Before moving to Vancouver, we had no idea that the cherry blossom season here could even compete with Japan’s. But the truth is, Vancouver transforms into a pink paradise in spring, making it one of the most beautiful places to witness cherry blossoms. The entire city bursts into color, creating a stunning and romantic atmosphere.
In this guide, you’ll find the best locations to see cherry trees in full bloom, along with practical tips for planning your visit.
When is Cherry Blossom Season in Vancouver?
Cherry blossom season in Vancouver typically runs from mid-March to mid-April, with peak bloom occurring in early to mid-April. However, the exact timing varies each year based on the weather and the specific type of cherry tree.
Some early bloomers, like the Accolade cherry trees, can start blossoming as early as late February, while Akebono and Yoshino cherry trees tend to peak in early April. The blossoms generally last about two weeks, so timing your visit is key!
Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival and Bloom Map
If you’re unsure where to go or want to check if a tree is already in bloom, you can use the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival’s interactive bloom map. This map provides real-time bloom updates, estimated bloom times, and additional locations beyond those mentioned in this guide.
🌸 Find the map here: Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival Bloom Map
13 Best Places to See and Photograph Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver
Below is a list of our favorite cherry blossom locations in Vancouver, including hidden gems and popular photography spots.
1. Stanley Park (Chilco Street & Rose Garden)
📅 Blooming: March 28th – April 18th
Stanley Park is one of the best places in Vancouver to see cherry blossoms, offering multiple locations to enjoy these delicate pink flowers. The area near Chilco Street is our personal favorite—it’s a quiet and lesser-known gem where you can walk under tunnels of cherry blossoms without too many crowds.
For another incredible view, head to the Rose Garden, where cherry blossoms contrast beautifully against the vibrant green landscape of the park. If you want even more cherry blossom magic, explore the Japanese War Memorial pathways.
2. David Lam Park (Yaletown)
📅 Blooming: March 18 – April 1
This beautiful waterfront park in Yaletown is one of Vancouver’s most Instagrammable cherry blossom locations. With numerous cherry trees scattered throughout the park, it’s a perfect spot for a spring picnic or a romantic stroll.
One of the best areas for photography is the pathway by the basketball courts, where rows of cherry trees form a tunnel of pink blossoms. The combination of blooming trees, the seawall, and high-rise buildings creates a dreamy urban spring scene.
🌸 Romantic Vibe: We even saw a marriage proposal under the cherry blossoms here—it’s that magical!
3. Sunset Beach Park (Downtown)
📅 Blooming: March 18 – April 1
If you’re looking for a peaceful cherry blossom viewing experience by the water, Sunset Beach Park is a fantastic option. The park features a beautiful Cherry Blossom Alley, making it easy to find a stunning stretch of trees in full bloom. With plenty of nearby picnic tables this location is perfect for a relaxing spring picnic under the pink petals.
4. Museum of Vancouver (Kitslano)
📅 Blooming: March 18 – April 1
This location is a must-visit if you’re looking for unique cherry blossom photography spots. The Museum of Vancouver is surrounded by stunning Akebono cherry trees, and the best part? You can capture them from multiple angles for creative shots.
- Climb the nearby stairs for a unique elevated perspective of the cherry blossoms!
- One angle frames the blossoms beautifully with the North Shore mountains in the background.
- Another angle allows you to capture the trees alongside the architecture of the museum.
5. Granville Square (near Waterfront Station, Downtown)
📅 Blooming: March 18 – April 1
Located just a short walk from Waterfront Station, Granville Square is a fantastic cherry blossom spot with breathtaking views of Vancouver’s skyline and the North Shore mountains. Since this area is slightly elevated, it’s an excellent spot for unique cherry blossom photography with a panoramic backdrop.
6. Burrard Skytrain Station
📅 Blooming: March 28th – April 18th
Right next to Burrard SkyTrain Station, a row of Akebono cherry trees forms a stunning pink tunnel in the heart of downtown Vancouver. This location is super convenient and easy to access, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Since it’s a high-traffic area, we recommend visiting early in the morning (7 – 8 AM) to capture the blossoms without crowds.
7. Yukon street 59th Ave – 63rd Ave (South Vancouver)
📅 Blooming: March 14 – march 26
Marpole – Beautiful street of big old ‘Accolade’ on both sides. Come early in the morning before it will start to be busy there because people of communiting to work. You should be able park directly on the street.
8. Yew & 20, 22nd (Vine St included)
📅 Blooming: March 17 – April 4
If you love Instagram-worthy streets lined with endless cherry trees, this is the spot for you. West 22nd Avenue is one of Vancouver’s most famous cherry blossom streets, with blooms stretching across almost 8 consecutive blocks!
Drive or walk along Yew Street, Vine Street, and West 22nd to explore hidden pockets of cherry blossoms in this residential area. If you’re nearby, take a short detour and you might find even more secret cherry blossom gems.
9. 60 Ave Between Manitoba and Ontario Street (South Vancouver)
📅 Blooming: Mach 18 – April 1
This charming residential street in South Vancouver transforms into a pink tunnel of cherry blossoms every spring. With large, mature cherry trees lining both sides of the road, it’s one of the most picturesque neighborhood spots to witness the bloom.
10. Minoru Park (Richmond)
📅 Blooming: March 18 – April 1
A cherry blossom paradise in Richmond, Minoru Park is home to over 300 cherry blossom trees! This peaceful park is not just about the cherry blossoms—you’ll also find a Japanese garden, a picturesque pond, and quiet walking paths that make this a lovely spot for a spring picnic.
11. Larry Berg Flight Path Park, Richmond
📅 Blooming: March 13 – April 1
Located near Vancouver International Airport, this park has a beautiful cluster of Akebono cherry trees. They can be found to the left of the parking lot when facing away from Russ Baker Highway.
As a bonus, this park is an amazing spot for plane watching, so you can enjoy the blossoms while watching flights take off and land. It’s also a fantastic picnic area, making it a great spring outing destination.
12. Vancouver City Hall
📅 Blooming: March 22 – April 4
Located at Yukon Street & West 11th Ave, Vancouver City Hall is an underrated but beautiful cherry blossom spot. The contrast between the pink petals and the grand stone architecture creates a gorgeous backdrop for photography.
13. Nitobe Memorial Garden, UBC
📅 Blooming: March 24 – April 7
This traditional Japanese garden is one of the most tranquil spots in Vancouver, offering a beautiful glimpse into Japanese culture during cherry blossom season. Keep in mind that there is an admission fee of $7 for adults to enter the garden.
Final Tips for Enjoying Cherry Blossom Season in Vancouver
- Arrive early: Early mornings provide the best light and fewer crowds.
- Check the bloom map: Stay updated on peak bloom locations.
- Respect the trees: Avoid climbing or shaking the trees to preserve their beauty for others.
- Bring a picnic: Many of these locations are perfect for a relaxing outdoor meal under the blossoms.
Enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms in Vancouver and capture the magic of spring in one of the most beautiful cities in the world! 🌸
