Even for someone like me who don't know much about plants, flowers etc this garden is very enjoyable even on this somewhat chilly end of May (low 50's F) with slight drizzle.
There was no crowd on this weekday and almost felt like you got the whole park to yourself.
Rododendrons that come in all different sizes and colors (no true blue) are in full bloom and the walk along to the left from the visitor center is worth the price of admission ( for May it's $11+).

The visitor center in itself has some thoughtful engineering to blend in with mother nature.

Besides the opportunity to see flowers, shrubs trees in a beautifully maintained throughout the gardens, there is SO MUCH more to enjoy.

There are garden docents who take you around the gardens and its different zones, explaining the origins of the plants, why plants were chosen and their natural history.

The different zones feature a collection of plants that " belong to each other." For example one zone showcases colorful rhododendrons and azaleas, which are breathtaking right now. Another area features a fun maze for children of all ages which uses artfully planted shrubs to entertain you as you go around the circular maze and try to find your way out. And that can trick you into taking the wrong path...very fun! For our little ones, it is best to walk with them and guide them to the ending.

In the same area of VanDusen, children can climb onto an old fashioned decommissioned tractor, see a working bee hive colony, vital to the success of this wonderful space, visit ducks in a small pond, all the while looking at a edible garden that when harvested is shared with services providing food to those in need.

There are 2 different venues to purchase food, Truffles Cafe, with sandwiches, muffins, featured special entrees, pastries and even a beautifully presented and delicious High Tea for 2 or 4. My mouth watered when I saw the generous and amazing variety of tea sandwiches, delectable pastries and even the traditional scones with jam and clotted cream!! Maybe phone ahead for High Tea in the Gardens with that special someone.

The garden features a free art gallery with changing exhibitions, spotlighting artists from the local area who use different media like paintings, photography and sculpture, that are available for purchase. The Garden gift store has a wonderful selection of books, plants, some food items, beautifully decorated mugs, napkins and so much more. Don't forget that Garden members receive a discount on purchases!

The Yosef Wosk Library and Resource Centre located within the main building of the Gardens, has many offerings on plants, gardening techniques, plants' diseases and so much more. The Roberta Mickelson Gallery, which is inside the library, features regular exhibitions.

We are so lucky to have a world class garden showcasing a huge variety of species like different species of Redwood trees, a fern grotto, a rose garden and many sculptures which were created on site in 1976 by sculptors from around the world.

Finally the entry fee is not large and if you are able to buy a membership you have the pleasure of watching the seasons change throughout the year!! It is a bargain!

One last thing, this review requires me to say what sort of a visit it was...I can only say that a visit is suitable for you by yourself, with friends, family out of town guests etc! For everyone in your life. Don't miss out to relax in a natural paradise in central Vancouver!!