Ten Kid-Friendly Things to Do In Vancouver, BC
One of the best cities in Canada is Vancouver, especially if you’re a fan of the outdoors. Most of us at Hurricane Web Design were born here and live here. Not only that, but we discover new things to do and see there all the time, some of which are kid-friendly.
With that said, here are a few tips for a fun trip to the city with kids that our Vancouver SEO and web design clients and staff have recommended to us.
1. The Roundhouse
If you’re a fan of cheap things to do, then the Roundhouse is the place to go. It can be found in Yaletown, and it has a train museum as well as a local community center. The community center is an excellent place to visit because it beats being in downtown Vancouver when it’s raining, which it does a lot. If you’re interested, head down to the Roundhouse on any day if you want to experience an array of events. The exception is on Fridays and Sundays.
At the community center, there is a bouncy castle. The drop in is meant for kids between the ages of 6 months and 7-years-old. Afterward, head out to the surrounding area, where you’ll find no shortage of coffee shops.
2. Coal Harbour
If you go to Coal Harbour, you’ll have the chance to view the seaplanes that take-off and land in the harbour. This is the only city in Canada that has a seaplane airport smack down in the downtown area. Many families take their kids there to watch the planes and to have a picnic. We highly recommend you do the same.
3. The Vancouver Library
Young ones who love reading will appreciate a trip to the Vancouver Public Library. Trust us when we say the library is a must-visit, especially on a rainy day. The library is an excellent option to go to with at the very last minute when it starts to rain unexpectedly. The children’s section at the library is separated, and it is massive. Crayons are laid out, and there is a giant play area for the kids. It doesn’t matter how old your kids are; they will have more fun than you think at the Vancouver library.
The librarians are friendly, and they are extremely helpful. If you aren’t sure what you should do with your kids, then ask the librarians. They’ll be more than happy to provide you with recommendations. Depending on the time and day you arrive, your kids might be able to take part in a sing-along. Best of all, it is entirely free, and you can’t get any cheaper than that.
4. The Aquarium
We aren’t going to lie; the Vancouver Aquarium is not cheap. In fact, it is expensive, but it is worth every single penny. It is an interactive attraction and stroller friendly. You can quickly get to the aquarium from anywhere, especially the downtown area. Another way to get there is via Stanley Park. If you’re looking for a place you can spend an entire day at and a place your kids won’t get enough of, then the Vancouver Aquarium is it.
5. Stanley Park
In Stanley Park, you will find many attractions. For starters, you can take the train and enjoy a trip around the park. This is one of the most popular activities for guests to do. However, it’s a good idea to reserve a ride as early as possible. Depending on the time of year you go there, you might have an array of activities you can take part in, or there will be decorations all around the park. Here’s a tip, go there around Christmas time because the lights will leave you amazed and your kids will be left in awe.
6. Granville Island
A great day out can be had at Granville Island. Many tourists flock there for the food, which you will have to experience for yourself. Head over to one of the many restaurants on the island. The point of going to the island is to take a ride on the Aquabus, which are small boats that take you around the area. Once on the actual island, you can go to the massive outdoor park, where the kids can run around. The children’s theatre is a must-visit too.
Besides the above, you can bring the kids to watch a totem pole being created before their very eyes. If you don’t want to go to any of the restaurants, then head to the fish shack called GoFish. This is where the locals go, and they often get the fish tacos. The fish at this place is freshly caught on a regular basis, and they tend to stay open until their stock has been completely sold out, which happens fast. If you go there before 11:30, then you will be dining in 20 minutes. However, bring the meal outside and have a picnic somewhere because you will love the views of the surrounding area.
7. Yaletown
A great area of the city is the Yaletown area. In this area alone, there is no shortage of bakeries and coffeehouses you can go to. There is nothing like going out for a good cup of coffee and enjoying a pastry with it.
That being said, we highly recommend heading over to the Sicue Italian Bakery, which has a great owner and a great staff. The owner and staff are kid friendly, which cannot be said for many of the other coffee shops. As for the coffee itself, it’s terrific, and you will love it too. Furthermore, on the weekends the place serves brunch at an affordable price. We highly recommend getting the waffles if you make the trip to Scieu Italian Bakery.
8. Yaletown Brewery
On Main Street is where you’ll find the Yaletown Brewery. This is a restaurant with a relaxed environment, and the service is nothing short of impressive. On Sundays, you can pop in for a pizza and pint special. High chairs are all over the place, the kids’ menu is impressive, and staff gives kids a small play package once everyone is seated. If you love pizza and good tasting good, and you want to go to a kid-friendly place, the Yaletown Brewery is it.
9. Science World
Science World is a museum that is a place that’s good for all ages. The museum is interactive for people of all ages. It’s located right along the Sea Wall, so you can order a coffee and enjoy a stroll. Afterward, you can go to the museum, or you can take in the scenery by jumping aboard the Seabus. The best thing about this place is that kids as young as one love it. Not many museums can say kids that young love them. Also, there’s a baby area at Science World, so if you have a baby, make sure you bring them to this area.
10. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is a place you’ll want to go to regardless of if it’s winter or the summer. It is known for the Grouse Grind. In the winter, it is home to a ski hill and a skating rink. In the Summer, zip-lines can be found there, and you can go hiking. It does cost money to go up and down, but it is worth the price. We do recommend going in the summer, especially if your kids are incredibly active. You can reach the place via public transportation. Also, we recommend buying food while you’re there or you can pack a picnic.
