The outings I save for when I want a day with the kids to feel like a real memory, not just killing time. Organized by classic Vancouver magic, getting outside, after dark, and rainy day backups, with the little tips that make each one smoother. Tap ...
Sections
4
Classic Vancouver Magic
Get Outside Together
After Dark
Rainy Day Backup
Classic Vancouver Magic
A little train through the forest, decorated for every season. Cheap, quick and pure magic for small kids. Book ahead for the Halloween and Christmas runs, they sell out fast.
Stanley Park Miniature Train
Sea otters, jellies and a rainforest under one roof. The go to when you want a guaranteed win. A membership pays for itself in about three visits.
Vancouver Aquarium
Two floors of toy shops and an indoor play zone, with a free water park out front all summer. Pack a towel and let them loose.
Granville Island Kids Market
Hands on everything, with a whole zone built for under fives. Go right at open on a rainy day to beat the field trips.
Science World
A flying theatre ride that soars across the country with wind and mist. Short, wows every time, and easy to pair with a Canada Place stroll.
FlyOver Canada
Get Outside Together
The big wobbly bridge plus treetop and cliff walks. A splurge, but the free shuttle and all day pass make a full outing of it.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
A free suspension bridge and swimming holes in the rainforest. The local answer to Capilano when you want the thrill without the ticket.
Lynn Canyon Park
Gondola up to lumberjack shows, a grizzly habitat and huge views. Worth saving for a clear day, and kids ride the Skyride cheap.
Grouse Mountain
A warm domed jungle full of free flying parrots atop Queen Elizabeth Park. Tiny, cheap and perfect for a short attention span.
Bloedel Conservatory
A small working farm in North Van where kids feed goats and chase chickens. Old school, low key, and exactly the morning they remember.
Maplewood Farm
After Dark
Hundreds of food stalls, lights and rides on summer weekend nights. Go hungry, bring cash and cards, and expect a line that moves fast.
Richmond Night Market
Friday nights in North Van with food trucks, live music and the water right there. Free to wander and very stroller friendly.
Shipyards Night Market
Planetarium shows and telescope nights that feel like a real event. Check their evening astronomy nights for a proper after dark date.
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Free outdoor movies in parks all summer long. Pack a blanket and snacks and get there early for a good patch of grass.
Fresh Air Cinema
Rainy Day Backup
Short, kid sized live theatre on Granville Island. A lovely first play that will not test their patience.
Carousel Theatre for Young People
The rooftop garden and children's floor make a free rainy afternoon feel special. Underrated and right downtown.
Vancouver Central Library
A giant blue whale skeleton and drawers of specimens at UBC. Small, cheap, and a hit with every dinosaur and animal kid.
