While Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most-visited attractions, few tourists know about Stanley Park Nature House, which is tucked away at the edge of the serene Lost Lagoon. As well as exhibits of taxidermy beavers, skunks, and birds, the nature house also hosts nature-oriented activities and workshops. Staff at the nature house can detail the society’s research and conservation efforts, and also lead guided walks of the park’s wetlands, forests, and shoreline.
Stanley Park Nature House is on the southeast shore of Lost Lagoon in Stanley Park, at the northwest end of Alberni Street near Vancouver’s West End. Limited free on-street parking is available on Chilco Street. Bus routes 240, 246, and 250 pass down West Georgia Street and stop near the park.
Stanley Park Nature House is open Tuesday–Sunday in July and August. Between September and June, it opens on weekends only.
At first glance, this urban park may seem an unlikely wildlife-viewing destination, but there are plenty of species that can be spotted if you know where and when to look. Visit the lagoon’s edge at dawn or dusk for the chance to see beavers and raccoons, or head to the English Bay park entrance for a glimpse at the resident Pacific great blue heron colony. Bald eagles can also be seen, most commonly in the tall trees along the seawall between Second Beach and Siwash Rock. Remember to stay quiet and keep a respectable distance from the animals that live in the park.
