Summer in BC and the Lower Mainland offers endless opportunities for family fun. Whether you’re looking to cool off at a splash park, explore nature, enjoy a community festival, or discover a new family adventure, there’s something for every age and interest.
To help you make the most of the season, we’ve rounded up 2 great day-trips and 50 must-try Lower Mainland summer activities across the region. Pick a few favourites or challenge your family to see how many you can check off before school starts!
If you’re looking for a day-trip, these are great spots to visit.
Britannia Beach, 604/896-2233
britanniaminemuseum.ca
Your Adventure Begins Underground” at the multi-award-winning Britannia Mine Museum, a National Historic Site on the Sea to Sky Highway. Ride the underground train into the mountain, step inside the historic haulage tunnels, and watch authentic machinery and working conditions in action. Feel the ground shake during BOOM!, and experience what living and working at Britannia was really like! Pan for gold, explore historic buildings, climb aboard a towering Cat 793C mining truck, and take the wheel in our Mining Truck Simulator.
Visit BritanniaMineMuseum.ca for more.
ʔəy̓alməxʷ / Iy̓ál̓mexw Jericho Beach Park
July 17 3pm to 5pm and Saturday, July 18 & Sunday, July 19 from 10am to 5pm
thefestival.bc.ca
The Vancouver Folk Music Festival has a great lineup for the Little Folks Village, a place for children and families during the festival in . Kids of all ages are invited to explore this vibrant, creative and playful space. Come and enjoy the Festival weekend where imagination runs wild and families come together through music, movement, and wonder.
Build sandcastles, swim, or enjoy a picnic with stunning city and mountain views.
Bring bikes, scooters, or simply walk one of Vancouver’s most iconic routes.
Kids can cool off at one of Canada’s largest free water parks.
Learn about marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Rent a kayak or enjoy a relaxing lakeside afternoon.
Many Vancouver parks host free family-friendly performances throughout the summer.
Climb to the highest point in Vancouver and explore the beautiful gardens.
Miniature trains delight children and adults alike.
Burnaby offers several excellent spray parks throughout the city.
Rent a paddleboat, walk the trails, or enjoy a family picnic.
Step back in time and experience a heritage village.
Enjoy shaded paths, playgrounds, and wildlife spotting.
A great option for families with school-aged children.
An unforgettable adventure among the treetops.
Enjoy easy hikes, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge without the admission fee.
Take in spectacular views and enjoy family activities at the summit.
Perfect for swimming, sand play, and sunset walks.
A scenic family-friendly route connecting communities along the waterfront.
Meet farm animals and learn about local agriculture.
One of the region’s most popular freshwater swimming spots.
Walk forested trails and enjoy the playgrounds.
A great introduction to paddling for families.
Cool off while younger children burn off energy.
Choose a short section or tackle more of this scenic loop.
The Tri-Cities host numerous community celebrations throughout the season.
One of Surrey’s favourite family destinations.
Enjoy hands-on exhibits and guided nature experiences.
A quieter alternative to some of the region’s busier beaches.
Flat, easy trails make this ideal for families.
Many local parks offer climbing structures, zip lines, and water features.
Experience life on a farm from more than a century ago.
Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries make for a delicious family outing.
Spend the day learning about animals from around the world.
Easy trails and open meadows make it a family favourite.
A classic summer activity that appeals to all ages.
Capture memorable family photos and enjoy the beauty of summer blooms.
Many Langley farms host family-friendly events throughout the summer.
The waterfront location often provides perfect kite-flying conditions.
Flat terrain and ocean views make this route ideal for families.
One of Metro Vancouver’s most imaginative playgrounds.
Watch fishing boats, enjoy ice cream, and stroll the boardwalk.
Discover Richmond’s maritime history through interactive exhibits.
Experience food, entertainment, and family fun.
A summer favourite packed with water slides and attractions.
Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, or relaxing on the beach.
A short hike leads to one of BC’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Step back in time and learn about Fraser Valley history.
Meet animals, learn about agriculture, and enjoy fresh local produce.
Summer is filled with family-friendly events across the Fraser Valley.
Choose from dozens of beginner-friendly trails throughout the region.
Make This Summer One to Remember
BC is filled with opportunities for adventure, exploration, and family connection and the Lower Mainland summer activities will keep you busy. Whether you’re discovering a new beach, tackling a forest trail, cooling off at a splash park, or enjoying a local festival, memorable summer experiences don’t have to involve expensive vacations or long road trips.
Choose a few activities close to home, try something completely new, and make the most of every sunny day. Summer may be short, but the memories can last a lifetime.
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