You have guests arriving, the days stretch out in front of you and your mind has drawn a complete blank – how are you going to keep your guests entertained while they visit you in Vancouver? Here are some of my favorite Vancouver attractions to take out of towners that will leave everyone with fond memories!
Science World, in the iconic and eye-catching Expo 86 geodesic dome, is open every day (except Christmas) with activities for kids of all ages. Be sure to check out their Winter Lab which runs during the Winter school break. My youngest asks on a daily basis to visit Science World so we are frequent visitors to this fantastic Vancouver attraction.
A trip to Canada Place is an absolute must for for its views of the coast mountains and in December they have a wonderful FREE Christmas display. At the back of Canada Place is the incdredible FlyOver Canada, an amazing 4D experience of literally flying over Canada. You will be awed by our gorgeous country. In December FlyOver Canada has a Christmas theme; and it’s one of our must-do Christmas traditions.
Looking for something a bit more historical? Burnaby Village Museum transports you to a bygone era where you can enjoy Christmas from many years ago. Don’t miss taking a turn on the gorgeous carousel.
Another a absolute must-do is the Vancouver Christmas Market. A traditional German Christmas Market with Gluhwein, bratwurst, a carousel and more, it runs daily until Christmas Eve at the Queen Elizabeth Plaza. We’ve already been once to the Vancouver Christmas Market and have every intention of making multiple returns as with every paid admission you get a free Season’s Pass for unlimited entries! While at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, consider getting tickets to Ballet BC’s performance of the Nutcracker. Ballet BC has partnered with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and this version is incredibly kid friendly with ice hockey and a dancing bear. That being said the dancing is fantastic and can be enjoyed by even the biggest of ballet-snobs (I’m one of those snobs).
If you want to get up into the mountains and show your guests that yes, the west coast does have snow, both Cypress Mountain and Grouse Mountain have activities for young and old. While on the North Shore don’t miss seeing the Canyon Lights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
If you are still looking for ideas visit the Family Fun Vancouver calendar. Vancouver is a hoppin’ city with oodles of events to keep everyone entertained.