VanDusen Botanical Garden

VanDusen Botanical Garden sprawls over 22 hectares (55 acres) in Vancouver’s South Granville neighbourhood, home to more than 7,500 plant species, wildlife, artwork, a traditional Elizabethan hedge maze and more. Big and small screen fans will recognize the picturesque space from hit productions like Supergirl, Once Upon a Time, Altered Carbon, DC Legends of Tomorrow, Bates Motel, Happy Gilmore and others. After reliving your favourite on-screen moments – and snapping selfies for those oh-so-crucial social media posts – settle in for a serene afternoon of exploring. Here are our favourite VanDusen moments:

Navigate the Elizabethan Maze  Originally built to confuse evil spirits or symbolize the difficult path of life, twisting labyrinths have captivated people for centuries. During the English Renaissance, mazes underwent a lighthearted transformed into a form of pure amusement. The VanDusen maze is certainly that, crafted with 3,000 pyramidal cedars that wind and twist into a satisfyingly quiet space perfect for losing yourself in contemplation.

Bird-watch  Bird-brains will appreciate the plethora of winged creatures that call VanDusen home. The garden is an ideal ecosystem for fowl, boasting plenty of water, trees, sheltered areas and food sources; bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for robins, swallows, song sparrows and more. Diehard birdwatchers won’t want to miss VanDusen’s monthly Guided Bird Walk, which is included in the admission fee.

Marvel at awe-inspiring sculptures and fountains  VanDusen houses several sculptures scattered across its multi-varied landscape, 11 of which were created at the Vancouver International Stone Sculpture Symposium held at the Garden in 1975. Staff are happy to direct visitors to the Garden’s artwork, so don’t be shy!

Dazzle the senses at Festival of Lights  Each winter, VanDusen transforms into a holiday wonderland complete with millions of twinkling lights draped across trees, shrubs and flowerbeds. The whimsical Festival of Lights features a dancing light show on Livingstone Lake; brilliantly lit pathways, including Gingerbread Walk and Candy Cane Lane; Storytime with Santa, a favourite among small fry; carolers; cozy firepits and speciality holiday beverages; a stunning candlelit grotto; and more.

Keen to view more sites featured in your favourite productions? View Destination Vancouver’s self-guided itineraries for Supergirl, Altered Carbon and Once Upon a Time.