Stanley Park
Downtown Vancouver
Lately, some locals have been complaining that Vancouver is dull; that there's nothing to do. I DISAGREE! Part of why I love living in Vancouver is that there's such an abundance of natural recreational areas. Stanley Park is called the Jewel of Vancouver, and it certainly is stunning. It's a vast park adjoining the downtown core, that features large forested areas with plenty of trails, a lake, swimming, fantastic views from the lookout, and an awesome stroll on the seawall. Definitely not to be missed if you're visiting.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Main/Cambie & 33rd
(604) 257-8584
Where Stanley Park is vast and largely natural, Queen E. Park is the epitome of the elegant, organized English garden. It features truly incredible flower gardens, a conservatory with many exotic plants & birds, a small golf course, tennis courts, and an arboretum featuring trees from across the country and around the world.
Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
Oak/Granville & 37th
(604) 878-9274
A short distance from Q.E. Park are the beautiful Van Dusen Botanical Gardens. Admission is a little pricey, but the place is worth visiting. 7,500 types of plants from 6 continents! The arrangement is splendid, picturesque, and can be quite romantic. There's even a hedge maze.
City Parks & Recreation Facilities
The city maintains a plethora of quality fitness & recreational facilities for the public. Rather than try to list them all here, I'll point you to their website.
Cycling in Vancouver
The official city website also has an excellent page on cycling in Vancouver. There are bike routes that cover most of the city, and important safety information. The city planners are making a respectable effort to accommodate cycling into the transit system, and it's a nice way to see the city.
Hiking
The mountains and wilderness around Vancouver are absolutely fantastic for hiking. There's plenty of trails good for short 1-2 hour hikes, day hikes, or camping trips. BCAdventure.com maintains a great list of trails to enjoy. Be sure to be properly dressed & equipped, and if you're new to hiking these areas, go with someone who's done it before.