Burnaby and its surrounding areas offer a fantastic mix of educational, active, and outdoor activities perfectly suited for the 4-to-6-year-old age range. Whether you are looking for indoor escape from the rain or a nature adventure, here are the top activities for young children.
Top Educational & Interactive Museums
- Science World (Vancouver): Just a 15-minute drive or SkyTrain ride from Burnaby. The Wonder Gallery is designed specifically for children ages 0–5, while the Eureka! Gallery (water tables and ball launchers) is a huge hit for 6-year-olds. In February 2026, look for the "Dream Tomorrow Today" future-themed exhibition.
- Burnaby Village Museum: Located at Deer Lake, this is a 1920s heritage site. The highlight for this age group is the 1912 C.W. Parker Carousel. While the full village is open seasonally (reopening for Spring Break in March), they often host special Family Day events (February 16, 2026) with crafts and farmhouse tours.
Indoor Play & Active Fun
- Hanababy Adventure World (New Westminster): Located right on the Burnaby border (6th St), this is an immersive, high-quality indoor playground designed for kids under 10. It features scenario-based play areas that encourage imagination.
- Kidtropolis (Richmond/New West Area): A massive "pretend play" city where kids can go to the "grocery store," "fire station," or "police station." It is widely considered one of the best spots for 4 and 6-year-olds to engage in creative play.
- Bonsor Recreation Complex (Metrotown): Check out the Tiny Tikes drop-in program (for ages 1–5) and family swim sessions. It is an affordable way to let kids burn energy with ride-on toys and gym equipment.
- Crash Crawly’s (Coquitlam): A classic family entertainment center with multiple levels of slides, tunnels, and a dedicated toddler area.
Nature & Parks
- Confederation Park: Features one of the best playgrounds in the city with rubberized surfacing and climbing rocks.
- Note: The Burnaby Central Railway (miniature steam trains) is located here but remains closed in February, reopening for the season at Easter 2026.
- Central Park: Offers two large playgrounds, easy walking trails through the forest, and plenty of ducks to spot at the ponds.
- Burnaby Lake & Deer Lake: Both offer flat, stroller-friendly trails. Burnaby Lake is great for bird watching (look for the drainage tower for views), while Deer Lake has a smaller, shaded playground near the beach area.
- Mt. Seymour (North Vancouver): Only 30 minutes away, this is the prime spot in February for snow tubing and tobogganing, which are very popular and safe for 4 and 6-year-olds.
Seasonal Highlights for February 2026
- Lunar New Year at Metrotown: Running through February, Metropolis at Metrotown will feature LEGO play areas, lion dance performances, and festive displays for the Year of the Horse.
- Family Day (Feb 16, 2026): Many Burnaby community centers offer free skating, swimming, and gym sessions on this provincial holiday.
Practical Tips for Parents
- SkyTrain Fun: For many 4-year-olds, the SkyTrain itself is an activity. Sitting at the very front of the automated (driverless) train offers a "roller coaster" view that kids love.
- Bring Extra Clothes: Even at indoor places like Science World (water tables) or Hanababy, kids can get messy or sweaty. A spare set of socks is essential for indoor playgrounds.