Vancouver Lookout Vancouver
Ascend in a glass elevator to a 360° observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver's skyline, mountains, and ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Day to night magic
Vancouver Lookout Vancouver
Best Time
Day to night magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend in a glass elevator to a 360° observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver's skyline, mountains, and ocean.
"The Vancouver Lookout definitely lives up to its name—you get a mostly great panoramic view of the entire city."
🎯 Sunset Views are a Must
Visit around sunset for a stunning day-to-night transition. Consider a second visit after dark for illuminated cityscapes .
☕ Budget-Friendly View
Enjoy the view by visiting the restaurant for a coffee or drink instead of paying full admission .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
360° Panoramic City Views
Observation Deck
Take in breathtaking, unobstructed views of Vancouver's skyline, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.
Glass Elevator Ride
Ascent to Observation Deck
Experience a thrilling ride up in a glass elevator, offering glimpses of the city below as you ascend.
Day-to-Night Transformation
Observation Deck
Witness the magical shift as daylight fades and the city lights up, creating a stunning nocturnal panorama.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Budget-Friendly Viewing Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunset Views are a Must
Visit around sunset for a stunning day-to-night transition. Consider a second visit after dark for illuminated cityscapes.
☕ Budget-Friendly View
Enjoy the view by visiting the restaurant for a coffee or drink instead of paying full admission.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Step-Stools
Thoughtful step-stools are provided for children, ensuring they can enjoy the panoramic views too.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The 360° views offer incredible photo opportunities of the city, mountains, and water.
Vancouver Lookout
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunset Views are a Must
Visit around sunset for a stunning day-to-night transition. Consider a second visit after dark for illuminated cityscapes.
☕ Budget-Friendly View
Enjoy the view by visiting the restaurant for a coffee or drink instead of paying full admission.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Step-Stools
Thoughtful step-stools are provided for children, ensuring they can enjoy the panoramic views too.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The 360° views offer incredible photo opportunities of the city, mountains, and water.
💡 Informative Displays
Learn about Vancouver's attractions, history, and landmarks through informative cards placed around the deck.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Vancouver Lookout for its absolutely stunning 360° panoramic views of the city, mountains, and water, calling it a must-see attraction. The informative displays and the exciting glass elevator ride add to the experience, with many finding it particularly enjoyable for children. However, some guests feel the ticket prices are quite steep for what is perceived as a relatively quick experience, and opinions on the food at the revolving restaurant are mixed.
"Such a great attraction this is! Family friendly, informative and absolutely stunning views. We loved the information cards placed right by the view. Children enjoyed this experience more than the adults. The staff were very well trained, they kept the facility spotless and well organized."
Sabeen Sikandar
"Super interactive, exciting and fun experience! A must see in Vancouver. Beautiful sights of the city all around and lots of interesting, informative posts present showcasing the different attractions, monuments, green spaces and history of the city with some even outside of the city too! Also, when you go up the elevator to the main area you get to see the city through the windows which amplifies the experience."
Auranne
"The Vancouver Lookout definitely lives up to its name—you get a mostly great panoramic view of the entire city. It’s a beautiful way to get your bearings and take in the skyline, mountains, and water all at once.
That said, the ticket prices are pretty steep for what is essentially a quick experience. I give them bonus points for the thoughtful touch of having stepstools for little kids so they can actually enjoy the view too.
I’ve done it once and it was lovely—but at that price point, I don’t feel the need to do it again. Worth checking off your list, but maybe not a repeat visit."
Nazgol
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vancouver Lookout is centrally located at 555 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver. You can easily reach it by public transit, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are parking garages in the vicinity. Many visitors find it a convenient stop after exploring Gastown or Canada Place.
Yes, the Vancouver Lookout is very accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes serve the downtown core, and it's a short walk from SkyTrain stations like Waterfront. This makes it an easy destination to incorporate into your Vancouver itinerary.
There are several paid parking garages located within a few blocks of the Vancouver Lookout, including those at Harbour Centre and nearby hotels. Street parking may also be available but can be limited and metered.
Absolutely! The Vancouver Lookout is situated in the heart of downtown, making it a short walk from Gastown's historic charm, Canada Place with its iconic sails, and the waterfront. It's a great starting point to get your bearings before exploring these areas.
If you are staying in downtown Vancouver, walking to the Vancouver Lookout is a very feasible and pleasant option. It's centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Vancouver Lookout can be a bit steep for some visitors. While specific prices can vary, it's often recommended to check their official website for the most current admission costs. Some travelers find it a bit pricey for what is essentially a quick experience.
The cost to ascend the Vancouver Lookout can be a point of discussion among visitors. While it offers great views, some feel the price is high for the duration of the experience. Consider the restaurant option for a potentially more budget-friendly way to see the views.
Discounts for the Vancouver Lookout might be available through various channels, such as online travel agencies or special promotions. It's always a good idea to search for 'Vancouver Lookout discount' before your visit to see if any deals are currently offered.
The Vancouver Lookout typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Vancouver Lookout website for the most up-to-date operating hours before planning your visit, especially if you aim for sunset views.
While you can often purchase tickets upon arrival, booking Vancouver Lookout tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or if you plan to visit during popular times like sunset. This can help you save time and ensure entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire observation deck offers fantastic photo opportunities. Focus on capturing the panoramic city skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the Burrard Inlet. The glass elevator ride also provides unique photographic angles as you ascend or descend.
Yes, photography is highly encouraged at the Vancouver Lookout! The 360-degree views provide endless possibilities for capturing stunning images of Vancouver and its natural surroundings. Remember to be mindful of other visitors while taking your shots.
Absolutely! Sunset is a prime time for photography at the Vancouver Lookout. The changing light creates dramatic skies and a beautiful glow over the city, making for truly memorable photos.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramic views at the Vancouver Lookout. However, even a smartphone camera can capture excellent shots due to the sheer beauty of the scenery. Consider a tripod for low-light evening shots if you have one.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, professional photography or commercial shoots may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways with your equipment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the top of the Vancouver Lookout called the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant. It offers dining with panoramic views as the restaurant slowly rotates, providing a unique experience.
Reviews for the food at the Top of Vancouver restaurant are mixed. While many praise the incredible views, some find the food to be overpriced and mediocre. It's often recommended for the experience and view rather than a gourmet dining adventure.
A popular tip is to visit the Top of Vancouver restaurant for a coffee, drink, or appetizer. This allows you to enjoy the views without paying the separate admission fee for the observation deck, making it a more cost-effective option.
For the views and the novelty, many find it worth visiting once. However, if you're seeking a high-quality culinary experience, you might be disappointed. Consider it for the unique ambiance and panoramic vistas rather than fine dining.
While you can't typically consume outside food on the observation deck itself, the tip about visiting the restaurant for a drink or appetizer suggests a way to enjoy the views without a full meal purchase. For a picnic with a view, consider nearby parks like Stanley Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To ensure younger visitors can fully appreciate the scenery, the Lookout provides helpful step-stools. This thoughtful touch allows kids to see over the railings comfortably. Consider visiting during daylight hours for clearer views and to keep the experience engaging for shorter attention spans.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the restaurant food itself might be considered pricey by some, this strategy allows you to experience the 'wow' factor of the 360-degree city views without breaking the bank. It's a great way to get a sense of the city's layout and scale.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive skyline, mountains, and water. The glass elevator ride also presents unique photographic opportunities. Remember to be patient and respectful of other visitors while composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Views: Day vs. Night
As dusk settles, the Lookout transforms into a magical vantage point. The city lights begin to twinkle, creating a dazzling spectacle that is vastly different from the daytime view. Many visitors recommend returning after dark or timing their visit to coincide with sunset to witness this breathtaking transition. The illuminated skyline offers a romantic and awe-inspiring perspective, making it a memorable part of any Vancouver trip.
For those looking to maximize their experience, consider visiting the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant. While the food may be secondary for some, dining while the restaurant slowly completes a full rotation offers a unique, ever-changing perspective of the city. This allows you to soak in the views for an extended period, combining a meal with an unforgettable visual journey.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from Locals and Travelers
Another key recommendation is to plan your visit strategically. Many travelers and locals alike highlight the unparalleled beauty of the sunset view. Arriving just before sunset allows you to see the city in daylight, witness the magical transition as the sun dips below the horizon, and then enjoy the illuminated cityscape after dark. This 'day-to-night' experience is often cited as a highlight.
For families, the Vancouver Lookout is noted for being surprisingly engaging for children. The presence of informative cards detailing city landmarks and the exciting glass elevator ride add to the appeal. The thoughtful inclusion of step-stools for younger visitors ensures they can also enjoy the panoramic vistas, making it a more inclusive experience for all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit