10-Day Family Friendly Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff, Summer 2025

Day 1: Explore Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jam Cafe

Start your day with a hearty family breakfast at Jam Cafe, known for their delicious pancakes and homey atmosphere.
Located in downtown, easily accessible via public transportation or car.
CAD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Stanley Park

Post breakfast, take a stroll or rent bikes to explore the scenic seawall and lush gardens of Stanley Park.
Head to Stanley Park, a 5-minute drive or 15 minutes by bike.
CAD0, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Granville Island Public Market

Grab lunch at the diverse Granville Island Public Market, where you can find fresh seafood, gourmet sandwiches, and local snacks.
15-minute drive from Stanley Park.
CAD75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Granville Island

Spend some time exploring the artisan shops and galleries on Granville Island, perfect for family-friendly activities.
Staying in Granville Island.
CAD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Keg

End the day with dinner at The Keg in Downtown Vancouver, famous for its steaks and family-friendly environment.
Short 5-minute drive from Granville Island.
CAD120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Travel to Hope

Hope, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road towards Hope.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hope

Depart for Hope, a scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Fraser Valley.
Follow Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Hope Sculpture Park

Arrive in Hope and explore the famous Hope Sculpture Park, featuring various sculptures that the kids will love.
Located in town; easy walking distance.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rolly's Restaurant

Stop for lunch at Rolly’s Restaurant, known for their homemade burgers and fries.
Short drive from Sculpture Park.
CAD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking at Othello Tunnels

Take a family-friendly hike at the nearby Othello Tunnels, where you can marvel at the beautiful canyon views.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
CAD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax and Sightsee

Spend some time relaxing at a local park, or learning about the area’s history at the Hope Museum.
Head back to Hope town center.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Blue Moose

Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Blue Moose, a family-friendly establishment serving pizza and pasta.
Located in Hope town center.
CAD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Stop at Merritt

Merritt, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Grab breakfast at the hotel before your drive to Merritt.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Merritt

Set out for Merritt, a two-hour drive where you can enjoy the scenic landscapes.
Continue on Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Merritt Visitor Centre

Stop by the Merritt Visitor Centre to learn about local attractions and get travel tips.
Easily located on the main road.
CAD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cellar

Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Cellar, known for their delicious sandwiches and cozy ambiance.
Located near the Visitor Centre.
CAD65, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Coldwater Indian Band Cultural Centre

Learn about indigenous culture at the Coldwater Indian Band Cultural Centre, a great educational experience for the whole family.
Short drive from the restaurant.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Merritt Mountain Bike Park

For the more adventurous families, hit the Merritt Mountain Bike Park for some outdoor fun.
Located on the outskirts of Merritt.
CAD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at B&A Baking Co

Wind down with dinner at B&A Baking Co, offering great pizza and a relaxed atmosphere.
In town center, easily accessible.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Kamloops

Kamloops, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Kamloops.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kamloops

Take a short 45-minute drive to Kamloops, where plenty of outdoor activities await.
Follow Highway 5.
CAD0, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Riverside Park

After arriving, let the kids play at Riverside Park, which features playgrounds and picnic areas.
Located downtown Kamloops.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Learn at Kamloops Museum & Archives

Visit the Kamloops Museum & Archives for an educational yet fun exploration into local history.
Short drive from Riverside Park.
CAD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Blue Dust Pizza

Grab some lunch at Blue Dust Pizza, offering amazing pies and kid-friendly options.
A short drive from the museum.
CAD65, 1 hour

2:00PM

Outdoor Recreation at Kenna Cartwright Park

Understand the local environment better while exploring the extensive trails of Kenna Cartwright Park.
20-minute drive from Blue Dust Pizza.
CAD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the BC Wildlife Park

Experience Canada’s wildlife at the BC Wildlife Park, where kids will be enthralled by the animal encounters.
A 20-minute drive to the northern end of town.
CAD30, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Noble Pig Brewhouse

End the day with a lovely dinner at The Noble Pig, where you can enjoy hearty meals and craft beer.
Return to downtown Kamloops.
CAD100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Salmon Arm

Salmon Arm, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before departing for Salmon Arm.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Salmon Arm

Depart for Salmon Arm, a picturesque 1-hour drive along the Shuswap Lake.
Take the Trans-Canada Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Salmon Arm Wharf

Explore the beautiful Salmon Arm Wharf, with walking paths and stunning lake views.
Located in town, easy access.
CAD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Birdwatching at the Salmon Arm Bay Nature Reserve

Try birdwatching at the Nature Reserve, a perfect spot for family-friendly outdoor education.
Near the Wharf.
CAD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Jiva Cafe

Stop for lunch at Jiva Cafe, known for its delicious smoothies and fresh dishes.
A short walk from the Nature Reserve.
CAD55, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Salmon Arm Museum

Discover local history at the Salmon Arm Museum, featuring interactive exhibits for kids.
Short drive or walk from the cafe.
CAD10, 2 hours

3:00PM

Park Time at Maskepetoon Park

Relax at Maskepetoon Park where kids can enjoy the playground while you take a break.
Located near the museum.
CAD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Canoe Beach

Spend the afternoon at Canoe Beach for some fun in the water and beach games.
Short drive from the park.
CAD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Italian Table

Savor Italian cuisine with family at The Italian Table, offering a family-friendly menu.
Located in downtown Salmon Arm.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Adventure in Revelstoke

Revelstoke, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before heading towards Revelstoke.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Revelstoke

The drive to Revelstoke will take about 1.5 hours through beautiful mountain scenery.
Continue on Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Mount Revelstoke National Park

Explore Mount Revelstoke National Park, perfect for hiking and spotting wildlife.
Entry via Highway 1.
CAD0, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Nomad Restaurant

Stop for lunch at The Nomad, famed for its hearty meals and excellent service.
Short drive from the park.
CAD75, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Revelstoke Railway Museum

Discover the history of the railway at the Revelstoke Railway Museum, filled with fascinating exhibits.
Located in town.
CAD15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Family Fun at Revelstoke Aquatic Centre

Enjoy some family time at the Revelstoke Aquatic Centre - a fantastic indoor water park.
Located in Revelstoke.
CAD40, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Village Idiot

Finish the day at The Village Idiot, known for its casual setting and family-friendly menu.
In downtown Revelstoke.
CAD90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Golden Exploration

Golden, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before hitting the road to Golden.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Golden

Travel to Golden, about a 1-hour drive through the stunning Columbia Valley.
Follow Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Spend the day at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, offering outdoor mountain activities for the family.
Located near Golden.
CAD0-100+, Full Day

12:30PM

Lunch at Eagle's Eye Restaurant

Enjoy lunch high above the ground at Eagle's Eye Restaurant, with stunning views over the mountains.
Within the resort.
CAD95, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Continue Activities at Kicking Horse

Continue enjoying the different activities at Kicking Horse, such as hiking or sunshine rides.
Within the resort.
CAD0-100+, 4-5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bluebird Cafe

Cap off the day with a relaxing dinner at the cozy Bluebird Café.
In downtown Golden.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Nature in Yoho National Park

Field, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before exploring Yoho National Park.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Yoho National Park

Enjoy a 30-minute drive to Yoho National Park for a day of nature and exploration.
Take Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Visit Emerald Lake

Explore the stunning Emerald Lake, perfect for picnicking and family photos.
Located within the park.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hiking to Takakkaw Falls

Take a family hike to see the breathtaking Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada.
Driving or short hiking distance from Emerald Lake.
CAD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kicking Horse Cafe

Enjoy lunch at The Kicking Horse Cafe, with nice views and hearty portions.
Short drive from Takakkaw Falls.
CAD75, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Natural Bridge

Visit Natural Bridge, a unique rock formation where the Kicking Horse River runs through, a fascinating sight for kids.
Short drive within the park.
CAD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Yoho National Park Visitor Centre

Learn more about the park’s history and wildlife, making for an educational stop on your trip.
Short drive from Natural Bridge.
CAD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Head Back to Golden

Return back to Golden for some relaxation after a long day of exploring.
Drive back to Golden.
CAD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Golden Taps

End your day with a delightful dinner at The Golden Taps, a casual eatery known for its burgers and beers.
In downtown Golden.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relaxing in Canmore

Canmore, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before heading towards Canmore.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Canmore

Travel to Canmore, a 1-hour scenic drive through Banff National Park.
Follow Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park

Explore the Nordic Centre for various family-friendly activities such as hiking and biking trails.
Located in Canmore.
CAD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company

Grab lunch at The Grizzly Paw, a popular spot with burgers and craft beers.
Short drive from the Nordic Centre.
CAD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Take a Walk in Downtown Canmore

Stroll through downtown Canmore, exploring quaint shops and local galleries.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
CAD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Canmore’s River Park

Spend some time at River Park, where kids can play and adults can relax by the river.
Short walk from downtown.
CAD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Rose and Crown

Enjoy dinner at The Rose and Crown, known for its English pub atmosphere and kid-friendly menu.
A short walk from the park.
CAD85, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Final Destination: Banff

Banff, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Canmore before heading to Banff.
On location.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Banff

It's a short 20-minute drive to Banff; get ready for a fabulous day ahead.
Drive along Highway 1 East.
CAD0, 20 minutes

9:30AM

Visit Banff National Park

Start your day with a visit to Banff National Park, taking in the stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery.
Entering the park; Visitor Centre located at the park entrance.
CAD20, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Maple Leaf

Enjoy lunch with a view at The Maple Leaf, with delicious Canadian cuisine to try.
In downtown Banff.
CAD85, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Banff Avenue

Take some time to explore Banff Avenue, filled with shops, attractions, and stunning mountain views.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
CAD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs for some family-friendly fun and wellness.
Short drive or public transit from town.
CAD100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bison

End your trip with a fabulous dinner at The Bison, offering locally sourced Canadian dishes to savor.
Located in Banff.
CAD120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability