Nothing comes close to getting away to a beautiful destination with your family. Thinking of exploring Vancouver with your kids? You’re going to have an absolute blast! Here’s what you can do here.
About Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the most stunning cities in the world, thanks to its striking blend of mountains and beaches.
Downtown Vancouver sits gracefully on a peninsula jutting into the Strait of Georgia, with the Coast Mountains as its backdrop. But Vancouver isn’t just about its gorgeous scenery. The city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond nature, Vancouver boasts a vibrant cultural scene, amazing shopping spots, and a dining scene that’ll leave your taste buds thrilled.
It’s one of the best family destinations in North America. The city offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions – your kids will have a wonderful time here, and you can join in on the fun!
Plus, the city features a thriving accommodation sector with an array of options for families. Want to stay at a waterfront hotel in Vancouver? You’re in luck! You can choose from a vast range of options, including Pan Pacific Vancouver.
As for the best time to visit Vancouver, it’s all about the kind of experience you’re after. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, visit from June to August. On the other hand, spring, from April to May, and fall from September to October, are excellent for those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds.
Now that you know a bit about Vancouver and what to expect during your vacation, here are some insights into the things you can do with your family.
Take the SeaBus to North Vancouver
You can catch a ride on a commuter catamaran departing regularly from downtown Vancouver. It’s a mini cruise across Burrard Inlet. During this ride, you’ll be treated to some amazing views, including the harbour, Stanley Park, and the Lions Gate Bridge.
Plus, this is your perfect chance to capture some amazing pictures of natural scenery.
Do Some Sightseeing
Your kids will love exploring Vancouver from a classic trolley or an open-air bus. These tours come with lively narrations, making them informative and fun for the whole family.
The best part is that you can hop on and off at various stops along the way. If you want to check out the downtown attractions, just hop off the bus, have fun exploring, and then hop back on when you’re ready to head to the next exciting spot.
Granville Island – Kids Market
Do some shopping with your kids while you’re here. The Kids Market on Granville Island is a must-visit for families.
This colourful building isn’t your typical store filled with plastic, mass-produced items. It’s a vibrant hub that houses a lively play area and shops offering a wide range of unique, handcrafted toys – many of these toys are crafted by local artisans.
Science World and Omnimax Theatre at Telus World of Science
Let your kids set off on an exciting journey of exploration at the Telus World of Science!
Here, you can dive into the newest feature exhibits, get hands-on with interactive displays, and join in on special events that make learning fun. Don’t miss the chance to watch incredible OMNIMAX films on one of the world’s largest dome screens – it’s a truly immersive experience.
And when you’re ready to refuel, there’s a convenient Triple O’s restaurant on-site, along with a unique gift shop for some souvenirs.
Kitsilano Beach
Located only 10 minutes from Downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano Beach features soft golden sand your kids will love to play in. And there are plenty of fun activities adults can enjoy too.
At Kits Beach, you can spend your time beachcombing for shells or quirky-looking pebbles. This place is a local favourite, and it’s not surprising.
The little ones can explore the amazing playground here, while parents can relax on logs scattered along the beach or park benches. Teens have their options too – they can join a game of basketball, hit one of the ten tennis courts, or simply hang out with their friends.
Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours
Explore the stunning landscapes of Stanley Park on an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage. A knowledgeable guide will be your storyteller throughout the tour, sharing fascinating facts along the way.
You’ll get to see some remarkable sights, including Deadman’s Island, Vancouver’s bustling harbour, the iconic Lions Gate Bridge, and a tranquil coastal red cedar forest.
Along the route, there are stops to explore the totem poles, admire the ‘Girl in a Wetsuit’ statue, gaze at the S.S. Empress of Japan figurehead, and appreciate the beauty of the rose gardens.
Vancouver Aquarium
At the Vancouver Aquarium, you’ll encounter a captivating world of over 50,000 incredible aquatic creatures, including cute otters – your kids won’t want to miss saying hello to the adorable sea otters.
And don’t forget to marvel at the mesmerising jellyfish; their graceful movements are truly captivating.
If you time it right, you can catch daily sea otter and shark feeds, as well as witness sea lion training sessions. Plus, keep an eye out for the free-roaming animals that call the popular Amazon gallery home. Also, be sure to explore the Treasures of the BC Coast Gallery.