50 Family-Friendly Activities in Vancouver, BC

Vancouver is packed with activities that cater to all ages, making it the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, interactive museums, or seasonal festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here are 50 family-friendly activities in Vancouver that offer fun, exploration, and a little learning along the way.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Explore Stanley Park – Walk or bike the famous Seawall, visit the Totem Poles, and stop by Lost Lagoon to spot wildlife.
2. Ride the Stanley Park Miniature Train – A must-do for young kids, the train offers themed rides throughout the year.
3. Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – Cross the famous suspension bridge, explore the Treetops Adventure, and take in the stunning views.
4. Meet the Raptors at Capilano – Learn about birds of prey at Raptors Ridge, where hawks, owls, and falcons make an appearance.
5. Complete Echo Eagle’s Eggsploration – A fun, interactive scavenger hunt during Spring Break at Capilano.
6. Play at Queen Elizabeth Park – Enjoy the open green space, gardens, and fountains, or stop by the playground.
7. Hike Quarry Rock – A family-friendly hike in Deep Cove with rewarding ocean views at the top.
8. Walk the Lighthouse Park Trails – Easy coastal trails with some of the best viewpoints in Metro Vancouver.
9. Explore Grouse Mountain – Take the Skyride, meet the resident owls, and enjoy year-round activities.
10. Visit VanDusen Botanical Garden – Walk through themed gardens and enjoy the beauty of Vancouver’s lush greenery.

Waterfront Fun & Beaches

11. Build sandcastles at Jericho Beach – A quieter, family-friendly alternative to Kits Beach.
12. Kayak or paddleboard in Deep Cove – Rent gear and paddle along the calm waters of Indian Arm.
13. Explore Granville Island Kids Market – A dedicated space filled with toys, books, and activities for children.
14. Watch the floatplanes at Canada Place – A fun (and free) way to watch planes take off over the harbour.
15. Stroll along the White Rock Pier – One of the longest piers in Canada, perfect for a relaxing walk.
16. Take the Aquabus to Granville Island – A fun, short boat ride across False Creek.
17. Discover the Shipyards District in North Vancouver – Walk the waterfront, play at the splash park, and grab a treat at a local café.
18. Swim at Second Beach Pool – An outdoor, heated pool right next to Stanley Park.
19. Go whale watching – Join a tour and see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife.
20. Visit the Richmond Nature Park – Walk through marshland trails and learn about local ecosystems.

Museums & Interactive Learning

21. Explore Science World – Hands-on exhibits, an OMNIMAX theatre, and rotating science-themed displays.
22. Visit the Museum of Anthropology – Learn about Indigenous cultures and history.
23. Tour the Fraser River Discovery Centre – Learn about the role of the Fraser River in BC’s history.
24. Step back in time at Burnaby Village Museum – A recreated 1920s village with costumed interpreters.
25. Visit the Beaty Biodiversity Museum – Home to a massive blue whale skeleton and other fascinating exhibits.
26. Learn about aviation at the BC Aviation Museum – See real aircraft and interactive displays.
27. Explore the Britannia Mine Museum – Ride an underground mining train and pan for gold.
28. Check out the Vancouver Maritime Museum – Discover maritime history and explore a real ship.
29. Visit the Nitobe Memorial Garden – A peaceful Japanese garden at UBC, great for quiet family walks.
30. Explore the HR MacMillan Space Centre – Interactive space exhibits and planetarium shows.

Seasonal & Special Events

31. Experience Canyon Lights at Capilano – A dazzling winter display of lights throughout the park.
32. Celebrate Halloween at Canyon Frights – Spooky fun at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in October.
33. Attend the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival – Celebrate spring under thousands of blooming cherry trees.
34. Check out the PNE Fair – Summer fun with rides, games, and live entertainment.
35. Visit the Richmond Night Market – A lively market with food stalls and family-friendly entertainment.
36. See a Cirque du Soleil show – Vancouver often hosts Cirque performances throughout the year.
37. Go to a Vancouver Whitecaps soccer match – Family-friendly sporting fun at BC Place.
38. Experience Bright Nights in Stanley Park – A holiday train ride through a magical light display.
39. Enjoy the Invictus Games – A mix of adaptive winter and classic sports, taking place in 2025.
40. Attend Science World’s Fort Building Workshops – Fun hands-on activities for young kids.

Food & Treats

41. Eat your way through Granville Island Public Market – Sample local food from artisan vendors.
42. Get giant donuts at Lee’s Donuts – A local favourite inside Granville Island.
43. Try Japanese hot dogs at Japadog – A unique Vancouver street food experience.
44. Eat a famous sandwich from Vennies Sub Shop – One of the best hidden sandwich spots in the city.
45. Enjoy pizza at Pizzeria Barbarella – A fantastic, family-friendly pizzeria.
46. Get an ice cream cone at Rain or Shine – One of Vancouver’s best ice cream shops.
47. Try fish and chips at The Cliff House – A must-try meal at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
48. Get classic French pastries at Beaucoup Bakery – Delicious croissants and tarts.
49. Have brunch at OEB Breakfast Co. – A great family-friendly breakfast spot.
50. Enjoy comfort food at Burgoo – A cozy place for soups, stews, and grilled cheese.

Experience Vancouver with the Whole FamilyVancouver’s diverse mix of outdoor adventures, museums, seasonal events, and delicious food makes it a fantastic destination for families. Whether you’re exploring Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, riding the Stanley Park train, or indulging in a treat from Granville Island, there’s no shortage of ways to keep both kids and adults entertained.