Thanks to this British Columbian bastion of culture and the great outdoors, any family visiting Vancouver will be in for an amazing experience that won’t fail to excite and enthral in equal measures.
Whether you’re into exploring on land or at sea, this stretch of Canada is well-known for both its natural beauty as well as a magnificent array of wildlife and no trip is complete without watching whales or seals splashing above the surf.
Without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to just a few of the tried and tested locations for families to have fun in Vancouver and if you’re lucky enough to get a few quiet moments to yourself then checking out the coffee shops is obviously a must.
Stanley Park
There is simply nowhere better for families to visit on a sunny day in Vancouver than Stanley Park. Stretching for just over 1000 acres and providing an awesome array of green space and ocean views, this is where the locals come to play with beaches, play areas and forest nature trails all providing no end of things to do for visiting families. Great tip: picnics in the park are a great way to save some cash and an excellent option after a walk along the sea wall.
Vancouver Aquarium
Neatly nestled in Stanley Park is the city aquarium and although there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors during the summer, the aquarium presents a great alternative if it looks like clouding over. Boasting over 6000 species of marine creatures, including: whales, seals, penguins and dolphins, this is an awesome option for parents and kids alike with loads of interactive exhibits and shows to keep everyone happy and entertained.
Kitsilano Beach
If you happen to find yourself on a hot and humid summer day in Vancouver then heading over to Kitsilano beach is bound to cool matters off and provide plenty of good clean fun for the kids. As this is the home of Canada’s longest swimming pool as well as volleyball courts and a play park you’ll have no trouble getting your gang happy and active with some great views of the Burrard Inlet fjord giving you loads of fabulous photo backdrops.
Playland Amusement Park
As the oldest amusement park of its kind in the Canada, Playland presents as much a history tour as it does an entertaining afternoon and if you’re thinking that some rides maybe slightly rickety you needn’t worry as they tend to get replaced at the end of each season. Current attractions include: roller-coasters, water chutes and pirate ships however, with almost 30 rides to choose from you’ll be hard pushed to try them all but the kids are bound to be up for the challenge.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
If you’ve got a head for heights then the suspension bridge in Lynn Canyon Park is definitely worth checking out especially if you’re in charge of some mini-explorers. Situated some 160 feet above the canyon floor, the bridge provides an excellent means of not only continuing on a hiking trail but also getting you closer to the forest canopy and is a must visit in its own right.
Camping in the Canadian Rockies
If you’re feeling adventurous and hankering to get out of the city then the call of the Canadian Rockies will no doubt be resonating louder than a chiming bell and as the mountains are accessible by car, train and bus you’ll find no excuses not to follow your very own call of the wild. Guided tours are a great idea for learning more about the area however, if you’re brave enough then why not hire your own RV and spend a few nights camping and exploring amongst some of the finest peaks and national parks north of the border.
There’s a huge range of Canada tours available to families, small groups and individuals so no matter what your circumstances, enjoying a visit to Vancouver is an awesome option that will no doubt stay with you for years to come.