With so many Instagrammable places in Vancouver, it’s no wonder they call it beautiful British Columbia!
Now I’m not exaggerating when I say Vancouver is one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. In fact, this popular film location was named exactly that by Condé Nast Traveler, Insider, and Flight Network in 2019.
From charming urban scenes to breathtaking landscapes, there is no shortage of photo ops. Get your camera ready because you’re not gonna want to miss out!
Last updated on January 1, 2023.
Instagrammable Places in Vancouver, Canada
I have lived in Vancouver for over 20 years and I’m still constantly discovering new photoshoot locations.
I’ll try my best to keep this post up to date. In the meantime, here are the absolute best places to take photos in Vancouver according to a local!
Famous Landmarks
1. Gastown Steam Clock
Located in Vancouver’s oldest commercial district, this steam clock is one of the most photographed Vancouver Instagram spots.
Canadian clockmaker, Raymond Saunders, built this in 1977 as a means to drive foot traffic to shops and restaurants in the area. While it is one of the only functioning steam-powered clocks in the world, the clock itself does have an electric motor and isn’t entirely steam-powered as its name would suggest otherwise.
2. Lions Gate Bridge
Lions Gate Bridge as seen from Prospect Point in Stanley Park.
Officially known as the First Narrows Bridge, this 1,823-meter long suspension bridge spans across the Burrard Inlet and connects Vancouver to the District of North Vancouver.
If you love capturing light trails, you’ll want to add this to your Vancouver photoshoot locations list.
3. Olympic Cauldron
This massive Olympic torch was built for Vancouver’s 2010 Winter Olympics. Its flames have long since extinguished, but the cauldron does get re-lit for special occasions!
Parks & Gardens
4. Stanley Park
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Stanley Park is definitely one of the best photo spots in Vancouver.
Whether you’re into landscape photography or you like to take pictures of flowers, birds, or sculptures, you can easily spend an entire afternoon here.
Totem poles at Brockton Point.
Girl in a Wet Suit by Elek Imredy.
Sunset overlooking Siwash Rock a.k.a. the Pineapple Rock.
If you’re planning to visit Vancouver during summer, don’t forget to stick around for the Honda Celebration of Light. This annual fireworks competition takes place around the end of July to early August, and can be enjoyed from Stanley Park.
5. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The suspension bridge measures 140 meters in length and hangs 70 meters above the Capilano River.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park receives over 800,000 visitors a year and is often seen in “places to visit in Vancouver” guides. However, it is actually located in North Vancouver, not Vancouver.
Luckily, it isn’t too far of a drive and there are complimentary shuttles available from Downtown Vancouver.
Canyon Lights. A winter festival that takes place here during December and January.
Tip: Admission to the park costs $54.95 CAD per person. (BC residents automatically receive one free annual pass with the purchase of a regular priced ticket.) A free alternative in is Lynn Canyon Park. It’s not quite as big, but still a fun place to challenge your fear of heights.
6. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Nestled in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown, this cultural heritage site is the first ever full-scale classical Chinese garden built outside of China.
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Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a Ming dynasty-inspired urban oasis modelled after historic garden-homes in southern Suzhou.
All throughout the garden, you can find round shapes in contrast with square ones. The round represents Yin, feminine energy, whereas the square embodies masculine energy, Yang. This is symbolic of the harmony between contrasting Yin-Yang forces of nature versus civilization.
View from the Jade Water Pavilion overlooking Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park.
Admission to the garden is $16 CAD per person. The City of Vancouver has built a free public park across the Jade Water Pond. The two are not connected, unfortunately, and you will have to exit the garden to access the park.
7. VanDusen Botanical Garden
No matter which season you choose to visit, there is always something to see at VanDusen.
2014 Festival of Lights.
Similar to Capilano, VanDusen has its very own annual winter festival called the Festival of Lights. The entire park is decorated in over one million lights and is a sight not to be missed!
Tip: Admission varies by season. $8.20 CAD from January 1st to March 31st, $11.50 from April 1st to September 30th, and $8.20 from October 1st to December 31st.
8. Queen Elizabeth Park
This is one of my favorite places to go in Vancouver on a sunny afternoon.
When it comes to Vancouver photography spots for graduation pictures and wedding photoshoots, this is “it.” With incredible views of Downtown and colorful floral displays, it’s no wonder it’s so well-liked!
Aside from having to pay for parking, the park itself is free. If you’re a fan of bird photography, I suggest checking out Bloedel Conservatory. (Tickets are $6.90 CAD.)
9. David Lam Park
Fun fact… I used to work in the area and would bring my lunch here for picnics. It’s simply gorg!
10. Nitobe Memorial Garden
Discover Japan for as little as $5 CAD without having to fly half way across the globe.
Of all the Vancouver Instagram spots, I would consider Nitobe Memorial Garden more of a hidden gem.
It is located on the campus of UBC (University of British Columbia) and is regarded as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of the land of the rising sun.
11. UBC Rose Garden
UBC Rose Garden is yet another classic venue for graduation photoshoots. Now I’ll spare you the torture of having to look at my hideous grad photos from years back, but would you look at that view!
Best Beaches in Vancouver
12. Kitsilano Beach
Marvel at Vancouver’s jaw-droppings views and swing your worries away at the not-so-secret secret swing.
Note: The swing gets cut down every now and then. It’s not clear who put it up in the first place, but someone usually manages to reattach it. If it does get taken down, there is also a new swing up at Margaret Pigott Park down the road.
13. Sunset Beach + English Bay
Engagement sculpture by Dennis Oppenheim.
Sunset Beach and English Bay are connected via the seawall. Both are summer hits amongst locals and you can also view the annual Honda celebration of Light from here.
Tip: Snap some photos of Vancouver with the Inukshuk and Engagement sculptures along the Stanley Park Seawall Path.
Art Galleries, Libraries, and Museums
14. Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery is the largest art museum in Western Canada.
Its primary focus is on BC’s historical and contemporary art, with special emphasis on achievements of First Nations artists as well as art of the Asia Pacific region.
Its grand foyer and rotunda make for a dramatic backdrop for engagement shoots, and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver.
Tip: Tickets are $24 CAD per person and by donation on Tuesdays from 5 to 8PM.
15. Vancouver Public Library, Central Library
A library? Really? What’s so special about a library?
Before you dismiss it completely, the Vancouver Public Library is stunning.
Its colonnades are reminiscent of the Roman amphitheatre and it’s a photographer’s playground for those interested in architecture.
16. Science World at TELUS World of Science
Science World is no doubt one of my most beloved Vancouver Instagram spots to photograph.
This science centre features interactive displays and exhibits, and is absolutely mesmerizing at night lit up against the starry sky.
Some of the best Vancouver images I’ve taken have been from here!
17. Museum of Vancouver
The Crab by George A. Norris.
The Museum of Vancouver is the largest civic museum in all of Canada and the oldest museum in Vancouver.
In addition to its iconic crab sculpture (which won a design competition in 1967), its Neon Vancouver | Ugly Vancouver exhibit is also quite photo-friendly.
Observatories
18. Vancouver Lookout
Not everyone owns a drone. If you don’t and still wish to photograph Vancouver’s cityscapes from above, consider a visit to Vancouver Lookout.
There is a restaurant here as well although I wouldn’t recommend it. (In my honest opinion, their food is terrible and way overpriced as most observatory restaurants are.)
Tip: Tickets are $18.25 CAD. The observation deck closes daily at 6:00PM with 5:30PM being the last elevator ride up.
Colorful Murals
19. Alley Oop
View this post on InstagramGoing to work like 😴😴😴 ’cause you had too much fun at #KanyeWest #SaintPabloTour 🔥
Alley Oop is the first ever re-imagined laneway in Vancouver.
In 2016, Vancouver’s City Council approved a conversion project to transform under-utilized laneways into more vibrant, welcoming public spaces.
The term “alley-oop” derives from the French phrase “allez hop,” which is now a terminology used in basketball for offensive play. I’m gonna take a wild guess and say this is why there’s a basketball court here and hence its play-on-words name – Alley Oop.
Address: 688 W Hastings Street.
20. Kits Wings
To be perfectly honest, if it weren’t for writing this Instagrammable places in Vancouver guide, I would’ve never taken a photo here.
I used to pass by every day on my way home from work, but had always been too lazy to actually stop, park, pay for parking, and come take a picture with it. In the end, I guess the effort was worth it because my Vancouver pictures turned out great!
Location: On the corner of W 4th Avenue and Burrard Street by Home Effects.
21. King Edward Station
This one technically isn’t inside King Edward Station, but rather, on the outside of the station in front of Combat Club.
If you’re transiting via skytrain, simply exit the station then turn right. You will be greeted with the heart mural immediately.
Tip: If you’re looking for other murals or additional Vancouver street photography locations, do not miss the Vancouver Mural Festival.
Aesthetic Shops
22. Granville Island
If you google “Vancouver tourist attractions,” Granville Island pops up as a top recommendation.
It’s a vibrant market with phenomenal restaurants/food vendors, fresh produce, artisan workshops, craft studios, and live music performances just to name a few.
You can even go kayaking or boating here, or you can experience Vancouver from the waters on an Aquabus.
Giants by Os Gemeos.
Tip: Parking is free before 11:00AM and after 6:00PM.
23. Leis de Buds
How adorable is this!
Located in the heart of Kitsilano, Leis de Buds is a sustainable flower shop that supports BC growers.
Instead of flying in rare blooms from South Africa or Australia, for example, they source their flowers locally to reduce carbon footprint. We stan an eco-friendly store!
Note: Please keep in mind that this a business after all. I have spoken with the owner about featuring them in this “Instagrammable places in Vancouver” article and she has given me the go ahead. If you stop by for a photo, be sure to help support them by making a purchase! (They sell super cute birthday cards and keychains too.)
Cute Cafés in Vancouver
24. Kind Cafe + Eatery
This is Vancouver’s only zero-waste vegan café.
They use fresh, local ingredients and make all mylks, cheeses, and dressings in house.
I especially love their specialty lattes and find their zero waste initiatives extremely commendable!
25. Small Victory Bakery
View this post on InstagramANNOUNCEMENT / Our new location on #SouthGranville will soft open on Monday September 24 (8AM-3PM)
When I was working full-time at a digital marketing agency in Downtown, this was my go-to for a quick afternoon pick-me-up. And I don’t mean coffee.
Their cakes and fresh baked goods are so yummy that they turn any bad day into a good one.
Plus, their new location on South Granville is totally Instagrammable!
Top Restaurants
26. Di Beppe Ristorante
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Di Beppe is both an Italian caffè and a ristorante.
If you’re craving authentic Italian food in Vancouver, this cozy little joint will have you exclaiming “mamma mia!” at the top of your lungs.
27. La Pentola
Spread love and joy at La Pentola!
This Yaletown restaurant is known for its quirky murals, which change periodically.
28. Honey Salt
Apart from their décor being an eye candy, Honey Salt’s farm-to-table cuisine is a treat for the soul.
29. Botanist
View this post on InstagramIt’s Friday. The only decision you should be making is what to order on the menu tonight.
Botanist specializes in modern Canadian cuisine. Its elegant space is inspired by principles of botany, but that’s not the only thing you’ll want to take pictures of.
The presentation of their culinary creations and specialty cocktails are equally as impressive and will have you clicking away on your camera nonstop!
30. Banter Room
Happy hour is the best hour at Banter Room. Grab a seat at their outdoor patio and enjoy the sun with a Mighty Mojito with friends.
31. Silk Lounge
Wonderful thing about Vancouver is how multicultural the city is. In the mood for some chicken tikka or lamb curry? Silk Lounge has got you covered š
32. Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie
Bao Bei in Chinese means “precious.”
This Chinatown restaurant takes inspiration from Taiwanese and Shanghainese dishes, and is all about sharing good moments with friends and family.
Cocktail Bars
33. Hello Goodbye
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Hello Goodbye is a lively underground basement bar that takes a little extra effort to find. Kinda like a hidden speakeasy.
They’ve got live DJs spinning regularly and is a fun, intimate escape.
34. The Basement at Hotel Belmont
Hotel Belmont is known for its bright neon signs.
There are two bars at The Basement in addition to a bowling lane and a mini arcade. Talk about the perfect place to capture memories on film!
35. The Shameful Tiki Room
The Shameful Tiki Room is anything but shameful. As a matter of fact, you’re gonna want to brag about this exotic Polynesian cocktail bar to all of your friends!
Tip: Avoid using flash when taking pictures here. I got warned by the bartender, oops.
Hotels that Are Instagram-Friendly
36. Fairmont Pacific Rim
View this post on InstagramAlways planning the next adventure. 📷: @everydaypursuits #PacificRimLife
What’s better than unwinding after a long, exhausting day? Unwinding with a relaxing bubble bath at Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Signature Ofuro Room.
37. JW Marriott Parq Vancouver
If you’re a sucker for city sights like me, JW Marriott Parq Vancouver also has astonishing bathtub views of Vancouver’s Downtown skyline.
They have a rooftop hot tub pool as well and is a superb remedy for a long week at work.
38. The Sylvia Hotel
The Sylvia Hotel is steps to English Bay and within close proximity to Stanley Park.
It is covered by a thick blanket of Virginia creeper, and is especially lovely during the fall when these ivy-like plants change color.
Unique Architecture
39. Marine Building
The Marine Building has been listed amongst best Art Deco buildings in the world. Because of its extravagant design, it has been featured in Smallville (as The Daily Planet) and two Fantastic Four movies.
Tip: Avoid visiting during rush hour, as this is an office building and you may get some annoyed looks here and there.
40. The Waterfall Building
Designed by renowned Canadian architect, Arthur Erickson, The Waterfall Building houses commercial and residential spaces.
Its unique structure attracts countless photographers and deserves to be on your Vancouver photo spots list.
41. The Permanent Library Limited
Look familiar?
The Permanent is a Vancouver landmark which has been transformed into an event space for weddings and other private functions.
It is most recognized for its appearance in American teen drama series, Riverdale, as the Lodge residence a.k.a. the Pembrooke.
42. Hotel Europe
Did you mistake this as New York’s famous Flatiron Building?
Hotel Europe was once coined the best hotel in the city. It is now used for government-subsidized housing and can often be seen in Vancouver city images.
43. Woodward’s Building
About a five-minute walk from Hotel Europe is Downtown Eastside’s historic building, the Woodward’s Building.
It was constructed back in 1903 for the Woodward’s Department Store and later redeveloped after Woodward’s bankruptcy. As of today, it is home to local residents and businesses.
Address: 333 Abbott Street.
Other Fun Photo Ops Around Vancouver
44. Digital Orca
No, your computer isn’t lagging nor are you seeing a pixelated image.
Digital Orca was created by Douglas Coupland and installed in 2009 next to the Vancouver Convention Centre. It was made to resemble pixels and is one of the cooler places to take pictures in Vancouver.
Address: 1055 Canada Place.
45. Robson Square Ice Rink
Come enjoy free ice skating from December until February.
Skates are available for rent or you can bring your own!
46. Bill Curtis Square
Located right behind Yaletown Station is a canopy of colorful umbrellas at Bill Curtis Square.
This installation changes periodically with the above shot taken in 2017.
At one point, it was even pink and white to celebrate spring and the arrival of cherry blossom season.
47. Olympic Village
Olympic Village is full of exciting outdoor activities and is home to amazing restaurants.
I suggest happy hour at CRAFT Beer Market then a stroll around the park to walk off those calories.
48. Spyglass Dock
Spyglass Dock is situated right beneath the Cambie Bridge.
You can go on an Aquabus adventure here or take a relaxing stroll down False Creek. If you come at night, you might even get lucky and run into the saxophone man!
49. East Van Cross
This iconic cross dates back to the early 1950s.
“Greasers” and rebellious teens used to replicate its design on graffitis. It has since then become the symbol of East Vancouver’s renaissance, as it embodies the hope and suffering of this neighborhood.
50. Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is one of the best places to visit in Vancouver to visit with family. It’s educational for the kids and its adults-only after-hours events make for a brilliant night out.
And there you have it! 50 most Instagrammable places in Vancouver. If you enjoyed this Vancouver Instagram spots guide, don’t forget to pin it for later.
Check out these other Instagram destinations!
- 50 Instagrammable Places in LA to Go Viral on Instagram
- 50 Instagrammable Places in Singapore for Photography Lovers
- 50 Instagrammable Places in NYC to Snatch New Followers
- 50 Instagrammable Places in Bangkok that Will Wow Your Followers
Wow, your photos are spectacular! We have been to several of the places you list, but my photos don’t even come close.
Thanks so much Rudy! I’m lucky I live here so I can go out and practice photography whenever š
All of these places are really spectacular and definitely instagrammable. My favourite pick of the lot is Digital Orca, and of course all the colourful and vibrant murals.
Digital Orca is definitely a unique one and murals are always fun too!
Fab post! I totally agree than Vancouver is an incredibly beautiful city. I seem to take a zillion photos whenever we go out for a wander here.
Like you, I think my favourite spot to look down on the city is Queen Elizabeth Park. I have lost count of how many times I’ve got up there to watch the sun set. I LOVE Nitobe garden as well. It’s such a great mix of Japanese style with giant Canadian trees. š
Yes!!! Sunset at QE Park is just fabulous and Nitobe is one of my favorite gardens as well. It’s so hard not to love it!
I can’t believe I’ve been to almost all the places in the first half of this list. I guess it really help to have friends living there!
Oh it totally does! Seems like you’ll have to come back again for the second half š
I’m not the biggest fan of Instagram, for personal things at least but I would love to have the chance to take a photo in many of these. Especially in David Lam Park, Chinese Garden, and Stanley Park. They look so stunning!
They so are and my photos don’t even do them justice. You’d love them, Lourdes!
Wow! I truly had no idea Vancouver was such a GORGEOUS city! I’m definitely adding it to my bucket list and pinning this for later!
You must! I have a feeling you’d love it!!
I would love to visit Vancouver. There looks like there are so many beautiful spots in the city. The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park looks really cool. It’s good that you clarified the location of it too! I like how La Pentala changes it’s murals. That’s a fun way to keep getting people to come back.
Vancouver is such a lovely city and I’m not just saying that because I’m from here hahaa. You’re totally right about La Pentola too. It’s a great marketing strategy and super cute for photos!
I love visiting ‘instagrammable’ places and taking tonnes of photos! I went to an instagram museum in Amsterdam and that was so much fun. I particularly love the nature places you have mentioned! And the Sylvia hotel as it’s covered in those beautiful vines!
That sounds so fun!!! I love taking pictures as well and it sounds like I’ll have to visit Amsterdam next!
I’ve been wanting to visit Vancouver for a years now, but purely for the aesthetics and food. I have no idea that there was actually so much to do. That conservatory definitely is a KNOCK OUT spot, I’d love to see it. So funny that you mentioned bird watching. I have no idea why, but I’ve really been wanting to get into it, and all my friends think I’m crazy HAHA.
Vancouver has a lot of amazing restaurants so I don’t blame ya for visiting for the food! Honestly, if you told me that before I visited the conservatory, I would’ve said you were crazy too hahahaa. I totally get the allure of it now though and I highly recommend a visit to Bloedel!
You have captured some of my favourite spots around Vancouver. Love that you have showed shots from all times of day and in different weather too. One day I will be in Vancouver for the Honda Celebration of Light. Looks like you had the perfect vantage point. Will have to make sure to visit the UBC Rose Garden next time. I am well past worrying about grad photos! Sure missing these Vancouver views.
I’m super blessed to live here in Vancouver and to get the opportunity to photograph it throughout the different seasons. You’ll most certainly have to come back for the fireworks. Next year maybe? š
Oh wow, the lights on the Lions Gate Bridge at night are absolutely gorgeous! And I can see why the Waterfall Building is a great Instagram spot. What I love most though is the fact that you can have these city types of views along with nature views like the Stanley Park all within Vancouver.
Vancouver is seriously such a beautiful blend of nature + city. Hope this inspires you to pay us a visit sometime in the future! š
I always love your Instagram guides and your style! I visited Vancouver several years ago and didn’t get to see 3/4 of these places so I want to return and go to all of these spots-particularly the Lions Gate Bridge and the night shots! Oh and I love your edgy look in the Alley Oop photo!
Thanks Heather! You’ll defs have to let me know if and when you revisit again š
What a fantastic collection. Vancouver looks absolutely incredible, even just to visit and not take pics for Insta! I’m particularly fascinated with the Olympic Cauldron, so I’d definitely have to add that one to my list.
You’d love Vancouver, Emma! Come visit us soon š
Wow!! I LOVE posts about the most Instagrammable places, I find they show so much beauty to a place and this is no exception! Vancouver looks stunning and these photos are amazing. I would love to visit every single one, altough that might take a while.
Hahaa well if you don’t get through everything on your first visit, that’s just another reason for you to come back again… Right!?
Wow you have captured amazing photos of Vancouver and for me it is really difficult to select the best spot. Olympic Cauldron looks amazing and I love such unique scultptures. Even the illuminated Lion’s Gate Bridge is amazing. Vancouver has amazing photogenic beaches.
Sounds like you need to plan a trip to Vancouver soon, Yukti! Make sure to bring your camera along hehee.
Spectacular coverage! You really got me curious around Vancouver. I must say, you have captured the spirit of Vancouver in beautifully. There is so much that I would love to see. Digital Orca looks cute. I would love to see the Science World. The Girl in the Wet Suit is interesting. The painted street, Rose Garden and the parks look great. There is actually so much to see and do.
I’m so glad to hear that! There’s honestly so much to see and do in Vancouver that you might need multiple memory cards when you come visit! Hahaa XDD
I didn’t know Vancouver had so many pretty spots. The girl in the wetsuit is awesome! And the Honda Fireworks looks amazing, I would stay up for that!
Now you do! I hope I’ve inspired you to pay a visit in the near future š
I love Vancouver. I spent a few weeks in this city, but I haven’t been to a few places you write about yet. Your list is impressive, and the photos are perfect, congratulations! I would love to eat at Botanist, Banter Room, Silk Lounge. The Sylvia Hotel looks fabulous! I haven’t seen The Waterfall Building yet. I must back to Vancouver, for sure.
I’m so glad you enjoyed Vancouver, Agnes! I’m lucky I live here that I get to curate this extensive list and experience the city’s beautiful gems. I hope you come revisit again soon! š
I would love to take pictures almost everywhere in Vancouver. The Suspension bridge is so surreal. And I think I would be spending a lot of time in Stanley Park. Every angle there has such vibrance. Olympic torch would be stunning at night I think . A lovely list indeed!
Oh you’d loveeeee Stanley Park for sure! I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed for you to visit soon!
Ummm, this is amazing! Of course, Iāve hit up the usual suspect places when last in Vancouver, which seems like so long ago, but your list is definitely comprehensive. First, I would do happy hour at Banter Room, lunch at Botanical, check out that street art, especially the one at King Edward Station. And I would definitely revisit the architecture, how did I miss the Woodward building – itās awesome. Great list!
Hahaa you missed it last time, but now you know for your future trip! Come visit us again soon, Renee!!
My last major trip to Vancouver was with family, which was a great time, don’t get me wrong! But there’s a reason I love solo travel, mainly because I could just spend days and days on my own walking and using public transport to see all these beautiful, picturesque spots! I remember being intrigued by the library, and I didn’t know that UBC had a rose garden! I think the Sylvia Hotel is especially picturesque and would not want to miss a photo-op there!
These places are indeed a pleasure to explore. No one can ever deny that Vancouver is one of the top-rated cities in the world for feeding oneās Instagram
Wonderful pics, I’m making a trip up to Vancouver this summer. For the “cover” picture of the marina and downtown, is that take from a spot in Stanley Park or is it from a drone above the park? I’d love to get a panoramic picture like that.