Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinDid you know Robson Park has been a hidden oasis since the 1920s? It’s a wonderful spot in the city with serene greenery, majestic trees, and a sense of calm that’s just so Vancouver.
In this guide, we’re unlocking the secrets of Robson Park—where to stay, dine, shop, and things to do. Ready to escape the city buzz? Lace up your walking shoes and join us on a stroll through the tranquility of Robson Park
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Robson Park is from June to August when the weather is mild, making it perfect for an outdoor stroll. But, the park is also awesome during spring and fall season, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Things to Know About Robson Park
Robson Park is a green space that offers a peaceful escape with playgrounds and sports facilities. The park serves as a gateway from bustling streets to a colorful neighborhood.
Its significance lies in fostering outdoor activities and creating a welcoming environment for all to enjoy.
Over at Robson Park, you’ve got a cool playground, spots to chill with your picnic, and right by the 127A street entrance, the looped pathway kicks off.
If you wander a bit deeper, you’ll stumble upon two soccer fields, a pair of tennis courts, six spots for pickleball, and plenty of walkways weaving around Robson Creek as it winds through the place.
Thi spot keeps the whole starting point of Robson Creek safe before it crosses 100 Avenue and dips into Robson Ravine.
How to Get to Robson Park
What to Do in and near Robson Park
Check out the Robson Park Playground
Address: Robson Park, 599 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 4L9, Canada
This spot is ideal for bringing the kids, letting you kick back surrounded by trees. The Robson Park Playground is packed with fun stuff – a double slide, a wavy one, a spring rider, a climbing wall, a store play panel, and even a sandbox.
The gardens are landscaped, dotted with flower patches, and there are these big shady palms adding to the vibe. Plus, there are tables under cover, perfect for a little picnic chill.
Drop by Mount Pleasant
Address: Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Phone: 604-257-3080
If you’re not in the loop about this cool neighborhood, Mount Pleasant is where it’s at – think gastropubs and indie fashion spots lining Main Street, and chain restaurants making a splash in Cambie Village.
This place is a haven for some of Vancouver’s top independent boutique shopping, featuring local designers, record stores, bookshops, and vintage clothing joints. And let’s not forget the eccentric cafes, restaurants, and lounges.
Chill at Trout Lake Beach
Address: Trout Lake Beach, Vancouver, BC V5N 2J5, Canada
Phone: 604-257-6955
Nestled between East 14th and East 19th Avenue, there’s this little freshwater beach in John Hendry Park. It’s a year-round haven in Vancouver – a dream for nature photographers and a paradise for your pooch to run off-leash.
Whether you’re into jogging, picnics, or just some good old family fun, this city sanctuary has got you covered. The view of the mountains is nothing short of magnificent that it’s easy to forget you’re in the midst of bustling Vancouver.
Hang Out with Kitties at Catoro Cafe
Address: 666 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1X6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-423-2987
Catoro Cafe is the go-to spot for sipping on delicious bubble tea while hanging out with rescue kittens and cats. The cat forest, tucked away in a separate area, is a delight to watch through the windows – a real kitty haven.
It’s a fantastic place if you’re after a therapeutic time, getting to pet and play with these rescue kitties, all while savoring some yummy bubble tea.
Discover Science World
Address: 1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-443-7440
Science World is a fantastic spot for both kids and parents to dive into a day of play, learning, and pure fun. It’s like a science wonderland, where kids get to absorb the basics of science through a bunch of entertaining activities.
With so much to do, the galleries and exhibits are thoughtfully put together, keeping everyone engaged. Honestly, Science World is one of those places that caters to all ages.
Where to Stay near Robson Park
Holiday Inn Vancouver-Centre
Address: 711 W. Broadway, Heather St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3Y2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-879-0511
Pricing: $
The best thing about Holiday Inn Vancouver-Centre is its spot. It’s basically a hop away from Downtown Vancouver, and you can roll up to Robson Park in about 5 minutes.
Oh, and the pool’s awesome – all warm and cozy inside, but not gloomy, plus there’s a cool sun deck nearby. And the grub joint? Loads of gluten-free choices, even got a mean club sandwich.
Cassandra Hotel
Address: 3075 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-430-3441
Pricing: $
It’s a solid hotel, in a good spot with buses and the metro close by for a smooth ride to downtown Vancouver. The Cassandra Hotel’s got these classic rooms, you know, with simple furniture and decor.
The service is pretty top-notch. They’ve got this keyless entry thing, super handy and adds a layer of safety. The rates might be a tad steep, but fair play – it’s a bustling area and a prime location.
Coast Metro Vancouver Hotel
Address: 2950 Boundary Rd, Burnaby, BC V5M 3Z9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-438-3451
Pricing: $
Atrium Inn
Address: 2889 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 2A1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-254-1000
Pricing: $
At the Coast Metro Vancouver Hotel, you get these awesome units with killer views of the North Shore mountains and Downtown Vancouver. Plus, it’s a quick 10-minute jaunt to Robson Park.
Every room? Comes with its own private balcony – sweet deal. And oh, don’t sleep on the lobby’s coffee machine – it’s a game-changer. Plus, you can easily stroll over from the train station.
Executive Suites Hotel and Conference Centre
Address: 4201 Lougheed Hwy., Burnaby, BC V5C 3Y6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-298-2010
Pricing: $
The Executive Suites Hotel and Conference Centre, just a quick 12-minute hop from Robson Park, rocks this cool modern vibe. The suites? They blend modern and traditional, with stuff like wooden floors and built-in shelving.
Their restaurant is pretty sweet, and there’s even an outdoor pool vibe. Tried the food – not bad at all. Plus, being close to nearby businesses is a perk.
Where to Eat near Robson Park
Los Cuervos Taqueria & Cantina
Address: 603 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-558-1518
Pricing: $$
If you’re hankering for amazing tacos with loads of fillings, Los Cuervos Taqueria & Cantina is the spot. Their claim to fame? The 12” flour tortilla, where you can stuff it with your pick of protein, cheese, black beans, and rice.
We went for the bison, birria, and chicken – let us tell you, the birria taco was next level, one of the best we’ve ever had. And here’s a pro tip: cap it off with a churro split. Trust us on that one.
Osteria Savio Volpe
Address: 615 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-428-0072
Pricing: $$$
This spot right on Kingsway and Fraser Street is a real gem, with its one-of-a-kind cuisine and super inviting vibe the moment you walk in.
The atmosphere? Unmatched. Osteria Savio Volpe has cool decor, dishes plated like works of art, all bustling from the kitchen to the tables. What’s cool is that everything’s meant to be shared – and trust us, it’s all downright delicious.
Sal y Limon
Address: 701 Kingsway #5, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-677-4247
Pricing: $$
Sal y Limon is this fantastic Mexican joint that nails the chimichangas. It’s a lively spot, always buzzing with a ton of choices. And the cool part? You can turn any dish into a veggie delight.
There’s a stage – probably for live music – and the walls are decked out with some intriguing art. We went for the torta ahogada with the extra-spicy salsa. Fair warning: that sauce brings the heat – it’s seriously spicy!
Straight Outta Brooklyn
Address: 701 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 2R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-879-4444
Pricing: $$
Straight Outta Brooklyn serves up some of the town’s best pizzas! The crust is flavorful, perfectly crisp with a good chew, and the toppings are top-notch. The individual slices are massive and totally foldable.
We went for the white mozzarella and the regular cheese, both were super fresh and seriously tasty. If you’re on the hunt for that authentic NYC-style pizza, this is the spot.
The Peri Peri Shack
Address: 724 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5V 3C1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-875-1651
Pricing: $$
The Peri Peri Shack, a cozy counter-serve spot, is all about that peri peri chicken life. They’ve got more than chicken, though – think shrimp and paneer bowls, plus a bunch of tasty sides. The chicken is something else – bursting with flavors and ridiculously juicy and moist.
Seriously, you’ve got to try their chicken, especially with the variety of sauces they offer. It’s become our regular go-to food; we’re hitting this place once or twice a week because the craving is real.
Where to Shop near Robson Park
Burcu’s Angels
Address: 617 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-428-6480
Burcu’s Angels is a special vintage clothing store that’s like taking a trip with a time machine – they’ve got threads from the 1960s and 70s that’ll transport you.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind piece or a retro outfit, chances are you’ll stumble upon it here. And Burcu, the owner, has this incredible eye for vintage, not to mention a heart of gold and a treasury of amazing stories to share.
Spool of Thread
Address: 649 E 15th Ave #101, Vancouver, BC V5T 2R6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-879-3031
This place has an awesome collection of fabric patterns, top-notch sewing machines, and a cool vibe. Plus, they offer fantastic courses that not only teach you the ropes but also leave you with a useful final product or a perfect gift.
Sure, the classes might be a bit pricey, but let us tell you, the machines are top-notch. And here’s a cool deal – you can rent a spot at a machine for just $8 an hour, or once you’ve aced the introductory class, it drops to $4.
The 661
Address: 661 E 15th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 2R6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-661-0661
The 661 is no ordinary optical spot – it’s an independent boutique showcasing a carefully chosen array of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and accessories sourced from Brazil, Italy, France, and Japan.
Walking into the store feels more like entering an art gallery than a traditional eyewear shop, thanks to its beautiful and thoughtfully curated design.
Gluten Free Epicurean
Address: 633 E 15th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 2R4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-876-4114
Walking into the Gluten Free Epicurean is like stepping onto the set of a movie bakery, boasting an all-white exterior and a minimalist interior design. This spot is the ultimate go-to for scoring top-notch gluten-free pastries.
One standout is the cinnamon bun with maple frosting – trust us, it’s awesome. The quality, taste, and texture all get a solid 10/10!
Harlow Atelier
Address: 655 E 15th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 2R6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-428-8684
Harlow Atelier is this charming little shop of beauty and wellness products. They whip up their own products in-house, even getting their oils steam-distilled in Toronto, and all their bottles are refillable, and you get a $5 discount for doing so.
They also have skincare products at the back of the store. They’re generous with samples, so you can test before you commit. With a bit of everything on the shelves, it’s definitely a spot worth checking out!
Apps to Download for a Trip to Robson Park
Transit: real-time bus and train information in Vancouver, including special service alerts, bus capacity predictions, and real-time vehicle location.
PayByPhone: pay for parking spots in the city.
OpenTable: make a reservation at popular restaurants in Vancouver.
Uber: Easily book a private ride in the city with clear rates and simple contactless payment.
