The four best places to see cherry blossoms in Metro Vancouver
For those making cherry blossom plans this spring
Spring has sprung in Metro Vancouver, with cherry blossom trees starting to bloom last week.
Growing up in southern Ontario, I didn’t have the chance to see these kinds of trees often. I had the odd trip to Toronto to see them bloom in High Park, but it was very rare.
Living in Metro Vancouver for the past two and a half years, I can say I’ve seen collections of sakura trees bloom a few times and have seen lots more of them because of public transit.
Here is my list of some of the best spots to see cherry blossoms this spring in Metro Vancouver, and they are transit-friendly!
- Queens Park, New Westminster
One of the city’s biggest tourist attractions, Queens Park is a good place to see cherry blossoms and has something for everyone.
Before the pandemic, the park was known for its playgrounds for kids to enjoy, skatepark, and various walking trails. New Westminster is a great location if you don’t live super close to Vancouver and don’t have a car like myself.
When entering the park, it has an energetic atmosphere, making it an enjoyable experience to view cherry blossom trees. It’s a unique place with all kinds of action, from kids playing on the playground to teenagers doing tricks at the skatepark.
Also, maybe not so much a secret, but if you want to see more cherry trees outside of the park and avoid people, take a 10-minute walk to 3rd Street, and you will be able to see the trees starting to bloom.
- Nelson Street, Vancouver
For two blocks starting from Broughton Street to Cardero, Nelson Street in Vancouver is one of the best spots to take a walk and admire the cherry blossom trees without worrying you might bump into people or feeling overcrowded.
This area is quiet, with few people walking around and unique houses to look at. It’s easily accessible by transit or a 15-minute walk from Burrard SkyTrain station.
Put your headphones in and listen to your favourite song as you walk, or just listen to the traffic nearby, you won’t regret it.
- Burrard Skytrain Station, Vancouver
If you are looking for an easy and quick ride to see cherry blossoms, Burrard SkyTrain Station will be your best bet.
Stepping outside the station, you will see tons of trees lined up, making the downtown stop even more beautiful.
Every time I see the trees bloom at the station, I always see people taking photos with their fancy DSLR cameras or phones. The other day, I saw a woman with her friend posing with an umbrella. They had so much confidence and were just having a good time, it was amazing.
This year, a new mural has been put up by Montreal artist Ola Volo called “YWCA Wall for Women.” So if you want to see street art and cherry trees at the same time, this is the best stop.
- Garry Point Park, Richmond
Garry Point Park in Richmond is a recreational space in the Steveston neighbourhood with trails and a beautiful view of the Fraser River. The park is also near shops and local seafood restaurants like Pajo’s Fish & Chips for people to enjoy after.
The park is home to 255 cherry blossom trees, making it the perfect spot to be surrounded by trees.
Since this is one of Richmond’s top tourist spots, it can get quite busy during the weekend, with parking spots filling up quickly. However, during the week, especially in the morning or the evening, there’s a lot less traffic for you to enjoy the trees and possibly get a few photos with your friends.
The park’s atmosphere is peaceful, with children flying kites or a couple on the bench enjoying the water views.
If you want to find more spots with cherry blossom trees, click this map for more information.
