Amelia HallDubbed as the “city of glass,” Vancouver boasts a skyline dominated by modern skyscrapers. Yet, its natural beauty, which features mountains, ocean, and greenery, offers panoramic views beyond the urban sprawl.
This article is perfect for anyone in Vancouver (or planning to visit the city) who wants to experience its awe-inspiring beauty. So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Vancouver, read on!
- Where is the best view of Vancouver?
- Revel in the Scenery at Stanley Park’s Prospect Point
- Capture the Panorama at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Hike for Breathtaking Vistas at Grouse Mountain
- Picnic with Panoramic Sights at Queen Elizabeth Park
- Savor the Scenery from Cypress Mountain High View Lookout
- Embrace the Sights from Cactus Club Cafe
- Stroll for Stunning Landscapes along Ambleside Park and Beach
- Adore City Views from the Vancouver Lookout
- Absorb the Landscape from Canada Place
- Reflect on the Picturesque Scenery from Spanish Banks
Where is the best view of Vancouver?
The best view of Vancouver is at Queen Elizabeth Park as it’s one of the highest points in Vancouver. Known as the “top of the city”, the park gives you great views of the city and North Shore mountains.
Other viewpoints you can visit include Prospect Point, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, Cactus Club Cafe, Ambleside Park and Beach, the Vancouver Lookout, Canada Place, and Spanish Banks.
Revel in the Scenery at Stanley Park’s Prospect Point
– Media credit: prospectpoint
Website: https://prospectpoint.com/
Address: 5601 Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-985-7474
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Prospect Point is such a gem for all you photo enthusiasts out there. It’s this sweet lookout nestled in Stanley Park with killer views of Lions Gate Bridge.
You can snag two totally different perspectives of the bridge just by strolling five minutes up the road. One angle gives you this cool side view over the bay, while the other puts you right smack above the bridge itself.
| Pro tip: There’s paid parking at Prospect Point. And if you’re rolling in via public transit, be ready for a 30-minute walk. |
Capture the Panorama at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Website: https://www.capbridge.com/
Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-985-7474
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 6pm
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is definitely a well-known tourist attraction, and for good reason. This spot is one of the world’s longest and highest pedestrian suspension bridges and it’s just stunning.
It’s got lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. The forest, the rushing river below, and those dreamy peaks in the distance – it’s like something straight out of a postcard.
| Pro tip: The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a paradise during the winter holidays, as it’s got a million fairy lights twinkling throughout the park after sunset. |
Hike for Breathtaking Vistas at Grouse Mountain
Website: https://www.grousemountain.com/
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-980-9311
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 9:30pm
Grouse Mountain is one of the big three local North Shore Mountains in Vancouver. The views from up there are an absolute killer as you’re given a gorgeous view of the whole city.
While you make your way up the mountain, you can take in the view of the spectacular mountain ranges and unparalleled sights of British Columbia’s South Coast.
To get up, you can tackle the infamous Grouse Grind, or you can take a scenic view of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Coming back down, you’ll need to grab a ticket for the gondola ride because they don’t allow downhill hiking due to how popular the trail is.
| Pro tip: Oh, and one thing to note: no furry friends allowed on this adventure – sorry, pups, Grouse Mountain isn’t the spot for you. |
Picnic with Panoramic Sights at Queen Elizabeth Park
– Media credit: shibbolethrummer
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm
Queen Elizabeth Park is perched at 540 feet above sea level, and it offers up some of the best vistas you’ll find in the city. From here, you can scope out those towering downtown skyscrapers and the majestic mountain peaks that tower over them.
The park is also abundant with lush gardens, plus an arboretum packed with all sorts of native and exotic plant species.
| Pro tip: If you’re into art, there’s a little something-something for you too. You’ll find this striking bronze sculpture called “Knife Edge – Two Piece” by British artist Henry Moore chilling next to the conservatory. |
Savor the Scenery from Cypress Mountain High View Lookout
Address: Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, BC, Canada
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 7am to 11pm
Cypress Mountain is composed of three peaks: Black Mountain, Mount Strachan, and Hollyburn Mountain. These mountains are part of the North Shore mountains, which basically frame every killer view you get in Vancouver.
If you really want to soak in those views, you gotta check out High View Lookout. From up there, you’re treated to a seriously awe-inspiring panorama that stretches way beyond the city limits.
| Pro tip: There are two observation points, Cypress 1 and Cypress 2. Cypress 2 features an adorable café where you can dine on pizza and wash it all down with a nice cold one. |
Embrace the Sights from Cactus Club Cafe
Website: https://www.cactusclubcafe.com/locations/coal-harbour/
Address: 1085 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-620-7410
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11am to 12am
- Friday and Saturday: 11am to 12:30am
Cactus Club Cafe in Coal Harbour is just by the water, and it’s got a panoramic view of the skyline, the Vancouver Convention Centre, and the twinkling lights of Coal Harbour.
This place is magical as the sun sets and the city lights start to twinkle. It transforms into a prime spot for snapping some seriously enchanting cityscape shots.
It’s like a whole new side of Vancouver comes alive against the night sky – definitely a photography opportunity you won’t want to miss.
| Pro tip: Keep your eyes peeled for some local wildlife while you’re soaking in those views. You might just catch a playful river otter or a curious seal putting on a show in the waters below. |
Stroll for Stunning Landscapes along Ambleside Park and Beach
– Media credit: rifisa08
Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/ambleside-park
Address: 1150 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1B1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-925-7275
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Ambleside Park and beach in West Vancouver are absolute gems with some killer views of Downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, English Bay, and Kitsilano across the water.
These spots offer a variety of walking and running options, including power walks, leisurely strolls, and waterfront running. In addition, it has a dog park and a playground, making it the ideal place to hang out for a few hours with loved ones.
| Pro tip: For bird enthusiasts, Ambleside Park and beach are a paradise. The variety of waterfowl and birds nestled among the trees and brambles is a sight to behold. |
Adore City Views from the Vancouver Lookout
Website: http://vancouverlookout.com/
Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-689-0421
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm
The Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre is a must-visit, whether it’s day or night. From up there, you get these unobstructed views of Vancouver, Gastown, Coal Harbour, and Stanley Park.
The journey up the lookout is half the fun – a 40-second ride in a glass elevator takes you a whopping 168.6 meters above ground to the panoramic deck overlooking the city.
| Pro tip: We recommend that you purchase your ticket in advance to ensure that the Vancouver Lookout is not sold out when you arrive. |
Absorb the Landscape from Canada Place
Website: http://www.canadaplace.ca/
Address: 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-665-9000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Canada Place is this cool building in Vancouver right by the Burrard Inlet. This place is packed with attractions, such as the Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, the Vancouver World Trade Centre, and FlyOver Canada.
Canada Place is just a quick 5-minute walk from Waterfront Station. And once you’re there, get ready for some epic views. You’re looking at ocean views, glimpses of North Vancouver, and those majestic North Shore mountains in the distance.
| Pro tip: During the holiday season, head to the end of the pier where you’ll spot more light sculptures. |
Reflect on the Picturesque Scenery from Spanish Banks
– Media credit: vanparkboard
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/spanish-bank-beach.aspx
Address: 4801 Northwest Marine Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia
Contact details: 604-873-7000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
This sweet sandy beach right along the shores of English Bay features panoramic views of the city skyline and gorgeous sunsets. Speaking of sunsets, once that golden hour hits, the light bounces off of the city’s buildings.
If you’re into some beachside sports action, Spanish Banks has got you covered with its volleyball courts. They’re super popular in the summer months.
| Pro tip: Parking-wise, it’s paid per hour and stretches all along the beach. But heads up, since it’s such a hot spot, snagging a parking spot can be a bit of a challenge at times. |
