Vancouver, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, offers an abundance of activities for families traveling with children. From outdoor adventures to indoor attractions, and delicious eateries to comfortable accommodations, the city caters to all ages. Whether you’re seeking thrills in nature or educational experiences indoors, Vancouver promises a memorable family vacation.
Top Family-Friendly Activities
- Stanley Park: Explore this iconic urban park with its scenic seawall, playgrounds, beaches, and the Vancouver Aquarium.
- Granville Island: Visit the bustling public market, enjoy street performers, and explore the Kids Market.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Walk across the thrilling suspension bridge and explore treetop adventures and nature walks.
- Grouse Mountain: Take a gondola ride for stunning views and enjoy activities like hiking, ziplining, and wildlife encounters.
- Lynn Canyon Park: Hike through old-growth forests, swim in natural pools, and traverse the suspension bridge.
- Science World: Spark curiosity with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and IMAX films.
- Playland at the PNE: Enjoy amusement park rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment.
- Kitsilano Beach: Relax on the sandy shoreline and enjoy activities like swimming and beach volleyball.
- Whale Watching Tours: Embark on an unforgettable adventure to spot orcas, humpback whales, and more.
- Spanish Banks: Build sandcastles, fly kites, and enjoy picnics on this expansive sandy beach.
- Jericho Beach: Soak up the sun, paddle in shallow waters, and enjoy views of the North Shore mountains.
- Whistler: Take a day trip for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
- Victoria: Explore the Royal BC Museum, Butchart Gardens, and embark on a whale watching tour.
- Squamish: Hike to breathtaking waterfalls, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola, and visit the Britannia Mine Museum.
- Vancouver Maritime Museum: Learn about maritime history with interactive displays and model ships.
- VanDusen Botanical Garden: Wander through lush gardens, discover plant diversity, and enjoy family-friendly events.
- Vancouver Art Gallery: Explore contemporary and historical art exhibitions, including family programs and workshops.
- Burnaby Village Museum: Step back in time at this open-air museum with historical buildings and costumed interpreters.
- Richmond Night Market: Indulge in Asian street food, shop for unique goods, and enjoy live entertainment.
- Vancouver Lookout: Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
- FlyOver Canada: Experience a thrilling flight simulation ride showcasing Canada’s stunning landscapes.
- Maplewood Farm: Visit this family-friendly petting farm with animals, pony rides, and interactive experiences.
- Pacific Spirit Regional Park: Hike through lush forests and discover scenic trails suitable for all ages.
- H.R. MacMillan Space Centre: Explore interactive exhibits and learn about space exploration and astronomy.
- Vancouver Public Library: Attend family-friendly events, storytimes, and explore the extensive children’s section.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
- Grouse Mountain: Take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Grouse Mountain for panoramic views of the city and enjoy family-friendly activities such as hiking, ziplining, and wildlife encounters.
- Lynn Canyon Park: For a more tranquil outdoor experience, venture to Lynn Canyon Park, where families can hike through old-growth forests, swim in natural pools beneath waterfalls, and traverse the suspension bridge.
- Whale Watching Tours: Embark on an unforgettable whale watching excursion from Vancouver’s harbors, where families can spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Best Indoor Attractions for Kids
- Science World: Spark curiosity and discovery at Science World, where interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and immersive IMAX films engage young minds in the wonders of science and technology.
- Vancouver Maritime Museum: Dive into maritime history at the Vancouver Maritime Museum, featuring interactive displays, model ships, and artifacts that showcase the city’s rich seafaring heritage.
- Playland at the PNE: Let the kids unleash their energy at Playland, an amusement park with thrilling rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages.
Best Beaches for Families
- Kitsilano Beach: Known as “Kits Beach” by locals, this sandy shoreline offers calm waters perfect for swimming, along with volleyball courts, playgrounds, and stunning views of the city skyline.
- Spanish Banks: Stretching along the shores of English Bay, Spanish Banks boasts expansive sandy beaches ideal for building sandcastles, flying kites, and enjoying picnics with the family.
- Jericho Beach: With its tranquil atmosphere and shallow waters, Jericho Beach is an ideal spot for families to relax, paddle, and soak up the sun while taking in views of the North Shore mountains.
Day Trips from Vancouver for Fun Family Adventures
- Whistler: Just a scenic drive from Vancouver, Whistler offers endless outdoor adventures year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and mountain biking in summer.
- Victoria: Take a ferry to Vancouver Island and explore the charming city of Victoria, where families can visit the Royal BC Museum, stroll through Butchart Gardens, or embark on a whale watching tour.
- Squamish: Adventure awaits in Squamish, where families can hike to breathtaking waterfalls, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for stunning views, or test their skills at the Britannia Mine Museum.
Best Eats for Kids
- Burgoo: Warm up with comfort food classics at Burgoo, where families can enjoy hearty soups, grilled sandwiches, and mac ‘n’ cheese in a cozy atmosphere.
- Rain or Shine Ice Cream: Treat the little ones to artisanal ice cream flavors at Rain or Shine Ice Cream, known for its creamy, locally sourced ingredients and playful toppings.
- Nuba: Introduce kids to Middle Eastern cuisine at Nuba, where flavorful dishes like falafel wraps, hummus platters, and grilled kebabs are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Best Hotels for Families in Vancouver
- Fairmont Pacific Rim: This luxury hotel offers spacious family suites with stunning views of the city skyline or waterfront, along with amenities such as a rooftop pool, kid-friendly dining options, and personalized concierge service.
- Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre: Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre provides comfortable accommodations for families, with amenities like an indoor pool, on-site dining, and easy access to nearby attractions.
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites: Perfect for families seeking extra space, Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites offers suite-style accommodations with separate living areas, kitchenettes, and complimentary Wi-Fi, plus a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.
Vancouver offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, from outdoor adventures in nature to engaging indoor attractions and delicious dining options. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, Vancouver is the perfect destination for unforgettable family vacations. Whether exploring the great outdoors, delving into local history and culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, families are sure to create cherished memories in this beautiful Canadian city.
