Don’t let a spot of rain keep you inside. Here are 8 ideas for free outdoor fun with the kids around the Kitsilano neighbourhood.
Our tips? Do dress in layers, bring umbrellas, and pack a large blanket for impromptu picnics, naps (you wish), or diaper changes! Don’t forget to bring a bit of cash just in case you get tempted by some of the refreshments along the way.
1. Seawall Stroll
Walk the buggy or bike with the trailer along the seawall path in Vanier Park and take in the wide views of the West End and the grand Art Deco style Burrard Street Bridge. Veer off onto the grass and let the little ones discover interesting sculptures, a pond full of birdlife, and see if they can spot the eagles’ nest high up in a tree (at the parking lot by the for Kits Coast Guard base and public washrooms).
Vanier Park, 1000 Chestnut Street, Vancouver.ca
2. Rainforest Trails
Look up at the lush forest canopy of the Pacific Spirit Regional Park, enjoy the silence, and imagine what our entire neighbourhood and beyond looked like 150 years ago. With over 70km of walking and hiking trails, this park always offers a new perspective. Pick up a map at two of the main entrances off of 16th Avenue or online.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Metrovancouver.org
3. Beach Bunnies
Bring some carrots and lettuce to Jericho Beach Park and introduce your baby to some other small furry things – wild but sociable rabbits that are eager for a bite (of vegetable that is). Nearby ponds are a hangout for ducks and geese, and there are plenty of shady spots on the grass for a peaceful picnic away from the busy beach crowds.
Jericho Beach Park, 3941 Point Grey Road, Vancouver.ca
4. Marina Fun
Follow the seawall between the Burrard Street Bridge and the Granville Street Bridge by the False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf near Granville Island. Watch as seagulls and eagles (and the occasional harbour seal) try to get a share of the catch coming in from the fishing vessels. In May and June, don’t miss out on picking up a couple of pounds of fresh, local spot prawns. Check wildbcspotprawns.com for more details on spot prawns and the upcoming festival.
False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf, 1505 West 1st Avenue, Falsecreek.com
5. Urban Wandering
From Macdonald Street to Alma Street, wander West Broadway for some people watching, window shopping, and snack scouting. Stop by East is East and order one of their amazing and healthy organic yogurt lassies from the takeout window (the kids will love the lassies and smoothies too).
East is East, 3243 West Broadway, (604) 734-5881, Eastiseast.ca
6. Sea and Sand
The playground at the Kitsilano Beach Park features a large sandbox and swings that are suitable for young, adventurous babies. Slides and a rotating climber are great for older kids. Watch the dogs splash around nearby at the designated dog beach, or breathe in the fresh sea air while staring out at the distant freighters in the Burrard Inlet.
Kitsilano Beach Park, 1499 Arbutus Street, Vancouver.ca
7. Farm Food
Stroll from one end of the Kitsilano Farmers Market to the other and check out what’s being grown, cooked, baked, and pickled in our province. Treat yourself to Earnest Ice Cream’s salted caramel ice cream sandwiches. If the weather is cooperating, have a picnic on the grass while watching Vancouver hipsters in their natural habitat. The Kitsilano Farmers Market is open on Sundays from 10am – 2pm, starting May 12 (Mother’s Day!).
Kitsilano Farmers Market, 2690 Larch Street at 10th Avenue, Eatlocal.org
8. Birds and Bees
The community gardens along the old railroad tracks on West 6th Avenue offer a wonderful respite from life inside a 600sq ft apartment. See the birds nesting in the apple trees, hear the buzzing of the friendly mason bees, and watch as your Kits neighbours transform seeds into a bounty of food and flowers.
Community Gardens, West 6th Avenue between Pine Street and Maple Street
Last modified: June 3, 2017
Jericho has huge signs warning of $2500 fines for feeding the wildlife. Sad.