Stanley Park, Vancouver's magnificent urban park, opened in 1888 by governor Lord Stanley, is great for hiking, biking, walking or running along the 8.8km seawall that loops around the park or along the numerous forested trails through the temperate rain forest. The seawall is divided into two sections, one lane is for cyclist and inline skaters and the other one is for walkers and joggers. On sunny days, it can get quite crowded along the seawall.
The park also has a couple of excellent beaches, ideal spots to take in the fantastic scenery and amazing sunset while enjoying a picnic.
Another great place for spectacular views is the Prospect Point overlooking the 'Lions Gate' Bridge, a suspension bridge that crosses the first narrows of the Burrard Inlet and connects downtown Vancouver with the North shore. Officially, the bridge is called the 'First Narrows' Bridge and the term 'Lions Gate' refers to two mountain peaks known as 'The Lions' north of Vancouver.
Despite being Vancouver's main tourist attraction, it's a great place to relax and to spot the occasional wildlife such as blue herons, raccoons, seals, eagles, geese, squirrels and coyotes. Beaver Lake is a great place to spot waterfowl, beavers at work and the occasional turtle. In the summer, the surface of the lake is covered with waterlilies.
There are also plenty of attractions for families and visitors in the park such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the horse-drawn carriage, the miniature train, the Second Beach Pool as well as several restaurants.
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