Queen Elizabeth Park

Overview

Queen Elizabeth Park sits atop Little Mountain, the highest point within Vancouver at 167 metres. Built on a reclaimed basalt quarry, it features sunken gardens, a conservatory, and panoramic views of the downtown skyline and North Shore mountains.

Highlights

• Quarry Garden: A dramatic sunken garden built in the former quarry with waterfalls, pools, and sculpted landscaping.
• Seasons in the Park Restaurant: A destination restaurant with arguably the best dining view in the city.
• Arboretum: Collections of exotic and native trees from the park's original 1930s landscaping.

History

The site was Vancouver's primary basalt quarry from the 1900s to 1929, then transformed into ornamental gardens. Named after Queen Elizabeth during a 1939 royal visit. The Bloedel Conservatory was added in 1969.

Visitor Tips

• Sunset Visits: The westward orientation makes the park ideal for sunset photography.
• Wedding Photos: Expect to share the gardens with wedding parties on weekends.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.