Vancouver Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Vancouver
This weekend itinerary for Vancouver families perfectly balances engaging free activities with exciting ticketed attractions to create lasting memories. It focuses on well-loved local spots and includes a festive event extending into the New Year, alongside popular indoor and outdoor options suitable for varying weather. Always check official websites closer to the dates for any last-minute schedule changes or specific event details, especially for public library programs. Prices are estimates for a family of four (2 adults, 2 children).
Friday Evening - Festive Family Lights
Friday, January 2Festival of Lights
Step into a magical botanical wonderland at the VanDusen Festival of Lights, featuring over a million twinkling lights, themed displays, and festive ambiance.
It's a spectacular visual treat for all ages, perfect for starting the weekend with holiday cheer. The festival runs until January 4, 2026.
Kids will be mesmerized by the dazzling lights and themed areas. The pathways are stroller-friendly, and there are restrooms available. Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Dress warmly as it's an outdoor event.
Paid parking is available on-site, but it can get busy. Public transit (bus routes 17 and R4) stops nearby. Consider carpooling if possible.
Cozy Dinner & Hot Chocolate
After enjoying the lights, head to a family-friendly restaurant for an early dinner.
Many establishments in the nearby Cambie Village or Kerrisdale neighborhoods offer casual dining with kids' menus. Follow it up with a hot chocolate treat to warm up.
Look for places with high chairs, kids' menus, and a relaxed atmosphere. White Spot is a classic family favorite in BC, known for its 'Pirate Paks' for children. Early timing helps with kids' bedtimes.
Restaurants in these areas typically have street parking or small private lots. Public transit is accessible.
Saturday - Discovery & Play Day
Saturday, January 3Science World Fun
Dive into a world of interactive exhibits and engaging science shows at Science World at TELUS World of Science.
This iconic dome offers hands-on learning experiences perfect for curious minds of all ages, fostering a love for science and discovery.
Kids will love the numerous interactive displays, the Eureka! Gallery for younger children (3-7), and the engaging live science demonstrations. Stroller-friendly with accessible restrooms. Plan for 3-4 hours of exploration. Members get early access at 9:30 AM.
Science World is easily accessible by the Main Street-Science World SkyTrain station. Paid parking is available on-site.
Granville Island Lunch & Play
Head over to Granville Island for a casual lunch at the Public Market, offering diverse food options for every taste.
Afterwards, let the kids burn off energy at the Kids Market playground and browse unique toys and books.
The Public Market has many vendors with kid-friendly options like pizza, pastries, and fresh fruit. The Kids Market has a dedicated indoor play area and an outdoor playground, perfect for younger children. Restrooms are available throughout Granville Island.
Paid parking is available but can be challenging to find. Consider taking the Aquabus or False Creek Ferry for a fun, kid-friendly way to arrive from False Creek or Downtown Vancouver.
Outdoor Park Play
Enjoy the expansive outdoor space of Stanley Park, a true urban oasis.
Visit one of its many playgrounds, such as the Ceperley Playground near Second Beach, known for its fun structures including an old fire truck, suitable for both younger and older kids.
Perfect for energetic kids to run, climb, and slide. This playground has structures for various ages, and nearby green spaces for ball games. Restrooms are available year-round at Second Beach. Stroller-friendly paths connect to the playground. Bring snacks and water.
Paid parking lots are available nearby within Stanley Park. Public transit can get you to the perimeter of Stanley Park, requiring a walk or bus ride within the park.
Early Family Dinner
Wrap up your active day with an early dinner at a casual, family-friendly eatery.
Consider a place with a diverse menu to please everyone, or grab a quick and easy option like pizza or burgers.
The West End offers numerous family-friendly dining choices. Look for early bird specials or kids' meal deals. This allows for a relaxed meal before heading home for winding down and bedtimes.
Street parking can be found, but it may be metered. Public transit is very accessible in the West End.
Sunday - Relaxed Wonders & Skating
Sunday, January 4Tropical Conservatory Visit
Escape to a lush, tropical paradise at the Bloedel Conservatory, an indoor geodesic dome housing over 100 exotic birds and 500 species of tropical plants.
It’s a warm, engaging experience perfect for a cooler winter day.
Kids will enjoy spotting the free-flying birds and exploring the different plant zones. It’s fully accessible for strollers and has restrooms. Plan for a 1-1.5 hour visit. Children aged 4 and under are free.
Paid parking is available within Queen Elizabeth Park. Easily accessible by public transit via the Canada Line (Oakridge-41st Ave Station) and bus routes.
Ice Skating Fun
Lace up your skates for a classic Canadian winter experience at the Robson Square Ice Rink.
This outdoor, covered rink offers free skating (rentals available) in the heart of downtown Vancouver, surrounded by city views.
A fantastic activity for kids and adults alike. There are often skate aids available for younger or less experienced skaters. Restrooms and snack vendors are usually nearby. Dress in layers. Skate rentals are available for a fee.
Accessible via SkyTrain (Vancouver City Centre or Granville Station) or numerous bus routes. Paid underground parking is available at Robson Square or nearby lots.
Library Storytime
Wind down the weekend with a relaxing visit to a Vancouver Public Library branch for a free Family Storytime or to browse their extensive children's collection.
VPL branches offer engaging programs with songs, rhymes, and stories for various age groups.
Perfect for settling down, engaging little minds, and choosing books for the week. VPL programs are generally suitable for newborns to 5 years, with some family storytimes for all ages. Check the specific branch's schedule online closer to the date for exact timings and age suitability. Restrooms and stroller access available.
The Central Library is a short walk from multiple SkyTrain stations (Vancouver City Centre, Granville, Stadium-Chinatown) and numerous bus routes. Paid parking is available in nearby parkades. Local branches usually have street parking or small lots.
This weekend itinerary for Vancouver can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.