5 scenic spots around Vancouver where you can work remotely this week

In the past 18 months, it’s become apparent — on a global scale — that people no longer want to work from an office from nine to five, five days per week.

The COVID-19 crisis has not only prompted businesses to reassess how they operate; it’s also allowed many Canadians to realize that they’d rather work on their own terms, balancing a workweek between locations conducive to their productivity.

A recent study by the Angus Reid Research Institution revealed that almost one-fifth of Canadians would quit and look for another job if forced back to the office in a post-pandemic world. Suffice to say, those working remotely want to hold on to the flexibility it brings.

So, to inspire you to change it up this week, we’ve rounded up five scenic locations around Vancouver where you can work remotely.

Pavilion 34 W7

Pavilion 34 W7 (Studio Santiago)

For sweeping views of the downtown cityscape and a glorious mountainous backdrop, there’s the expansive rooftop patio of Pavilion 34 W7. Occupying the top floor of the 34 W7 building, this brand-new co-working space in Mount Pleasant is a dream for remote workers and entrepreneurs seeking autonomy about when and where they work.

As the second Pavilion location in the neighbourhood (just two blocks from Pavilion 22 E5), it features private offices and desks for the use of individuals and companies based on the membership type that best suits them.

Pavilion 34 W7 (Studio Santiago)

The sophisticated, client-ready space is launching as Pavilion celebrates its second anniversary and continues to see demand for its bespoke co-working environments. Home to a sun-drenched upscale kitchen and bistro, it’s giving members the option to dine and work onsite or at any of the nearby cafes or restaurants as they choose — whenever they desire.  

Pavilion 34 W7 (Studio Santiago)

As the co-working hub offers a free five-day trial, remote workers can test the waters and decide if it’s the right fit for them before signing up for a membership. After what seems like a lifetime at home wearing sweatpants, what is there to lose? Register for your free trial at pavilioncowork.com.

Rooftop garden at Vancouver Public Library

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Quite the hidden gem, the Phillips, Hager and North Garden is accessible from level nine at the Vancouver Public Library’s central branch, located on West Georgia Street. The garden, offering breathtaking views of the city, is home to lush local greenery and was designed by landscape architect Cornelia Hahn Oberlander. Since there are plenty of seating options, it’s easy to find a quiet place to work.

North Vancouver’s Shipyards District

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Another incredibly scenic local destination for remote work is the Shipyards District in North Vancouver. From here, you can take in unobstructed views of Vancouver’s skyline, Lower Lonsdale, and the majestic North Shore Mountains. The Shipyards Commons is a covered space, so you can easily work from there for a portion of the day if it suits you. Once you’re done, learn about the city’s rich shipbuilding history at the public displays located in the area.

Queen Elizabeth Park

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Sitting at 125 metres above sea level, Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver, boasting remarkable views in every direction. To fuel your inspiration, before you sit down to work at the designated picnic area, take a stroll around the beautifully landscaped garden containing a collection of native and exotic trees and flowers. Set yourself a completion target for the project or task you’re working on, and make the most of the park’s recreation offerings when you reach it.

Second Beach in Stanley Park

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If you’ve yet to set your Slack status to “WFB” (work from beach), why not try this before the end of summer? Living in Vancouver affords us the luxury of multiple beaches, each one more picturesque than the next. Stanley Park’s Second Beach is an idyllic place to work remotely while the waves hit the shore. Bring a blanket and find a spot on the sand to get started. And, if the weather turns, simply make your way to the covered Ceperley Park picnic area.