Top 5 Super-Affordable Family Outings
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!
Ambleside Park
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 there:
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.
Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver
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 There:Park entrance is at the intersection of Cambie St. and 33rd Avenue
Granville Island Kid's Market & Waterpark
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 there:
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.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge & Area
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 there:
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.
Stanley Park Waterpark
There's another free waterpark 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 waterpark 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 waterpark and the adults can enjoy some "people watching" along the seawall. There's usually an opportunistic ice cream vendor near the waterpark 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 there:
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.
