Vancouver’s Gardens Could Soon Welcome Indigenous Visitors for Free
A Step Toward Reconciliation
Imagine strolling through Vancouver’s lush VanDusen Botanical Garden or the vibrant Bloedel Conservatory without paying a dime—if you’re Indigenous, that dream could soon be reality. The city’s park board is weighing a proposal to grant free daytime admission to all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit visitors, starting June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day.
What’s on the Table?
The plan is simple: anyone who self-identifies as Indigenous will be welcomed at these iconic spaces, free of charge, during regular hours. This move is rooted in the city’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, echoing Vancouver’s broader efforts to honor Indigenous history and culture.
Why Now?
For the park board, reconciliation means more than just words—it’s about action. By opening the gates of VanDusen and Bloedel, the city aims to recognize the deep connection Indigenous peoples have to these lands and to foster stronger relationships with local Nations.
How Will It Work?
Admission fees at VanDusen range from $5.35 to $15.05, while Bloedel’s tickets cost between $4.50 and $9. With the new policy, those costs disappear for Indigenous guests during the day. Special events, like the Festival of Lights, aren’t included, but for everyday visits, the gardens will be open and welcoming.
A new tracking system will help monitor the program’s use, but officials expect little impact on overall revenue.
Joining a National Movement
Vancouver’s proposal isn’t happening in a vacuum. Across Canada, leading institutions—from Science World to the Royal Ontario Museum—are offering similar free access for Indigenous visitors. It’s part of a growing movement to support cultural rights and answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
More Than Just Free Entry
Ultimately, this isn’t just about skipping the ticket line. It’s about recognizing Vancouver’s parks as shared spaces on unceded Indigenous land and taking real steps toward decolonization. The park board hopes this gesture will help build lasting connections with the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, as well as Indigenous communities across the city.
Stay tuned—if the board approves the plan on June 2, Vancouver’s gardens could soon be blooming with new possibilities for everyone.
