10+ Fun Places for a Family Vacation to Vancouver BC

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Vancouver is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada and there are tons of things to do with kids of all ages. Families can enjoy lots of art galleries, museums, and outdoor activities, and a trip to Vancouver wouldn’t be complete without trying out their seafood specialties. 

To organize the perfect trip in British Colombia, local parents from the Gowhee App recommend the best places for a family vacation to Vancouver BC.

family vacation to vancouver bc: blog cover
Skyline visible from Granville Island Photo by @Pascal Bernardon

1. Spend a Weekend on the Water on Granville Island

Granville Island is a fun, artsy neighborhood that used to be an industrial site. This happening spot is home to a huge public market, lots of fun restaurants, and much more.

Basic Info: Accessible via public transportation – Kid-friendly restaurants – Walkable

Nearby Attractions: Granville Island has lots of activities that kids love. Visit the Kids’ Market, a public market designed especially for children, or go whale watching and see dolphins, whales, and sea otters. 

>>> Discover more places for families in Vancouver, here.

2. Take a Day Trip To Burnaby

Burnaby is home to museums, outdoor art galleries, and over 200 parks. This beautiful city is a great place to spend the day or even a weekend.

Basic Info: 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver – Public transportation available – Stroller-friendly walking paths

Nearby Attractions: Stop for a nostalgic treat at the Glenburn Soda Fountain!

Treats at Glenburn Soda Fountain Sweet shop.
Treats at Glenburn Soda Fountain Sweet shop. Photo by @Corteztravelgram

Places For A Family Vacation To Vancouver BC

3. Explore Downtown Vancouver

There’s so much to do in downtown Vancouver with kids! Whether you’re visiting Vancouver for a day, a weekend, or even longer, the many attractions and the well-developed transportation network make Vancouver a perfect vacation destination.

Basic Info: Public transportation – Lots of public parks and play areas – Canada’s most walkable city 

Nearby Attractions: Two kid-favorite Vancouver spots are Science World and the Vancouver Aquarium. You can spend half a day or all day at either of these attractions.

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4. Day Trip to Historic Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s largest park, and easily one of the most exciting places to visit for a day of outdoor fun! Go swimming, play tennis, ride a miniature train, or explore one of the park’s many attractions. 

Basic Info: FREE admission – pay for attractions and activities – accessible and stroller friendly.

Nearby Attractions: See First Nations art and totem poles or take a horse-drawn tour at Stanley Park!

>>> Discover tons of attractions for kids and parents, in Canada and globally, here.

5. Drive to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Get amazing views of the pristine Canadian landscape at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park! Families have been enjoying the park and crossing its namesake bridge since 1889. 

Basic Info: $62.95 adults/$24.95 kids under 12 – No strollers or wheelchairs permitted on bridges – Several food options

Nearby Attractions: There are lots of charming BnBs in the North Vancouver area if you want to stay close to the park.

Suspension Bridge in Vancouver
Suspension Bridge, Vancouver. Photo by @JeffreyEisen

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6. Relax in a Seaside Cottage

Cozy up with the kids at Tigh-Na-Mara. This charming seaside resort is one of British Columbia’s hidden gems, and you couldn’t ask for a more kid-friendly place to vacation. 

Basic Info: Suites start around $400 – Lots of dining options – Children’s playground

Nearby Attractions: Take a nature tour in the Pacific Rainforest or go sea kayaking as a family.

 

>>> Find tons of kid-friendly hotels and accommodations in Canada, here.

7. See Everything Hastings Park Has To Offer

Hastings Park is a fun urban park in Vancouver with tons of sports opportunities and its own amusement park!

Basic Info: FREE – Plenty of public restrooms – Dogs are welcome

Nearby Attractions: Plan to spend at least two days exploring Hastings Park if you want to see it all– visit the gardens and trails on one day and check out the Playland amusement park on the other.

Discover more places for your Family vacation to Vancouver BC

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8. Spend a Day Exploring Grouse Mountain

Beautiful Grouse Mountain is only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver but feels like a world away. Enjoy nature trails, ziplines, Skyliner rides, skiing, and so much more.

Basic Info: Family pass (2A 2C) is $179 – Lots of food options – Stroller friendly

Nearby Attractions: If you want some truly unmatchable views, take a helicopter tour of Grouse mountain.

9. Vacation in the Mountains

Cypress Mountain offers year-round family fun. Whether you’re skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, Cypress Mountain is the perfect alpine getaway… only 17 miles from downtown Vancouver!

Basic Info: Shuttle bus from Vancouver – Onsite dining – Access is priced per attraction

Nearby Attractions: You can’t miss the Eagle Coaster- it’s a mountain coaster ride where you control the speed!

10. Weekend in Parksville

Spend a beautiful beach weekend in Parksville! Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in this beautiful seaside town on the Pacific Ocean. Swim, play, and enjoy spending time with your loved ones in this family-friendly tourist destination.

Basic Info: Local lodging between $130-$400 a night – 15 unique parks and beaches – Locally-sourced food culture

Nearby Attractions: Enjoy the street market, sample local cheese, and make memories at Parksville beach, that will last forever

Family camping in Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville Photo by @ GregRosenke

11. Escape the City to Richmond for an Incredible Public Market

The largest night market in North America is held in Richmond, and it’s waiting for you and your family! Attracting visitors from all over the world, this incredible market is never the same twice. 

Basic Info: FREE – 1 block from public transportation – Open Friday-Sunday

Nearby Attractions: The Richmond Night Market is right next to the River Rock Casino Resort, which has a great hotel, and there are lots of cultural experiences in the Richmond area.

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