Vancouver
for Kids
With
its mile upon mile of sandy
beaches and sprawling green
parks, Vancouver is paradise for kids of all ages--and
anyone who's a kid at heart. Attractions, adventures, and
a calendar packed with lively festivals and colourful
celebrations add up to a city where the whole family can
kick back, relax and have fun.
Take
a Ride
Sail across the harbour, or soar above the city. Even
getting around Vancouver on public transit offers the fun
of a fairground ride--all for the price of a bus ticket.
SeaBus to North Vancouver (604.986.1501):
Seagulls dip and glade at eye level. Floatplanes take off
and land right in front of your nose. Departing every 15
to 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver this commuter
"cruise" via catamaran across Burrard Inlet
provides a fabulous view of the harbour, Stanley Park and
the Lions Gate Bridge. Mountains on the skyline make it a
marvelous photo op.
SkyTrain to New Westminster (604.521.0400):
Swooping past the glittering "golf ball" of
Science World, past back and gardens, these sleek red,
white and blue trains whisk travellers at 50 m.p.h. out to
the eastern suburbs. SkyTrains depart every 2 to 5
minutes. Visitors usually stop at Westminster Quay, a
28-minute ride from the city centre. And hey kids, you
know what's special about these trains? There's no driver.
It's all done by computer.
Granville
Island
(604.666.5784)
Developed in 1979 from what used to be an industrial
wasteland under the Granville Bridge, this island of
treasures is a must on any family's list. An easy journey
by car, bus, bike--or boat--from any part of the city,
Granville Island is a-buzz with activity. Take in live
free entertainment in the waterfront courtyard. Sample
freshly made fudge in the Public Market. Wander along
beside the houseboats, or chat with authentic fisherfolk.
These are just some of the things to enjoy.
Kids Only Market (604.689.8447): Not your usual
plastic, mass-produced stuff by a long shot. Instead this
colourful building is home to stores selling all kinds
offbeat, hand-crafted, and educational toys, many of them
locally made. Nifty junior-sized fashions too. And a
bonus--right outside, in the summer months, there's a
water park to splish-splash around in.
Aquabus (604.689.5858): Parking at this popular
spot can be a challenge on summer weekends. This is the
far-more-fun alternative. Every couple or three minutes,
cute little ferries buzz back and forth between Granville
Island and the south end of Hornby Street.
Kitsilano Beach
A beach full of soft gold sand is better than a toy chest.
And then there's beach-combing for shells or weird-looking
pebbles, writing your name in wet sand with a stick. Would
you believe it's all only ten minutes from the heart of
downtown Vancouver? "Kits" Beach is one of
Vancouver's favourite places to hang out. Little guys can
check out the playground. Logs on the beach, or park
benches provides a spot for Mom or Dad to relax. Teens can
join in a basketball game, play tennis on one of 10
courts, or strut their stuff with their peers.
P.S. Kits Beach is right next to Vanier Park. Take in
the attractions, then sack out for a while.
Kitsilano Pool (604.731.0011): This terrific
heated salt water pool with its wrap-around view of the
city and mountains is open through the summer. Teenies can
frolic in the shallows. Swimmers can plunge in the deep
end.
Stanley
Park
Vancouver's green heart is a magnificent 1000 acres,
almost all of it dense West Coast forest. Marked trails
let families roam through the "jungle." Giant
trees, beaches offer a closeup look at all kinds of boats.
A playground with vintage fire engine, a pool and water
slides make this one of the city's great escapes.
Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours (604.681.5115):
Step aboard an old-fashioned horse-drawn vehicle and
meander in comfort through the natural beauty of the
1000-acre park. A professional guide fully narrates the
tour, which highlights Deadman's Island, Vancouver's
Harbour, Lions Gate Bridge, a Coastal Red Cedar Forest and
includes stops at the Totem Poles, the Girl in a Wet Suit
Statue, the S.S. Empress of Japan Figurehead and the Rose
Gardens. This amazing one-hour tour departs from the Coal
Harbour parking lot beside the information booth on Park
Drive, east of the Rowing Club. No reservations required.
Vancouver Aquarium: This
underwater wonderland is home to a dizzying variety of
fish and aquatic mammals in natural habitats. Kids can
gape at the multi-coloured life inside a tide pool, and
marvel at deadly piranhas, scary insects, even a shark.
The whale pool is a must, especially around feeding time.
Underwater windows provide a rare close-up view of these
enormous but gentle creatures. An instant trip to faraway
places, the Amazon Gallery brings together exotic birds
and plants, then schedules a tropical thunderstorm.
For contact information go to British Columbia Family Attractions.
Also see Vancouver Marine Science Centre's New Wild Coast
Exhibit.
Children's Farmyard and Railway (604.257.8531):
Two treats in one. They can pet and pat farm animals, then
board a miniature train for a ride through the forest.
Magic
in Vanier Park
Just easy of Kits Beach and a hop, skip and a jump from
downtown or Granville Island are a whole slew of fabulous
places that whisk kids into the past--and into space.
Views are gorgeous from this beautiful green park which,
every May, plays host to the Vancouver Children's
Festival. By the way, if you wanna go fly a kite, this is
the place in town to do it.
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre:
A journey into space aboard a realistic virtual flight
simulator. Interactive exhibits in the Cosmic Courtyard.
Games, star shows, a chance to touch a real piece of the
moon brought back on a space mission--tomorrow's
scientists will be happy for hours. For Contact
Information go to British Columbia Family Attractions.
The Maritime Museum (604.257.8300): This
triangular glass structure was built around the historic
St. Roch, the first ever ship to sail the Inside Passage
across the top of Canada from west to east. Aboard, there
are bunks--"gee, Mom, how did they fit in something
that small"-- the Captain's quarters, and more to
see. Kids love to take a turn at the wheel and imagine
they're ploughing through arctic ice. P.S. Don't miss the
wonderful model ships--the museum has its own resident
ship-builder, the historic boats moored down at the
water's edge, or the nearby totem pole.
Vancouver Museum (604.736.4431): Sub-teens and
teens will be enthralled by the story behind Vancouver
then, and Vancouver now. Peer through windows into a
century-old home--and a world without TVs and microwaves.
Through souvenirs and artifacts, track the story of the
early explorers who started this city. A series of
glass-sided "mountains" reveals the many sides
of Vancouver--and an ancient mummy.
Cow's Vancouver (604.682.2622)
Ice cream, ice cream, who screams for ice cream? Located
at the corner of Robson and Jervis Streets in downtown
Vancouver, Cow's is a perfect break from a day of shopping
and sightseeing. With the aroma of their fresh, hand-made
waffle cones wafting in the air, it is hard to miss this
quaint ice cream boutique, which features more than 31
flavours. Cow's ice cream is hand-made the old-fashioned
way with all-natural ingredients.
Science World & OMNIMAX Theatre (604.268.6363)
The "golf ball" as it's affectionately called in
Vancouver looks like it's landed from another planet,
especially at night when Science World sparkles with
thousands of lights. Up close, the "chings,"
rattles and bells of a massive moving sculpture only hint
at all the fun to be found inside. Imagine blowing a soap
bubble as tall as you are. Or playing a giant piano with
your feet. Or freezing your shadow on a wall. And don't
miss the 3D and much larger-than life movies in the
Omnimax Theatre. For Contact Information go to British Columbia Family Attractions.
CN IMAX Theatre (604.682.IMAX)
This is like no movie they've ever seen. The screen alone
is as tall as a five-story building. Sitting up close with
a picture stretching w-a-a-ay above your head is a
fantastic experience. Climb mighty mountains, explore deep
space, the movie program changes often but always offers
jaw-dropping excitement.
Nat Bailey Stadium (604.872.5232)
Bring on the hot dogs and pop! Taking 'em out to the ball
game is a Vancouver tradition, and this has to be one of
the prettiest stadiums in the world. It's located next to
a playground and fields, with flowery Queen Elizabeth Park
and the mountains in the background. April through
October, catch a Canadians game, Vancouver's home team.
The Nat Bailey Stadium also hosts a farm team, the Anaheim
Angels.
Score Virtual Sports World (604.602.0513)
Go rock climbing, shoot basketball, play lacrosse, hockey
or football on the 12-sport circuit that's part virtual
sports, part real. And how about those big-screen
interactive video games, and mini roller hockey rink!
Cliffhanger Indoor Rock Climbing Centre
(604.874.2400)
Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Cliffhanger
Indoor Rock Climbing Centre - there is over 8,000 square
feet (2,438 metres) to climb over. With its 40-foot
ceiling, 60-foot overhand and spectacular views of
downtown and the North Shore mountains, Cliffhanger offers
a variety of courses for groups of all ages and abilities.
Vancouver Aquatic Centre (604.665.3424)
Fun and games whatever the weather, right by the beach,
minutes from downtown. Kids head for the 50-metre indoor
pool, or diving tank. There's a special pool for little
guys. Meanwhile Mom and Dad can bask in the sauna, and
whirlpool or flex their pecs in the fitness centre.
North
Vancouver
Fifteen minutes, by SeaBus or car, and you're into the
mountains where you'll discover the city's wilder side.
Lonsdale Quay (604.985.2191): Here's where the
SeaBus docks. Packed with intriguing stalls, stores and
restaurants, the bustling public market is wonderful fun
to explore. Put together a picnic lunch, sit outside, and
eyeball the passing ships. Summer time features a wealth
of festivals and street entertainers.
Grouse Mountain, The Peak of Vancouver
(604.984.0661): Up, up and away... For real adventure,
head for the city's favourite ski hill. Board the air
tram, and climb to 3700 feet. Marvel as the city grows
smaller and smaller--and the view gets bigger and bigger.
Up top, there's a playground, and tempting hiking trails.
Pack a picnic, or check out the restaurant. Grouse is a
must for seasonal good times. During summer nights,
applause rings out for Theatre in the Sky. Come winter,
this is a magnet for skiers, snowboarders, skaters, snow-shoers,
and those who like to sit back and enjoy a sleigh ride.
Capilano Suspension Bridge (604.985.7474):
Making your way across a suspension bridge that's 230 feet
high is a little bit scary, but a whole lot of fun.
Intriguing exhibits explain local history and forestry.
Totem poles stand as tall as the nearby trees. Watch
native carvers at work, or follow a tranquil nature park
trail into the unspoiled rain forest.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge & Park
(604.987.5922): Strung across a rocky canyon, this
narrow bridge is like something from an adventure movie.
The river rushes along 166 feet below--watch for kayakers.
Enough excitement? Check out the slide shows, displays and
tours offered at the ecology centre. Save enough time to
wander along the clearly marked trails that fan out
through this 617-acre park.
Capilano Salmon Hatchery (604.666.1790): Salmon
really do swim upstream--and a visit here at certain times
of the year proves it. Watching a full-grown fish leap a
foot or more at a time is a sight kids never forget. Tiny
newborn salmon swim in the pools. Exhibits depict the
salmon's dramatic life cycle.
Royal Hudson Steam Train (604.984.5426/688.7246):
All a-board! This is the only one left of the dozens of
trains that once steamed back and forth across Canada--and
a ride on the Royal Hudson is like a trip into the past.
June to September, it puffs its way along a spectacular
track. Steep cliffs on one side, a steep drop to the water
on the other. Cameras are a must.
Karen Magnussen Recreation Centre (604.987.7529):
Named after the famous Canadian skating star, this is the
place for aspiring champs to practice their spins and
turns. For extra fun, there's a wave pool.
Maplewood Farm (604.929.5610): It's a farm, it's
a park, and it's always a hit with kids. Here, they can
take a close-up look at 200 domestic farm animals and
birds, pet a bunny and pat a horse. The farm hosts special
events throughout the year. Spring is a favourite time.
That's when the baby animals are born. For Contact
Information go to British Columbia Family Attractions
Burnaby
Burnaby Village Museum (604.293.6500/293.6501):
History comes alive in this replica of a
turn-of-the-century village next to Deer Lake Park.
Favourites with small fry include the dentist's office, a
ride on the 1912 carousel, and a stop at the ice cream
parlour. Dressed in old-fashioned clothing, residents
welcome visitors into their world of the past.
Deer Lake Park (Boat rentals 604.667.BOAT, Theatre
604.291.6864): Cut loose on a sunny afternoon and let
them paddle their own canoe or pedal a pedal boat. Dance,
theatre and musical productions--both indoors and out--at
the James Cowan Theatre let visitors make a day of it.
Central Park (604.294.7450): Sometimes kids need
a place to burn off their energy. This 219-acre park has
space to spare, as well as pitch 'n putt, a large
playground, an outdoor pool and lots of trails.
PLAYDIUM-Metrotown (604.433.PLAY - 7529):
PLAYDIUM is Canada's first total physical and socially
interactive entertainment centre. With 40,000 square feet
(12,192 metres) of hyper-interactive games, Playdium's the
place to challenge your family and friends and meet new
rivals in more than 200 multi-sensory, mind-blowing
activities.
New
Westminster
Westminster Quay (604.520.3881): A scenic ride from
downtown Vancouver by SkyTrain brings families to
Westminster Quay on the Fraser River. Possibilities? Lots
of 'em! They can saunter around the public market, or
outside along the boardwalk--now's the time for an ice
cream cone. Take in local festivals and events. Board a
paddlewheeler for a voyage into the wilderness. Or explore
the only Russian submarine in North America.
Queen's Park (604.524.9796): A lot of
entertainment in one spot. The "Rainbow Playland"
includes a petting farm, spray pool and adventure
playground. Energetic types can get a kick out of ice
skating or the athletic complex. The arts centre and
theatre means fun for the whole family.
Canada Games Pool (604.526.4281): Major splash
time. Popular with locals and visitors, this complex
includes an Olympic-sized pool, waterslide, pool for
toddlers, water toys and a fitness centre.
Richmond
Minoru Aquatic Centre (604.278.3178): With its
indoor pools (25 and 30 metres) special warm pool for
tots, whirlpools, sauna and exercise room, this centre
just south of Vancouver is a major hit with families.
Richmond Nature Park (604.273.7015): A peat bog
sounds "yucky" to kids until they see the many
wonders it conceals. Plants, animals, birds and
butterflies, the trails through this wilderness park
provide a close-up view. A stroll around the pond reveals
turtles and ducks. Inside the Nature House are displays,
games--and live frogs and snakes.
Beyond
Vancouver
Want more fun? There's plenty within an hour's drive of
the city centre.
Greater Vancouver Zoological Centre - Aldergrove
(604.856.6825): Bears, elephants, bison, tigers...oh
my!--and dozens of other animals and birds. They all roam
freely through their 120-acre home just 30 miles east of
Vancouver. A picnic area, petting farm and play area make
it ideal for family excursions.
Trans Canada Water Slides - Bridal Falls, Hwy 1
(604.794.7455) : Water slides, pools, mini-golf,
arcade, kids' area, and a campground. A fun stop for
families travelling the Sea-to-Sky highway to Whistler.
Cultus Lake Water Park - Cultus Lake (604.858.7241):
Free fall towers, radical rapids, blasters, twisters and
the heart-stopping "Valley of Fear." Wading
pools for the little ones, volleyball, whirlpools, night
sliding and a picnic area. See ya there!
SplashDown Park - Tsawwassen (604.943.2251): A
ton of watery fun with its 13 slides, arcade, BBQ rentals,
volleyball, badminton, basketball--and all just three
minutes from the BC Ferries terminal.
Fort Langley National Historic Site (604.888.4424):
Once upon a time, back in the 1800s, this was a fur
trading post. Relive the history of the west at this
picturesque site that houses the oldest surviving building
in B.C. Demonstrations and exhibits of arts and crafts
too.
Sun Valley Trout Park (604.826.6471): It was
thi-i-i-s big! Most visitors to our part of the world like
to take in a little fishing. At this trout farm, a catch
is guaranteed.
Newton Wave Pool (604.501.5540): Surf's up! A
wave pool, water slides, whirlpool and lagoon set the
scene for a tropical family day.
Special
Events
Cloverdale Rodeo (604.576.9461): Bucking broncos,
real live cowboys. This authentic Western rodeo explodes
into rip-roaring action each year on the Victoria Day
Weekend. Agricultural displays, arts, crafts and live
performances are all part of the fun.
Hyack Festival (604.522.6894): It's a parade,
it's fireworks, a Fun Run, a fair, and more--and it all
takes place mid-May in New Westminster.
Pacific National Exhibition (604.299.9000, extension
3216): Spending a day at this old-time fair (which
runs late August through Labour Day) has been a city
tradition since 1910. With livestock shows, prize-winning
pigs, craft exhibits, entertainment, a "dream
home" and rides on the roller-coaster, a visit to
Vancouver isn't complete without a trip to the P.N.E.
Playland (604.253.2311): Open from April 9 to
October 11, this fun centre has more than 35 exciting
rides, including the thrilling Roller Coaster, the
roundabout Ferris Wheel and the Wild Wasserbahn. For kids
of all ages, Playland also features various entertainment
attractions, a petting zoo, mini golf and live
entertainment.
Vancouver International Children's Festival
(604.280.4444, TicketMaster): Each May, in waterfront
Vanier Park, story-tellers, mimes, clowns, jugglers and
musicians of all stripes gather together to entertain kids
of all ages. A special program for teens was launched in
1998.
Vancouver Folk Music Festival (604.280.4444,
TicketMaster): For a mellow couple of days in
mid-July, Jericho Beach Park becomes home to musicians and
singers from all over the world. Face-painting, crafts,
and special musical programs for kids, even wee ones will
have a blast at this upbeat beachside event.
Good Contacts and Useful Information Kids'
Guide to Vancouver: Pick-up a copy of this
comprehensive brochure, which includes a handy map, at the
Vancouver Tourist Info Centre.
Kids Included (604.803.3337): While Mom and Dad
attend to their business or pleasure, Kids Included
provides childcare for children 3 to 12 years, featuring
unique programs, adventures and excursions.
kid friendly! British Columbia (604.625.6063): A
non-profit organization with the mandate to build
awareness of communities that are welcome, safe and
friendly for families and their children while visiting a
city. They annually review and accredit businesses and
services offering programs for kids and families.
