Did you know more than 10 million tourists visited Vancouver in 2017? The city attracts many local and international tourists. It has beautiful scenery, a unique itinerary, and the best kid-friendly hotels in Vancouver, BC.
A Vancouver vacation budget is within reach; you don’t have to break the bank. Hotels in Vancouver are affordable and have great customer service.
You can glam your weekend with a family trip to Vancouver. Your family will have fun and create unforgettable memories. Here is a list of fun activities to explore.
1. Visit Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a public park surrounded by water. It has walking trails and plenty of outdoor activities for families to explore. You can go swimming, running, or cycling.
Visitors enjoy the views at Prospect Point, walk through the forest or along the beach. You can watch the seaplanes take off and land in Coal Harbour. There is also the Totem Pole Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the Tlingit First Nations People.
Stanley Park in Vancouver is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. It offers a great view of the city. You can also visit an amazing rose garden at the park for free.
2. Explore Science World at Telus World of Science
Science World at Telus World of Science has dynamic hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and engaging educational programs.
They are designed to excite and intrigue visitors with the wonders of science. If your kids love science, this would be an ideal destination.
3. Relax on Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Vancouver. The beach neighborhood offers many activities for kids and adults.
The beach is surrounded by forest trails, restaurants, and the best kid-friendly hotels in Vancouver, BC. You can enjoy the view of Stanley Park from Kitsilano Beach or hike around Point Grey Cliffs.
Kitsilano Beach is well known for its calm waters and sandy shores. There is also a very wide boardwalk that runs along the length of the beach.
4. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium was founded in 1956. It has since become a major educational and research organization. The aquarium is on a man-made island in Stanley Park.
It can be accessed by water taxi or by walking over the Second Narrows Bridge. You can also take a BC Ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver.
There are over 50 exhibits representing animals from six continents and four oceans. This includes beluga whales, Mexican wolves, and jellyfish.
5. Take a Walk at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is an iconic piece of Canadian history, built in 1889. It was initially planned to be a railway bridge. The railway never came to be, and the bridge is still standing today.
The bridge spans 137 meters over the Capilano River in North Vancouver, BC. It is made up of 450 meters of wire rope and has 450 cedar decking planks.
It’s located in beautiful surroundings with an amazing view of the river, forest, and mountains.
6. Explore the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum has been around since 1974. It’s one of the museums in Vancouver that preserve and celebrate the history of long-distance travel. It also promotes a culture of safety in the industry.
Recent exhibitions include a project on the maritime history of Hong Kong and a collection of lighthouses from all over the world.
There are over 3,000 exhibits in 50 galleries. They cover the history of sailing vessels and navigation and Canada’s marine heritage.
7. Visit Granville Island
Granville Island is 2 km away from downtown Vancouver. It has a different vibe from the town. Granville Island has a beautiful little market.
You can get all sorts of things like fresh produce and accessories.
There are various foods to try, from organic juices to fresh sushi. This is a great place for lunch or dinner on a sunny day.
8. Vandusen Botanical Gardens
Vancouver’s botanical garden is located in the West End. The garden is open year-round, and admission is free. It has over 15,000 different plants and trees from around the world.
There are three main seasons to visit: spring (March to May), summer (June to August), and fall (September to November). Spring is a great time to visit. There are events such as art festivals, food fests, film shoots, and flower shows.
9. Hike Up Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is the southernmost mountain in the North Shore Mountains. It is visible from downtown Vancouver. The peak of Grouse Mountain can be seen from as far away as Victoria on sunny days.
As one of the highest peaks in the city, it provides a stunning view of downtown Vancouver. It’s one of the most challenging hikes, with a steep incline. It’s more ideal for a family with teenage children.
10. Go Whale Watching and Enjoy Breakfast With the Bears
The best time of year to see whales on the West Coast is February through May. September and October are also great times.
The whales are observed from land or on a boat, depending on your preference and budget. Smaller boats get up close to the whales. They are quieter and less disruptive.
You enjoy the view of different whale species like the humpback whale, fin whale, orca, minke whale, and blue whale.
Vancouver’s Stanley Park is home to black bears. The bears live in the park peacefully and co-exist with humans. The best time to see them is early morning.
The Wildlife Rescue Association of BC has rescued bears. This includes a rescued grizzly bear named He-Bear. You’ll also get to interact with local First Nations representatives.
Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Vancouver, BC
A weekend is not enough to explore Vancouver. There is more to explore if you have the time. If you are planning a visit, you need the best kid-friendly hotels in Vancouver, BC.
Sunset Inn & Suites is the perfect place for your vacation, business trip, or extended stay. Each suite offers a kitchen, balcony, and dining area. There are more amenities to enjoy.
Contact us to book a king, standard, executive, or twin bedroom.