1.  Stanley Park

When you hear the word “park,” you might be imagining a basic playground with a few benches and trees scattered. But Stanley Park isn’t just a park — it’s a 1,000-acre adventure waiting to happen. Families can rent bikes and cruise along the scenic Seawall, the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, or explore trails that wind through lush forests. Don’t miss the Indigenous totem poles at Brockton Point, a cultural highlight that’s as educational as it is striking.

For younger kids, the Miniature Train offers a whimsical ride through the park, while older ones might love spotting wildlife like great blue herons and raccoons. With playgrounds, splash pads and even a seawater pool at Second Beach, Stanley Park delivers fun for all ages.

Princess guests can experience the best of Stanley Park on excursions like the Easy Vancouver: Stanley Park Visit and City Highlights Drive, blending this iconic gem with other must-see spots.

2. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Need an activity that can burn through the endless energy your kids seem to have? Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is where nature meets adrenaline, and kids of all ages will love the adventure. The 450-foot-long suspension bridge sways gently 230 feet above the Capilano River, offering breathtaking views (and a thrill for anyone with a sense of adventure). 

For little explorers, the Treetops Adventure is a must — think bridges high among the forest canopy that make kids feel like they’re in a treehouse wonderland. More daring families can test their nerves on the Cliffwalk, a glass-floored path that juts out over the canyon. For those who prefer to keep their thrills grounded, the park also features fascinating exhibits on local history and wildlife.

Enhance your visit with the Capilano Canyon Walk & City Highlights excursion, which combines the magic of Capilano with a deeper dive into Vancouver’s natural wonders.

3. Grouse Mountain

When it comes to family fun with a view, Grouse Mountain is hard to beat. Start with the Skyride gondola, which whisks you 3,700 feet above sea level for jaw-dropping views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean and even Mount Baker on a clear day. Once at the top, the adventures are endless.

Kids will love the wildlife refuge, home to resident grizzly bears Grinder and Coola, while teens can test their courage at the Mountain Ropes Adventure. In winter, the mountain transforms into a snowy playground with skiing, ice skating and sleigh rides. Summer brings hiking trails, zip lines and even a lumberjack show for a bit of high-energy entertainment.

Princess offers the Best of Vancouver: Stanley Park and Scenic Grouse Mountain excursion, so you can pair this alpine wonder with other city highlights.

4. Granville Island & Kids Market

Granville Island is a treasure trove of fun for families, combining artisan markets and street performers with waterfront views. But the star of the show for kids? The Kids Market — a haven packed with toy shops, games and even a play area. Little ones can lose themselves in imagination while parents browse the nearby Public Market, which offers fresh treats and local goods.

Need a break from shopping? Take a family stroll along the island’s picturesque boardwalk or hop on one of the charming Aquabuses for a quick ride across False Creek. Granville Island is a perfect mix of playful and practical, offering something for every member of the family.

5. Vancouver Aquarium

Dive into an underwater adventure at the Vancouver Aquarium, located right in the heart of Stanley Park. Home to over 65,000 marine creatures, this is a place where kids can get up close with sea otters, jellyfish and even tropical fish. The aquarium’s immersive exhibits, like the Amazon Rainforest or the Penguin Cove, keep young minds curious and engaged.

What sets this spot apart are the interactive programs. Kids can touch sea stars in the Wet Lab or watch the entertaining sea lion shows. With a focus on marine conservation, it’s a great opportunity to mix education with fun, sparking excitement about the natural world. There’s so much excitement, your kids won’t even realize they’re learning!

6. Science World

If your kids love hands-on activities, Science World is a can’t-miss stop in Vancouver. This iconic geodesic dome is home to interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. Younger kids will be mesmerized by the Wonder Gallery, designed just for toddlers, while older ones can dive into the Eureka! Gallery to explore the principles of physics through water, light and sound experiments.

For families who love a good show, the on-site OMNIMAX Theatre offers breathtaking films on a screen as tall as a six-story building. Seasonal exhibitions, live science demonstrations and a sprawling outdoor playground mean there’s always something new to discover.

7. Playland at the PNE

If your family loves all things carnival, Playland at the PNE is your go-to spot in Vancouver. This classic amusement park features everything from kid-friendly rides like the Merry-Go-Round to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, including the famous Wooden Coaster (a particular favorite among thrill-seekers).

Younger kids will enjoy midway games and gentle attractions, while teens can tackle the park’s extreme rides or try their luck at classic carnival challenges. Seasonal events, like Halloween Fright Nights or summer fairs, add an extra layer of excitement to your visit before or after your cruise.

8. VanDusen Botanical Garden

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat where families can explore vibrant floral displays. One of the highlights for kids is the Elizabethan hedge maze, where they can enjoy the challenge of finding their way out while parents take in the beauty of their surroundings. Seasonal events, like the Festival of Lights in winter or the Spring Bloom Festival, add extra magic to your day.

The garden’s diverse ecosystems, including tranquil ponds and the playful fragrance garden, ensure there is something new around every corner. It’s a slower-paced destination, ideal for families with younger kids or those looking to relax and recharge.

9. Bloedel Conservatory

If your kids love colorful birds and a little tropical flair, the Bloedel Conservatory is the perfect stop. This indoor oasis in Queen Elizabeth Park is packed with exotic plants and over 100 free-flying birds, from cheeky parrots to charming canaries. It’s like stepping into a rainforest — without needing sunscreen.

Keep an eye out for the vibrant macaws that love to show off for visitors, and invite kids to see if they can spot all the bird species on the conservatory’s scavenger hunt. It’s a bite-sized adventure that’s ideal for families with younger kids or those looking to escape a rainy Vancouver day.

10. Lynn Canyon Park

Need a moment to slow down? For families seeking adventure with a side of tranquility, Lynn Canyon Park offers a quieter alternative to Capilano. Its free suspension bridge stretches 160 feet across a lush canyon, giving kids the same thrill of soaring heights without the crowds. Surrounding trails range from easy loops for little legs to more challenging hikes for active families.

Kids can splash around in the crystal-clear pools of Lynn Creek or marvel at Twin Falls, a beautiful waterfall hidden along the trails. The Ecology Centre provides hands-on exhibits and fun facts about the park’s plants and wildlife, adding an educational element to your visit.

11. Maplewood Farm

Maplewood Farm is a delightful way to spend the day for animal-lovers. Located just a short drive from downtown Vancouver, this cozy farm lets families meet and interact with over 200 domestic animals, from fluffy sheep to curious goats. Kids can even try their hand at feeding the bunnies or watch a cow-milking demonstration.

The farm’s energetic, hands-on vibe makes it ideal for younger kids, though older ones might enjoy learning about sustainable farming practices. With picnic tables and open spaces, it’s an easygoing spot to relax while your little ones make furry friends.

12. Kitsilano Beach & Jericho Beach

For families who are all about sun, sand and splash-worthy fun, Vancouver’s beaches are calling. Kitsilano Beach, or “Kits” to the locals, is perfect for an active day out — think volleyball courts, a playground and even an outdoor saltwater pool with epic views. It’s the kind of spot where you can chase waves and ice cream trucks in equal measure.

For a more laid-back vibe, head to Jericho Beach. With calm waters ideal for paddleboarding or just wading in with little ones, it’s a great place to relax while enjoying the mountain backdrop. Pack a picnic, because these beaches are made for lingering.

13. Vancouver Maritime Museum

Ahoy, little adventurers! The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a hidden gem for families who love tales of the sea. The highlight is the St. Roch, a historic Arctic exploration vessel that kids can climb aboard to imagine life as a sailor navigating icy waters.

Interactive exhibits let young visitors try their hand at knot-tying or learn about ocean conservation, while the model ship collection fascinates both kids and adults. Outside, the museum’s waterfront location makes it a great spot for a picnic with views of English Bay.

14. HR MacMillan Space Centre

Blast off into a world of discovery at the HR MacMillan Space Centre, where kids can explore the wonders of the universe. The Planetarium shows tend to be the main attraction, taking families on immersive journeys through the stars and beyond — perfect for budding astronomers with curious minds.

Exhibits like the Cosmic Courtyard let kids pilot a spaceship simulator as they learn about the mysteries of black holes. For hands-on fun, the observatory is open to the public on clear evenings, offering a chance to see the night sky up close.

15. Pacific Spirit Park

If you want to get away from the city, you actually don't have to go far. Pacific Spirit Park is a natural wonderland that feels worlds away from the city, even though it’s just a short drive from downtown Vancouver. With over 50 miles of trails winding through towering cedar and fir trees, it’s the perfect spot for families who love to explore. Younger kids can enjoy shorter loops, while older ones might be up for a longer adventure deeper into the forest.

Parents will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, and kids can keep their eyes peeled for birds, squirrels and other forest creatures. Whether you’re walking, biking or simply soaking up the fresh air, Pacific Spirit Park offers a rejuvenating escape that’s sure to recharge the whole family.

16. Burnaby Village Museum

Are your kids fascinated with time travel? (Really, who isn't?) Step back in time with a visit to Burnaby Village Museum, where history comes alive in the most charming way. This open-air heritage village lets families experience life in the 1920s, complete with costumed interpreters and a fully operational blacksmith shop.

The real crowd-pleaser? The vintage carousel! Kids will love taking a spin on this beautifully restored ride while parents soak in the nostalgic vibes. Seasonal events, like a Christmas light display, add extra magic to the experience.

17. Seawall at False Creek

The Seawall at False Creek is the ultimate family-friendly way to explore Vancouver’s waterfront. Stretching along the city’s iconic shoreline, this paved path is perfect for biking, scootering or simply taking a leisurely stroll with stunning views at every turn.

You’ll pass playgrounds, green spaces and quirky public art installations, offering plenty of chances to stop and play. False Creek’s calm waters also make it a great spot for kayaking or paddleboarding if your family is feeling adventurous. Bonus: plenty of spots to grab a snack or a gelato along the way!

Plan your Vancouver adventure with Princess