There's no shortage of things to do in Vancouver, and that's especially true if you're visiting Vancouver with kids. Vancouver offers plenty of family-friendly fun, from outdoor activities to indoor attractions geared towards children.
1. Stanley Park
Jutting out into the water from downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park is easy to access and offers a wide range of activities for families. From kiddie driving lessons to a children's farmyard to just enjoying the tremendous natural surroundings, Stanley Park is a great way to spend time in Vancouver.2. Take Aquabus to Granville Island
Granville Island is a success story of urban planning. Once a run-down industrial park, Granville Island is now a happening place that features a children's market, public market, an art school, shops, restaurants, theatres, galleries, a hotel, and more.Don't miss getting there or back or both by the colourful and inexpensive Granville Aquabus that will pick up and drop off visitors at various locations, including Yaletown and Science World.
3. Grouse Mountain
Whether you and your family want to do the grueling Grouse Grind and hike up the mountain (be sure to check details of climb for it s not called the Grind for nothing!) or take the more leisurely Skyride, you will be rewarded with a spectactular view of Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean.4. Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is more than just a bridge; there's a whole park packed with adventure, history and culture for families to enjoy -- and just 20 minutes outside of downtown Vancouver.Built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 450 feet (137m) across and 230 feet (70m) above Capilano River. The park offers guided nature tours, the Kids' Rainforest Explorer program and Living Forest exhibit.
5. Vancouver Aquarium
Kids will love the Vancouver Aquarium's shows that go on throughout the day (schedule will be posted at entrance daily), including sea otter feeds, beluga whale shows and various educational talks that are included in admission.Educating the public about marine life is a big part of the aquarium's mission and profits from the Vancouver Aquarium go toward conserving aquatic life.
6. Science World at Telus World of Science
Science World offers incredible exhibits, interactive science demonstrations and other cool stuff that will make your kids say "Wow!" They'll be having too much fun to know that they're learning.Science World also has an OMNIMAX Theatre with movies that teach us about the world us around us, putting us right in the heart of the action.
7. Storyeum
Bigger than 6 professional hockey rinks, Storyeum is like a living museum below the streets of Vancouver's Gastown. Storyeum offers up a live, interactive, educational, re-creation of British Columbia's history through special effects, actors and actresses in a 65 minute show as well as temporary kid-themed exhibits.8. Ride the Big Bus
What better way to explore Vancouver with kids than on the Big Bus -- an open (in good weather) vintage double-decker. Hop on and off throughout the day to see all of Vancouver's top attractions.9. Visit a White Spot Restaurant
Why is a fast-food restaurant on our list of things to do with kids? White Spot restaurants are somewhat of a provincial treasure in BC and very kid-friendly. Since 1928, White Spot restaurants have been serving up their patented and outrageously delicious Triple "O" Burgers and fresh cut fries (what fast-food restaurants still serve fresh cut fries?). Today, the menu has expanded to include salads, AAA steaks, BC chicken, pastas and stir-fries.10. Water, Water Everywhere
Vancouver is surrounded by water, so why not take advantage of it. Enjoy one of the half-dozen beaches or the giant outdoor pools at Second Beach in downtown Stanley Park or at Kitsilano Beach just a few minutes car ride away. Both offer the joy of swimming outdoors in heated ocean-fed pools that are safe for toddlers and adults alike.Your kids interested in water sports that are a little more challenging? Kayaking, windsurfing and rafting are all options as well.
