Vancouver Family Vacation

If you’re going on a Canada family holiday, you should include Vancouver in your itinerary. Vancouver offers endless opportunities for families with its stunning natural beauty, world-class cultural attractions, exciting outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine, making it a perfect destination for families seeking fun and adventure. You should go on a Vancouver family vacation for these reasons:

• Vancouver boasts stunning natural beauty with its beaches, parks, mountains, and forests, offering countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, and skiing.
• The city is home to many family-friendly attractions, including the Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, and the Stanley Park Miniature Train.
• Vancouver is a multicultural city with a vibrant arts and culture scene, providing endless opportunities for families to experience music, dance, theater, and festivals from different cultures.
• The city has a variety of delicious cuisines to offer, including fresh seafood, Asian fusion, and farm-to-table dining, catering to all tastes and budgets.
• Vancouver is a safe and clean city with excellent public transportation, making it easy and convenient for families to get around and explore.

Things to Do in Vancouver With Kids

Here are some fun things to do on a Vancouver family vacation:

• Visit Stanley Park, a 1,000-acre park that offers endless activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, and taking a ride on the Stanley Park Miniature Train.
• Explore Granville Island, a unique shopping and entertainment district with a bustling public market, street performers, art studios, and a water park.
• Discover Science World at Telus World of Science, an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, live science demonstrations, and a giant OMNIMAX theater.
• Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, a stunning park that features a suspension bridge, cliff walk, treetop adventure, and a beautiful rainforest canopy.
• Take a stroll through VanDusen Botanical Garden, a beautiful garden that features plants from around the world, a hedge maze, and a living labyrinth.
• Visit the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, a museum that showcases the culture and history of the First Nations people of British Columbia through art and artifacts.
• Explore Lynn Canyon Park, a beautiful park that features a suspension bridge, hiking trails, waterfalls, and a natural swimming pool.
• Go skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby ski resorts, such as Cypress Mountain or Grouse Mountain, during the winter months.

Where to Go on Your Vancouver Family Vacation

Here are some great places to go in Vancouver with kids:

• Stanley Park: A large urban park with many attractions, such as the Vancouver Aquarium, horse-drawn carriage rides, a children’s farmyard, and the famous seawall that offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.
• Granville Island: A popular destination for families, offering a public market, kid-friendly restaurants, a water park, and many shops and boutiques.
• Science World at Telus World of Science: A science museum with interactive exhibits, a large OMNIMAX theater, and live science shows that are sure to entertain and educate children of all ages.
• Vancouver Aquarium: Located in Stanley Park, the aquarium is home to over 50,000 animals, including sea otters, dolphins, beluga whales, and many species of fish and marine mammals.
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A park that offers a thrilling suspension bridge, a cliff walk, a treetop adventure, and a rainforest canopy, all of which are sure to excite children and adults alike.
• Lynn Canyon Park: A natural park with many hiking trails, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and a swimming pool, offering a fun and adventurous day out for the whole family.
• Grouse Mountain: A nearby ski resort that offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, and many other activities in the summer, such as ziplining, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
• Playland: A fun-filled amusement park that offers over 30 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a haunted house, and a mini-golf course.

Where to Stay in Vancouver With Kids

Here are some great areas to stay in Vancouver with kids:

• Downtown Vancouver: This area is ideal for families who want to be close to many of the city’s top attractions, such as Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium, and Science World. There are many hotels and vacation rentals available in this area to suit different budgets and preferences.
• Yaletown: This trendy neighborhood is known for its restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, and it’s just a short walk away from False Creek and the seawall. Many family-friendly hotels and apartments are available in this area.
• West End: This area is located just outside of Stanley Park and offers easy access to the park and its many attractions. There are many hotels and vacation rentals available in this area, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.
• Kitsilano: This neighborhood is located near several beaches and parks, making it a great choice for families who want to spend time outdoors. There are many vacation rentals and hotels available in this area, with many offering family-friendly amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.
• North Vancouver: This area is a great choice for families who want to be close to the mountains and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. Many vacation rentals and hotels are available in this area, and it’s just a short drive away from downtown Vancouver.

Here are some recommended family-friendly hotels in Vancouver, according to TripAdvisor:

Here are some family-friendly Vancouver hotels that are highly rated on TripAdvisor:

1. Fairmont Pacific Rim – Located in downtown Vancouver, this luxury hotel offers family-friendly amenities such as a rooftop pool, a children’s play area, and babysitting services.
2. Loden Hotel – This boutique hotel is located in the Coal Harbour neighborhood and offers spacious rooms and suites that are great for families. The hotel also offers amenities such as loaner bikes, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
3. The Burrard – This retro-style hotel is located in the heart of Vancouver. It offers family-friendly amenities such as a courtyard with lawn games, complimentary bikes, and a fitness center.
4. Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver – Located in the downtown area, this luxury hotel offers amenities such as a heated indoor pool, a fitness center, and a babysitting service.
5. Rosedale On Robson Suite Hotel – This all-suite hotel is located in the Yaletown neighborhood and offers spacious rooms and suites that are great for families. The hotel also offers amenities such as an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.

Where to Eat in Vancouver With Kids

Here are some great places to eat during your Vancouver family vacation:

• White Spot: This popular restaurant chain is known for its burgers, fries, and milkshakes, and it’s a favorite among families. There are several locations throughout the city.
• Burgoo: This cozy restaurant offers a variety of comfort food dishes, such as soups, stews, and macaroni and cheese, that are sure to please both parents and kids.
• The Old Spaghetti Factory: This family-friendly restaurant offers reasonably priced pasta dishes in a fun and casual atmosphere. There are several locations throughout the city.
• Cactus Club Cafe: This chain of restaurants offers a diverse menu with something for everyone, from burgers and sandwiches to sushi and tacos. Many locations have kid-friendly menus and coloring sheets to keep children entertained.
• The Flying Pig: This restaurant serves up delicious comfort food dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that’s great for families.
• Japadog: This food cart serves delicious hot dogs with a Japanese twist, such as the Terimayo, which is topped with teriyaki sauce and mayonnaise. It’s a fun and unique dining experience that kids are sure to love.
• Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co.: This pizza restaurant offers organic and healthy options and a variety of toppings that kids can choose from. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience, as kids can watch their pizzas being made in an open kitchen.
• Momo Sushi: This sushi restaurant offers a variety of sushi rolls and Japanese dishes at affordable prices. It’s a great place to introduce kids to sushi, as they have many kid-friendly options available.

What to Wear in Vancouver

What to wear on your Vancouver family vacation will depend on the season and the activities you have planned. Here are some general guidelines for each season:

Spring (March-May):

• Light layers are key as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Bring a waterproof jacket and shoes as rain is common.

Summer (June-August):

• Pack light clothing, such as t-shirts and shorts, as the weather is generally warm and sunny.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
• Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Fall (September-November):

• Bring a mix of light and heavier clothing as the weather can be cool and rainy.
• Pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.

Winter (December-February):

• Bring warm layers, such as a coat, sweaters, and boots, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
• Don’t forget gloves, a scarf, and a hat to stay warm.
• If you plan to participate in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, make sure to pack appropriate gear like waterproof pants and jackets, goggles, and helmets.

Regardless of the season, it’s always a good idea to bring comfortable shoes for walking, as Vancouver is a pedestrian-friendly city with many outdoor activities to enjoy.

When to Go on a Vancouver Family Vacation

The best time to visit Vancouver will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you have planned. Here is a breakdown of the seasons and what they offer:

Spring (March-May):

• This is a great time to visit for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
• The cherry blossoms also bloom during this time, making for a beautiful sightseeing experience.

Summer (June-August):

• This is the most popular time to visit Vancouver, as the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many festivals and events happening.
• It’s also a great time for outdoor activities like beach-going and kayaking.

Fall (September-November):

• This is a great time to visit for fall foliage, as the trees in Stanley Park and other areas of the city turn vibrant colors.
• It’s also a good time for foodies, as the city’s many restaurants offer seasonal menus featuring local ingredients.

Winter (December-February):

• This is a great time to visit for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, as there are several ski resorts located near Vancouver.
• The city also offers many indoor activities like museums and galleries, and there are several winter festivals and events to enjoy.

Overall, Vancouver is a great year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences and activities. However, if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall may be the best times to visit.

3-Day Vancouver Itinerary With Family

Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary for Vancouver that includes family-friendly activities:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.
• Afternoon: Head to Granville Island, where you can explore the public market and enjoy a variety of street performers and artists.
• Evening: Take a sunset dinner cruise around Vancouver Harbour and enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Stanley Park Seawall, a scenic path that circles the park and offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
• Afternoon: Check out the Vancouver Aquarium, which is home to over 50,000 animals, including dolphins, beluga whales, and sea otters.
• Evening: Visit the nearby English Bay Beach and take in the sunset while enjoying some beachside snacks.

Day 3:

• Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby Whistler ski resort and go zip lining or hiking, depending on the season.
• Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of First Nations art and artifacts.
• Evening: End your trip with a visit to the Capilano Salmon Hatchery, where you can see salmon returning to spawn and learn about their life cycle.

1-Week Vancouver Itinerary With Family

Here’s a suggested 1-week itinerary for a Vancouver family vacation:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start your trip by exploring the city’s downtown core, including Robson Street and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
• Afternoon: Head to the historic Gastown district and take a walking tour to learn about the city’s early days.
• Evening: Take in the views from the Vancouver Lookout, a 360-degree observation deck located downtown.

Day 2:

• Morning: Take a day trip to Grouse Mountain, where you can hike, zipline, or take a gondola to the top for breathtaking views.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and explore the treetop adventure walkways.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner at one of the many restaurants in North Vancouver.

Day 3:

• Morning: Explore Stanley Park, which offers miles of scenic walking and biking trails, as well as the Vancouver Aquarium.
• Afternoon: Visit Granville Island, which offers a public market and many street performers and artists.
• Evening: Enjoy some of the best seafood in the city at one of the restaurants in the False Creek area.

Day 4:

• Morning: Visit the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of First Nations art and artifacts.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll through the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park, which offers stunning gardens and panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Catch a show at one of the city’s many theaters, such as the Queen Elizabeth Theatre or the Orpheum.

Day 5:

• Morning: Visit the Science World at Telus World of Science, which offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.
• Afternoon: Explore the city’s Chinatown and visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.
• Evening: Take a sunset dinner cruise around Vancouver Harbour and enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline.

Day 6:

• Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Victoria on Vancouver Island, where you can explore the stunning Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby seaside town of White Rock and enjoy some beach time and local seafood.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the charming Steveston Village, which offers many seafood restaurants and picturesque views.

Day 7:

• Morning: Visit the nearby Whistler ski resort and go zip lining or hiking, depending on the season.
• Afternoon: Head back to Vancouver and visit the nearby Capilano Salmon Hatchery, where you can see salmon returning to spawn and learn about their life cycle.
• Evening: Take a walk along the seawall and enjoy the stunning views of the city lights reflecting on the water.

How to Get Around Vancouver

Vancouver has a variety of transportation options available, making it easy to get around the city:

1. Public Transit: Vancouver has an extensive public transit system that includes buses, the SkyTrain, and the SeaBus. The SkyTrain and SeaBus are efficient and fast ways to get around the city and connect to various neighborhoods.
2. Biking: Vancouver is a bike-friendly city with many bike lanes and paths throughout the city. You can rent bikes from various rental shops or use the city’s bike-share program, Mobi.
3. Walking: Vancouver is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions and neighborhoods are within walking distance of each other. The seawall, a scenic path that circles Stanley Park and downtown Vancouver, is a great option for a scenic walk.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Vancouver.
5. Car Rental: Rental cars are available in Vancouver, but be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in some areas.

Overall, public transit and biking are excellent options for getting around on your Vancouver family vacation, as they are affordable, eco-friendly, and efficient.

How Much to Travel to Vancouver

The cost of your Vancouver family vacation can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year you visit, the length of your stay, your accommodation choices, and your activities and dining preferences. However, here are some rough estimates of typical costs:

1. Accommodation: A budget hotel or hostel can cost around $80-120 CAD per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around $150-250 CAD per night. Luxury hotels can range from $300-500 CAD per night or more.
2. Transportation: A one-way fare on the SkyTrain or SeaBus costs around $3-5 CAD, while a day pass for unlimited transit use costs around $10 CAD. Taxi rides can range from $25-40 CAD, depending on the distance.
3. Food and Drink: Budget restaurants and cafes can cost around $10-20 CAD per meal, while mid-range restaurants can range from $20-40 CAD per meal. Fine dining restaurants can cost over $100 CAD per person. Alcoholic beverages can be expensive due to high taxes.
4. Activities and Attractions: Admission fees for museums, galleries, and attractions can range from $10-30 CAD per person. Outdoor activities like skiing or ziplining can cost over $100 CAD per person.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50-100 CAD per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend $100-200 CAD per day. A luxury traveler can expect to spend $300-500 CAD per day or more.