Imagine a place where old quarries have been transformed into stunning gardens. That’s Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver. It’s more than just a park. It’s a testament to vision and transformation.
Queen Elizabeth Park sits atop Little Mountain. It’s Vancouver’s highest point at 125 meters above sea level. This 130-acre park offers spectacular views. You can see the city and the North Shore Mountains.
Before settlers arrived, this land was a forest. Salmon spawned here. Wolves, elk, and bears roamed freely. But by the 1870s, settlers had changed everything. They eliminated the animals. They cut down the old-growth forest. The salmon creeks were paved over. Some of these creeks still exist today. They run from Queen Elizabeth Park to False Creek.
In 1936, the BC Tulip Association proposed a unique idea. They suggested sunken gardens in the old quarries. By the end of the decade, the city agreed. The Vancouver Park Board took over.
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth dedicated the park in 1939. They were visiting Vancouver as King and Queen of Canada. Park staff then began transforming the hillsides. They created Canada’s first civic arboretum. The Canadian Pulp and Paper Association donated generously.
Bill Livingstone designed the quarry gardens. He was the Park Board Deputy Superintendent. These gardens were unveiled in the early 1960s. They quickly became popular.
Prentice Bloedel donated $1.25 million. This gift funded open reservoirs. It also built the Bloedel Floral Conservatory. This was Canada’s first geodesic conservatory. Covered walkways surround it. There are lighted fountains and a sculpture. The sculpture is Henry Moore’s Knife Edge Two Piece 1962–65.
The Bloedel Floral Conservatory opened in December 1969. It was a joyous occasion. Inside, you’ll find 500 exotic plants and flowers. Over a hundred tropical birds fly freely.
Queen Elizabeth Park boasts several attractions. Visit the arboretum and the Celebration Pavilion. Explore the Bloedel Floral Conservatory. Admire the fountains and plaza. Wander through the Quarry Gardens. Don’t miss Painters’ Corner and the various sculptures.
You can enjoy many activities here. Play pitch and putt golf. Try the Little Mountain disc golf course. Play tennis or join the lawn bowling club. Practice Tai Chi or go for a jog.
Seasons in the Park offers fine dining. It provides superb views. Pack a picnic or enjoy stargazing. Queen Elizabeth Park is a horticultural jewel. It’s a place for everyone. It’s a beautiful blend of nature, art, and recreation.