Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is the perfect destination for families wanting to get outdoors and also explore the big city scene. Vancouver is sure to entertain the oldest and youngest of tourists in the family with the expanse of activities the city has! So pack up the kiddos and check out these five reasons that Vancouver is a must-visit spot for any family!
Is Vancouver the perfect trip for families? Yes!
The Great Outdoors
On nearly every “to-do” list of those visiting Vancouver is Stanley Park. This sprawling green space is nestled in the heart of the city and had endless activities for the whole family. Stanley Park has not one, but four playgrounds, an outdoor pool, a waterpark and even two beaches! On-site you can also pay a visit to the world-famous Vancouver Aquarium, where you can see creatures straight out of the sea. Many families choose to snag a Seawall bike and hit the paths in order to get around this massive park. While riding the bike trails, the whole family can get a glimpse of the ocean and prevent the carrying of kiddos from too much walking!
Things to do indoors
Rainy days in Vancouver happen, but that doesn’t have to put an end to the family fun! Take the whole family and hop on the Aquabus, where you get off at Granville Island! Here you can grab lunch and, if the kids behave, do some shopping at the Kids Market. It’s exactly as it sounds, a market containing endless toys, a costume shop, hair salon and an arcade. If the family is into exhibits, head on over to one of Vancouver’s many museums. Pop into Science World or The Beaty Biodiversity Museum or the science lovers in the group. Have an airplane lover in the family? Cruise on over the Fly Over Canada, where the family can simulate flying together!
Great stuff to eat
Jam Café won’t disappoint the young or the young at heart. Serving up meals like Green eggs and Ham and Red Velvet Pancakes, will put a smile on everyone’s face! Dessert anyone? Stop by Bella Gelateria Yaletown for some award-winning gelato and, if you have room, a slice of the delicious Neapolitan pizza. If the kids are in need of some dinner entertainment, you can head down to Bells and Whistles, where you’ll find kid-friendly menus and games like Skee-Ball and Hoop Hero.
Perfect hotels to stay at (cough)
Traveling with a family isn’t the easiest, especially when trying to find the perfect accommodations for the whole crew. Located in downtown Vancouver is Sunset Inn &Suites, just walking distance from some of downtown Vancouver’s best attractions. The hotel is home to several suites that include spacious fully equipped kitchens and spacious rooms so the whole family can spread out! You can pack up the family and walk a quick 3 blocks from the hotel to enjoy a sunny beach day at the seawall promenade.
Great activities outside city limits
One of the biggest perks to visiting Vancouver is the jaw-dropping scenery that will leave the whole family in awe. Grab the kiddos and head up to Grouse Mountain, where you can take the Skiride to the top of the mountain and do some exploring. At the top you’ll find zipline activities, a wildlife refuge and even heli tours! If the snowy mountains aren’t your thing, head over to Maplewood Farm and experience the rural life at one of the last remaining farms in North Vancouver. Kids can learn and interact with various farm animals, getting an immersive hands-on animal experience!
