If you are someone who loves sharing photos of your urban lifestyle, outdoor escapes and neighbourhood adventures on Instagram, you need to read this. We looked around for some of the best photo spots in and around Vancouver for that thumb-stopping Insta-photo, and here are our favourites!
Queen Elizabeth Park
There are so many reasons why to visit Queen Elizabeth Park, from the gardens, ponds, cherry blossoms, and the occasional wedding that takes place here. You will also get one of the greatest views of Vancouver with the backdrop of the towering north shore mountains making even the biggest skyscrapers seem insignificant! Snap the kids while they play in the the fountains, or take a sunset timelapse of the pink skies over the mountains – either way, you’re in for a beautiful shot.
Lighthouse Park
Located on the coastline near West Vancouver’s Burrard Inlet, this lush rainforest is the perfect outdoor spot for some dramatic photo opportunities. Think rocky shore, hiking trails, towering trees, beautiful sunsets over the water, and a historic Lighthouse to brighten up your shot! For truly spectacular views of Howe Sound, make the hike up to Juniper Point.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
For unforgettable and insta-friendly pictures of the great outdoors, nothing beats this photo spot. From breath-taking vistas on the Capilano Suspension Bridge to the thrilling Cliffwalk along the river, there is plenty here to inspire the photographer in you. Capture a brilliant bird’s eye view of the rainforest canopy at Treetops Adventure and learn about the First Nations culture at Kia’palano. Do remember to pre-book your entry ticket.
Stanley Park
Drive through Downtown Vancouver, or across the Lions Gate Bridge, to Stanley Park, the world-famous neighbourhood park with the world’s longest uninterrupted seaside path. Walking on this 5.5-mile route you can snap great photos of sights like the Brockton Point lighthouse, the totem poles at Brockton Point, Siwash Rock, and the iconic Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture. While in Stanley Park, don’t miss Prospect Point for amazing shots of the North Shore Mountains and Lions Gate Bridge.
Granville Island
A hidden gem of photo opportunities not far away from Vancouver’s city life, the colourful neighbourhood of Granville Island is a feast for the senses – and your Instagram feed. Take a break from the urban lifestyle at the popular Public Market, famous for delights like fresh seafood, quality fruits, flowers, and a food court with diverse eats. Walk around and you’ll find street music, puppets, craft stores, and a free Water Park for kids.
Gastown
Get a taste of what city life used to be in Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. In existence since the late 19th century, Instagram-friendly Gastown today is a lesson in Vancouver’s history and now boasts some of the best patios in the city. Stroll along Water Street, admiring cobblestones and vintage lamp posts, and heritage buildings that now house art galleries and boutique stores. Some trivia – The Lamplighter pub here was the first pub in Vancouver to serve alcohol to women. Don’t miss the performance of the Steam Clock, one of the most photographed sights in Vancouver!
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden
For a relaxed outdoor photography experience in the Chinatown neighbourhood, try the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden. The first such garden outside China, it recreates the traditional Chinese Ming-era garden with winding paths, rocks, lush plants and scenic views. Entry is through pre-booked tickets, and the Garden is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The adjacent free-to-enter Chinese Park also features a lily pond and a Chinese pagoda.
Got any additions for our list of the best photography spots around Vancouver? Let us know!
