35 of Vancouver’s Most Instagrammable Spots for Perfect Photos
Last Updated on April 18, 2024 by Kelly
Vancouver BC is a stunning coastal city filled with tons of viewpoints and attractions. Whether you’re a tourist or a professional photographer, you’ll want to know exactly where to go to see some of Vancouver’s best backdrops. We visit Vancouver frequently and we’re sharing our favorite places to take photos. We created this post to share our picks for Vancouver’s most Instagrammable spots. Pack your camera, make sure your phone is charged, and have fun exploring!
From the Author: My personal favorite places for photos are Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Grouse Mountain!
Best Places to Take Photos in Vancouver BC
1. Digital Orca
The Digital Orca is a sculpture located in Canada Place. It was created in 2009 and depicts a pixelated orca whale. If you head to the Vancouver Convention Centre, you can’t miss it. These whales migrate through the waters near Vancouver and are an important aspect of indigenous cultures. The orca whale is an important figure for many First Nations groups, often seen as the guardian of the ocean.
2. Capilano Suspension Bridge
One of the best places to take photos while in Vancouver is at the Capilano Suspension Bridge. (We wrote a full guide on the Capilano Suspension Bridge.) The suspension bridge is 450 feet long. We recommend visiting a bit before closing for the best chances of getting a photo on the bridge without too many other people. If you’re patient, you might just get the opportunity for one during the afternoon. (Like we did!) There will also be less people there if you go on a rainy day.
3. Cliffwalk
While you’re at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, be sure to also complete the Cliffwalk. The Cliffwalk is a Canadian Signature Experience, meaning it’s been designated as a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. The walk will take you through the rainforest through a series of pathways that literally jut out of the cliff face.
4. Olympic Cauldron
The Olympic Cauldron was created for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. It’s located in the Jack Poole Plaza, which is right next to Canada Place. During the Olympics, it was lit throughout the competition. Today, it’s only lit on special occasions. Behind the cauldron, you’ll be able to see Vancouver Harbor, North Vancouver, and the North Shore Mountains.
5. Canada Place
Canada Place is a national landmark located right on the waterfront. You can’t miss this building, as the top of the building resembles sails on a ship. Located within Canada Place is the terminal for Vancouver-Alaska cruises, the Vancouver Convention Centre East, the FlyOver Canada experience, the Pan Pacific Hotel, the World Trade Centre, and Westpark. Canada Place is also where many events are held.
6. Brockton Point
The totem poles at Brockton Point (located within the famous Stanley Park) were created by the First Nations people. There are a total of 9 totem poles in this location, and each of them tells a unique story. When visiting, remember to be respectful if taking photos.
7. Stanley Park Seawall
The Seawall is the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world. You can access the Seawall from numerous locations, although we especially like the Stanley Park portion. (The path wraps around the park.) You can walk the path or rent bikes. Last time we visited, we rented a tandem bike and had a fun afternoon seeing the park as we tried to maneuver the tandem bike together.
8. Second Beach Pool
The Second Beach Pool is a large heated pool in Stanley Park. During the afternoon, the bright turquoise seems to blend directly into the English Bay. And when it’s quiet in the early evening, it offers a beautiful reflection.
9. Alley Oop
Alley Oop is a prime example of using every inch of public spaces. This creatively-painted alley was designed to be a community space. You will likely see people playing sports and taking photos against the brightly painted walls.
10. Lynn Canyon
A less-busy alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge is Lynn Canyon, which also has a suspension bridge. There’s also no admission fee! If you want a suspension bridge photo with a lush forest in the background, head to Lynn Canyon.
11. Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a cultural hub with numerous exhibitions and displays. You can take some pretty beautiful photos by the steps (with the lion in the background) or by the fountain.
12. Vancouver Public Library (Central Location)
The Vancouver Public Library is reminiscent of the colosseum, except with one wall spiraling out. The lobby is also very impressive with large glass ceilings. (Really fitting for Vancouver’s nickname of the City of Glass.) I loved libraries to begin with, but there is something truly extraordinary about this one!
13. Science World
The large dome of Science World is an unmistakable part of Vancouver’s skyline from the water. It’s a unique place to grab photos while outside, and a really fun place to explore inside. (Especially on a rainy day in Vancouver!)
14. Vancouver Lookout
Head to the top of the Vancouver Lookout where you can get unparalleled views of the city. Dress up and enjoy the views!
15. Millenium Gate
Located within Vancouver’s Chinatown, the Millenium Gate is the main entrance to this neighborhood. It was built in 2002.
16. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
This quiet spot in Chinatown is an ideal place for contemplation and rest. The gardens are exquisite and also the perfect place for photos. The garden is a registered museum and is one of Vancouver’s top tourist attractions. We wrote all about our experience at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden if you’re interested in learning more.
17. Puffcream from Popina Canteen
What’s more Instagrammable than delicious food? The puffcream dessert from Popina Canteen is one of a kind. You can find it on Granville Island. (They also have some pretty impressive fried chicken sandwiches if you’re looking for a full meal!)
18. Aquabus
To get to Granville Island, opt to ride the rainbow-colored Aquabus ferry. You’ll get great views of the city, as well as lots of fun photos on the boat.
19. Bloedel Conservatory
The Bloedel Conservatory and aviary is located within Queen Edwards Park. There are over 100 exotic birds and over 500 exotic plants. Within the dome it’s warm and temperate to support the species. There are countless photo opportunities.
20. A-maze-ing Laughter
This set of 14 bronze statues is located in Morton Park, which is within walking distance of Stanley Park. The sculptures were created in 2009. The sculptures were created for the Vancouver International Sculpture Biennale.
21. Elsje Point
One of the best places to get photos of the Vancouver skyline is from Elsje Point. The point is near the Vancouver Maritime Museum.
22. Museum of Vancouver
The Museum of Vancouver (MOV) features collections and exhibitions related to indigenous stories, the history of Vancouver, and much more. This is a great place to start your visit to Vancouver to get better acquainted with the city’s history and cultures. Plus, taking pictures by the giant crab is pretty cool.
23. Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) is located at the University of British Columbia. The building’s architecture is super unique and a great place for photos. The juxtaposition between the concrete and delicate glass is really beautiful. If you are a traveler that enjoys learning about different cultures (isn’t that why we travel?), then this is a great place to learn about cultures from around the world, including those local to British Columbia.
24. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is located about 30 minutes’ north of Vancouver. It’s well worth the drive. Taking the gondola up to the top of the mountain will give you unparalleled views of Vancouver.
25. Hotel Europe
Hotel Europe is a heritage building located in the Gastown neighborhood. The building was completed in 1909. It’s definitely a unique building for a photo backdrop.
26. Gastown Steam Clock
Also located in Gastown is the Gastown Steam Clock. This iconic marker of the neighborhood is powered by steam and periodically whistles.
27. Bill Curtis Square
The “Suspend” installation is a giant grid of cables in which decorations are suspended for artistic interest. You can find Bill Curtis Square in Yaletown. The installation changes periodically, so it’s worth returning to see what’s been changed.
28. Sylvia Hotel
Vines nearly cover the entire side of the Sylvia Hotel. During fall, they are especially beautiful as the leaves change colors, but this is a great place for photos during any season. This hotel always reminds me of Rome, where I first saw buildings fully covered in ivy.
29. Engagement Sculpture
These giant engagement rings are located near Sunset Beach. The rings are nearly 30 feet tall and are a popular place for photos.
30. Lighthouse Park
Lighthouse Park is a National Historic Site of Canada and is located within West Vancouver. The lighthouse is highly photographed and tourists often visit this landmark.
31. East Van Sign
The East Van Sign is located in East Vancouver. Prior to its construction, the cross was commonly painted on graffiti in the neighborhood. Now, it’s a timeless symbol of the East Vancouver neighborhood.
32. Cartem’s Donuts
There’s a ton of Instragram-worthy food in Vancouver. Cartem’s Donuts is one such place! Their menu is filled with beautifully-decorated donuts that will definitely spice up your Instagram feed.
33. Lions Gate Bridge
The impressive Lions Gate Bridge was constructed in 1938. It connects the City of Vancouver to North Vancouver. There are a lot of good places where you can grab photos, but you might want to consider taking photos from Prospect Point in Stanley Park. (Not pictured here.)
34. Kitsilano Pool
The Kitsilano Pool is commonly referred to as “Kits Pool.” It’s a large, heated saltwater pool in Kitsilano Beach. The contrast in colors between the two bodies of water makes for a unique photo.
35. Made by Mister Artisan Ice Cream
What’s unique about Mister Artisan Ice Cream is that they use liquid nitrogen for a “richer, creamier, denser” ice cream. Their perfectly square ice cream sandwiches are especially popular. We are dying to go back to Vancouver so we can try these ice cream sandwiches!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.
Summary
We hope you enjoyed this post on Vancouver’s most Instagrammable spots! Vancouver is a gorgeous city, and pretty much everywhere you look there is a gorgeous backdrop. Surrounded by mountains and water, we’re sure you’ll love visiting the Glass City!
Our complete list of the best places to take photos in Vancouver is:
- Digital Orca
- Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Cliffwalk (also located in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park)
- Olympic Cauldron
- Canada Place
- Brockton Point
- Stanley Park Seawall
- Second Beach Swimming Pool
- Alley Oop
- Lynn Canyon
- Vancouver Art Gallery
- Vancouver Public Library, Central Location
- Science World
- Vancouver Lookout
- Millenium Gate
- Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
- Popina Canteen
- Aquabus
- Bloedel Conservatory
- A-maze-ing Laughter
- Elsje Point
- Museum of Vancouver
- Museum of Anthropology
- Grouse Mountain
- Hotel Europe
- Gastown Steam Clock
- Bill Curtis Square
- Sylvia’s Hotel
- Engagement Sculpture
- Lighthouse Park
- East Van Cross
- Cartems Donuts
- Lions Gate Bridge
- Kitsilano Pool
- Mister Artisan Ice Cream
Disclaimer: We always strive for content accuracy. Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.
