Oh Canada!
Back in the mid-2000s, when Matt & I lived in Phoenix, we were able to easily travel to many of the beautiful cities of the West Coast of the US, Mexico and Canada. One of the most enjoyable weekends away, was a group trip to Vancouver, BC. We flew out on a Friday evening and hit the bars near our hotel on the west end. Saturday morning we were up early to visit the incredible Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Built in 1889, the bridge was constructed by Scottish civil engineer, George Grant Mackay when he purchased land on either side of the Capilano River. After changing hands various times, the bridge was completely rebuilt in 1953 and over the next 30 to 40 years, the area surrounding the bridge was developed as a park with hiking trails, totem poles gifted from the First Nations, restaurants and learning centers. The photos are extremely old and do not do this majestic place justice. The beauty and engineering marvel, should not be missed on a trip to Vancouver.
Saturday night was spent with drinks and dancing at The Roxy. A short walk from our hotel and a plethora of live music, this cabaret style bar was the perfect place for us to end our first full day in Vancouver.
Sunday was our last day in Vancouver and we spent most of the day wandering the streets and enjoying the sites of the city. Highlights of the city include Granville Island, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden, the peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain, the VanDusen Botanical Garden, Richmond Night Market, Queen Elizabeth Park, and fun neighborhoods to explore such as Robson Street, The Drive (Commercial Drive), Gastown, Chinatown & Yaletown. Since we did not have much time before our flight back to AZ, we enjoyed the beautiful fall day in Stanley Park.
Stanley Park's claim to fame is that it is the oldest, largest, and most beloved park in Vancouver. Walk along the famous sea wall to see water, mountains, sky and trees, all against a vibrant city skyline. The park includes beaches, walking trails, and various sculptures and monuments, as well as plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the views. Landmarks such as, the Lost Lagoon & Jubilee Fountain, the 32 million year old sea stack, Siwash Rock, and the infamous 800 year old Hollow Tree are attractions that make the park so special. I am partial to the gardens of Stanley Park, inclusive of the Shakespeare Garden, the Rose Garden, the Rhododendron Garden, & the Rock Garden. We can definitely see why this is Vancouver's most beloved park.
Canadian cities are some of the best in the world and we really enjoyed our first time in Vancouver.
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