9 Best Things to Do in Vancouver for Families

Are you ready to find the hidden spots and beautiful views of a top Canadian spot? Vancouver is more than a city. It’s full of lively areas, amazing nature, and rich culture. Every year, 8 million people visit Stanley Park, showing how much fun you can have here.

This guide will show you the 9 Best Things to Do in Vancouver. You’ll enjoy local food and artistic scenes. You won’t miss out on the city’s best parts. From famous parks to special markets, get ready to explore Vancouver’s unique side.

Key Takeaways

• Stanley Park attracts 8 million visitors each year, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the city.
• Granville Island is a vibrant hub with a public market offering diverse cuisines, open daily.
• The Capilano Suspension Bridge, spanning 450 feet, offers breathtaking views 230 feet above the ground.
• Whale watching tours have a 90% sighting chance from April to October, making it a unique adventure.
• Vancouver Aquarium is home to over 65,000 marine animals, enriching your understanding of aquatic life.

Explore Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a top spot in Vancouver, covering about 1,000 acres. It’s a green oasis in the city. You can walk or bike a 10-kilometer seawall loop that shows off the city, the Lions Gate Bridge, and mountains.

Along the way, you’ll see Totem Poles, a big beach with a playground, and a calm beach.

Stanley Park has many trails for nature lovers. These trails are filled with old trees, like the famous Hollow Tree. You can also visit the Vancouver Aquarium to see sea otters and sea turtles.

The Miniature Train is great for families, running all year. For a meal in nature, try the Teahouse at Third Beach. They serve everything from smoked salmon to burgers.

Visit Granville Island

Granville Island is a lively spot that draws over 10 million visitors yearly. It’s a top spot for those wanting to see what Vancouver has to offer. The island sits by the beautiful waters of False Creek, giving you lovely views and a peaceful feel. The Granville Island Public Market is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day. It has over 50 food vendors, making it a great place for food lovers.

As you walk through the market, you’ll find all sorts of gourmet foods and handmade goods. There’s a special food tour at the market for $112 CAD. A pro chef will tell you about the market’s history and the people who run the stalls. For $185 CAD, you can join a food and wine tour. It includes tasty samples from various vendors.

Granville Island isn’t just about food. It has over 100 galleries and art studios for art fans. You’ll also find street performers in five spots on the Island

If you like dining outdoors, check out Bridges and Dockside. They have patios with views of the Burrard Inlet. Every meal there is a feast for the eyes. You could easily spend a whole day here, enjoying all the unique foods and treats.

Discover the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

In the heart of Chinatown, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a gem. It was built in 1986 by 53 master craftsmen from China. They used 950 crates of traditional materials to make a peaceful spot in the busy city. The garden shows off 14th-century building skills, without glue, screws, or power tools.

The garden is a peaceful place with paths, ponds, and lots of plants. It invites you to take your time and look around. Learning about its cultural importance makes your visit even better. You can join guided tours to learn more about Chinese gardens and enjoy traditional Chinese tea.

There are many places to visit in the garden. The Hall of One Hundred Rivers & Courtyard is great for big events, fitting up to 200 guests. For smaller groups, the Scholar’s Study & Courtyard is ideal, fitting 20 guests. The China Maple Hall can host up to 80 guests for theater-style events. This makes the garden perfect for both relaxing visits and special events.

Experience the Capilano Suspension Bridge

A breathtaking view of the Capilano 

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is thrilling. It’s 450 feet long and 230 feet high over the Capilano River. Since 1889, it has been a hit with those who love adventure and nature. You’ll see beautiful forests and the river from above as you walk.

This place is full of adventure in Vancouver. The Treetops Adventure has seven mini bridges among tall trees, 110 feet up. The Cliffwalk is a special walkway on a cliff, giving you amazing views.

• The park gets busy after noon, so come early to avoid crowds.
• Buy your tickets online to skip the long lines.
• Free ponchos are given out if it rains, so you won’t get wet.

At the Cliff House restaurant, you can enjoy tasty meals. Try the Two Rivers Beef Burger or a fresh kale salad with fruits. Don’t forget to try Beaver Balls, a unique Canadian snack.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is great for a day of fun and stunning views. It’s full of Things to Do in Vancouver.

A Culinary Journey through Gastown

Gastown is a lively area with a rich history and modern vibe. It’s perfect for food lovers, especially those who love seafood. You can try amazing seafood at top restaurants in Vancouver.

Sample Award-Winning Seafood Restaurants

Try tasty dishes at places like Sandbar, known for its fresh seafood platter. These spots offer unique tastes that celebrate the area’s sea heritage. The food and atmosphere make eating out a treat for your senses.

It’s a great way to dive into Vancouver’s culture. Don’t forget to see the famous Gastown Steam Clock while you’re there.

Discover Trendy Fashion Shops and Boutiques

After eating, check out Gastown’s shops for trendy clothes and accessories. You’ll find unique items that show off local talent. It’s a great way to bring a piece of Vancouver home with you.

Restaurant Name	Cuisine Type	Signature Dish
Sandbar	Seafood	Chilled Seafood Platter
Heirs Pears	Gluten-Free	Various Gluten-Free Options
Nuba	Lebanese	Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

Your trip to Gastown will be memorable. You’ll enjoy great food and unique shopping. It’s a perfect mix of dining and shopping with an artistic touch.

Relax at English Bay Beach

English Bay Beach is a favorite spot in Vancouver for both locals and visitors. It’s great for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, and having picnics. You can get there via the Stanley Park Seawall, which is perfect for walking and biking.

The beach is open all day, every day, and it’s free. You can enjoy the sun without paying. In summer, from late June to early September, it gets really busy. People come to swim and enjoy the outdoors.

Vancouver Coastal Health checks the water quality here every week. It’s safe for swimming most of the time. Swim Drink Fish also watches the water, making it even safer.

There’s more to do than just relax. You can go kayaking and see the city skyline or the mountains. The beach has big events like the Fireworks Festival and the Polar Bear Swim on New Year’s Day.

English Bay Beach is a top spot in Vancouver. It has fun activities, beautiful views, and cultural events. Whether you want to sunbathe or try water sports like kiteboarding, it’s a great place to spend the day. Fishing is also popular here, thanks to its location near the ocean.

Engage with Nature at the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is in Stanley Park’s heart. It’s Canada’s biggest, with over 70,000 animals in 30 exhibits. You’ll see over 9,500,000 liters of water in 166 displays. It’s perfect for those who love marine life in Vancouver.

Here, you can touch sea otters, sea lions, and many other animals. It’s a fun way to learn about ocean conservation and protecting our waters.

The 4D Experience Theatre is a big hit. It comes with your ticket and takes you on a thrilling journey.

Every year, over 1 million people visit the Vancouver Aquarium. Tickets cost between $29.20 for kids and $46.20 for adults. There are discounts for seniors and students. Kids under 2 get in free, making it great for families.

Wearing masks is a must for those 12 and up if you can’t stay away from others. The aquarium is all about learning, safety, and connecting with marine life. It teaches us about ocean literacy and conservation.

Immerse Yourself in Culture at the Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery is a key cultural spot in the city. It has over 10,000 amazing works, from old masterpieces to modern art. You’ll see pieces by famous Canadian artists like Emily Carr, showing the area’s deep culture.

Every visit is special with its changing exhibits. The gallery is open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day. On the first Friday of each month, it stays open till 9 PM. Sundays are free for kids 12 and under, making it great for families.

Guided tours help you learn more about the art. FUSE is a special event where art meets nightlife. It has performances and installations, making the gallery a must-see spot.

Vancouver’s art scene is full of life. Many galleries focus on new and famous artists. Monte Clark Gallery shows Canadian and international artists, showing Canada’s role in global art. Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery and Marion Scott Gallery celebrate Indigenous art and culture, adding to your visit.

Gallery Name	Focus	Notable Artists
Monte Clark Gallery	Canadian and International Artists	Various
Catriona Jeffries	Local Vancouver Artists	Brian Jungen, Geoffrey Farmer
Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery	Indigenous and Inuit Art	N/A
Marion Scott Gallery	Contemporary Inuit Art	N/A
Equinox Gallery	Emerging Canadian Artists	Angela Grossmann, Bobbie Burgers

The Vancouver Art Gallery is more than just a place to see art. It brings together local and global talent. Your visit will be both fun and memorable.

Learn About Indigenous Peoples at the Museum of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a key place to learn about Indigenous culture in Vancouver. It has many artifacts that tell the stories of Indigenous peoples. These include the Coast Salish groups like the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh). They have lived here for thousands of years.

There are over 52,000 Indigenous people in Metro Vancouver, making it the third-largest urban Indigenous population in Canada. This shows how vibrant and important their culture is.

The In a Different Light exhibit is a big highlight at the museum. It has over 110 historical Indigenous artworks. These pieces show the skill and importance of Indigenous culture.

The museum teaches us about Indigenous Peoples’ histories and experiences. It shows their deep spiritual and cultural ties to the land.

As you walk through the museum, enjoy the beautiful views around you. The museum is not just a cultural spot in Vancouver. It’s also a place for deep thought and learning about Indigenous peoples’ lasting legacy and history.

Conclusion

Vancouver is a place full of fun things to do for everyone. It’s great for food lovers, culture fans, and outdoor fans. You can enjoy the big Stanley Park with its many activities. Or walk along the 6.2-mile Seawall, the longest waterfront path.

Don’t miss the Capilano Suspension Bridge, high up in the trees with stunning views. Or try tasty food in Gastown and see art at the Vancouver Art Gallery. These places show off Vancouver’s special vibe and culture.

Make sure to see all the main spots to make your trip unforgettable. Vancouver has lots to offer, so you’re sure to find something you love. Get ready for an amazing time in Vancouver, where every moment is special.

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FAQ

What are the top things to do in Vancouver?

Top Things to Do in Vancouver include exploring Stanley Park and visiting Granville Island. You can also experience the Capilano Suspension Bridge and check out the Vancouver Aquarium. Each place offers unique experiences that show the city’s beauty and charm.

How can I experience Vancouver’s culinary scene?

To experience Vancouver’s culinary scene, visit Granville Island Public Market for gourmet foods and fresh produce. Try seafood in Gastown’s award-winning restaurants. Enjoy dining by the waterfront that highlights local flavors.

What is Stanley Park known for?

Stanley Park is famous for its stunning natural beauty. It has a scenic Seawall, lush gardens, and trails for walking and cycling. You can also find the Vancouver Aquarium and Totem Poles at Brockton Point there.

Where can I learn about Indigenous culture in Vancouver?

Learn about Indigenous culture at the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia. It has a big collection of artifacts and artworks. It shows the rich history of the Indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast.

Is there a place to relax by the beach in Vancouver?

Yes! English Bay Beach has a beautiful stretch of sand for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and picnics. It’s in the center and has cafes and shops for water activities nearby.

What activities can I do at the Vancouver Aquarium?

At the Vancouver Aquarium, you can meet over 65,000 marine animals. You can also watch live shows and explore interactive exhibits. It teaches about ocean conservation and marine life.

What are some cultural experiences in Vancouver?

Cultural experiences in Vancouver include seeing contemporary art at the Vancouver Art Gallery. You can also visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. And don’t miss local arts and cultural events around the city.