Vancouver, BC - March 17, 2025 - Stanley Park is known for its scenic trails, towering trees, and breathtaking views, but did you know it’s also home to several unique buildings? Whether you’re a longtime Vancouverite or a first-time visitor, here are 10 buildings in the park that you might not have noticed before.

1. Stanley Park Pavilion

Built in 1911, this heritage building features a restaurant, event space, and a cozy lounge. It’s a great spot to enjoy afternoon tea or a relaxing lunch after exploring the park.

Otto Vilhelm Moberg was a Swedish architect and engineer who worked across North America and Sweden. He designed notable structures in Vancouver, Canada, including the Dining Pavilion (now The Tea House) in Stanley Park in a Swiss-chalet style using fieldstone and wood. Moberg lived and worked in cities like Seattle, Chicago, San Francisco, and Vancouver between 1905 and 1920, before returning to Sweden around 1935 to work as a mechanical engineer.

2. Vancouver Rowing Club

Tucked away near Coal Harbour, this historic clubhouse was established in 1886. It serves as a hub for rowing and yachting enthusiasts and offers stunning waterfront views.

The Vancouver Rowing Club was established in 1899 when the Burrard Inlet Rowing Club joined the Vancouver Boating Club.  Throughout it's history the Vancouver Rowing Club has played an important part in the athletic and social life of Vancouver.  This building, designed in the Tudor Revival style, was officially opened on September 9, 1911 replacing an earlier clubhouse located at the foot of Burrard Steet.  Renovation to the clubhouse were completed by Watson-Donald Architects in 1988.  His royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh K.G., K.T. became a patron of the Rowing Club in 1975.

3. Brockton Pavilion

Home to the Vancouver Cricket Club and Rugby Club, this building is a hidden gem for sports lovers. Catch a match or simply admire the historic architecture.

4. Stanley Park Train Station

If you've ever taken a ride on the Stanley Park miniature train, you may have noticed the charming train station nearby. It’s especially magical during seasonal events like Bright Nights.

5. Vancouver Aquarium

A world-class marine science centre, the Vancouver Aquarium isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s also a research facility and a rescue centre for marine wildlife.

Since its opening in 1957, the Vancouver Aquarium has undergone several transformations, each guided by visionary architects who helped shape it into the world-class marine research and education center it is today. Designed by McCarter & Nairne, the original structure reflected a functional modernist style that harmonized with Stanley Park’s natural surroundings. As the Aquarium grew in popularity, the 1980s expansion by Thompson Berwick Pratt and Partners introduced larger exhibit spaces, improved visitor circulation, and enhanced research facilities.

The most ambitious transformation took place in 2006 under the guidance of Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership (MCMP), which redefined the Aquarium’s identity as an international destination. This Masterplan included the new Arctic Canada Habitat exhibit, revitalized and expanded BC Coast exhibits, and the development of three free public viewing areas. The design emphasized transparency, civic identity, and accessibility, making marine conservation more immersive and engaging for visitors.

6. HMCS Discovery

Few people realize there’s a naval reserve unit in Stanley Park! Located on Deadman’s Island, HMCS Discovery is an active military training facility with deep historical roots.

7. Teahouse in Stanley Park

Originally a World War II garrison, this elegant teahouse now serves up delicious meals with stunning ocean views. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a family brunch.

8. The Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Barn

Nestled near the park entrance, this barn houses the horses that pull the carriages for one of Stanley Park’s most iconic tours.

9. Royal Vancouver Yacht Club – Jericho Outstation

Though its main clubhouse is at Jericho Beach, this members-only outstation provides a picturesque mooring spot for yacht owners within the park.

Harry Barratt, a notable architect, designed the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club outstation in Stanley Park, blending nautical elegance with functional design. His work harmonized with the surrounding waterfront, offering members a sophisticated yet welcoming retreat. The outstation remains a key architectural feature in the park, reflecting Barratt’s vision of seamlessly integrating maritime culture with Vancouver’s natural beauty.

10. Lost Lagoon Nature House

Once home to the Stanley Park Ecology Society, this little-known building offers educational displays about the park’s diverse ecosystems. The park was designated a National Historic Site of Canada by the federal government in 1988. It was deemed significant because the relationship between its "natural environmental and its cultural elements developed over time" and because "it epitomizes the large urban park in Canada"

Stanley Park is more than just trees and trails—it’s a vibrant part of Vancouver’s history with a rich collection of buildings that add character and culture. Next time you visit, take a moment to explore beyond the well-trodden paths. Who knows what hidden gems you might discover?

#Stanley Park #Vancouver Hidden Gems #Explore Vancouver #YVR #Stanley Park Secrets #Van City Adventures #Historic Vancouver #Hidden Buildings #WBN News Vancouver #Downtown Vancouver #Elke Porter

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