Vancouver in Disguise: Cult Favourites Filmed in Vancouver

Vancouver in Disguise: Cult Favourites Filmed in Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its breathtaking views and world-class attractions. But it's best-kept secret? It’s the backdrop of your favourite cult classic movies and TV shows. Filming locations are all around Vancouver, and you’ve probably walked right through them.

She’s The Man

She’s The Man's most iconic scene, the big reveal, happens right at Thunderbird Stadium, at UBC, where Sebastian dramatically unveils herself as Viola. While you're there, visit the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a peaceful Japanese Garden that Viola might have visited after a day of drama. Later, head downtown to Robson Street, Vancouver's centre for top shopping and a variety of diverse eats, where Viola masters her Sebastian walk. Keep an eye out for the Ox Pub in your next rewatch, it makes a quick cameo during one of Viola’s adventures!

The Butterfly Effect

UBC is the perfect campus for many college classic films, including The Butterfly Effect. You’ll catch Evan’s flashback scenes at the Walter Korener Library right away thanks to its sleek scholarly architecture. In the evening, explore Gastown for The Blarney Stone Pub, a cozy Irish pub with worn brick and historic charm. It’s where Evan meets up with his roommate Thumper, right before the night takes a dark turn. At the Blarney Stone, time-travelling may not be an option, but enjoying a classic pint while listening to live music always is.

Twilight Saga: New Moon

Edward or Jacob? It’s the age-old question for Twilight super fans. But have you ever wondered where Twilight is filmed? Find out by beginning your vampire transition in Stanley Park, where tall evergreens and foggy mountains set the scene of New Moon's moody backdrop. Downtown is also home to Forks High at David Thomson Secondary, where Bella and Edward first lock eyes. Rumour has it that the cast of Twilight didn’t just film lunchroom scenes, they also stayed downtown at The Sheraton Wall Center during filming. And when your vampire senses tingle, snap a pic by the Gastown Steam Clock, which lets out a dramatic puff every 15 minutes and capture your brooding Bella Stare.

Yellowjackets

Who wouldn't want their soccer team stranded somewhere as scenic as Vancouver? Yellowjackets may be set in the wilderness and New Jersey, but most of the filming happened here, making it the perfect backdrop for both city streets and the look of remote wilderness.Start your stay in Natalie's hideout at the retro 2400 Motel for the perfect eerie movie stay. When you’re craving a taste of wilderness without leaving the city, head to David Lam Park, where late-night scenes were shot. And if surviving a plane crash works up an appetite, wrap up your day at Finch’s Tea House, where Natalie and Suzie plotted their revenge in season one over chic bistro sandwiches.

Arrow (CW)

Arrow fans, your journey begins in Starling City, better known as Vancouver, the backdrop to your superhero origin story. Oliver Queen got his start in WhyteCliff Park, where rugged terrains and West Vancouver’s coastline bring life to the island of Lian Yu. Downtown Vancouver has a futuristic feel, where you’ll spot tall buildings like BC Place and the Vancouver Art Gallery, towering over the city as high-tech towers and Starling City’s courthouse. You can leave the bow and arrow at home while you explore, just be ready for all the action that embodies Vancouver.

X-Files

Many have speculated about paranormal energy in Vancouver, and now you'll get to be the one to investigate. The X-Files filmed most of its show in Vancouver, including the North Vancouver Shipyards, which doubled as industrial zones for alien sightings. Take a walk downtown to Scully’s apartment, home over on Pendrall Street, while on Robson, Scully and Mulder meet up to discuss their latest cases.

If you’ve ever wondered, "Where is Twilight filmed?" chances are it was shot here. With Vancouver quietly playing the lead in your favourite movies and TV shows, you just might start seeing pop culture in a new light.