By Joshua Duvauchelle
Kids Activities in Vancouver
Vancouver is the largest city in the Canadian province of British Columbia, and the third most-populous city in
Canada. Fronting the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a vibrant nightlife, internationally flavored culinary landscape, exceptional shopping and stunning natural surroundings. Families with children will also discover a range of activities for kids both downtown and in the greater Vancouver area that will keep children entertained.
Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge
Ayhan Yildiz
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a regional landmark and is only 20 minutes from downtown. Take the kids for an adrenaline-inducing walk across the 450-foot bridge that soars 200 feet above the rushing Capilano River. Then, continue on to the Treetops Adventure footbridge system, a network of bridges hovering 100 feet in the air that winds through Vancouver's ancient forests. Return to the Story Centre for a child-friendly look at Vancouver's history. Additional child-friendly activities include guided eco-tours and re-enactments of the First Nations' culture.
Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park
3735 Capilano Road
North Vancouver, British Columbia V7R 4J1
Phone: 604-985-7474
Web: capbridge.com
Explore Vanier Park
Miguel Saavedra
Vanier Park is the hub of some of Vancouver's best family-friendly activities and attractions. It's great during the province's sunny summer months, when families can often be seen enjoying a picnic or flying kites. The park's three museums offer a variety of enthralling exhibits and activities. For example, the HR MacMillan Space Centre is sure to inspire your young astronauts. Your child will even be able to handle a genuine moon rock. Or, climb aboard a ship at the Maritime Museum. Finally, the Vancouver Museum offers exhibits more tailored for older children and teenagers.
Vanier Park
1100 Chestnut St.
Vancouver, British Columbia V6J
Phone: 604-257-8400
Web: greatervancouverparks.com
Discover the Vancouver Aquarium
Meral Akbulut
More than 70,000 aquatic animals will welcome you to the Vancouver Aquarium, a perennial favorite for local schools. Check out the black-light-lit jellyfish room, or watch divers feed sharks in the reef aquariums. Children will be amused by playful dolphins that perform regularly throughout the day. The beluga whales are also a hit among kids as the whales splash and play with their instructors. Afterward, explore Stanley Park outside of the aquarium. The park is one of the biggest in Vancouver, with more than 1,000 oceanfront acres, including public pools and waterslides, wide sidewalks that are great for rollerblading and lots of snack shops for young tummies.
Vancouver Aquarium
Stanley Park
Vancouver, British Columbia V6B 3X8
Phone: 604-659-3474
Web: vanaqua.org
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Patrice Dufour
