We get it, Stanley Park is pretty amazing. In fact, it has recently been ranked as the best park in the world. But what about the lesser known Vancouver parks that don't get far as much attention? The ones that remain virtually people-less while tourists and fitness fanatics elbow their way around the seawall of Stanley Park? We are bringing light to the lesser known Vancouver public parks today. And hey, if you have a favorite that wasn't included, please mention it in the comments or tip us for next time. If you think one of these lesser known parks isn't worthy of distinction, we want to hear about that too.
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Mapping Vancouver's Top 10 Lesser Known Public Parks
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Westmount Park
Hang out with some Douglasfir and dogwood trees at Westmount Park in Point Grey. There is a small playground amidst the greenery and some peekaboo views of English Bay.
Chaldecott Park
Chaldecott Park is located in the Dunbar-Southlands area and has large playing fields for baseball fanatics and a mini waterpark for the kids (and kids at heart) in the neighbourhood. Typically overshadowed by Pacific Spirit Park, Chaldecott Park is a nice alternative.
Arbutus Greenway Park
Popular among residents and visitors alike, the Arbutus Greenway Park is nestled between low rise condominiums and townhouses. There's a small playground for the youngsters and several gardens riddled with the brightest and smelliest flowers and plenty of seating area to chill out and enjoy the silence among a bustling neighbourhood.
Barclay Heritage Square
A downtown park you don't know about? Believe it, people. While the West End is sprinkled with popular green spaces attended by dog owners and non-dog owners alike, the Barclay Heritage Square offers a slice of history with your nature walk. Surrounded by classic West End heritage buildings, the park is laced with intricate gardens and paved pathways which makes this a top pick for a lesser known downtown park.
MacLean Park
Struggling to find ways to stay cool during Vancouver's hot hot heat? Head over to MacLean Park where the spray park area is sure to reduce body temperatures and bring out the child in everyone. Not interested in running around while chasing high powered spray fountains? Chill out on the greenest grass imaginable a few steps away.
Robson Park
Robson Park is a quiet little gem among the busy street of Kingsway. There are community gardens and paved walking paths throughout.
China Creek North Park
China Creek North includes a large open green space with a jogging track, fields and playground. The high points of the park offer impressive views of the North Shore Mountains and Southeast False Creek.
Woodland Park
Large open green space, gardens, baseball diamonds, Woodland Park really does have it all. Not a nature freak? No problem, Woodland Park caters to the art community too with a unique totem garden and a contemporary sculpture.
Dusty Greenwall Park
Watch the ships go by at Dusty Greenwall Park, where views of the Burrard Inlet, Second Narrows Bridge and North Shore Mountains are bountiful. Dusty Greenwall is a rather small park with some major Vancouver views.
Renfrew Community Park
Renfew Park isn't really an unknown on the Vancouver park scene, but maybe not at the top of the list for downtown or Westside dwellers. What makes this park so great? The secluded winding paths along Still Creek coupled with the many softball and football fields and playground.
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