Stepping off your ship at Canada Place? You’re already minutes from some of Vancouver’s most scenic parks. From Stanley Park to hidden downtown gems, here’s where to stroll, stretch, or simply soak in the view — all on foot.
Vancouver’s cruise terminal at Canada Place isn’t just a gateway to the city — it’s already right in the heart of the action. Step off the ship and you’ll find yourself surrounded by green spaces, ocean views, and fresh Pacific air. Whether you’re stretching your legs before reboarding or looking to slow down between excursions, these parks deliver a dose of nature without needing to hail a taxi.
Bonus Entry: While Capilano Suspension Bridge Park isn’t necessarily walking distance from the cruise terminal in Vancouver, a free shuttle can get you there in just 20 minutes from Canada Place. Given that it’s our favourite park in Greater Vancouver, we felt it necessary to add it at the beginning of our list here. Onward!
You don’t have to go far — the views start here. Canada Place’s promenade offers postcard-worthy sights of the North Shore Mountains, seaplanes taking off, and cruise ships gliding into port. Stroll the West Promenade, grab a coffee, and take in the harbour before heading deeper into the city.
A few steps west from the cruise terminal sits Jack Poole Plaza. This wide-open plaza is home to the 2010 Olympic Cauldron and sweeping views of Coal Harbour. With seating areas and walking paths, it’s a relaxing, scenic stop — especially at sunset.
Follow the waterfront path west for about 5–10 minutes and you’ll hit Harbour Green Park, a long and peaceful stretch of lawn, gardens, and public art. Watch floatplanes land and take off, or enjoy a picnic on the grass with views of Stanley Park just across the water.
Walk this way
Tucked away a few blocks inland, this hidden little spot offers a break from the bustle of downtown. It’s compact, but peaceful — with shady trees, benches, and a nice spot to sip your coffee or take a quick breather before the next leg of your day.
Just past Harbour Green lies Coal Harbour Park — part playground, part boardwalk, and all scenic. It’s a great spot for people-watching or just resting your feet with a view of the marina. If you're travelling with little ones, the small playground here is a nice bonus.
If you’ve got more time, walk the scenic Seawall (about 20 minutes) to reach Stanley Park. Even a short visit offers towering trees, totem poles, and ocean air. You can explore the Vancouver Rowing Club, watch herons at the lagoon, or grab a bite at the Stanley Park Pavilion or Prospect Point.
Bonus: the walk there is just as beautiful as the park itself.
If you want a dose of history with your greenery, Victory Square Park is just a 10-minute walk away. This historic site features Vancouver’s World War I Cenotaph and some impressive early 20th-century architecture surrounding the square.
Located across from the Vancouver Art Gallery and Christ Church Cathedral, this small urban park is a peaceful stop in the city’s core. It’s great for a shaded break between sightseeing stops.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet bench, a scenic stroll, or an iconic photo op, Vancouver’s downtown parks deliver a breath of fresh air just steps from the cruise terminal. With no need for taxis or transit, you can get a real taste of the city’s natural beauty simply by walking off the ship. Lace up your shoes, head toward the water, and let Vancouver’s green spaces do the rest.
%401x.svg){kind=icon}
%201.jpg)
