Vancouver Lookout

Perched on top of a concrete tower in the middle of downtown, the Vancouver Lookout is a viewing deck that gives a bird's-eye view of a city built between mountains and sea. It sits atop Harbour Centre, at 555 West Hastings Street, a 1977 tower whose distinctive flying-saucer top made it an instant landmark. The observation deck is about 168 metres above the street, and the view runs through a full circle, from the glass towers of the downtown peninsula to the green mass of Stanley Park, the ships in Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains rising behind. On a clear day the horizon stretches south to the Gulf Islands and the snowy cone of Mount Baker across the border in Washington State.

The ride up is part of the experience. A glass-fronted elevator climbs the outside of the tower in about a minute, and the city drops away beneath you. At the top the deck is enclosed, with large windows on all sides and interpretive panels that identify landmarks. An audio tour or guided commentary explains the geography, the history and the stories behind the buildings, and binoculars help pick out details such as float planes landing in the harbour or cruise ships at Canada Place, the building with white sail-like roofs. Gastown lies directly below, with the steam clock on Water Street, and the maze of Chinatown and False Creek stretches to the east.

The Lookout is especially good at dusk, when the lights come on and the mountains turn pink, and ticketing often allows a return visit on the same day so that you can see the view in daylight and after dark. Night views take in the glittering towers and the bridges. On cloudy days, the view is limited, and the staff may offer information about visibility. In winter the clear, cold air can give the sharpest views of the mountains.

The tower is within easy reach of Waterfront Station, Gastown and Canada Place, so a visit fits neatly into a walk through downtown. Hours, ticket prices and the operating status of the attraction have changed over the years, so check the official website before heading out.

It suits first-time visitors who want to get their bearings and photographers looking for a skyline view.