Vancouver’s skyline gets a lot of love—but the best views? They’re hiding in plain sight.
Skip the crowded lookouts and try these lesser-known spots locals rave about.
Queen Elizabeth Park (but not where you think)
Everyone knows the main plaza, but the real gem is the upper northwest corner. Head past the parking lot and follow the walking path that loops near the tennis courts. You’ll find benches, less foot traffic, and unobstructed views of downtown backed by snowcapped peaks.
Stunning anytime of year, as you can see.
Jericho Beach (at golden hour)
Tourists usually hit Kits or English Bay. Locals in the know head to Jericho. Stand near the old wooden dock ruins and look out: sailboats drift past the city skyline with the North Shore mountains rising behind. Sunset hits different here.
The veiw's even better from the water.
Prospect Point (Stanley Park)
Tucked in the northern tip of Stanley Park, Prospect Point offers sweeping views of Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet. Most visitors snap a photo and leave, but if you walk down the nearby trail just a few minutes, you’ll land in quieter territory—perfect for peaceful photo ops.
Lonsdale Quay Pier
Take the SeaBus from downtown and stroll along the Lonsdale Quay waterfront. The view across the harbour is straight out of a postcard—especially at night when the skyline lights up. Bonus: plenty of great eats nearby.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s Cliffwalk
You’re high above the forest canopy, staring out across a lush rainforest valley. Add mist and it feels almost cinematic. It’s not just the bridge that’s iconic—the Cliffwalk offers a quieter, equally scenic moment to take it all in. If you’re there early or on a weekday, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park feels like your own private lookout.
Mount Pleasant Viewpoints
Main Street breweries get all the hype, but venture a few blocks east to find tiny parks and pocket viewpoints with killer perspectives of the city. Try Dude Chilling Park at sunset, or head to the upper floors of public parkades for some surprisingly great shots.
Cypress Viewpoint(s)
Most people speed past it on their way to ski, but the first major pullout on Cypress Bowl Road is worth the stop. You’ll see the entire city laid out below, framed by the Georgia Strait and Gulf Islands. On clear days, you can even spot Mount Baker in Washington. There are also hikes you can do to get the view you see below, Eagle Bluffs is about 2 hours to the top.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park (secret ridge trail)
Near the Camosun Street entrance, there’s a side trail that leads to a gentle ridge with filtered views through the treetops. It’s subtle and serene. Not dramatic, but perfect for a quiet moment away from it all.
Best view for fall colours?
Head to VanDusen Botanical Garden in mid-October. From the elevated boardwalk near the Japanese Maples, the blend of oranges, reds, and golds is unreal. It’s one of the few spots in the city where fall puts on a full show.
Local gem series recap: the best view in Vancouver for every vibe
- Skyline at sunset: Jericho Beach
- Quiet escape: Cliffwalk at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Fall colours: VanDusen
- Mountain meet city: Cypress Viewpoint
- Night lights: Lonsdale Pier
Final tip: Bring a hot drink, go midweek, and skip peak hours. The best views in Vancouver aren’t just what you see—they’re how they make you feel when no one else is around.
Whether you’re after skyline shots, fall colours, or quiet forest perspectives, Vancouver delivers—if you know where to look. These hidden gems offer more than just pretty views; they give you space to breathe, reflect, and see the city from a fresh angle.
