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Family Outings in Vancouver |
 Who
says you have to spend a bundle to have a great day with the family?
We certainly don't, and we've compiled five of the best, cheap, fun family
outings in and around Vancouver right here, just for you.
Because we want you to spend quality time, not a fortune!
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Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge & Area
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 When
you get to Lynn Canyon, you literally feel like you left the big city far behind
as you find yourself immersed in a forest of tall trees. After parking, you'll
see an educational billboard of facts about the river and the bridge on the path
back to the Suspension Bridge. Views from the actual bridge are spectacular with
steep cliffs, forested hills and roaring river below. Best of all, it's free!
The other side of the bridge offers a number of hiking trails. The Twin Falls
Trail is a "loop" trail that takes about 45 minutes. Best of all, the whole
family can enjoy a snack at the Lynn Canyon Café that is located along the
route.
At the Ecology Centre, you'll learn more about the forest and surrounding area.
There's also a great kid's learning play area. Admission is by donation. You
won't regret this family outing as it's sure to please every member no matter
what their age.
How to get to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
From Hwy 1, take the Lynn Valley Road exit (exit #19) and head north on Lynn
Valley Rd (about 2 km). Take a right on Peters Rd and you'll see a large sign
for the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Follow the road to the end where you'll
take a left turn into the park and then drive to the parking areas. There is no
time limit on parking and it's free.
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Stanley Park Waterpark
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 There's
another free water park located in Stanley Park, situated along the seawall near
the Aquarium. If you're already visiting the Aquarium, consider packing a picnic
and heading down to the water park afterwards. There are plenty of grassy areas
that are perfect for Frisbee or letting the kids run off some of their boundless
energy.
You'll also find shady benches to take a break from the sun. The kids can play
in the water park and the adults can enjoy some "people watching" along the
seawall. There's usually an opportunistic ice cream vendor near the water park
as well. Who can resist ice cream on a sunny day? This area of Stanley Park
provides a great way to spend some leisurely time with the family with very
little cost.
How to get to Stanley Park Waterpark
Entering Stanley Park from downtown, follow the signs for the Aquarium. Park in
the lot and walk to the bottom of the hill where you'll find the waterpark.
Parking fees are nominal and in effect all day.
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Granville Island Kid's Market & Waterpark
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 The
whole family will find a plethora of activities on Granville Island, located
beneath the south end of the Granville St. Bridge. It's hard to miss the bright,
red Kid's Market on your right. The young and young at heart will have fun
browsing through the kid-specific stores on the first level (parents can also
gather lots of future gift ideas). On the second level are more shops, a games
area, a kids' cafe, and a two-story indoor play area. You pay once but the kids
can go in and out as many times as they want throughout the day. There's even a
specific play area for the toddlers.
Behind the Kid's Market, you'll find play areas, picnic spots and a wonderful
(FREE!) water park (open in the summer months only). You'll also find many other
activities on GI, including the Pubic Market, Granville Island Brewery, lots of
small shops, cafes and restaurants, two theatres, a maritime market, and even a
"sea village" made up of floating houses. You can spend a whole day here (if not
two!) in order to see and do everything GI has to offer.
How to get to Granville Island Kid's Market
Once you're in Vancouver, head towards the intersection of W. 4th Ave. and
Anderson St. Turn north (under the bridge) and you should see the large
Granville Island sign. There is free parking available throughout GI but they
are all time restricted (parking enforcement is very strict). There are also a
few pay parking garages available if you don't want worry about watching the
clock.
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Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver
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 Vancouver's
city planners must be congratulated for allocating so much inter-city land for
public parks. Some of the best parcels of land you can find in the city are
parks, including Queen Elizabeth Park just off Cambie St. in Central Vancouver.
The park is filled with great activities boasting fun for the whole family. The
Bloedel Conservatory is a glass-domed tropical oasis, teeming with birds and
exotic flora from all over. Admission is nominal and your family will spend
hours touring this fascinating and unknown attraction.
Nearby is the Pitch n' Putt course, ideal for beginners yet challenging enough
for even Tiger. Rentals and green fees are reasonable.
How to Get to Queen Elizabeth Park
Park entrance is at the intersection of Cambie St. and 33rd Avenue
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Ambleside Park
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 Located
in West Vancouver near the Lion's Gate Bridge, Ambleside Beach Park is an
absolute haven for families. Its spectacular beach has views of Stanley Park and
the great span of Lion's Gate Bridge. You're also likely to see float planes,
freighters, cruise ships, various marine birds and perhaps even a harbour seal
or two.
There are a multitude of other fun things to do, including a playground,
beachside cafe, pitch and putt golf course, picnic areas, tennis courts and a
paved seawall that extends in both directions for miles. Added bonuses include
the free parking and the proximity of Park Royal Mall, which offers stores and
restaurants aplenty.
Ambleside Beach Park is a very popular "family" park and also plays host to many
community events and celebrations. There is something for everyone here.
How to get to Ambleside Park
After crossing the Lion's Gate Bridge headed northbound on Hwy 99, you'll end up
on Marine Drive which will take you into West Vancouver. About 1-2 kilometres
driving west on Marine Drive, you'll take a left on 13th Street and Ambleside
Park will be just in front of you. Parking is free, but you'll need to watch the
signs as some areas are time restricted.
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