Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 604-257-8584;
www.vancouverparks.ca
;
Queen Elizabeth Park; adult/child $6.50/3.25;
9am-8pm Mon-Fri, 10am-8pm Sat & Sun May-mid-Sep, reduced off-season; 15)
Cresting the
hill in Queen Elizabeth Park, this lovely triodetic domed conservatory - an ideal indoor
warm-up spot on a rainy day - is the area's green-fingered centerpiece. Its climate-con-
trolled zones are home to 500 plant species, many koi carp and dozens of free-flying
tropical birds, including parrots and macaws: ask for a free brochure to help you identi-
fy the exotic flora and fauna.
You'll spot the birds dotted around the branches (although you'll likely hear many of
them before you see them). Some seem permanently camera shy and may turn their
backs to you but others are happy to strut around showing you who runs the show.
Once you've circled the pathway, you'll likely want to double back to make sure you
haven't missed any flighty friends.
CITY HALL
HISTORIC BUILDING
chitecture fans should save time for a stroll through the marble-lined lobby of one of
Vancouver's best art-deco buildings. Completed in 1936, its highlights include a
mirrored ceiling, streamlined signs, cylindrical lanterns and embossed elevator doors.
Duck inside one of the elevators to peruse their intricate inlaid wood design, then check
out the handsome heritage homes on surrounding Yukon St and W 12th Ave.
Exit the building on the north side and you'll find a statue of captain Vancouver, not
a superhero but rather the historic seafarer the city is named after. This is the spot to
take your photo, with City Hall in the background. Glance at the far less elegant 1960s
addition to the complex here, then check out the rest of the neighborhood: many of the
grand wooden heritage homes nearby were built for early mayors and merchants. If
you're on a deco roll, you should also hit downtown's lovely Marine Building (
Click
