Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Favorite City in Canada

Why The Rock Loves Vancouver

Dwayne Johnson first came to Vancouver in his early twenties as a Canadian Football League player for the Calgary Stampeders. He played a game against the BC Lions but was soon cut from the team. Looking back, he called that setback “the best thing that never happened,” because it set him on the path toward wrestling and eventually acting.

Since then, Johnson has returned to Vancouver many times — for wrestling matches, blockbuster movie shoots, and personal moments of reflection. He once shared from a downtown balcony:

“I’ve got to show you guys this view, it is spectacular, of one of my favorite cities in the world, Vancouver, Canada.”

For The Rock, Vancouver is a place of challenge, beauty, and gratitude.

Dwayne Johnson’s Favorite Vancouver Spots

Vancouver is often nicknamed “Hollywood North,” and Johnson has been part of that. While Dwayne Johnson hasn’t listed restaurants or neighborhood hangouts by name, he has shared specific places and landmarks that matter to him:

English Bay: Perhaps the most popular mention, English Bay is where Johnson filmed a video praising Vancouver’s skyline and ocean views. Even when smoke from wildfires clouded the skies, he called the view “spectacular.”

Downtown Vancouver Skyline: High vantage points overlooking the city and ocean appear often in Johnson’s posts. He clearly appreciates Vancouver’s mix of urban energy and natural views.

Surrey Civic Plaza (City Hall Area): While filming Skyscraper in 2017, Johnson spent significant time in Surrey. He thanked the mayor and residents for their warm welcome, showing that he values the community beyond downtown Vancouver.

Rogers Arena Viaducts: Action scenes for Skyscraper were shot under the viaducts near Rogers Arena. Johnson highlighted how the city itself became part of the story.

Popular Attractions in Vancouver

Beyond Dwayne Johnson’s personal connections, Vancouver offers a wealth of must-see sights for any visitor:

Stanley Park — one of the world’s greatest urban parks, famous for its seawall, totem poles, and forest trails.

Granville Island — a lively hub of markets, local food, and waterfront views.

Capilano Suspension Bridge — a thrilling walk above a canyon, surrounded by rainforest.

Grouse Mountain — a quick trip from downtown for hiking, skiing, or panoramic views over the city.

Gastown — Vancouver’s historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and the famous Steam Clock.

These landmarks combine the natural beauty and cultural energy that make Vancouver one of the most beloved cities in the world — for The Rock and for millions of visitors.

Travel Tips from The Rock

Want to experience Vancouver through Dwayne Johnson’s eyes? Try these:

1. Walk the Seawall at English Bay — Johnson’s favorite view, especially at sunset.

2. Get a sky-high view of downtown — rooftop patios and high balconies offer the skyline-plus-ocean perspective he loves.

3. Visit Surrey Civic Plaza — a key Skyscraper filming site and a reminder of Vancouver’s welcoming communities.

4. Check out filming landmarks — like the viaducts near Rogers Arena, used for action sequences.

Find Your Own Favorite Places

FindGuide helps you experience cities more deeply through food, music, neighborhoods, and stories of locals. You can connect with a guide anywhere in the world and arrange a private tour according to your personal preferences and interests. It’s a great way to blend a local perspective with your own ideas all over the world.

Discover the world with FindGuide, and collect stories you’ll keep forever.