Vancouver Landmarks Broadcast During the 2010 Winter Games

Vancouver’s beauty charmed a world audience during every television broadcast of the 2010 Winter Games. The mountain images left millions of viewers breathless, and shots of spectacular city landmarks left a memorable impression

Now it’s time to see all of these great sights in person since they are all easily accessible -- well, most of them anyway.

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  Eye of the Wind Turbine

  Throughout the 2010 Winter Games, Vancouver was touted as an environmental host to the world. You may have even noticed a giant wind turbine in a few of the TV spots. That’s the Eye of the Wind Turbine atop Grouse Mountain, which is one of the only such structures offering an observation deck. Here you can take in sweeping views of the mountains around Vancouver and get a unique tour and understanding for wind energy. Sustainability Tours (which include general admission to the mountain) cost $65 for adults, $61 for seniors, $49 for youth (13–18), $39 for children (5–12), and are free for kids 4 or younger.

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  Robson Square

  Robson Square was a hub of excitement during the Games. The downtown community square was a gathering place for a variety of Olympic- and Paralympic-related activities including an urban zipline that had half-day long lines. Soon, it will be back to normal with plenty of people watching, restaurants and the Vancouver Art Gallery to keep you busy. If you are still in the mood for a zipline adventure, Ziptrek, which built the temporary urban zipline, is based out of Whistler and offers mountainous versions of the adventure.

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  Stanley Park

  There’s a reason swooping aerials and panoramas of Stanley Park were showcased so many times during the Olympic coverage -- aside from the nearby massive Olympic Rings that lit up the harbour. It’s one of the finest examples of an urban park in the world. With an 8.85-kilometre seawall trail to enjoy, old-growth forest to wonder through, plenty of wildlife and even some fantastic dining options, this is Vancouver’s crown-jewel attraction.

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  The Olympic Emblem

  Ilanaaq, the official emblem of the 2010 Winter Games, is seen on every type of merchandise imaginable. The actual stone versions, from which the emblem was inspired, are called inukshuk -- traditional guideposts that have been created by Inuit people for hundreds of years and symbolize friendship and hope. Trust us, they are much more awe-inspiring in person than on a key chain and are easily accessible in both Vancouver and Whistler. Check out a stunning example at English Bay Beach or on a quick walk from the top of the Whistler Village Gondola.

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  Skyline View

  Nearly every broadcast of the 2010 Games started with panning shots of the mountains and the Vancouver skyline. In addition to admiring Vancouver’s distinctive green-glass buildings, you might have noticed one structure that stood out -- a 130-metre spire with a big needle atop. It’s called the Vancouver Lookout, and for $15, a glass-encased elevator will take you to the top -- in just 40 seconds -- for expansive views of the city and various Olympic venues. It’s as close as you’ll ever get to experiencing the flyover cams of the major broadcast networks.

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  Backcountry Snowboarding

  While the Opening Ceremonies were housed indoors, the multimedia festivities showcased some of the awe-inspiring beauty of British Columbia. Perhaps none of these images were more memorable than the backcountry snowboarding video that made it appear as if snowboarder Johnny Lyall shot into the arena fresh off the slopes. You can ski or board the same run as Lyall; you just need a ride to Blue River, B.C. and a helicopter.