to the base of Whistler Mountain at the south. You'll find some great west coast native art including sculpture, totem poles and blankets which are produced by the indigenous peoples.
At the end of the Village Stroll there is Mountainers Square and Skiers Plaza where the gondola tickets can be taken. The stations for the Whistler Village Gondola and Excalibur Gondola are nearby.
At the end of the Village Stroll there is Mountainers Square and Skiers Plaza where the gondola tickets can be taken. The stations for the Whistler Village Gondola and Excalibur Gondola are nearby.
007- WHISTLER OLYMPIC PLAZA- Visitors to Whistler can visit the Olympic Plaza and Olympic Medals Pavilion located at the north end of the Whistler Stroll. The 2010 Winter Olympics were hosted by the cities of Vancouver and Whistler. During the summer months, free concerts and shows are held at the Medals Pavilion.
008- COVERED BRIDGE- The covered bridge crosses Fitzsimmons Creek, a beautiful waterway that flows from the mountains. The wooden bridge is located in the river valley between Whistler Town Centre and the Upper Village (located at the foot of Blackcomb mountain).