Vancouver Lookout
Get a spectacular 360° panoramic view of the city from the observation deck atop the iconic Harbour Centre.
For one of the most breathtaking views of Vancouver, ride the glass elevator 168 metres (553 ft) up to the Vancouver Lookout. Perched atop the landmark Harbour Centre, this observation deck offers an uninterrupted 360° perspective of the city, from the majestic North Shore mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean to the bustling downtown core and historic Gastown.
Why Visit the Vancouver Lookout?
- Unbeatable 360° Views: See all of Metro Vancouver, including Stanley Park, the harbour, and the surrounding mountains, from one central vantage point.
- Day & Night Access: A single admission ticket is valid for the entire day, allowing you to experience the stunning views in the daylight and return to see the city lights sparkle at night.
- Thrilling Elevator Ride: The journey begins with a 40-second ride up the outside of the building in a glass-fronted elevator, offering a great view as the city drops away beneath you.
- Central Location: Located right next to Waterfront Station, it's one of the easiest-to-reach viewpoints in the city.
What to See & Do
- Spot the Landmarks: Use the informational panels to identify key landmarks, neighbourhoods, and mountains. The views toward Stanley Park and the North Shore are particularly impressive.
- Take a Complimentary Tour: Knowledgeable staff offer complimentary guided tours, providing history and context to the sights you're seeing.
- Experience Sunset: Time your visit to watch the sunset over the ocean and see the transition from day to night.
- Get Great Photos: The large, inclined windows reduce reflections and allow you to look almost straight down, making for fantastic photo opportunities.
Food & Drink Options
- Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant: Located one level above the Lookout, this restaurant offers fine dining with constantly changing panoramic views (reservations are highly recommended).
- Harbour Centre Food Court: The mall at the base of the tower has a food court with many casual and affordable options.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check the Weather: For the best experience, visit on a clear day. Check the live webcam on their website to see the current visibility before you go.
- Hold Onto Your Ticket: Don't forget that your ticket allows for re-entry all day. Many visitors enjoy the daytime view and then return for sunset or to see the city lights.
- Free Alternatives: For great views without an admission fee, consider visiting Queen Elizabeth Park or Burnaby Mountain Park, though these are located outside the downtown core.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Gastown: Vancouver's historic district is just a block away.
- Canada Place: The iconic white sails of the cruise ship terminal are a short walk away.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes.Vancouver Lookout Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada
Phone: (604) 689-0421
Official Website: Vancouver Lookout
Vancouver Lookout Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
First time visit here as visited Vancouver couple times. Great view for 360 degree view of all the directions of the city, in a sunny day. Drawback is they will close before sunset, so you cannot come for a night view. But probably they are worried about the safety in downtown for that.
Peter Li - a week ago
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 - 3 months ago
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 - 4 months ago
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 - 2 months ago
If you’re a first-time visitor to Vancouver or keen on getting a quick, immersive city overview—especially with different lighting by day and night—the Vancouver Lookout is worth a stop. For seasoned locals or those watching the budget, you may choose to simply admire the skyline from street-level rooftops or nearby drinking spots.
Tessa C - 2 months ago
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Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo, Canada & Millennium Lines | Waterfront Station | 2 Minutes |
How to get to Vancouver Lookout by SkyTrain
No bus needed. The Vancouver Lookout is located in the Harbour Centre building, which is directly across the street from Waterfront Station. Exit the station onto West Cordova Street and Cross the road and walk up Seymour Street one block to Hastings. Harbour Center is on the corner to your left.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Vancouver Lookout:
Photo Gallery
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Vancouver Lookout atop Harbour Centre cc licensed photo by Magnus Larsson -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: colink. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: colink. - cc license via Flickr

