Bloedel Conservatory
Family of 4
$25-30 CAD (~$18-22 USD)
Duration
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best Ages
2-10 years
About
The Bloedel Conservatory is one of Vancouver's hidden family gems — less famous than the aquarium or Science World but delivering a uniquely magical experience, especially for younger kids.
Perched at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park, the city's highest point, the conservatory is a triodetic dome (think smaller, more intimate version of Science World's dome) filled with tropical plants, exotic birds, and a warm, humid atmosphere that feels worlds away from Vancouver's usual drizzle.
Inside, over 120 birds from around the world fly freely through the space. We're talking macaws with wing spans wider than your toddler, brilliantly colored parrots, tiny darting finches, and a very talkative cockatoo. The birds aren't behind glass — they're sharing the space with you.
Patient visitors who stand still in quieter corners may have small birds land on their hands or shoulders. For kids, this is absolutely thrilling.
The tropical plant collection includes over 500 species — palms, orchids, bromeliads, and flowering plants that create a lush jungle canopy. Koi fish swim in small pools along the pathways, and kids inevitably end up crouched beside them, mesmerized.
The conservatory is compact — most families spend 45 minutes to an hour inside. This actually makes it ideal for young children who would lose interest in a larger attraction. The pathways are wide, flat, and stroller-friendly. It's warm inside (it's a tropical climate dome), so dress in layers you can remove.
After the conservatory, Queen Elizabeth Park itself is worth exploring. The sunken quarry garden is genuinely beautiful, with waterfalls and rock formations. The dancing fountain jets near the conservatory entrance are irresistible to kids. The park's elevated position means views in every direction — mountains, downtown, and the ocean.
Seasons in the Park restaurant is right here for a family lunch with panoramic views, or bring a picnic and spread out on the expansive lawns.
Admission is affordable — much less than most Vancouver attractions — making this an easy, low-pressure family outing that punches well above its price point.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings when birds are most active. The conservatory is smaller than you'd expect, so avoid peak weekend afternoons when it feels crowded.
Wait Times
Minimal — rarely any wait for entry
Nearby Food
Seasons in the Park restaurant is right in Queen Elizabeth Park with stunning views and a family-friendly menu. Otherwise, Cambie Street has numerous family restaurants including Thai, Japanese, and casual dining options.
Why Kids Love It
Walking into the Bloedel Conservatory feels like teleporting to a tropical jungle. The domed glass conservatory sits at the highest point in Vancouver (Queen Elizabeth Park), and inside it's warm, humid, and alive. Over 120 exotic birds fly freely around you — macaws, parrots, cockatoos, and tiny finches that will land on your outstretched hand if you're patient and still.
Kids are mesmerized. The birds are colorful, loud, and close enough to touch (though you shouldn't). Koi fish swim in pools along the paths.
Over 500 species of tropical plants create a lush canopy overhead. For city kids who don't often see this kind of nature up close, it's genuinely enchanting. The dome is small enough that even antsy toddlers can handle the visit, and the birds provide constant entertainment.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Visit in the morning when birds are most active and vocal
- Wear bright colors — some of the parrots are attracted to reds and oranges
- The conservatory is warm and humid — dress in layers you can remove
- After the conservatory, explore Queen Elizabeth Park's quarry garden and fountains
- The bronze 'Photo Session' statues outside are a can't-miss photo op with kids
What to Bring
- Layers — it's tropical inside, cool outside
- Camera with zoom for bird close-ups
- A picnic to enjoy in Queen Elizabeth Park after your visit
- Water bottles (the humid air makes you thirsty)
- A sense of wonder and patience for bird-watching
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$25-30 CAD (~$18-22 USD)
Tips to Save
- Very affordable admission.
- The surrounding Queen Elizabeth Park is free and beautiful.
- Combine with a picnic in the park to make a full outing.
- Check for free admission days on the city website.