Vancouver Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Vancouver
This itinerary balances free public attractions with popular paid experiences, aiming for a fun and affordable weekend for families with young children. Pricing for ticketed attractions is estimated for 2 adults and 2 children (ages 3-12) and may vary. Always check official websites for the most current hours, pricing, and specific event schedules closer to your visit date.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Library Kids' Zone
Explore the vibrant Children's Library at the Vancouver Public Library's Central Branch.
Kids can discover books, engage in imaginative play, and enjoy a relaxed start to the weekend in a welcoming environment. Check the library's website closer to the date for any scheduled drop-in story times or activities.
Suitable for all ages, especially 3-12. Facilities include washrooms. Duration: 1-1.5 hours. Note: The Children's Library may be undergoing renovations with an anticipated opening in early 2026, so it's advisable to confirm its status.
Easily accessible by public transit (SkyTrain to Vancouver City Centre or Granville Station). Paid street parking and underground parking available nearby.
Gastown Steam Clock Stroll
Take a leisurely evening stroll through the historic Gastown district and witness the iconic Gastown Steam Clock.
This unique, steam-powered clock whistles and expels steam every hour on the hour, offering a charming spectacle. Explore the cobblestone streets and enjoy the atmosphere of Vancouver's oldest neighborhood.
Fun for all ages. Enjoy the historic architecture and boutique shops (window shopping). Duration: 1 hour. Public washrooms may be available nearby.
Short walk from Waterfront Station (SkyTrain/SeaBus). Limited paid street parking; nearby parking garages available. Stroller-friendly sidewalks, though cobblestones can be bumpy.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Science World Fun
Ignite curiosity at Science World at TELUS World of Science, an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits covering various scientific principles, a Creative Technology Gallery, live science demonstrations, and immersive films.
It's a fantastic place for kids to learn and play.
Best for ages 3-12, but engaging for all. Plan for 2-3 hours minimum. Features a Wonder Gallery for ages 0-5 (check if open due to past closures).
Located next to Main Street/Science World SkyTrain station. Paid parking available onsite.
Olympic Village Park Play
Enjoy a free picnic lunch (if packed) and let the kids burn off energy at the Olympic Village's Hinge Park playground.
Afterwards, take a scenic stroll along the False Creek Seawall, enjoying views of the city skyline and False Creek.
Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12 for the playground. Features modern play structures and green space. Duration: 1.5-2 hours, including lunch break. Restrooms available at nearby Creekside Community Centre.
Accessible via SkyTrain (Olympic Village Station) or Aquabus. Limited paid street parking in the area.
Granville Island Market Fun
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Granville Island.
Explore the Public Market, offering diverse food vendors and local crafts. Head to the Kids Market, a two-story haven for children with toy shops, an Adventure Zone indoor playground, and an arcade.
Ideal for ages 3-12. The Adventure Zone (paid entry) has slides and a ball pit. Arcade games are coin-operated. Duration: 2-3 hours. Washrooms and baby change facilities available.
Accessible by False Creek Ferries/Aquabus from downtown or by bus. Paid parking is available, but can be busy, especially on weekends.
Family Dinner Treat
Enjoy a family-friendly dinner experience on Granville Island.
There are many options ranging from casual eateries within the Public Market to sit-down restaurants. Many offer kid-friendly menus and a lively atmosphere perfect for families.
Options for all ages. Various cuisines available. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Continue to use Granville Island parking. Many eateries are within walking distance on the island.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Vancouver Aquarium Discover
Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium, located in Stanley Park.
Encounter over 65,000 animals, from rescued sea otters and sea lions to vibrant tropical fish. Enjoy engaging animal enrichment shows, hands-on exhibits, and the immersive 4-D Theatre.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. Plan for 2-3 hours. Toddlers under 3 are free.
Located within Stanley Park. Paid parking available at the Aquarium lot. Accessible by bus within Stanley Park.
Stanley Park Playgrounds
After the Aquarium, explore the free playgrounds within Stanley Park.
Options include the Ceperley Playground with its old fire engine, or the Miniature Train Playground. Enjoy a refreshing walk along a section of the iconic Seawall, taking in the stunning natural beauty.
Perfect for ages 3-12. Several playgrounds and open green spaces. Duration: 1.5-2 hours. Restrooms available near playgrounds.
Walkable from the Vancouver Aquarium. Paid parking lots available throughout Stanley Park.
Bloedel Tropical Escape
Step into a lush, tropical paradise at the Bloedel Conservatory, a domed indoor garden located in Queen Elizabeth Park.
Discover over 500 exotic plants and more than 100 free-flying tropical birds. It’s a warm, tranquil escape, especially pleasant on a cool February day.
Enjoyable for all ages, especially 3-12 for the birds and unique plants. Duration: 1-1.5 hours. Children 4 and under are free.
Accessible by bus. Paid parking available in Queen Elizabeth Park.
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.