"Let’s start big picture. What's this garden all about? An Elizabethan hedge maze made of 3,000 pyramidal cedars, an Instagram-ready walkway under glowing yellow laburnum blooms, more than 7,500 plant species from every continent, and a picturesque lake are just a few of the features that have kept travelers and nature-loving locals flocking to the 55-acre VanDusen Botanical Garden for more than half a century. Just don’t expect highly arranged and coiffed gardens of annuals; this place is purely perennials, and although they are beautifully arranged, they still have a wild side. So what should we be sure to check out? The must-sees depend on what’s in bloom. In May, it’s the showy magnolias and delicate Japanese cherry trees as well as the spring-flowering bulbs; in June, it’s the summery meadow garden, the Japanese dogwoods, and the aromatic roses. Don’t miss the hedge maze, the beehives, and the carnivorous plants—always a hit with the kids—and grab at bite at Truffles in the visitor’s center, one of Canada’s greenest buildings. (For something a bit more upscale, try Shaughnessy Restaurant next door and ask for a table with a view.) With garden gadgets, ornaments, seeds and more, the gift shop is heavy on local offerings and a favorite among green thumbs, and the library is paradise for garden book addicts. And if you’re in town over Christmas, their Festival of Lights is truly dazzling. How easy is it to get around? The garden is easy to navigate and there’s ample signage; just make sure to pick up a map before you head in, and ask the front desk staff where to find the best blooms. The site is 55 acres, so sport good walking shoes, but there are plenty of benches and places where you can stop and smell the roses, too. The garden is almost entirely wheelchair- and walker-accessible, although some areas are more rugged than others; staff can advise on which routes are most suitable. Some of the best spots are just steps from the entrance, though, so if mobility is an issue, you needn’t go far. Anything else we should know before planning a visit? During the busier months, guided tours—available both on foot and on large golf carts—are led by master gardeners who really know their flora. Sign up when you first arrive—they fill up quickly. If you’re more of the wandering kind, ask a staff member what’s best to see and they’ll point you toward the showiest paths, or try a seasonal self-guided tour." - Jennifer Van Evra
