Following Harry’s Footsteps
Uncovering the Breathtaking Pacific Northwest Backdrops of Resident Alien
The fictional town of Patience, Colorado springs to life across British Columbia’s stunning landscapes, where “Resident Alien” transforms stunning west coast locations into extraterrestrial territory.
For devoted fans of Harry Vanderspeigle’s misadventures, the region offers a treasure map of filming sites that capture the show’s small-town charm and otherworldly appeal. Pack your bags (no octopus DNA required) for an adventure through the real-world locations that bring this beloved sci-fi comedy to life.
Practical Considerations
Timing: Many of these locations are accessible year-round, but summer offers the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours for exploration.
Photography: While capturing these locations, morning and late afternoon light typically provides the best conditions for photography. Many of these spots are working communities, so be respectful when photographing buildings and always obtain permission when people are in your frame. Some locations may require permits for commercial photography, but casual fan photos are generally acceptable.
Environmental Responsibility: Throughout your journey, honor the Leave No Trace principles that help preserve these filming locations for future fans. Stay on designated paths, respect local wildlife, and pack out all trash. Consider the show’s underlying environmental messages as you explore these beautiful locations.
Day 1: Ladner and Burns Bog – From Small Town Charm to Alien Terrain
Ladner: Your Gateway to “Patience”
Begin your adventure in the charming community of Ladner, which serves as a primary filming location for downtown Patience. The historic district along Delta Street and 48th Avenue creates that perfect small-town atmosphere we’ve come to love in the show. Start your morning at Stir Coffee House, which while not featured in the show, offers the kind of small-town charm that would fit right into Patience. As you stroll through the heritage buildings, you’ll recognize numerous exteriors from the series, including the iconic town center where Harry frequently encounters the townspeople.
Indigenous Connection: Take time to acknowledge that you’re on the traditional territory of the Tsawwassen First Nation. The Tsawwassen people have lived in this region for thousands of years, and their connection to the land and sea remains strong today.
With over 200 acres of the raised peat bog habitat and four walking trails totalling 5 kilometres, visitors often find a mix of tranquility and wonder among the plants and animals in their bog, forest and pond habitats.
Richmond Nature Park: An Alien Encounter Experience
A 15-minute drive away, Richmond Nature Park makes for a perfect nature trail to immerse yourself in the local environment and take in the lush surroundings.
This winding boardwalk through thick greenery will take you to another world, and you’ll quickly forget that you’re in a bustling metropolis.
Day 2: Vancouver & North Shore – Sci-Fi and Scenery
Vancouver’s North Shore: Where Science Meets Suspense
The show’s medical and scientific scenes are often filmed in various locations around North Vancouver. While specific medical facilities used for filming are not accessible to the public, fans can still experience a bit of Harry’s out-of-this-world perspective at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Open throughout the year with different seasonal themes on display, the park is both daring and family-friendly, suitable for every taste for adventure.
The Cliffwalk’s dizzying heights and dramatic scenery might not be alien territory, but they certainly echo some of Harry’s more precarious moments—this time with proper safety measures in place.
Rest your legs and peruse the day’s photos at the delectable Nicli Pizzeria + Bar, just a shot drive away.
Or for the epic-est of views, take the gondola up to the top of Grouse Mountain for a truly unforgettable experience. This mountain-top paradise features snowsports in the winter and hiking, wildlife shows and a treetop adventure in the summer.
To cap off your evening, head into downtown Vancouver and wander Vancouver’s glitzy Granville Street. As you stroll along, you might recognize locations that played either Patience or New York City.
STARGAZING AT H.R. MacMIllan
What better activity for a fan of an extraterrestrial-themed show than contemplating the cosmos? Vancouver’ H.R. MacMillan Space Centre offers incredible opportunities to gaze at the same stars Harry’s people call home. The Gordon Southam Observatory houses a half-meter Cassegrain telescope that provides breathtaking views of celestial bodies on clear nights. The planetarium shows transport you through our galaxy with state-of-the-art digital visualization—though likely more accurately than Harry’s explanations to Asta about his home planet!
The Space Centre frequently hosts evening events where astronomy experts share insights about recent discoveries and space phenomena. It’s the perfect chance to ponder the same existential questions that Harry grapples with throughout the series.
Day 3: Britannia Beach and Squamish – The Landscape of Patience
The Mountains of “Colorado”
Head north to Britannia Beach, where the dramatic mountain backdrop perfectly masquerades as Colorado, and where Harry’s iconic cabin exterior is filmed. While the cabin is set to look like it sits near a lake, in reality, it overlooks the inlet of Howe Sound.
The Britannia Mine Museum offers tours that, while not a direct filming location, echo the show’s themes of resource extraction and human impact on the environment. The surrounding Sea-to-Sky Highway provides those sweeping mountain views frequently featured in the show’s establishing shots.
When exploring the trails around Alice Lake Provincial Park, you might recognize some of the forested areas where Harry occasionally wanders in confusion about human customs. While you’re unlikely to find any alien spacecraft, you will discover pristine lakes and old-growth forests. Consider booking a guided indigenous tour through Talaysay Tours to learn about the Squamish Nation’s deep connection to these lands.
Squamish: Where Aliens Meet Adventure
Continue north to Squamish, which provides many of the show’s outdoor scenes. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers views reminiscent of those seen in various episodes where Harry contemplates his mission and humanity.
Ready to start your adventure?