At 125 metres above sea level, Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver—and trust me, the views are worth the hike. From here, you can see downtown Vancouver framed by the North Shore mountains and a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
But this park is more than just a viewpoint. Spanning 130 acres, Queen Elizabeth Park is a green space layered with history, art, and horticulture. It started life as a set of basalt quarries in the early 20th century, supplying stone for the city’s roads. Over time, the quarries were transformed into gardens, walking paths, and recreational spaces. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular spots for locals and visitors alike.
The Main Attraction: Bloedel Conservatory
One of the park’s biggest draws is the Bloedel Conservatory, a glass-domed tropical oasis with over 500 species of plants and flowers. Walking inside feels like you’re in another world—the air is warm and fragrant, and brightly coloured birds fly overhead. You might spot a scarlet macaw in a palm tree or hear the chattering of zebra finches as you wander through orchids and hibiscus.
It’s a must-see, especially on a rainy Vancouver day when you need a tropical escape.
Gardens, Art, and Hidden Spots
Queen Elizabeth Park’s landscaping is a work of art in itself. The quarry garden is probably the most striking feature—once an active basalt quarry, it’s now a sunken garden with seasonal blooms, waterfalls, and stone paths. The arboretum has a mix of native and exotic trees and is a lovely spot for a summer stroll.
Throughout the park, you’ll find public art installations by internationally recognized artists. These pieces blend in with the surroundings and are little surprises as you explore.
And don’t forget the duck pond. It’s a peaceful spot to sit and watch the ducks paddle by—especially popular with kids and photographers. If you want to be active, the park has tennis courts, lawn bowling greens, and a charming pitch-and-putt golf course.
If you prefer to take it easy, the park’s paths invite leisurely walks with plenty of benches to sit and take in the views. Each season has something new—spring’s cherry blossoms, summer’s flowerbeds, autumn’s foliage, and winter’s clear vistas.
Dining with a View
For a meal with one of the best views in Vancouver, head to Seasons in the Park. This elegant restaurant is at the top of the park and has panoramic windows so you can enjoy the view while you eat. Whether you’re there for a special occasion or just a casual lunch, the combination of good food and great views is unbeatable.
One of the best favourite experiences is their brunch on a sunny day—smoked salmon eggs benedict, coffee in hand, and the city skyline spread out before you. It’s a Vancouver moment.
Plan Your Visit
Queen Elizabeth Park is located on Little Mountain, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. You can also get there by public transit with several bus routes nearby. Parking is available inside the park and on surrounding streets, but it can fill up quickly on sunny weekends.
The park is open year-round, and there’s no admission fee for general entry. But attractions like the Bloedel Conservatory have separate admission when open. For an extra treat, plan your visit to coincide with the Riley Park Farmers Market located just across the street on select days. You can visit the park in the morning and pick up fresh local produce in the afternoon.
Tips for Visiting
If you’re a photographer, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light. Wear comfortable shoes because while the park isn’t huge, you’ll want to wander through the gardens, paths, and viewpoints without rushing.
Spring and summer are the most colourful seasons thanks to the park’s flower displays, but fall has fewer crowds and equally stunning views. Even in winter on a clear day, the mountain and city views are breathtaking. During spring, the cherry blossom season is truly magical.
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Why Queen Elizabeth Park is a Vancouver Must
Queen Elizabeth Park is more than just a pretty park—it’s where history, nature, art, and recreation collide. Whether you’re visiting for the gardens, the sports facilities, the views, or just to get away from the city streets, it’s a quintessential Vancouver experience.
It’s a reminder that you don’t have to go far from the city to feel like you’re in a different world. One visit often leads to many more because each season has its own magic. So next time you’re in Vancouver, make some time for Queen Elizabeth Park—you’ll leave with a full camera and a clear head.
