FAMILY FUN IN VANCOUVER THIS SUMMER

It’s official, summer holidays have begun! Some children may have enjoyed a week off already whereas others have just enjoyed their first day off. Summer is a great time for new adventures and family bonding. Here are ideas to keep your time filled with fun and not frustration!

1. Get Outdoors: We are fortunate to live in such an amazing Province that provides endless outdoor activities. Here are some outdoor ideas.
   • Go camping – you may have already booked a Provincial Campground months ago, but if you didn’t you can still enjoy a local independent campsite. One of my favourite’s is Paradise Valley Campground near Squamish. Leave the screens at home and enjoy nature. We may even be allowed to have a campfire this year. Read this article to make sure you’ve got the right camping gear!
   • Enjoy the beach – A day trip to the beach can always be a fun activity. Pack your shovels, shade tents, and hit the sand. Definitely don’t forget the sunscreen.
   • Go for a hike. AllTrails.com has some great suggestions for hikes in BC. Even just finding one of the local trails is a great way to enjoy the natural shade of the great outdoors under the forest canopy.
2. Have an adventure in your backyard. Sometimes being closer to home is all you need.
   • Create your own waterpark: Get out the Slip n’ Slide, sprinkler, water balloons, or even just a hose to create some fun water time.
   • Camp in your backyard. My children enjoy camping on the trampoline. They use a pop up tent that doesn’t require stakes, which is a very low maintenance set-up and access to great amenities.
   • Grow your own food. Get the kids involved. You can even try growing doughnuts! Plant cheerios with toddlers and in the morning they have grown into doughnuts. The littles love it!
3. Stay Indoors. If it’s too hot or too wet there are plenty of things to do inside.
   • Get crafty. Gather supplies and let everyone’s imagination run wild. Make summer-themed decorations, paint, or try your hand at homemade jewelry.
   • Play a board game. Here are a few of our favourites https://bcparent.ca/how-to-overcome-boredom-with-board-games/
   • Watch a movie. Pop some popcorn and snuggle up together to watch your favourite childhood film. Warning – some do not age well.

If you’re looking to out of the house and enjoy a unique experience, check out these great offerings.

4 Summer Excursions

BRITANNIA MINES

britanniaminemuseum.ca
Britannia Beach, BC 604/896-2233

Britannia Mine Museum opens up a little-seen world that fascinates all ages, offering awe-inspiring sights and memorable family experiences. Take a step back in time at this award-winning attraction and National Historic Site. Located along the scenic Sea to Sky corridor/Hwy99 between Squamish and Vancouver. It’s Time For a Visit!

KIDS MARKET

kidsmarket.ca
Granville Island, Vancouver, BC  604/689-8447

The Kids Market, located at the entrance to Granville Island has over 25 shops, services and activities for children & families. 

SHOP Vancouver’s best selection of toys, games, clothing & gifts. 

PLAY in the multi-level play area, arcade, virtual reality and bumper cars. 

EAT a gelato by the pond from the cafe and grab a hot dog from our bistro on the second floor.

MAPLEWOOD FARMS

maplewoodfarms.bc.ca
North Vancouver, BC 604/929-5610

Maplewood Farm offers a delightful family adventure, perfect for all ages. Enjoy interactive animal encounters, scenic picnic spots, and engaging farm activities. With a variety of events and seasonal attractions, there’s always something new to explore, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family outing.

PLAYLAND

pne.ca
Vancouver, BC 604/253–2311

Have a blast at Vancouver’s favourite amusement park this summer! With exhilarating rides, midway games, unique attractions such as the Haunted Mansion and Sweet Escape Mini Golf, delicious food options, and exciting special events, Playland is sure to be the highlight of your summer. Also, ride our new launch coaster, ThunderVolt, for an electrifying experience like no other! ThunderVolt will open in July (stay tuned for date).