Lord Stanley Blog

Insights into the local Vancouver Area.


Queen Elizabeth Park is Picture Postcard Perfect

Situated 500 feet above sea level, Queen Elizabeth Park (named after Queen Elizabeth II’s mother) is the highest point in Vancouver, occupies 130 acres (52 hectares) and receives 6 millions visits year round, second only to Stanley Park. Although it was formerly the site of a rock quarry, now it’s manicured lawns, beautifully maintained flowerbeds, sunken gardens and landscaped vistas provide the perfect backdrop for wedding pictures; what’s more, there’s a chapel handily on site, too!

But it’s not just for weddings; visitors can do more than just take a stroll through this world class public space: there’s definitely more to Queen Elizabeth Park than meets the eye! For starters, there’s the Bloedel Conservatory filled with tropical flora and fauna housed in a geodesic dome, and just outside of it, you can find a magnificent fountain replete with dancing waters. The park is also home to several stunning pieces of public art; two that should not be missed are Henry Moore’s Knife Edge Two Piece and John Seward Johnson Jr.’s The Photo Session, both of which are frequently photographed by visitors as well as locals. And if you feel a little more energetic, there’s a Pitch & Putt course, tennis courts and even an area for lawn bowling! Insider tip: For the best panoramas of the city, capture some breathtaking  picture postcard views  just outside the Conservatory near John Seward Johnson Jr.’s group of bronze figures known as “The Photo Session”. And for those who are inclined to try something a little more adventurous, a zip line (operating from June to September) will be installed to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the park offering fabulous views of downtown and the North Shore.

A Map From Lord Stanley Suites to Queen Elizabeth Park: