Queen Elizabeth Park

The city's highest point, a manicured hilltop park with sweeping mountain-and-skyline views, the sunken Quarry Gardens, fountains, and the Bloedel Conservatory on top. It's free, gorgeous, and a favourite for photos and weddings. A quick, rewarding stop that pairs naturally with the conservatory.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How does it compare to VanDusen Garden?

Queen Elizabeth is a free public park with big views and formal gardens, quicker to visit, while VanDusen nearby is a ticketed botanical garden that's larger and more plant-focused. Do QE Park for views and a fast stop, VanDusen for a deeper garden wander. They're close enough to pair.

Is the park accessible?

The main plaza, conservatory, and some garden paths are accessible, though the park is on a hill with sloped and stepped paths in places. Accessible parking is available near the top. The Quarry Gardens involve some gradients.

Is it a good spot for photos?

One of the best in the city, hence the constant stream of wedding and graduation photos near the fountain plaza and gardens. Clear days give you the full mountain-and-skyline backdrop. Sunset is especially good.

Is Queen Elizabeth Park free?

Yes, the park and its gardens and viewpoints are completely free. Only the Bloedel Conservatory at the top charges a small admission. It's one of the best free things to do in the city.

When do the gardens look best?

Spring brings cherry blossoms and bulbs, and summer fills the beds and rose garden, so roughly April through September is peak. The evergreen structure keeps it pretty year-round. Time a spring visit for the blossoms if you can.

How do I get there?

Take the Canada Line to King Edward and walk about 10 minutes uphill, or catch the 15 bus on Cambie Street. There's parking if you drive. The final stretch to the summit is a bit of a climb.

What is there to see at Queen Elizabeth Park?

The highlights are the sunken Quarry Gardens (built into a former stone quarry), panoramic views over the city to the North Shore mountains, dancing fountains, and the domed Bloedel Conservatory at the summit. It's beautifully landscaped throughout. Add the arboretum and rose garden in season.

How long do I need there?

An hour to 90 minutes covers the gardens, viewpoints, and a stroll, more if you add the Bloedel Conservatory. It's an easy, unhurried stop. Pair it with the conservatory for a fuller visit.

Nearby in Ask Vancouver

• Bloedel ConservatoryAttraction0.03 km · 0 min walk
• VanDusen Botanical GardenPark1.25 km · 16 min walk
• Sun Sui WahRestaurant1.3 km · 16 min walk
• Published on MainRestaurant1.48 km · 19 min walk
• Anh and ChiRestaurant1.7 km · 21 min walk