Are you searching for the best activities to keep your young children entertained in Vancouver? This beautiful city brims with family-friendly adventures perfect for creating cherished memories. Whether you’re a local or visiting, you’ll find no shortage of engaging things to do. Let’s delve into the top activities for families with young children in Vancouver.
Visit Science World
Science World is an exciting educational experience for children of all ages. Located at the end of False Creek, this iconic geodesic dome offers interactive exhibits that make learning fun.
Interactive Exhibits
The displays cover topics from physical science to environmental education. Little ones will love the Eureka! Gallery, which is full of hands-on activities like the ever-popular giant bubble-maker. The BodyWorks section helps kids learn about human biology in an interactive way.
OMNIMAX Theatre
With a five-story-high screen and a 360-degree experience, the OMNIMAX Theatre allows you to enjoy captivating films about space, nature, and science. These films are educational and visually stunning, perfect for both parents and children.
Explore Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a gem in the heart of Vancouver. Offering over 1,000 acres of lush greenery, it’s a sanctuary within the city that provides endless opportunities for family activities.
Stanley Park Seawall
Why not take a family bike ride around the Stanley Park Seawall? The 9-kilometer pathway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and skyline. You can rent bikes nearby if you don’t have your own.
Vancouver Aquarium
Located within Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is a must-visit. Home to over 50,000 aquatic creatures, the aquarium offers an educational and awe-inspiring experience. Kids will love the playful seals, captivating jellyfish, and interactive touch pools.
Playgrounds and Picnic Areas
Stanley Park also features several playgrounds and picnic areas. The Ceperley Playground near Second Beach is ideal for young children, with its swings, slides, and climbing structures. Pack a picnic to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Visit Granville Island
Granville Island is a hub of activity that offers something for everyone, including families with young kids.
Kids Market
The Kids Market at Granville Island is a paradise for children. This two-story building features toy stores, a play area, and even a mini arcade. It’s the perfect place for little ones to explore.
Water Park
During the summer months, Granville Island boasts a free water park that’s perfect for cooling off. It features slides, water cannons, and waterfalls, ensuring hours of splashy fun.
Public Market
While the kids are having their fun, you can wander through the Granville Island Public Market. With a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and gourmet foods, there’s something to please every palate.
Aquarium and Picnic Areas at Queen Elizabeth Park
Another great spot for families is Queen Elizabeth Park. This urban oasis offers stunning views, beautiful gardens, and fun activities.
Bloedel Conservatory
The Bloedel Conservatory is a tropical paradise filled with exotic plants and free-flying birds. It’s a mini-rainforest inside a dome, and young children will be enchanted by the vivid colors and sounds.
Quarry Garden
The Quarry Garden is a delightful area for a family walk. Originally a rock quarry, it has been transformed into a beautiful garden with winding paths, waterfalls, and lush plant life. It provides a relaxing backdrop for parents and an adventure for kids.
Discover The Vancouver Maritime Museum
A great indoor activity for rainy days is the Vancouver Maritime Museum, where kids can learn about maritime history in a fun and interactive manner.
Model Ships and Maritime Artifacts
The museum showcases a fascinating collection of model ships, maritime artifacts, and navigational instruments. Kids can marvel at miniature ships and even climb aboard the historic St. Roch vessel.
Interactive Play Areas
There are also dedicated play areas where children can role-play as sailors or captains, navigating imaginary seas. This makes learning history much more engaging and enjoyable.
Take a Ride on the Miniature Train at Stanley Park
Another iconic feature of Stanley Park is the miniature train ride. This ride takes you through several themed areas and is a delight for young children.
Seasonal Themed Rides
The train ride varies by season, offering special themed trips around Halloween, Christmas, and Easter. Each season brings its unique decorations and experiences, making multiple visits worthwhile.
Nearby Amenities
The train station area also features a children’s farmyard where kids can meet and feed animals like goats, sheep, and chickens. It’s a perfect complement to the train ride and provides additional fun and learning opportunities.
Enjoy Kitsilano Beach and Pool
Located in the Kitsilano neighborhood, Kitsilano Beach and Pool offer family-friendly fun both in and out of the water.
The Beach
Kitsilano Beach, or “Kits Beach,” is one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches. The sandy expanse is perfect for building sandcastles, while the shallow waters are ideal for a children’s swim.
Kitsilano Pool
Adjacent to the beach is Kitsilano Pool, a heated, outdoor saltwater pool that stretches 137 meters, offering both shallow and deeper sections to accommodate different age groups. It even features giant slides and play areas for younger children.
Participate in Outdoor Adventures in Lynn Canyon Park
If your family loves outdoor adventures, Lynn Canyon Park is the place to be. Located in North Vancouver, this park offers various activities that cater to families with young children.
Suspension Bridge
One of the main attractions is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Although it’s a bit of a thrill, it’s safe and offers incredible views of the canyon below. It’s an excellent way to introduce little adventurers to the beauty of nature.
Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre
Located within the park, the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre provides educational exhibits about the local ecosystem. There are hands-on displays, making learning about the environment enjoyable for kids.
Spend a Day at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Another thrilling adventure can be found at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Although similar to Lynn Canyon, this park offers additional exciting activities tailored for families.
Kids’ Rainforest Explorer Program
The Rainforest Explorer Program is designed specifically for young children, providing them with an engaging quest to complete as they explore. Kids collect stamps at various stations and learn interesting facts about the rainforest.
Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk
In addition to the famous suspension bridge, the Treetops Adventure and the Cliffwalk are must-dos. These attractions offer elevated walkways and viewing platforms that get you up close and personal with the lush rainforest canopy.
Roller Skate at Robson Square Ice Rink (Seasonal)
For a fun, family-friendly activity that’s a bit out of the ordinary, head to the Robson Square Ice Rink. During the winter months, the rink is open for public ice skating.
Skate Rentals and Lessons
Skate rentals are available, making it easy for everyone to join in. If your little ones are new to skating, you can even find lessons or skate aids that make the learning process more comfortable and enjoyable.
Warm-Up Areas
There are areas around the rink where you can warm up with hot chocolate or coffee, making it a cozy family outing even on colder days.
Take a Ferry Ride on False Creek Ferries
Why not try something different by taking a ferry ride across False Creek? The quaint and colorful False Creek Ferries are a delightful way to see the city from a unique perspective.
Hop-On, Hop-Off
The ferry service offers a hop-on, hop-off feature, allowing you to explore various stops around False Creek, including the Maritime Museum, Granville Island, and Science World.
Scenic Views
The ride itself offers scenic views of Vancouver’s skyline and waterfront. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to get around and see different parts of the city.
Experience FlyOver Canada
FlyOver Canada is a thrilling virtual flight ride located at Canada Place. It’s an exhilarating experience that even young children will enjoy.
Flight Simulation Ride
The ride uses state-of-the-art technology to give you the sensation of flying across Canada’s diverse landscapes. From the Rocky Mountains to the prairie fields, the immersive video and sensory effects make it an unforgettable experience.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
FlyOver Canada is suitable for children of most ages, with seats and safety measures designed to keep everyone comfortable and secure.
Visit Maplewood Farm
A trip to Maplewood Farm in North Vancouver offers a delightful experience of rural life right within the city.
Meet the Animals
The farm is home to a variety of animals, including goats, sheep, chickens, and ponies. Kids can interact with and sometimes even feed the animals, providing an up-close educational experience.
Hands-On Activities
Maplewood Farm also offers hands-on activities such as pony rides and gardening lessons. These activities provide added value, making your visit even more engaging and educational.
Relax at Trout Lake
Located in East Vancouver, Trout Lake is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of activities.
Picnicking and Playgrounds
The area around Trout Lake features several picnic spots and a playground, perfect for a relaxed family day out. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the water.
Swimming and Canoeing
In the summer, Trout Lake offers designated swimming areas, allowing kids to safely paddle and splash around. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a canoe for a peaceful paddle on the lake.
Enjoy the Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery might not seem like an obvious choice for young children, but it does offer family-friendly activities that can be quite engaging.
Art Education Programs
The gallery offers several programs designed for families, such as art-making workshops and guided tours that are tailored for younger audiences. These programs make the world of art accessible and interesting for children.
Interactive Exhibits
Occasionally, the gallery features interactive exhibits that allow children to engage with art more directly. Always check the current exhibitions to see if there are any particularly family-friendly displays.
Grocery Shopping at Lonsdale Quay Market
Taking a trip to Lonsdale Quay Market in North Vancouver can be surprisingly fun for young children.
Market Stalls
From fresh produce to baked goods and homemade crafts, there’s a lot to explore. The bustling atmosphere and vibrant colors can be very engaging for young kids.
Play Area
Lonsdale Quay Market also features an indoor play area that’s free to use, providing a perfect spot for your kids to burn off energy while you shop.
Explore the Museum of Vancouver
The Museum of Vancouver offers an array of exhibits that are interesting for both adults and children.
Historical Displays
Older kids might appreciate the historical displays that trace the history of Vancouver. These exhibits often feature interactive elements to keep young minds engaged.
Family Programs
The museum frequently offers family programs and events that are specifically designed to be educational and entertaining for children. Keep an eye on the event calendar for these opportunities.
Ride the SeaBus to North Vancouver
The SeaBus offers a quick and scenic transit option from downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver.
A Different Perspective
This short ferry ride provides stunning views of the waterfront and the mountains. It’s a different perspective of the city that’s bound to fascinate young children.
Access to Other Attractions
Once you arrive in North Vancouver, you have easy access to the Lonsdale Quay Market, Maplewood Farm, and various parks, making it an excellent addition to your day’s itinerary.
Get Lost in VanDusen Botanical Garden
VanDusen Botanical Garden is a breathtaking destination for families who enjoy nature.
Elizabethan Maze
This hedge maze is a hit with kids who love the adventure of finding their way through the twists and turns. It’s a great way to engage their problem-solving skills.
Family Walks
The garden’s expansive grounds offer multiple walking paths that are stroller-friendly. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the colorful flowers and diverse plant life.
Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants
While you’re out and about, you’re going to need to eat. Vancouver offers a plethora of family-friendly restaurants where young children are always welcome.
Cactus Club Cafe
With locations across the city, Cactus Club Cafe offers a kid-friendly menu that includes chicken fingers, pasta, and other favorites. Their relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy choice for families.
White Spot
Another great option is White Spot, a local favorite that offers a Pirate Pak for kids, complete with a fun pirate-themed box and tasty food.
Conclusion
Vancouver is a wonderful city full of exciting activities suitable for families with young children. From educational outings to thrilling adventures and serene nature spots, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Planning your days around these top activities will ensure that your children have a memorable and enriching experience while in this beautiful city.
Feel free to mix and match these activities to create a varied and exciting itinerary that suits your family’s interests and energy levels. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to build lasting memories together.