Compassionate Conservation 2015 – Visiting Vancouver & UBC
Information
Weather in July
Average daily high temperature: 22˚C / 71˚F
Average daily low temperature: 12˚C / 54˚F
Average monthly rainfall: 35.6mm
Don’t forget…Sunscreen, sunglasses, beachwear, active wear, comfortable and casual walking shoes, and
appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and other outdoor activities. Additional travel tips available here.
City Maps
Vancouver:
http://www.tourismvancouver.com/includes/content/images/media/docs/metro_vancouver_map21.pdf
http://www.tourismvancouver.com/vancouver/about-vancouver/geography/
http://wikitravel.org/en/Vancouver
Downtown: http://www.tourismvancouver.com/includes/content/images/media/docs/vancouver_map1.pdf
Lower Mainland: http://www.hellobc.com/getmedia/0311461e-5003-4da8-8d4b-029ea716729d/maps-lowermainland.pdf.aspx
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia Vancouver campus is located at the far west of Vancouver surrounded by
ocean. The campus is a 30-45 minute bus or drive from the airport on 402 beautifully landscaped hectares and
offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and local mountains. The campus is also adjacent to Pacific Spirit
Park and University Golf Course. For help in way finding on campus, see here.
Getting to UBC is an easy trip by transit or taxi. Taxi companies operating out of YVR have guaranteed zone fares
in Richmond and Vancouver – a trip to UBC by taxi is $34 + tip. Tipping taxis is generally standard in Canada, at
10-18% depending on your level of satisfaction. Companies to look for are Yellow Cab, Vancouver Taxi, MacLures
Cabs, and Black Top & Checker.
The Canada Line is the newest addition to Vancouver’s SkyTrain system and is best way to get to or from the
airport by transit, as it stops directly inside the airport between the International and Domestic Terminals on
Level 3. To get to UBC, ride the Canada Line either to Bridgeport and catch the 480 UBC at Bay 3, or ride to
Broadway - City Hall to catch the 99 B-Line UBC. Fare from YVR includes a $5 AddFare in addition to the regular
fare zone. A trip from YVR to UBC will cost $9 for an adult, but from UBC to YVR will on be $4. The total trip is
approximately 1 hour. Fare stations are available inside all Canada Line stations (credit, debit, or cash) but buses
accept exchange change only.
Accommodations & Food
Compassionate Conservation accommodations are hosted at the UBC Gage Residences located at 5959 Student
Union Boulevard, just off Wesbrook Mall at the northern end of campus. Continental breakfast is included in
your reservation, and there is also a variety of places to eat on campus. The Student Union Building (SUB) across
the street just south of the Gage Residences is the closest place to grab a quick bite. For help in way finding on
campus, see here. Note: a 15% tip on food service is generally expected in Canada, but can be higher or lower
depending on your level of satisfaction. This does not generally apply to fast-food or cafeteria-style places.
Transit
The Vancouver transit system, TransLink, is made up of a network of buses and unique services such as the
SeaBus and SkyTrain. Getting around the city by transit is convenient, easily accessible and often provides
beautiful views of the city! SkyTrain, a completely automated light rapid transit system, offers fast, efficient
service between downtown Vancouver and the suburbs. SkyTrain stations and cars are wheelchair accessible
and are closely linked with bus service at almost all stations. SkyTrain operates daily, every two to five minutes.
The Canada Line, SkyTrain's newest line, provides rapid rail service linking Downtown, Richmond and Vancouver
International Airport (YVR). Nine stations are located in Vancouver, with four in Richmond and three on Sea
Island serving the Airport. Trains leave every four minutes from Vancouver, and every seven minutes from
Richmond and YVR. A one-way trip from YVR to Downtown Vancouver takes only 25 minutes on a two zone fare
of $4.00, plus a $5.00 Canada Line YVR AddFare. Coast Mountain Bus Co. operates TransLink's bus services,
running busiest routes from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. It also operates the popular cross-harbour passenger ferry service,
SeaBus. SeaBus is a unique, passenger-only, wheelchair accessible ferry service that connects Vancouver from
Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay on the North Shore. The scenic crossing of Burrard Inlet takes 12 minutes
and offers a breathtaking perspective of the city, sea and mountains.
Greater Vancouver is divided into three fare zones for all transit services (with the exception of West Coast
Express). Zones are in effect each morning until 6:30 PM Monday to Friday. Note: Public buses do not give
change.
One Zone: $ 2.75 Adults
Two Zone: $ 4.00 Adults
Three Zone: $ 5.50 Adults
Off Peak (No Zones) $ 2.75 Adults
A DayPass for $9.75 provides unlimited transit use on all buses, SkyTrain and SeaBus for one day from the start
of the first transit service to the end of the service day. You can use it for travel through all zones, and save
money over buying single fares when you take multiple trips. Day passes are available at Tourism Vancouver’s
Visitor Centre or at fare dealers throughout the city.
Car Rental & Parking at UBC
Car rentals are most accessible from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) or from downtown Vancouver.
Available at YVR is: Dollar/Thrifty, National/Alamo, Hertz, Budget, and Avis. Companies available in the
downtown area include: Dollar/Thrifty, Pacific Car Rentals, National/Alamo, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise. Most
vehicles are automatic unless manual transmission is requested. We drive on the right side 
Pay parking is available at UBC – the closest parkade to your accommodations, adjacent to the Gage Residences,
is the North Parkade located at 6115 Student Union Boulevard. Monday to Friday peak hours (6am – 5pm) costs
$1.75 per half hour, up to $14 max. Monday to Friday non-peak hours (5pm – midnight) is $1.75 per half hour up
to a maximum $7.50. Overnight parking (midnight – 6am) is the same $0.50 per half hour for both weekends
and weekdays, up to a $3.00 maximum. Weekend peak hours (6am – midnight) cost $1.75 per half hour ($0.75
for Thunderbird Parkade) up to a maximum of $7.50. There are other parkades, pay lots, and hourly street
parking locations on campus – follow these links for hourly rates and locations.
Event Calendars
http://vancouver.ca/news-calendar/calendar-of-events.aspx
http://www.tourismvancouver.com/do/calendar-events/
http://www.hellobc.com/vancouver/things-to-do/festivals-events/all-events.aspx
http://www.vancitybuzz.com/vancouver-events/
Activities
Beaches
Kitsilano Beach: If Vancouver is "Hollywood North," then Vancouver's Kitsilano Beach - or "Kits Beach" to the
locals - is our Venice Beach. Buff and bronzed bodies are sure to make their rounds, but don't be wary, you're
sure to fit in somewhere amidst the mix of joggers, stroller-pushing families, sun-worshippers and your everyday
loungers. Grassy patches above the tide line are perfect for tossing the disc, the tennis courts are always popular,
and the beach attracts volleyball players from all over the city. And don't forget Kits Pool where kids and adults
can splash away the day in an outdoor, heated salt-water pool with a wrap-around view of the city, ocean and
mountains. It's almost three times the size of an Olympic pool. Access via the 84 or 99 bus from UBC, ride until
“Vine Street”. Continue on foot east to Yew Street, and follow Yew Street left (north) until you reach the beach.
Total rip time is ~25 minutes.
Jericho Beach: When all the elements are right, fishing and a picnic at the Jericho Beach pier makes for a perfect
evening. Enjoy the long, sandy stretch with stunning views of the North Shore Mountains and downtown core.
It's also a great spot for sailing, windsurfing, sea kayaking, tennis and beach volleyball. Access via the 4 bus from
UBC, get off at stop “4100 Block” on 4th Avenue, cross the street, continue east along 4th Ave until Jericho Beach
Park and then continue through park to the beach. Total trip time is ~20 minutes.
English Bay and Sunset Beach: The southern edge of the West End neighbourhood has two of the most
attractive waterfront urban environments - English Bay and Sunset Beach. Amazingly, this large stretch of sand is
no more than a 30-minute walk from the downtown core - with no commercial exploitation intruding on the
peaceful environment. In summer, English Bay becomes a jumping off point for rollerblading adventures,
strolling for ice cream, and picnics. Kids will love the floating slide and parents will appreciate the full time
lifeguard. It's also the place to lay down your blanket and look up to the sky during the HSBC Celebration of Light
international fireworks competition. Both beaches are just off Beach Avenue, access via the 44 Downtown
express from UBC. For Sunset Beach, stop at “Pacific St”, cross the street to go west on Pacific Avenue, turn left
(north) on Thurlow Street and continue past Beach Avenue into the park and towards the water. For English Bay
Beach, ride the 44 to “Davie Street” and catch the westbound C23 bus on Davie Street, ride until “Bidwell
Street” and walk south-west on Bidwell Street until you reach the beach. Total trip time is ~40 minutes.
Second & Third Beach: Second Beach is a quick stroll north from English Bay into Stanley Park. Like Kitsilano
Beach, Second Beach also has an immense, heated outdoor pool. Further along the seawall lies secluded Third
Beach, which is due north of Stanley Park Drive. Locals tote grills and coolers to this spot, a popular place for
summer evening barbecues and sunset watching. Access via the 44 from UBC, transfer at “Granville Street” to
the westbound 19 Stanley Park across the street, ride the 19 until “Pipeline Drive”. From there, walk along North
Lagoon Drive all the way to Second Beach, or take the Tatlow Walk trail off N Lagoon Dr to Third Beach. Total
trip time is ~1 hour.
Spanish Banks: To commemorate the discovery of the Spanish explorers in 1792, the British named this
particular shore Spanish Banks. The least crowded of Vancouver's beaches, this stretch of sand is a wonderful
retreat for those who wish to escape from the pace of city life. Skimmers alert: this is the perfect place for skim
boarding once you learn the optimal tidal conditions. Access via the 44 or 84 from UBC, disembark at “Tolmie St”.
Continue on foot north on Tolmie St until you reach the beach. Total trip time is ~20 minutes.
Birdwatching
Jericho Beach Park, Vancouver: The Park is located on the north side of West 4th Avenue between Wallace and
Discovery Streets on the west side of Vancouver. Habitats include shallow marine waters (English Bay), alder
stands, open fields, and a marsh and freshwater pond. Good birding for waterfowl in winter, passerines in
migration and summer, and species like Virginia Rail, Pied-billed Grebe, and Green Heron (summer) in the marsh.
Fallouts of migrant songbirds can be seen some days in late April and May. Easily accessible via the 4 bus from
UBC, get off at stop “4100 Block” on 4th Avenue, cross the street, continue east along 4th Ave until Jericho Beach
Park, total trip time is ~20 minutes.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver: From the west side of Vancouver, drive west on 4th Avenue, 10th
Avenue or Southwest Marine Drive to the Point Grey Peninsula. This large park is mostly conifer and alder forest,
and also includes Point Grey and marine shorelines. Birds to look for in the forest include Barred and Great
Horned Owls, Pileated Woodpecker, Hutton’s Vireo, and Black-throated Gray Warbler (summer). Virginia Rails
winter in marshes near the mouth of Booming Grounds Creek. At Cecil Green Park, near
the University of BC Anthropology Museum, large fallouts of spring migrant passerines (warblers, vireos,
flycatchers, tanagers, etc.) can often be seen. Pacific Spirit Regional Park has many trails immediately accessible
on foot from campus, see map here for the many trail access points.
Stanley Park, Vancouver: From downtown Vancouver, drive west on Georgia Street and turn right into the park
just opposite Lost Lagoon, or enter from Beach Avenue along English Bay. In winter, it is an excellent area for
seeing waterfowl in Lost Lagoon (often at very close range) and along marine shorelines; also good for other
marine birds such as loons, grebes, cormorants, and gulls. A good variety of forest songbirds can be seen
throughout the year. In late spring and summer, the Beaver Lake area is best for birds, and is less crowded than
shoreline areas. Pay parking is in effect throughout the park. Accessible on transit via the 44 from UBC, transfer
at “Granville Street” to the westbound 19 Stanley Park across the street, ride the 19 until terminus station at
Stanley Park loop.
Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver: From downtown Vancouver, drive south on Cambie Street to 33rd
Avenue and turn left. An arboretum and rock garden, with a few dense patches of low trees and shrubs. Birding
is best in spring (late March until late May), when impressive fallouts of migrant songbirds (warblers, vireos,
thrushes, sparrows, etc.) can be found, especially during and just after the passage of storm fronts. Townsend’s
Solitaire is often seen in spring, and rarer species like Calliope Hummingbird and Red-naped Sapsucker are seen
a couple of times most years. Birding is generally mediocre in summer, fall, and winter. The park is along a direct
bus route from UBC, catch the 33 29th Ave Station at Bay 3 and ride until “Clancy Loranger Way”.
Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary and Vicinity, Delta: From Highway 99 in Delta, follow signs to Ladner, then from
the centre of Ladner, take 47A Street to the west, which becomes River Road. Follow River Road west for 2.9 km,
turn right to cross the Westham Island bridge and follow Westham Island road for 4.8 km. Turn left at the gates
to the refuge entrance. This is probably the single best birding area around Vancouver for numbers of bird
species and individuals, except during the nesting season (June and July), when things are quieter. Winter
(October to April) features thousands of Snow Geese and dabbling ducks, hundreds of Trumpeter Swans, and
numerous species of diurnal raptors and owls. Many species and good numbers of songbirds also winter, as do a
few Black-crowned Night-Herons and American Bitterns. Many species of passerines can be found in spring and
fall migration, as well as shorebirds, especially in late summer and fall. Ladner Harbour Park, on River Road
east of Ladner, and Westham Island itself are also worthy of visits. Accessible by driving, but not by transit.
Iona and Sea Islands, Richmond: This is one of Vancouver’s best birding areas year-round, and over the years has
been the best spot in BC to see a wide variety of shorebirds. The Iona Island sewage ponds are best for close
views of shorebirds and ducks. To reach Iona Island, drive south from Vancouver across the Arthur Laing Bridge
onto Grant McConachie Way, turn north at the traffic light at Templeton Street, and follow signs to Iona Beach
Regional Park. North of the airport on Sea Island, look for Northern Shrikes and raptors such as Rough-legged
Hawk and Short-eared Owl (fall, winter, spring). Access to Iona's sewage ponds is via a locked gate. Access can
be given in certain circumstances. Please contact Jude Grass at 604-538-8774 for details. Some areas
of Iona Island, including all areas east of the sewage plant, are closed to the public; please heed warning signs.
Manager of the facility has produced a color coded map to show the areas where the birders may wander and
the areas that are off limit. The sewage ponds and two ponds outside the plant are good year-round for
waterfowl (e.g. Gadwall, Northern Shoveller, Canvasback, Ruddy Duck), and shorebirds are seen in numbers
from April through late September, except for most of June. Many rarities have been seen in this area over the
years. Iona's South Jetty, which extends 4 km into the Strait of Georgia and can be walked or cycled to the tip, is
a good vantage point for scoters and other diving ducks, cormorants, and loons. In spring and fall, huge flocks of
Bonaparte’s Gulls are seen here, often harassed by a few Parasitic Jaegers. Accessible by driving, but not by
transit.
Boundary Bay Regional Park, Delta: From Highway 99, follow signs to Highway 17 and Tsawwassen. Exit from
Highway 17 at Tsawwassen and continue on 56th Street to 16th Avenue. Turn left on either 16th or 12th Streets
and drive east a short distance to Boundary Bay. From September to April or May the 12th Avenue dyke permits
close observation of many waterfowl and shorebird species and is excellent for raptors. August and September
are the active months for fall migrants; spring migration from April to mid-May is less
spectacular. Beach Grove Park, with dense thickets and tall cottonwoods, should be checked for spring and fall
migrations of passerines. Best accessed by driving.
Maplewood Conservation Area, North Vancouver: The conservation area, operated by the Wild Bird Trust of
British Columbia, is 3 km east of the north end of the Second Narrows Bridge (Ironworkers’ Memorial Bridge).
The entrance is on the south side of Dollarton Highway. A very good birding area throughout the year. Extensive
intertidal flats are good for many waterfowl in winter and migrant shorebirds in spring and fall; Ospreys and
many Purple Martins nest on offshore pilings in spring and summer. A freshwater marsh and pond system may
harbour Green Heron and American Bittern. Most of the area is covered by brushy meadows and young,
regenerating deciduous forest, providing good habitat for songbirds, woodpeckers, and a few hawks and owls
throughout the year. Best accessed by driving.
Lighthouse Park and Vicinity, West Vancouver: From downtown Vancouver cross the Lions Gate Bridge and take
the West Vancouver exit on to Marine Drive. Follow Marine Drive west for 10.3 km and turn left on Beacon
Lane to the park entrance. The best area of old-growth forest at sea level in the Vancouver area, bordered by
rocky marine shorelines. Forest birds to look for include Pileated Woodpecker, Brown Creeper, Hutton’s Vireo,
Red Crossbill, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Sooty Grouse (spring/summer). Water birds in winter include all 3
cormorant species, Barrow’s Goldeneyes, Western Grebes, Marbled Murrelets. The Grebe Islets, best viewed
from outside the park at the end of Pitcairn Place or from Kloochman Park (reached by trail from Howe Sound
Lane), are a nesting site for Glaucous-winged Gulls, Pigeon Guillemots, and Black Oystercatchers. Best access by
driving.
Gardens
Queen Elizabeth Park: Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s horticultural jewel, is a major draw for floral display
enthusiasts and view-seekers. At 152 metres above sea level, it’s the highest point in Vancouver and makes for
spectacular views of the park, city, and mountains on the North Shore. The 52-hectare park is home to the
stunning Bloedel Conservatory. There is also a gorgeously landscaped quarry garden, the arboretum with its
collection of exotic and native trees, sculptures including one by internationally renowned artist Henry Moore,
and diverse recreational offerings such as tennis, lawn bowling and pitch & putt. The park is along a direct bus
route from UBC, catch the 33 29th Ave Station at Bay 3 and ride until “Clancy Loranger Way”. Trip time is ~35
minutes.
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden: Like every classical Chinese garden, the design of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen
Garden is based on the harmony of four main elements: rock, water, plants, and architecture. Together, these
four elements combine to create a breathtaking experience of perfect balance, yin and yang. Accessible by
transit from UBC via the 44 Downtown express bus, transfer at “Burrard Street” to the eastbound 19 Metrotown
Stn to “Carrall Street”. Walk south on Carrall Street until you reach the garden. Trip time is ~45 minutes.
VanDusen Botanical Garden: This spectacular 22-hectare (55-acre) garden in the heart of Vancouver has
matured into a botanical garden of international stature since opening to the public in 1975. VanDusen's
collection includes 11,500 accessions representing more than 7,300 taxa (plant families) and 255,000 individual
plants from around the world. Plant collections represent ecosystems that range from tropical South Africa, to
the Himalayas, to the South America and the Mediterranean, across Canada’s Boreal forests and Great Plains to
plants native to our own Pacific Northwest. Accessible via direct bus route on the 41 Joyce Stn from UBC. Ride
until “Oak Street”, cross to the west side of Oak Street and continue north on foot until you reach the gardens
(on your left). Trip time is ~40 minutes.
Stanley Park Gardens: Designated a national historic site of Canada, Stanley Park is a magnificent green oasis in
the midst of the heavily built urban landscape of Vancouver. Be sure to stop and smell the flowers of the many
gorgeous gardens in Stanley Park. Gardens include the Ted and Mary Greig Rhododendron Garden, Rose Garden
and floral displays, Shakespeare Garden, and Stanley Park Rock Garden. Accessible on transit via the 44 from
UBC, transfer at “Granville Street” to the westbound 19 Stanley Park across the street, ride the 19 until terminus
station at Stanley Park loop. Trip time is ~50 minutes.
Nitobe Memorial Garden: The Nitobe Memorial Garden is a traditional Japanese Tea and Stroll garden located at
the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Nitobe Garden is considered to be the one of the most
authentic Japanese gardens in North America and among the top five Japanese gardens outside of Japan. The
Nitobe Garden includes a rare authentic Tea Garden with a ceremonial Tea House. The Nitobe Memorial Garden
is only a 10-minute walk from the Gage residences, on NW Marine Drive – see here for garden location on a
campus map.
Hiking (* novice-beginner, ** intermediate, *** challenging)
Grouse Grind***: Up for a challenge? The Grouse Grind is a 2.9-kilometre trail up the face of Grouse Mountain,
commonly referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” – a total of 2,830 stairs. This trail is very challenging due
to its steepness and mountainous terrain. The average hiker will reach the top in approximately 90 minutes on
average.
Stawamus Chief (“The Chief”)**: The Stawamus Chief, or “The Chief”, is the second largest free standing granite
outcropping in the world (after the Rock of Gibraltar). There are three domed summits you can hike to, all
accessed by a trail that starts on the side of Stawamus Chief Provincial Park near Shannon Falls. The lowest
dome takes about 3 hours and the highest dome takes 5 hours (all times are return trips).
Garibaldi Lake**: Starting from Garibaldi Lake Provincial Park, the 3 hour hike up is a tedious trek along
seemingly endless switchbacks, but once you arrive at Garibaldi Lake you will be blown away by just how
insanely beautiful this glacial lake is.
Black Tusk**: A highly recommended 3 hour hike from the campground where you can see Whistler and the
Pacific Ocean from the same peak.
Mount Seymour***: Mount Seymour is a 5-hour hike from the Mount Seymour Ski Resort parking lot. The trail
follows the edge of Mount Seymour’s ski runs and then you climb the three “pumps”, which are large dome-like
mountaintops. The third “pump” is the summit of Mount Seymour. The views of Vancouver and the Lower
Mainland on the way down will take your breath away.
The Binkert Lions***: The Lions Gate Bridge is named in honour of these distinctive twin peaks and they are a
famous natural landmark visible throughout the Lower Mainland. The best way to reach these peaks is an 8-hour
hike along the Binkert Trail (named after Paul Binkert of the BC Mountaineering Club) from the village of Lions
Bay. You can also hike to the Lions from the Howe Sound Crest Trail that begins in Cypress Provincial Park.
Dog Mountain*: The Dog Mountain bluffs offer the best-hike-to-view ratio in the Lower Mainland. This hike is a
quick 25 minute drive from downtown and only takes about 1 or 2 hours to complete. The trailhead begins just
past the Bear’s Paw lodge at the far end of the Mount Seymour parking lot. In the summer, the Dog Mountain
bluffs and the other ridgelines higher up in Mount Seymour Provincial Park are an excellent place to watch
meteor showers and observe the northern lights.
St. Mark’s Summit**: St. Mark’s Summit is an intermediate hike that starts by the Cypress Mountain day lodge.
It winds 11 km along the Howe Sound Crest Trail. It takes about 5 hours to get to the summit and back.
Kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding
EcoMarine Paddlesport Centres: Granville Island, Jericho Beach, English Bay. Kayak rentals $39 - $85 depending
on duration of rental and occupancy. Paddleboard rentals range from $19 for 1 hour up to $59 for a day.
Ecomarine also offers a variety of local tours in the Vancouver area, custom group programs, daytrips and multiday paddles around British Columbia. All tours are beginner friendly and generally take place in double kayaks.
All you need is an adventurous spirit and the guides will take care of the rest!
Whale Watching
Prince of Whales Whale Watching – Vancouver Tours leaving from 1601 Bayshore Drive, in the Coal Harbour
area ~30 minutes from campus. Prince of Whales is now the largest whale watching and eco-adventure
company in British Columbia. They are a leader in responsible whale watching and have served as teaching
platforms for whale research. As an industry front-runner, Prince of Whales is committed to safe,
environmentally conscientious whale watching. They work with other members of the eco-tourism industry to
continue conservation efforts, and to make sure that the whales’ habitat remains pristine for years to come.
Ultimate Day Tour $300 per adult (child and youth rates available) – Whale watching to Victoria, shuttle and
admission to the Butchart Gardens, and Sunset Cruise. Booking in advance is recommended so that you can get
the best departure time for your schedule and to avoid disappointment if trips sell out.
Attractions
UBC
Museum of Anthropology: The Museum of Anthropology is a place of world arts and cultures with a special
emphasis on the First Nations peoples and other cultural communities of British Columbia, Canada. The Museum
is built on traditional, ancestral, unceded land of the Musqueam people and it is fitting that the first artworks
and words you encounter outside the Museum are a welcome from our generous First Nations hosts. The
Museum itself embodies the essence of Canada’s West Coast. Adult admission is $16.75.
Beatty Biodiversity Museum: Explore the university’s spectacular biological collections, with 20,000 square feet
of exhibits showcasing over 500 permanent exhibits. Among the two million treasured specimens are a 26metre-long blue whale skeleton suspended in the atrium, the third-largest fish collection in Canada, and myriad
fossils, shells, insects, fungi, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants from around BC and across the
world. Adult admission is $12.
Vancouver – best accessed by transit from UBC
Granville Island Public Market: If Granville Island is the king of Vancouver destinations, then the Public Market is
the jewel in the Island’s crown. A fascinating assortment of colourful stalls, showcasing unique homemade
products and the very finest in gastronomic delights. All fresh from the ocean, the oven or the field. Try closing
your eyes right now and imagine the rich aromas permeating from the lavish displays – shimmering seafood,
warm baked goods, and plump fruit. Transit from UBC via 4, 7, and 84 to “Fir Street”, cross to the north side of
the street and continue north on foot to Granville Island (map here).
Science World: Science World at Telus World of Science is a science center run by a not-for-profit organization
in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is located at the end of False Creek, and features many permanent
interactive exhibits and displays, as well as areas with varying topics throughout the years. Transit from UBC via
the 84 VCC-Clark Stn to “Ontario St”, go north on Quebec Street and Science World will be on the left (west) side.
Vancouver Maritime Museum: Since 1959, the Vancouver Maritime Museum Society has worked to preserve
and tell the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and Arctic. The Vancouver Maritime Museum celebrates
the profound significance of the ocean and waterways of the Pacific and Arctic, through the preservation and
growth of their extraordinary collection, and as a center for dialogue, research and experience. Transit from UBC
via the 84 VCC-Clark Stn to “Burrard St” or 44 Downtown to “W 3 Ave”, continue north on Burrard street, left
(west) on 1st Street, right (north) on Chestnut Street until you reach the Museum.
Museum of Vancouver: The Museum of Vancouver (MOV) creates Vancouver-focused exhibitions and programs
that encourage dynamic conversations about what was, is, and can be Vancouver. Permanent exhibitions tell the
city’s stories from the early 1900s to the late 1970s and are complemented by contemporary, groundbreaking
feature exhibits. Transit from UBC via the 84 VCC-Clark Stn to “Burrard St” or 44 Downtown to “W 3 Ave”,
continue north on Burrard street, left (west) on 1st Street, right (north) on Chestnut Street, right (east) on Whyte
Avenue until you reach the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre building that is shared with the Museum.
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre: The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is a non-profit community resource. Through
innovative programming, exhibits, and activities, their goal is to educate, inspire and evoke a sense of wonder
about the Universe, our planet and space exploration. Transit from UBC via the 84 VCC-Clark Stn to “Burrard St”
or 44 Downtown to “W 3 Ave”, continue north on Burrard street, left (west) on 1st Street, right (north) on
Chestnut Street, right (east) on Whyte Avenue until you reach the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.
Downtown-Stanley Park
Vancouver Art Gallery
Material Future: The Architecture of Herzog & de Meuron and the Vancouver Art Gallery. March 27 to October 4,
2015.
Geoffrey Farmer: How do I fit this ghost in my mouth? May 22 to September 7, 2015.
Street parking is available. Transit from UBC via the 44 Downtown to “Robson St”, walk one block east on
Robson Street and the Gallery will be on your left (north).
FlyOver Canada: See Canada like never before at Vancouver's new must-see attraction! At its core, FlyOver
Canada is a breathtaking, family-friendly, flight simulation ride like no other! You will take off into a huge dome
screen with the latest in projection and ride technology creating a true flying experience (complete with wind,
scents, and mist!) for 30 minutes as you are introduced to our great country. Pay parking is available directly
below Canada Place for $4 per half hour, $23 daily maximum 6am – 6pm, or $9 evening maximum 6pm – 6am.
Transit from UBC via the 44 Downtown to “Burrard St”, continue north on Hornby street to Canada Place,
proceed to back for FlyOver Canada (~40 minutes).
Stanley Park: Stanley Park is Vancouver's first, largest, and most beloved urban park! Designated a
national historic site of Canada, Stanley Park is a magnificent green oasis in the midst of the heavily built urban
landscape of Vancouver. Explore the 400-hectare natural West Coast rainforest and enjoy scenic views of water,
mountains, sky, and majestic trees along Stanley Park's famous Seawall. Discover kilometres of trails, beautiful
beaches, local wildlife, great eats, natural, cultural and historical landmarks, along with many other adventures.
The park offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences for all ages and interests. Daily and hourly parking is
available all over Stanley Park for $3.25 per hour, or $11 per day. It is also accessible on transit via the 44 from
UBC, transfer at “Granville Street” to the westbound 19 Stanley Park across the street, ride the 19 until terminus
station at Stanley Park loop. Trip time is ~50 minutes.
North Shore
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Capilano Suspension Bridge crosses to towering evergreens, cedar-scented
rainforest air and Treetops Adventure, 7 suspended footbridges offering views 100 feet above the forest floor.
The new Cliffwalk follows a granite precipice along Capilano River with a labyrinth-like series of narrow
cantilevered bridges, stairs and platforms, and only 16 anchor points in the cliff support the structure! Adult
admission is $32.95, and parking is ~$5. The Park is 19.5 km from UBC, but there is also a free shuttle that leaves
from Canada Place (downtown) every 30 minutes. Transit from UBC via the 4, 7, 14, or 44 to Waterfront Station,
transfer to the SeaBus to Lonsdale Quay, and then transfer to the 236 bus to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
Lynn Canyon Park & Suspension Bridge: Lynn Canyon Park officially opened to the public in 1912 and has been a
popular destination among tourists and local residents of Lynn Valley ever since. The park includes several trails,
popular swimming holes, and the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge. This is a free attraction, however it is not
particularly accessible by transit.
Grouse Mountain: Just 15 minutes from downtown, Vancouver's premier attraction offers the perfect
destination for a truly rewarding and memorable experience. Most of Grouse Mountain's summer activities are
complimentary with a Grouse Mountain Admission ticket. Activities include hiking (including the notorious
Grouse Grind), Skyride, mountain ziplines, paragliding, heli tours, and more. Admission cost for is $41.95. Grouse
is a 23 km drive from UBC, or 1.5 hr trip via transit. Transit from UBC via the 44 Downtown to “Georgia St”,
transfer to the westbound 246 Highland on Georgia Street, transfer to the 232 Grouse Mountain at “Ridgewood
Drive” and ride to Grouse Mountain.
Cypress Mountain: Cypress Mountain is located in Cypress Provincial Park, only a 25 min drive from downtown
Vancouver. Whether you are looking to enjoy the sunny weather with a rugged hike or a quiet afternoon
exploring the trails, Cypress Mountain has a variety of summer activities to offer. The Mountain is 39 km from
UBC, but can also be accessed by a combination of transit and private shuttle. From UBC, take the 4, 7, 14 or 44
bus to Waterfront Station, transfer to the SeaBus, in Lonsdale Quay connect to the private Cypress Mountain
Express.
Squamish-Whistler
Sea-to-Sky Gondola: The adventure starts with a 10 minute gondola ride to 885m above sea level. The ride up to
the Summit Lodge will provide sweeping views of Howe Sound fjord, the majestic coastal forest and surrounding
mountains. Once at the top, many other adventures await. You will have access to a wide array of outdoor
experiences including two different interpretive loop walking trails with cantilevered viewing platforms, the
spectacular Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, numerous hiking trails, rock climbing, access trails to backcountry
routes and much more. The drive to the Gondola is 70.6 km from UBC that takes ~1 ¼ hour. Admission cost is
$34.95 or $32.95 if purchased online. Online tickets must be purchased more than 24 hours in advance.
Whistler Blackcomb: From ancient, volcanic peaks with 360 degree views, to a vibrant and sophisticated village
with its incredible vibe, Whistler Blackcomb has summer covered from top to bottom. Travel across BC’s rooftop
on the world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, explore over 50 km of high alpine hiking trails, visit the
Whistler Olympic Park (Vancouver 2010), then head to the valley for a bike ride on Whistler’s paved valley trail,
or its renowned single-track network in the world-famous Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The drive is 1.5 - 2 hours,
133 km from UBC and there are a number of charter bus services that can also take you there.