Family fun things to do in Vancouver

Science World

Photo by Anastassia Parfenova (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018)

There is so much to see and do at Science World. From watching a movie on the world’s largest dome theatre screen, explore DNA, genetics, experiment with water, light, sound, participate in research projects with experts, get to know the natural environment and so much more.

Take a mini Vancouver cruise with the Aquabus

Photo by Yoonjong Choi (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018)

This colourful vessel will show you spectacular views of False Creek and the city with its 13 stops to Granville Island. Routes are wheelchair, bicycle, pet and stroller friendly. No reservations are needed. Service is from 7 am – 10:30 pm (9:30 pm winter) daily, year round.

Theatre at the beach

Watching Shakespearean theatre on the Vancouver waterfront with family is one fine way to spend a summer day. Bard on the Beach has a variety of shows from Shakespeare plays, related dramas, and many special events in two performance tents from June through September.

Explore the galaxy

Photo by Caillie Gauthier-Gregory (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018)

Get to know the wonders of space and experience Vancouver’s only planetarium star theatre. Feel part of planets, meteor showers, nebulas, black holes, galaxies, and more in the astronomical universe. Visit galleries, lift a real meteorite, touch one of the only five touchable moon rocks in the entire world which is nearly 3.75 billion years old.

Granville Island

Photo by Ryan Watts (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018)

Take the Aquabus to Granville Island where kids can visit the Kids Market. The shop hosts over 25 shops, services, and activities for children and families. Virtual rides, bumper cars, an indoor multi level play area and an arcade allow for endless fun. There is also room for shopping for toys, dance wear, candy and grab a bite to eat in the market while you are at it. The market is open 10 a.m to 6 p.m everyday. Granville Island is also home to the largest free water park in North America. Grab some fresh food from the public market and go on a picnic to cool off with water slides and sprinklers.

Paul Joseph (Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Kitsilano Beach

Photo by Margarita G.

Home to Canada’s longest pool, enjoy a swim at the Kitsilano beach hotspot while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is Vancouver’s only heated saltwater pool and faces out onto English Bay. Watch incredible views of the ocean, the mountains, Kits Beach, and the skyline of Vancouver’s West End.

Address: 2305 Cornwall Avenue

Vancouver Maritime Museum

Learn about Canada’s Maritime history and explore exhibits such as extensive galleries of model ships, outdoor displays include the NASA undersea research vessel, and workshops for visitors of all ages to watch craftsmen build models. Other activities include learning about early fur trade, pirates, shipwrecks, lighthouses, fireboats, Vancouver warships, deep-ocean exploration, and so much more.

Lonsdale Quay

Photo by Cody Zimmerman (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018)

Check out 80 specialty shops and services while enjoying Vancouver’s best north shore view at Lonsdale Quay Market and Shops. There is something for the entire family to enjoy from fresh food vendors, local products and designers, international food cafeteria, kids area, and even a boutique hotel.

Maplewood Farm

One of North Vancouver’s most loved animal attractions is farm fun for the entire family. Visit donkeys, sheep, cows, pigs, horses, and more as the farm is home to to approximately 200 domestic farm animals and birds. Get hands on with a milking demonstration or feed the chickens, ducks, and bunnies or go for a pony ride.