Are you in Vancouver and still not sure what to do this summer? I hope you’re a fan of Deadpool, because I’m about to show you some places in the city that served as the backdrop for several scenes from the best anti-hero we’ve got — and that you can actually visit.
- GEORGIA VIADUCT
The first one is the Georgia Viaduct, located in downtown Vancouver. It’s safe to say that one of the most iconic scenes in the movie was filmed there — the one where Deadpool fights off a bunch of bad guys on a moving vehicle. The area was even shut down for a few days while filming took place, and that definitely caught the attention of local residents at the time.
You can drive across the viaduct yourself, or here’s a tip: take the SkyTrain Expo Line and sit in the last car heading toward King George Station, or the front car going toward Waterfront Station — that way, you’ll get an amazing view of the area, and as a bonus, you’ll also catch beautiful views of False Creek, Science World, BC Place, and Rogers Arena.
2. ARCH ALLEY
The second spot is Arch Alley, where Deadpool’s girlfriend Vanessa gets kidnapped by Francis’s henchmen. The alley is located between Abbott Street and Cambie Street, right in front of Victory Square. But a word of caution: this area is currently facing some serious social challenges, including high levels of poverty, drug use, and homelessness — so always be careful.
This alley is one of the most frequently used film locations in Vancouver. In addition to Deadpool, it has also appeared in shows like The X-Files, Fringe, Supernatural, and The Man in the High Castle. Take advantage of a rainy day and snap a photo as if you were in the movie!
3. COBALT HOTEL
The third location is the Cobalt Hotel, located on Main Street. It was used as the exterior of the Gentleman’s Club, the bar where Vanessa works as a waitress. This is a historic building in East Vancouver, dating back to 1911, and it once housed the popular bar known as The Cobalt.
4. NO. 5 ORANGE
Now speaking of the interior of the Gentleman’s Club — that was actually filmed at our fourth location: No. 5 Orange. Also located in East Vancouver, this is one of the last remaining adult entertainment venues in the city. It’s open 364 days a year — so don’t try to visit on Christmas, they’ll be closed. People say that T.J. Miller and the stunt doubles for both Ryan Reynolds and Miller were spotted there, and even Stan Lee would have recorded his special appearance there.
These are just a few tips on where to find iconic locations from our favorite anti-hero, but I can assure you this is just the beginning. Vancouver has become a paradise for movie and TV show lovers — go for a walk around the city and I’m sure you’ll recognize more than one spot from the big screen!