OVERVIEW

Bloedel Conservatory is a domed lush paradise located in Queen Elizabeth Park atop the City of Vancouver’s highest point. More than 100 free-flying exotic birds, 500 exotic plants and flowers, and koi fish thrive within its temperature-controlled environment.

Constructed through a very generous donation from Prentice Bloedel, Bloedel was dedicated at its opening in 1969 “to a better appreciation and understanding of the world of plants.”

Designated at heritage building, it is jointly operated by Vancouver Park Board and the VanDusen Botanical Garden Association. Together, these partners also operate VanDusen Botanical Garden.

HOW DO YOU GET THERE?

We made our visit during a layover after arriving on Air Canada and waiting for a red-eye to Houston enroute to Belize.  We used the Canada Line from the airport to King Edward Station and walked from there.   You can buy a Day Pass from the 7-11 in the domestic terminal for $9.75.  A DayPass is handy for tourists who want unrestricted travel within all three zones for the entire day or who will be taking several bus trips to different tourist locations throughout the day.  We also used it to go to the Waterfront after our visit, then to return to the airport.

Location of Bloedel Conservatory

HOW MUCH IS IT?

.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND THERE AND WHAT SHOULD YOU SEE?

It’s not very large so we were only there for about 90 minutes.  I enjoyed sitting and watching the birds fly around and it is a great place to relax.  There are a lot of parrots including a few Macaws and the difficult-to-see Lineolated Parakeet (Barred Parakeet).

VALUE TO CONSERVATION

I couldn’t find any special programs to support conservation.  The main value here would be a chance to observe the birds up close and get familiar with them so you may spot them more easily in the wild.  It’s also a great place to take the family to get the kids interested in birds.

WHERE TO STAY NEARBY ON POINTS

Most people who are staying for one or more nights in Vancouver would probably prefer to stay near the Waterfront and use the train or bus to get to the Conservatory.  Here are a few suggestions:

SPG

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre – 10,000 Starpoints

Westin Grand – 10,0000 Starpoints

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Airport – 7,000 Starpoints

IHG REWARDS 

11 Properties ranging from 15,000-25,000 points.

HILTON HONORS

Hampton Inn & Suites – 40,000 points

Hampton Inn Vancouver Airport – 20,000 points

CLUB CARLSON

Park Inn & Suites – 38,000 points

Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport – 38,000 points

PHOTOS