Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinFeeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of city life and craving a serene escape? Same here. After exploring countless urban parks and green spaces, we’ve experienced a mix of tranquil retreats and overcrowded spots.
However, there’s no reason why unwinding in nature should be so challenging and we think we’ve found the answer for you! George Wainborn Park in Vancouver was one of our most unforgettable experiences!
Let’s dive right into the heart of it as our team of local explorers has uncovered the hidden treasures and must-see highlights of this urban oasis!
Best Time to Go to George Wainborn Park
The best time to visit George Wainborn Park is between June and September. During these months, the weather is mild with minimal rain and you’ll enjoy at least 13 hours of warm sunshine each day.
What is George Wainborn Park in Vancouver?
George Wainborn Park in Vancouver is a waterfront gem known for its stunning views, lush greenery, and recreational amenities.
It offers locals and tourists a serene escape from city life, making it a cherished spot for relaxation, outdoor activities, and community events.
George Wainborn Park is a 2.5-hectare green space along False Creek in downtown Vancouver that opened in 2004.
Named after George Wainborn, Vancouver’s longest-serving Park Board Commissioner, the park honors his 33-year contribution to the city’s parks and recreation system from 1956 to 1990.
How to Get to George Wainborn Park
By car: head northeast on Hornby Street to W Georgia where you’ll make a right onto Howe Street. Then, make a left onto Pacific Street and a right on Richards Street. Finally, take a right onto Beach Crescent.
There’s free street parking in the nearby neighborhood, however, it’s quite limited so we would recommend you go here via public transit.
By public transit: hop on the 004 bus bound to SB Howe and Davie. From there, George Wainborn Park is just a 9-minute walk away.
What to Do in George Wainborn Park
Have a Picnic
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
This charming park by the Seawall offers a large grassy area perfect for picnics. If you’re fortunate, you might snag one of the concrete picnic tables by the Seawall.
Alternatively, relax in one of the yellow Muskoka chairs with a scenic view of the park.
Keep in mind that there are no facilities in the park; the nearest washrooms are at David Lam Park. However, there is a drinking water fountain available.
Walk along the False Creek Seawall
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Situated at the intersection of Richards Street and Pacific Blvd, this park lies at the edge of the False Creek seawall, overlooking Granville Island.
It’s easily accessible from downtown or the seawall bike/walking path. With breathtaking views of the city skyline and waterfront, it’s a beloved destination for leisurely strolls.
Check Out the Water Feature
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
A highlight of this park is its water feature, where numerous dogs delight in splashing around. The sound of playful splashes and happy barks creates a vibrant atmosphere cherished by both dogs and their owners.
It adds a dynamic element, and when the fountain is not in use, it opens up exciting possibilities.
It can also be used as a potential venue for events or activities.
Bring your Pets
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
The expansive grassy area in the park doubles as an on-leash dog park. While it has a dog-friendly atmosphere, it’s important to exercise caution when allowing your dog to play off-leash.
Signs indicate that dogs should be leashed, but many locals and regular visitors allow their dogs to roam freely on the well-maintained lawns and frolic in the spacious fountain.
However, it’s worth noting that dog patrol frequents the park regularly, although their schedule may not always be obvious.
Watch Boats Go By
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
The park offers a stunning view overlooking False Creek near the Granville Bridge, providing a picturesque vista of the houseboats across the way.
It’s an ideal spot to observe the various False Creek ferry companies bustling back and forth on the water, along with an array of other boats passing by. One of the highlights is witnessing the occasional dragon boat teams practicing their drills.
Get That Vitamin D
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Address: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
This spot is one of our go-to places in the city for unwinding and spending time. George Wainborn Park enjoys plenty of sunshine and tends to be less crowded than David Lam Park when the weather turns warm.
It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy some peace and quiet!
Spot the Chandelier
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Address: Granville Bridge, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1V4, Canada
Near George Wainborn Park, you’ll find the Granville Street Bridge, where a remarkable sight awaits: a stunning chandelier worth 4.8 million dollars suspended from the bridge.
This impressive fixture measures 7.7 meters in height and 4.2 meters in length, crafted from stainless steel, LED lamps, and polyurethane faux crystals.
The chandelier descends from the north end of the Granville Bridge and spins for approximately four minutes, flashing its lights before gracefully retreating into the bridge’s underbelly.
Where to Stay near George Wainborn Park
The Parker Hotel
Address: 1379 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2R5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-688-7678
Pricing: $$$
The Parker Hotel is located in one of downtown Vancouver’s prime neighborhoods, only minutes from George Wainborn Park and the lively Yaletown nightlife.
The hotel features wine-themed rooms with modern decor, a restaurant, fitness center, 9th-floor garden, and an outdoor Jacuzzi, offering a perfect stay near the park.
Grand Park Hotel & Suites
Address: 718 Drake St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2W6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-669-9888
Pricing: $$
Situated near George Wainborn Park, this cozy, unpretentious hotel with a brick exterior allows easy walking access to all of downtown. The rooftop offers tables and chairs for a relaxing break with views of the downtown Granville strip.
The Grand Park Hotel & Suites boasts a fully-equipped common kitchen area and a deluxe patio with sweeping views of Downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains.
OPUS Vancouver
Address: 322 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 866-642-6787
Pricing: $$$
Upon entering the OPUS lobby, you’ll instantly recognize it as a luxury hotel. The marble-framed doors and futuristic bell-shaped light shaft create an immediate impression of sophistication and elegance.
Each suite is unique, with some featuring distinctively quirky elements. For example, one suite includes a Louis XIV chair with a lizard-skin print!
Level
Address: 1388 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3G6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-979-6200
Pricing: $$$
Level’s 187 furnished suites boast contemporary style throughout. Each room offers fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, air conditioning, in-suite laundry facilities, and expansive balconies.
Amenities at Level include a rooftop pool and hot tub, the Fitnastika advanced fitness center with personal training options, versatile meeting and event spaces, and a professional 24-hour concierge service.
Hotel Belmont
Address: 654 Nelson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6K4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-605-4333
Pricing: $$
Hotel Belmont, an 82-room boutique-style hotel nestled in Vancouver’s Entertainment district, boasts an eclectic mid-century design. Built in 1912, its vintage charm adds to the allure.
One standout feature is the elevator, activated by your key—a thoughtful touch. Amenities include a business center, meeting spaces, a restaurant, and a lounge, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Where to Eat near George Wainborn Park
Ancora
Address: 1600 Howe St #2, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2L9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-1164
Pricing: $$$
Nestled by the water with views of Granville Island, this restaurant offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines. Its bright and spacious ambiance makes it perfect for business meetings, romantic dinners, or group gatherings.
A must-try dish is the Sablefish with quinoa, even for those who may not typically fancy quinoa. After experiencing it here, we’re eager to return for another taste!
Linh Café
Address: 1428 Granville St Unit 130, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1N2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-564-9668
Pricing: $$
Linh Café exudes an air of sophistication and upscale dining, yet the impeccable ideas and execution justify the expense. The menu is flawlessly curated, offering a perfect selection of dishes.
Our order included fried frog legs, spicy breadsticks, beef tartare, mimosa salad, red shrimp, and pho with added rare beef. Each dish was remarkably flavorful, with the fried frog legs emerging as our top favorite.
Kaide Sushi Bar
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Address: 1375 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6M6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-5886
Pricing: $
Kaide Sushi Bar, located on Richard Street in Downtown Vancouver, is an exceptional dining choice. The restaurant boasts a diverse selection of fresh and delectable sushi.
The local uni stands out as a highlight, leaving a lasting impression that will linger in your dreams until your next visit. For those looking to explore beyond nigiri and sashimi, the Tofino roll is a must-try.
Tasty Indian Bistro
Address: 1261 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6K3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-423-3300
Pricing: $$$
Tasty Indian Bistro presents a tantalizing array of Indian dishes and tandoori specialties, complemented by patio seating and crafted cocktails.
A standout dish is the hariyali Chicken tikka, which was bursting with flavor. The corn chops showcase innovation, with both the chops and accompanying dips intriguing the palate.
Au Petit Comptoir
Address: 1471 Continental St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 0G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-292-6917
Pricing: $$
Nestled discreetly behind the seawall, Au Petit Comptoir transports you straight to France with its charming ambiance and delectable crepes. Highly praised by a French friend of ours, it truly lives up to its reputation.
The salmon savory option is a standout, offering a delightful burst of flavors. Meanwhile, the Suzette sweet crepe is simply heavenly, leaving us eager to return for more.
Apps to Download for a Trip to George Wainborn Park
GPSmyCity: Self-guided walks over 1,000 cities in Vancouver, with built-in GPS navigation functions. Works both online and offline.
iOs | Android
Vancouver Travel Guide: Interactive city guide with tourist info on all must-see attractions in Vancouver.
iOs | Android
Vancouver Transit Live: Live bus schedules that use your GPS location to get the times of TransLink bus stops.
Paybyphone: Pay for meter parking with the touch of a button, set text reminders, and have your receipts emailed to you.
iOs | Android
