This former home of the Shaughnessy Golf Course is now a beautiful 55 acre oasis in the heart Vancouver. The city run garden was first opened in 1975 and is now in the midst of a 20 million dollar face lift. One of its major new attractions is scheduled to open in September 2011: a newly built Visitor Centre. Much is being made of the new structure and its living building philosophy. The phrase is used to define very high environmental standards, and is governed buy a set of principles that mandates indoor quality that is "healthy for all people." For people with disabilities this is fantastic news. Current old buildings and grounds are only modestly accessible.
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| This accessibility logo at the Education Centre belongs on the fertilizer pile |
Washrooms are sparse and inadequate. I found only one truly accessible facility, a porta-potty located near the great lawn. As mentioned improvements are underway with newly landscaped pathways, viewing decks and a pavilion for the great lawn area of the garden coming soon. Accessibility in the higher regions of the garden needs some attention. For example cobblestone at the base of the waterfall, one of the garden's highlights, is neither natural nor necessary and makes for bumpy ride or tripping hazard. There is a tram that has scheduled runs to all regions of the park, but it does not provide independent access. Way finding also needs improvement with better marked trails, larger signs and tactile trailways.
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| This Korean gift was added to the garden after Expo 86 |
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| Thousands of colours create a magical experience during the yuletide Festival of Light |
The garden is year around home to many cultural, educational and fun events. I have always loved this place in spite of its accessibillity shortcomings. When I made the transition from walker to scooter it was one of the first places I came to try out my new wheels.
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| This tram has sturdy holding rails for loading and unloading |
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| Lots of paved trails in the lower levels of the garden |
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| Former garden volunteer Viola Chan still loves to visit |
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| Plenty of benches |
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The garden is home to several permanent and touring sculpture exhibits
Vandusen Gardens recognizes the Access 2 entertainment program http://www.easterseals.ca/ which allows attendants/companions free access to a variety of theatres and attractions across Canada. While you're on that website, check out the disability travel card for the same deal on many buses and trains. For directions to the garden, event information, fees and more go to http://www.vandusengarden.org/. |
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