4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Vancouver: Nature and City Experiences on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jam Cafe

Start your day at Jam Cafe, known for its big portions and creative brunch dishes; don't miss their famous French Toast.
Located just a short walk from downtown, 5 minutes via public transit if needed.
CAD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Stanley Park

Stroll or bike along the seawall of Stanley Park, appreciating the ocean views and beautiful scenery.
Take the bus to Stanley Park; the park entrances are well-marked.
CAD8 (bike rental), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish Shack

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Fish Shack, offering delicious fish tacos and local seafood.
Located a short drive or bus ride from Stanley Park.
CAD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Granville Island

Discover the vibrant public market and unique artisan shops at Granville Island, perfect for a family stroll.
Take the false creek ferry from downtown to Granville Island.
CAD10 (ferry fare), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

Immerse your family in marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium, located within Stanley Park.
You can walk back or take a bus from Granville Island.
CAD30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Walrus and the Carpenter

Wrap up your day with fresh oysters and Pacific Northwest cuisine at this laid-back eatery.
Easily accessible by bus from the aquarium.
CAD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hana Sushi

Eat a delicious traditional Japanese breakfast and sushi at Hana Sushi; breakfast rolls are a hit!
Located near the hotel, easily reached on foot.
CAD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Grouse Mountain Visit

Spend the morning at Grouse Mountain, where you can hike the Grouse Grind or enjoy scenic gondola rides.
Take the public bus directly to Grouse Mountain.
CAD40 (gondola ticket), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Grouse Mountain's Cafe

Have lunch at the café on the mountain, which offers great views and hearty meals.
Dining is available on the mountain itself.
CAD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Lynn Canyon Park

Head to Lynn Canyon Park for a nature hike, complete with walking trails and the famous suspension bridge.
Take a bus from Grouse Mountain to Lynn Canyon.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Vancouver

Return back to downtown Vancouver and unwind slightly.
Take the bus back to downtown.
CAD3, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sushi Itoga

Savor fresh and budget-friendly sushi at Sushi Itoga for a casual family meal.
A short walk from downtown.
CAD20, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Discoveries

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Table

Grab a homemade breakfast with local ingredients at The Breakfast Table.
Located within walking distance of downtown.
CAD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Science World

Explore the hands-on exhibits at Science World, which makes learning fun for all ages.
Take public transit straight to Science World.
CAD28, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat! Bistro

Enjoy comfort food with a twist at Eat! Bistro, well-known for their tasty sandwiches.
Walk from Science World to the café.
CAD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Walk the iconic suspension bridge with panoramic views of the forested canyon.
Take the bus from downtown to Capilano Park.
CAD54 (entry fee), 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Jericho Beach

Enjoy the sand and sun at Jericho Beach, where the kids can play and you can unwind.
Take a bus from Capilano to Jericho Beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nuba

Enjoy fresh and wholesome Lebanese dishes at Nuba, suitable for the entire family.
Take the bus back to downtown for dinner.
CAD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Final Fun Day

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Greenhouse

Indulge in healthy breakfast options made with fresh ingredients at The Greenhouse.
Walk over to the café from your accommodation.
CAD14, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Vancouver Art Gallery

Visit the contemporary and historical artwork displayed at the Vancouver Art Gallery, which offers free admission on Tuesdays.
A short walk from your breakfast location.
CAD25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Queen Elizabeth Park

Wander through the beautiful gardens of Queen Elizabeth Park and enjoy views of the city.
Take the bus or walk to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Farina

Have lunch at Pizzeria Farina, celebrated for its creamy burrata pizzas.
Located nearby Queen Elizabeth Park.
CAD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll around English Bay

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon walk along English Bay Beach, taking in the views of the ocean and mountains.
Buses are available for transfer to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Italio

Conclude your trip with classic pizza and pasta at Italio, a family-friendly restaurant.
Take the bus back to downtown for your final dinner.
CAD18, 1.5 hours
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