Family-Friendly Vancouver in 5 Days

  • Day 1: Stanley Park
    10 minutes (3.7km) from Downtown Vancouver

    Stanley Park is a 400-hectare public park with various scenic spots and activities for everyone in the family. It is home to Vancouver Aquarium, totem poles, and beautiful gardens. You can rent bikes to explore the seawall or visit one of its beaches.

  • Day 2: Granville Island
    15 minutes (5.5km) from Stanley Park

    Granville Island offers an excellent opportunity to visit a public market, shop for artisan crafts, and enjoy the local art scene. You can take a water taxi or rent a boat to see the city from a different angle. It also offers some of the best street food vendors.

  • Day 3: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
    25 minutes (12km) from Granville Island

    The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-visit location in Vancouver for nature lovers. Experience walking through the treetops and the thrill of crossing a 140-meter-long and 70-meter-high suspension bridge. Take one of the guided tours to understand the history and see the wildlife.

  • Day 4: Science World
    15 minutes (8.2km) from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

    Science World is perfect for families with children. It offers various interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage children with science and technology. Be sure to check out the OMNIMAX theatre to enjoy the latest IMAX films on the massive five-story screen.

  • Day 5: Grouse Mountain
    30 minutes (16km) from Science World

    Grouse Mountain is a family-friendly destination that offers outdoor activities for the whole family in winter or summer. During summer, visit the resident grizzly bears, take a scenic chairlift ride, and hike one of its trails. In winter, ski or snowboard and enjoy the light show.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Stanley Park (4 hours, Free)
  • Granville Island (2 hours, $25 for a family of four)
  • Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (3 hours, $120 for a family of four)
  • Science World (3 hours, $75 for a family of four)
  • Grouse Mountain (4 hours, $200 for a family of four)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $420

Transportation

You can use the public transportation system (buses, trains, and ferries) in Vancouver to explore the city. A family day pass for two adults and up to four children costs $13.50. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available for a more comfortable ride with costs depending on the distance.

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, visit Lynn Canyon Park for a similar experience to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, but for free. You can also visit Vancouver Art Gallery, Museum of Anthropology or Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. If you have less time, you can skip Grouse Mountain and Science World.

Airports

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is located around 12 km from Vancouver's city center. You can get to the city using taxis, ride-sharing apps or public transit for about $10 and less than 30 minutes.

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