The simplest way from downtown Vancouver to Stanley Park is the number 19 bus, which carries riders from the city into the park itself. Walking or cycling west toward the Seawall also works, and a taxi covers it quickly.
Bus 19 into the park
The 19 Stanley Park bus runs along Pender Street downtown. TransLink has said it serves the park from Metrotown Station, and that it enters off West Georgia Street, goes up Pipeline Road past the Rose Garden and ends at the loop beside the Stanley Park Railway. Stops also sit at Stanley Park Drive and Pipeline Road near Lost Lagoon. From the loop, the Vancouver Aquarium is a short walk.
Routing in the park has been under review, so check the TransLink route 19 page or the trip planner for the current stops before you travel. Pay with a Compass Card or a contactless card.
Walking or cycling from the West End
From the downtown core you can head west toward the park entrance near Georgia Street and pick up the waterfront paths. The Seawall circles the park, so you can choose how far to go once inside. Bike rental shops cluster near the park entrance, and a rental is a fine way to see more of the loop in one outing.
Driving and parking in the park
Driving from downtown is short, but parking inside the park is limited and busy on sunny days. The City of Vancouver page with directions to Stanley Park explains current access and parking, and it is worth reading before you go.
Taxi from downtown
A cab suits anyone with kids, bags or a tight schedule. The Vancouver taxi page lists local companies, and the taxi fare estimator gives a rough fare in advance.
One last tip is to decide which part of the park you want. The Aquarium, Lost Lagoon and the Rose Garden are in different corners, so choose the stop or drop-off that matches your plan.