Skip to main content

10 of the most scenic Vancouver views

Vancouver Views

10 of the most scenic Vancouver views

With modern glass buildings set along the water and soaring mountains as a background, you can't really question the beauty of Vancouver. While no photo can quite do the city justice, you won't have a hard time finding Instagram-worthy views.

 

To help you get that perfect shot, here are 10 of the most scenic views in and around Vancouver:

 

1. Queen Elizabeth Park

 

The highest point in Vancouver, Queen Elizabeth ParkExternal Link Title is a natural choice for a fantastic view of the city and the North Shore mountains beyond. While you're there, grab some photos of the incredible scenic gardens and Bloedel Conservatory, where you'll find an array of flowers, trees, birds, and sculptures.

Charleson Park - Credit Ruth Hartnup
View from Charleson Park - Credit: Ruth Hartnup under CC BY 2.0

2. Charleson Park

 

As you walk the many winding pathways of Charleson Park, passing around a waterfall and a pond towards the city’s famous Seawall, the downtown skyline will be at its biggest and brightest. In one shot you’ll be able to capture the sun gleaming off buildings, boats making their way across False Creek, and cyclists making the most of their commute.

 

 

 

Prospect Point
Prospect Point

3. Prospect Point

 

Stanley ParkExternal Link Title is like Vancouver's Central Park: an oasis of nature right in the big city. The park, and specifically Prospect Point lookout, is also home to incredible views of the city's inner harbour and the Lions Gate Bridge. While you're in Stanley Park, you should also make a point of walking the seawall and grabbing a photo of the always-photogenic Siwash Rock.

Jericho Beach
Jericho Beach

4. Jericho Beach

 

Believe it or not, Vancouver is a major beach city--one of the 10 best in the world according to National Geographic. Jericho BeachExternal Link Title, located in the Point Grey neighbourhood, is a popular site for tanning, beach volleyball, and looking out at the big city from the comfort of some warm sand.

Lonsdale Quay - Credit: Tavis Ford under CC BY 2.0
Lonsdale Quay - Credit: Tavis Ford under CC BY 2.0

5. Lonsdale Quay

 

After a quick ferry ride from downtown, you'll arrive at Lonsdale Quay on the North Shore. The waterfront here is home to a famous marketExternal Link Title, great shopping, and even better views of Vancouver from across the water. While you're there, grab a photo of the huge "Q" sign that stands tall above the quay.

 

6. Cypress Mountain Highview Lookout

 

It's hard to beat the Highview Lookout when it comes to seeing all--and we mean all--of Vancouver. The lookout, located just off the road up to Cypress Mountain ResortExternal Link Title in West Vancouver, provides unrivaled views that stretch out well beyond the city. After taking a good panoramic shot, head up to the mountain for some hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Grouse Mountain - Credit: Greg Funnell
Grouse Mountain - Credit: Greg Funnell

7. Grouse Mountain

 

Grouse MountainExternal Link Title is another ski resort in the famous North Shore mountains close to Vancouver. Whether you're heading up the famous Grouse Grind hiking trail, riding the gondola, or snowboarding down a few runs, you're going to have incredible views of the city to the south.

 

8. Cactus Club Coal Harbour

 

The Coal Harbour location of Cactus ClubExternal Link Title has to be one of the city's most popular restaurants among visitors, and the great food is only part of the reason why. The other? Incredible views looking out over Vancouver Harbour, Stanley Park, the North Shore Mountains, and even the Olympic Torch.

Vancouver Lookout
Vancouver Lookout

9. Vancouver Lookout and Top of Vancouver

 

Every big city has one: Top of VancouverExternal Link Title is a revolving restaurant providing 360-degree views of the city. Located on top of the Harbour Centre, at the edge of the trendy Gastown neighbourhood, you can take in the sights with a drink or fork in hand, or just stop by the Vancouver LookoutExternal Link Title to take photos.

 

10. Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim

 

What's better than a hotel room with a view? A hotel spa with a view! The 8,500-square-foot Willow Stream SpaExternal Link Title sits on the fifth floor of the Fairmont Pacific Rim and features a terrace offering incredible views of downtown Vancouver, the waterfront, and the mountains beyond. The spa also offers nine treatment areas, where you can enjoy deep Japanese Zen tub, get yourself a mani-pedi, and so much more.

 

For more Instagram inspiration on beautiful shots across Vancouver and the rest of Canada check out @destination_vancouverExternal Link Title and @ExploreCanadaExternal Link Title. Don't forget to tag your travel photos #ExploreCanada for a chance to be featured.