Family Fun in Vancouver: A Three-Day Itinerary for Young Explorers!

Kick off your Vancouver adventure at Science World, one of the most beloved family destinations in the city! Nestled under that iconic geodesic dome at the edge of False Creek, Science World is the kind of place where kids forget they are learning because they are having too much fun. Plan to spend at least two to three hours here because trust us, your kids will not want to leave!

After a morning of science and discovery, head over to the Vancouver Aquarium, located inside Stanley Park. This is one of Canada's largest aquariums and a must-see for families visiting the city. Your little ones can come face to face with playful sea otters, sea lions, jellyfish, and thousands of other marine creatures from around the world including their fascinating new axolotl exhibit.

From the Bloedel Conservatory, make your way out to the Greater Vancouver Zoo in Aldergrove for an afternoon packed with wildlife. Spanning over 120 acres, this zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals, including giraffes, hippos, grizzly bears, and zebras. The zoo offers a train ride that loops through the property, as well as both pedal and electric cruisers, and bringing your own bicycles or strollers is welcome for families with younger kids who may not be up for a full walking tour. Pack a picnic lunch or grab a bite at the on-site café, and give yourself plenty of time to explore. You could easily spend the entire afternoon here!

Day three is all about adventure! Start your morning at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver, where you will cross a breathtaking 137 metre (450 feet) suspension bridge suspended high above the Capilano River. Beyond the famous bridge, the park also features the Treetops Adventure, a series of suspension bridges woven through the forest canopy, and the Cliffwalk, a narrow walkway that hugs the granite cliff face above the river.

Older kids will love the thrill of it, and little ones will love their self-guided Rainforest Explorers Program. The surrounding old-growth forest is stunning year-round.

Wrap up your three-day adventure with a visit to the Britannia Mine Museum in Squamish, just a scenic 40-minute drive north of Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway. This National Historic Site of Canada offers underground mine tours, gold panning, and hands-on activities that bring the history of British Columbia's mining heritage to life in a way that genuinely captivates kids and adults alike.

Riding the underground train into the mountain is a highlight that children talk about for weeks after the visit. Pro tip: bring extra clothing to change into after gold panning.