Vancouver Attractions for Kids

Science World

Even parents will have fun in this gigantic collection of science exhibits, and you’ll find yourself having to tear yourself (and your kids!) away from the fascinating and fun things they will learn. Science is really made fun, cliché though it may sound, in this well-known and -loved attraction.

Science World has an OMNIMAX theatre presenting educational and interesting films in surround sound, and much larger than life, with a screen up to 27 meters. The recognizable dome of the building is actually the movie screen. The experience, as they say, is “ginormous” and “immersive”. Even if your kids hate educational movies, they are bound to like this very different experience! Machines, air, light, sound, water, motion, nature, and the human body are explained in simple enough terms for kids, but you will find yourself learning something from the visit too. Plan to spend at least half a day there, so you don’t have to rush. The gift shop is also interesting, and a good place to pick up unique souvenirs.

This attraction is probably best for kids under 12, as teenagers or adults without young kids may grow bored quickly. Ticket prices range from $10-$20 for different ages, and depending on whether you see an OMNIMAX movie (recommended!) or not. It’s easily accessible by SkyTrain, a block away from the Main Street station.

HR Macmillan Space Centre

Do you have a budding little astronaut in your family? If so, he or she will love the visit to this planetarium and space centre. The ticket prices will depend on the attractions you want to see -- your options include the basic space exhibits, planetarium show, virtual reality rides, and International Space Station display. (If you go to the planetarium show, try to go early, to avoid the crowds of kids!) Laser shows in the late afternoon are timed to music like Led Zeppelin, Coldplay, and so on, so if anyone in the family is a music buff, stick around.

This attraction, located in Vanier Park, is popular with kids under 12 in particular. If you bring a picnic, the park has some picnic benches where you can enjoy a meal after taking in the history, fun facts, and sights of the HR Macmillan Space Centre.

Particularly interesting is the International Space Station exhibit, where you can see a life-size replica of the space station! This is located in the same building as the Vancouver Museum, so you can see both attractions easily. You can reach the Space Centre by ferry and bus.

This You Tube Video shows the many highlights of the HR Macmillan Space Centre.

Kids Market

Locals fondly remember their own time playing here as kids, and tourists bring their kids to experience it too. This atmosphere is charged with energy, so if you do not like lots of activity and many kids, consider carefully before visiting! On the other hand, if your child thrives on being surrounded by fascinating things like puzzles, books, toys, arcade games, kid-friendly restaurants and salons, craft kits, candy, and a play area, this is the perfect spot to visit.

Expect to shell out some money unless you and your kids both have incredible self-restraint. When you are surrounded by clothing stores, toy stores, and specialty stores catering especially to kids, spending is bound to happen!

This mall for kids is located on Granville Island, a short ferry ride away from downtown, so if you’re visiting the island during your trip, make it a place to see and spend a few hours browsing everything you can buy (and maybe do some quiet birthday or Christmas shopping too).

Maplewood Farm

How many toddlers and school-aged kids get to pet goats and chickens, ride ponies, watch milking demonstrations, and feed pigs? This doesn’t even count the seasonal fairs with even more special events to get your kids involved with!

Weekends tend to be busy here, as it is a popular, fun and affordable destination (tickets are under $10). If you can visit on a weekday, your family will have the place (and adorable baby animals) almost to yourselves!

The animals here include birds like chickens, geese, turkeys, and ducks, and farm animals like goats, pigs, sheep and cows. Donkeys, horses, and ponies call the farm home too, so there are always plenty of baby animals (especially in the spring). The staff is helpful, and nearly all the animals are friendly and like being petted. This glimpse into a real working farm will provide for hours of entertainment for your kids and you, too!

Pacific Museum of the Earth

Located on the scenic UBC campus, this museum is one-of-a-kind. One of the lesser-known museums, this is closed on the weekends, but worth a visit if you have time on a weekday between 9 AM and 5 PM. It will be less crowded than most museums, and you can see all kinds of minerals, rocks, and gems here. A dinosaur skeleton, tornado machine, and earthquake data from around BC will also provide for an interesting visit.

Your young rockhound will be interested in the exhibits about the role of minerals in our everyday lives, the gallery of many different specimens, and the free guided tours. Yes, admission is free! For the budget-minded family, this museum is a great stop, though do not allot more than a few hours for the visit or your kids might become bored.

Map of Vancouver Attractions for Kids

Science World HR Macmillan Kids Market Maplewood Farm Pacific Museum

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