A Vancouver with teenagers vacation can be a great way to bond with your kids and create lasting memories. Look no further for an epic guide to the best teen-approved activities in this vibrant city.
From adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures to trendy urban hotspots, Vancouver with teenagers offers many exciting experiences. Get ready to discover the coolest hangouts, explore thrilling attractions, and create unforgettable memories with your teens in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
- Things to do in Vancouver with teenagers
- Whale watching in Vancouver
- Things to do with teenagers in Vancouver – visit GMS Observatory
- Vancouver Hop-on hop-off bus
- Family fun adventures in Vancouver – Segway Tour
- What to do in Vancouver for teenagers – exploring Lynn Canyon
- Things to do in Vancouver, Canada with kids – scavenger hunt
- Watch a sporting event in Vancouver.
- Things to do in Vancouver with kids – Play disc golf
- Lost Souls of Gastown tour
- Vancouver activities for teenagers – Go Karting
- Play Laser Tag in Vancouver
- Amusement Arcades in Vancouver
- Stanley Park – Vancouver family attractions
- Indoor rock climbing in Vancouver
- Vancouver Maritime Museum
- Things for teenagers to do in Vancouver – Aquarium
- Things to do in Vancouver with teenage girls – High Tea
- Mum and daughter activities in Vancouver – Day Spa
- Stand-up paddle board in Vancouver
- Teenage things to do in Vancouver – City and Seal boat tour
- Rage Rooms
- Downtown walking tour with doughnuts
- VanDusen Botanical Gardens
- Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery
- FlyOver Canada Experience – family vacations in Vancouver
- Go on a Seadoo – Vancouver with young adults
- Swimming in Vancouver in the Summer
- The most Instagrammable shots in Vancouver
- Tiktok in Vancouver
- Professional photoshoot in Vancouver
- Street Art in Vancouver
- Pin Bowling in Vancouver with teenagers.
- Axe Throwing – indoor activities in Vancouver with teenagers
- Bike riding in Vancouver
- Family holidays in Vancouver – Going to the cinema
- Escape rooms in Vancouver for young adults
- Going to the gym in Vancouver for young adults
- Shopping in Vancouver with teens
- Free things to do in Vancouver with teens
- Annual events in Vancouver that teens will love
- Day trips from Vancouver with teens
- Best things to do in Vancouver for young adults
- Best places to eat in Vancouver for teens
- Know before you go. Our top Vancouver travel tips
- Frequently asked questions about Vancouver
- Where are the best places to stay in Vancouver for teenagers
- Author bio:
Whether you’re a local seeking fresh ideas or a visitor looking to make the most of your time, this guide is your ticket to unlocking the teenage-approved secrets of Vancouver.”
Key takeaways
- Vancouver is a great city for families with teenagers. This article has tips, transport and accommodation recommendations for your trip to Vancouver.
- There are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities in Vancouver to suit a visit at any time of the year. Vancouver has mild winters, making activities possible to visit all year round.
- Travel to Vancouver also includes where to take your teenagers to shop and eat and where to go for a day trip near Vancouver.
Things to do in Vancouver with teenagers
Now that we have covered all the essential Vancouver travel tips for families, here are the best things to do in Vancouver with teenagers.
Whale watching in Vancouver
Vancouver is home to diverse marine life, making it the perfect place for a whale-watching tour. Several companies offer tours, so finding one that fits your schedule and budget is easy.
You’ll likely see orcas, humpback whales, and minkes on a tour. You might even spot a rare blue whale with some luck. Whale watching is an excellent activity for nature lovers of all ages.
Things to do with teenagers in Vancouver – visit GMS Observatory
The GMS Observatory in Vancouver is a great place to visit for anyone interested in astronomy or learning more about the night sky. The observatory is open to the public for free and offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year.
Visitors can view the night sky through the observatory’s telescope or attend one of the many events, such as stargazing nights, lectures, or workshops. The GMS Observatory is a great resource for anyone exploring the universe.
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Vancouver Hop-on hop-off bus
The Vancouver hop on hop off bus is always popular with family travellers. A sightseeing bus tour in Vancouver is a great way to give you an overview of the city. The bus route takes you to all the best city attractions, from Chinatown to Stanley Park, to see everything.
This tour bus allows you to get out and visit all the top Vancouver attractions and hop back on the next bus when it appears. Reserve your seat today.
Family fun adventures in Vancouver – Segway Tour
How do you make the best vacations for teenagers? Segway! There is nothing more fun than zipping around a city on a Segway, for teens, this has to be one of the best things to do in Vancouver.
A Vancouver Segway tour is an excellent opportunity to enjoy and learn about the city. Segway tours are for the whole family, you will be given instructions and a short amount of practice time before you set off on your adventures in Vancouver with teenagers. Book your Segway tour in Vancouver today.
What to do in Vancouver for teenagers – exploring Lynn Canyon
Just north of Vancouver lies Lynn Canyon Park, a beautiful 617-acre oasis with towering trees, rushing waterfalls and plenty of trails to explore. The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is the park’s highlight, spanning 160 feet across the canyon and offering stunning views of the lush forest below.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just a family looking for a stroll, Lynn Canyon has a trail. The Baden Powell Trail runs through the park and is popular with hikers and cyclists alike.
For something a little more challenging, head to Twin Falls, a series of three waterfalls that can be reached via a short but steep hike, perfect for outdoor teenage types.
Lynn Canyon is one of Vancouver’s hidden gems, so add it to your list of must-see places!
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Things to do in Vancouver, Canada with kids – scavenger hunt
These activities are sometimes called scavenger, treasure, and mystery hunts. They are games played with an app on your phone where you will discover famous and lesser-known sights of the city as you solve clues and tackle challenges to complete the adventure
They are a non-traditional sightseeing tour with a purpose to keep things interesting. Scavenger hunts provide outdoor experiences for teenagers in Vancouver.
Some of the best hunts in Vancouver are the Vancouver Gastown Scavenger Hunt, Vancouver City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks and Vancouver Scavenger Hunt Downtown Delights.
Watch a sporting event in Vancouver.
Vancouver is a great city for watching the sport. The city is home to the Ice Hockey team, The Vancouver Canucks, who play in the National Hockey Team. The Vancouver White Caps play in Major League Soccer, and the Vancouver Canadians are a minor league baseball team.
Sports are popular in Vancouver, with ice hockey being the most popular sport in Canada. The Vancouver Canucks play at the Rogers Arena. You can book tickets to see a game on your visit.
Things to do in Vancouver with kids – Play disc golf
Bring your own Frisbee and have a game of disc golf at Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver, BC. This course is perfect for beginners and families looking to spend time outdoors in Vancouver.
It’s an 18-hole par 54 course can be accessed via public transit via the #33 bus on East 33rd Ave or the #3 bus on Main St. Be aware that the course can be busy in good weather.
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Lost Souls of Gastown tour
If you’re looking for things to do in Vancouver for teenagers, these ghost story tours are becoming popular for teenagers worldwide. Teens love a sense of mystery, history and horror on the popular Vancouver tour.
Your guide will bring to life tales of the plague, murder and gold rush tales of Vancouver’s dark past. Book this today!
Vancouver activities for teenagers – Go Karting
The next time you’re looking for an indoor activity that is both exciting and challenging, look no further than indoor go-carting! Indoor go-carting is the perfect activity for groups of friends or family members looking to add a little friendly competition to their day. With its fast speeds and sharp turns, indoor go-carting will surely get your heart racing.
In Vancouver, you have multiple options for Go Karting, including TBC Indoor Karting, Fast Track Indoor Karting and Speeders Vancouver.
Play Laser Tag in Vancouver
Laser tag is a popular indoor game for teenagers in Vancouver, BC. People of all ages enjoy it. It is a fun and challenging activity that can be enjoyed in competitive settings.
In Laser tag, players can play as teams or by themselves and try to outsmart their opponents by tagging them with lasers. Laser Tag is a gentler, no-contact version of paintball.
You can play Laser Tag in Vancouver at Laserdome Plus and Planet Laser Tag.
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Amusement Arcades in Vancouver
Amusement arcades offer various entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun. They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past.
Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options. Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable to do; most arcades have food and beverage options for you.
Some fun arcades in Vancouver include Zero Latency Vancouver and VR funtastic world.
Stanley Park – Vancouver family attractions
Stanley Park is a world-renowned park that attracts visitors from all over the globe. The Vancouver landmark features plenty of activities for people of all ages.
Activities include the 8.8-kilometre Stanley Park Seawall, where you can walk or ride along the ocean, First Nations art and Totem Poles, or a horse-drawn tour.
From hiking and biking to swimming and picnicking, there’s something for everyone at Stanley Park. Download an audio guide to get the best out of Stanley Park.
Indoor rock climbing in Vancouver
Indoor rock climbing offers a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the sport but don’t have easy access to outdoor climbing areas or want something safer.
Indoor rock climbing can be found in Vancouver at the Hive Bouldering Gym and Clip ‘n Climb Vancouver. At these locations, you can learn the basics of wall climbing or do free climbing if you have experience.
Once you have learned the basics, you can start exploring different routes on the wall. Indoor rock climbing is a great way to get fit and have fun with teens in Vancouver at the same time.
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Vancouver Maritime Museum
In the heart of Vancouver’s historic downtown lies the Vancouver Maritime Museum, a world-renowned institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest.
Founded in 1959, the museum houses an impressive collection of boats and ships, including the iconic St. Roch, which the Royal Canadian Mounted Police used in their Arctic explorations. The museum is the perfect destination for families and history buffs alike.
Whether you’re interested in learning about Vancouver’s rich maritime past or want to see some impressive boats up close, the Vancouver Maritime Museum is worth a visit.
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Things for teenagers to do in Vancouver – Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is a popular attraction for visitors coming to the city. The Aquarium is dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life and its habitats.
The Marine Mammal Rescue Centre at the aquarium is the only facility in Canada and one of the most extensive rescue facilities in the world.
Visitors can see a variety of fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians from all over the world. The Aquarium allows you to experience different ecosystems worldwide, including the Amazon and the Tropics. It is well worth a look if you are interested in what lives in our oceans.
Things to do in Vancouver with teenage girls – High Tea
High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and tea. It’s a cherished ritual for mothers and daughters that often brings them closer together.
If you’re looking to experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places in Vancouver to have a High Tea. But be warned – it can be pretty addictive! Once you’ve tasted those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again.
Some of the best Vancouver High Tea venues are Laduree, Yandoux Patisserie and Neverland Tea Salon Vancouver.
Mum and daughter activities in Vancouver – Day Spa
How about a mum-and-daughter bonding day in Vancouver with a day spa experience? Enjoy a relaxing day experiencing saunas, steam rooms, massages, beauty treatments and pool areas. There are several choices in Vancouver, including. Breathe Spa Vancouver and Harmonie Spa.
Stand-up paddle board in Vancouver
If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the water on your holiday, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) might be just the thing.
It can be done in lakes, rivers, and oceans and is suitable for all ages and abilities. It’s also a great way to explore new areas and see things differently. In Vancouver, head to Deep Cove, where Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak will look after you.
At False Creek, Vancouver Water Adventures both hire boards and do beginners’ lessons.
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Teenage things to do in Vancouver – City and Seal boat tour
Hit the waters off Vancouver Island for a fun family adventure where you can see the city and the area’s wildlife.
The trip travels along the stunning British Columbia coastline to English Bay, out to Lighthouse Park, over to the Seal Colony, and back into False Creek.
As well as seeing the seals, you will be treated to views of Stanley Park and the North Shore Mountains and cruise underneath the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. Book this unforgettable trip today.
Rage Rooms
Rage rooms are cool things to do in Vancouver with teens. These unique spaces provide a safe and exciting outlet for teenagers to smash stuff like glassware and electronics.
It’s an empowering and unconventional experience in a controlled and safe environment. Add a rage room to any Vancouver with teens’ itinerary, and head to Smash Therapy to break stuff.
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Downtown walking tour with doughnuts
Did someone say doughnuts? Yes! What better way to see the sights of Vancouver than stopping for some of the best donuts in the city along the way?
On this tour, you will take a leisurely walk through some of Vancouver’s most scenic neighbourhoods and stop at 4 of the top doughnut shops near downtown Canada Place and Gastown. This tour is all about the sights, sounds and tastes of Vancouver. Book a stroll with Donuts in Vancouver.
VanDusen Botanical Gardens
This oasis offers a range of activities for visitors, including wildlife spotting, navigating an Elizabethan hedge maze, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Families and teenagers can explore the garden’s attractions, dine at the Garden Café or Shaughnessy Restaurant, and shop for garden-themed souvenirs. The LEED Platinum Visitor Centre, shaped like an orchid, received acclaim for its sustainability, reflecting the garden’s commitment to nature and conservation.
VanDusen Botanical Garden provides a captivating and sustainable destination for a memorable family travel experience.
Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery
Explore the vibrant local culture in Vancouver at the Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery. Immerse your family in Indigenous art, gaining insights into the rich heritage of the region’s First Nations.
This gallery offers a unique learning experience, showcasing contemporary and traditional artworks that tell compelling stories.
Engage with the diverse art forms, fostering an appreciation for the cultural tapestry of the Pacific Northwest. It’s an enriching opportunity to connect with the community’s history and creativity while enjoying a visually captivating experience with your kids.
FlyOver Canada Experience – family vacations in Vancouver
Uniquely, see Canada in a fully immersive experience with special effects, including wind, mist, and scents, all combined in one exhilarating journey. A 20-meter giant screen lets you see Canada’s most spectacular scenery.
State-of-the-art engineered seats that swoop, dip and turn to give you the true feeling of flight. Book your tickets today.
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Go on a Seadoo – Vancouver with young adults
Riding a Seadoo is a great way to get your adrenaline fix! The thrill of the speed and the excitement of the action make it a popular choice for those looking for an adventure in Vancouver.
A Seadoo can be a lot of fun and one of the most memorable experiences you will talk about for a long time.
In Vancouver, you can do a Seadoo tour around the bays, beaches and coves. You must have a driver’s license to ride one yourself, or you go as a passenger with a parent. Book your Seadoo tour today
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Swimming in Vancouver in the Summer
In the warm summer, swimming in the ocean is popular with locals and visitors. There are several beaches in Vancouver where visitors can swim in the sea.
Some popular options include English Bay Beach, Kits Beach, and Jericho Beach. The beach is a favourite place for many in Vancouver to have fun.
The most Instagrammable shots in Vancouver
The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media is essential, and teenagers can use Instagram to stay connected with friends, share their interests, and express themselves creatively.
We recommend visiting Alley Oop, Lions Gate Bridge and Gastown Hotel Europe. For the best Instagram shots in Vancouver, alternatively, book yourself an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tour in Vancouver.
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Tiktok in Vancouver
If you need some inspiration, look no further than TikTok. This app is full of creative content and talented influencers from Vancouver. From fashion to beauty to DIY, there’s something for everyone on TikTok. Here are a few of our favourite Vancouver TikTok influencers to help inspire you and plan your vacation.
Professional photoshoot in Vancouver
As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them, making family travel memories. One excellent way to capture some of these vital family vacation moments with teenagers is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you on your family vacation with teens.
The photographer will supply everything your family needs to provide smiles for your Vancouver with a teenagers’ photoshoot. Book an unforgettable family travel memory today and secure your family travel photo shoot.
Street Art in Vancouver
Street art is found worldwide but is especially prevalent in major cities. Cities are home to a wealth of street art, from graffiti on building walls to pieces painted on lanes and bridges.
Street art provides a unique aesthetic for these places, with topics including current events, pop culture, portraits and more. Street art is a trendy free thing in Vancouver and attracts tourists and teenagers alike.
Street Art can be found in downtown Vancouver between Granville and Seymour Streets. Strathcona explores Industrial Avenue, Southern Street, and Station Street in the South.
Pin Bowling in Vancouver with teenagers.
If you’re looking for a fun, friendly family competition in Vancouver with kids, then 10-pin bowling might be just the family activity for you and your teen travellers.
You can go 10-pin bowling in Vancouver at different locations in the city centre, and 10-pin bowling has to be one of the best family-friendly things to do in Vancouver with teenagers.
Most bowling alleys are entertainment centres featuring amusement, food and drink options. You will find some of the best bowling locations in Vancouver below.
- REVS Bowling & Entertainment Center – Western Canada’s largest 10-pin bowling alley
- Commodore Bowling and Billiards – 12 lanes of 5-pin bowling, 20 billiards tables
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Axe Throwing – indoor activities in Vancouver with teenagers
There are many fun things for young adults to do in Vancouver. Axe throwing is excellent for bonding, laughter, and friendly competition. No experience is required, as the staff at Urban Axe will run you through the safety precautions before giving tips and hints on how to throw an axe.
If you are looking for unique experiences for teenagers in Vancouver, then axe throwing could be it. Axe Throwing is one of the awesome things to do in Vancouver on your family vacation.
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Bike riding in Vancouver
Bike tours in Vancouver offer a sense of adventure and exploration, allowing teenagers to discover new places and hidden gems. Joining a bike tour will enable teenagers to socialize and bond with other participants.
Most cities have bike rental options, so you can explore independently, making it a convenient and affordable way to see the sites.
Family holidays in Vancouver – Going to the cinema
Great vacations with teens have a mix of everything! Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world.
Going to the cinema in Vancouver with teenagers is a great evening activity. You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound to watch the latest blockbusters in Vancouver cinemas.
In Vancouver, you will find multiplex, IMAX, 3D and specialty cinemas showing art-house and indie films. A cinema is one of the best places to visit in Vancouver at night with teens. You can use this Trip Advisor guide to the best cinemas in Vancouver.
Escape rooms in Vancouver for young adults
Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room or multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot hidden within the rooms.
If your travelling teen likes this stuff, it is one of the top things to do in Vancouver with teenagers. You can find 2 of the best Vancouver Escape Rooms below
- i-Exit Vancouver – 1129 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1M1, Canada
- Find and Seek – 88 W Pender St #2075, Second floor, Vancouver, BC V6B 6N9, Canada
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Going to the gym in Vancouver for young adults
Fitness is essential to many teenagers, and being on a family vacation in Canada is no reason to miss a session. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling does not mean you need to stop working out.
In Vancouver, you can go to several gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. Find a Vancouver gym to work out on your holiday.
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Shopping in Vancouver with teens
Teens love shopping. It’s exciting to see what’s new in stores and to find good deals. If you have forgotten something, you need warmer or cooler clothes or souvenirs. Below, we have included some travel tips for families on where to shop in Vancouver for teens.
Vancouver is a shopper’s paradise. Robson Street is one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations, home to high-end retailers like Holt Renfrew and Gucci.
For a more budget-friendly option, head to Metropolis at Metrotown, one of the largest malls in Canada. With over 450 stores, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.
Free things to do in Vancouver with teens
Vancouver offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free city activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without spending any money.
There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Our recommendations for free activities in Vancouver for families are as follows.
- Walk Around Canada Place
- Watch the Cruise Ships such as the Holland America Alaska Cruise Go By at Dundarave Pier.
- Richmond Night Market
- Visit The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
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Annual events in Vancouver that teens will love
Vancouver is a city with a rich culture and history. Many annual events take place in Vancouver that can be enjoyed by families and teens visiting the city. Some of these events include:
- Pacific Rim Whale Festival (mid-March to early April)
- Victoria Fringe Festival (September)
- Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (August)
These events help to make Vancouver a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.
Day trips from Vancouver with teens
A day trip to see more of Canada is recommended while staying in the city with teenagers on your family holiday.
There are some fun trips for teenagers and families from Vancouver to make out of the city. The best vacations for teenagers usually include at least one day trip from Vancouver.
Below are a couple of day trips from Vancouver recommendations for families travelling with teenagers. There are also so many more things to do on your vacation with teenagers when you add a day trip from Vancouver.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is north of Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada. The suspension bridge is 140 meters (460 ft) long and sits 70 meters (230 ft) above the river. The bridge is a popular tourist attraction and sees over 800,000 visitors per year.
A visit is best done in conjunction with other nearby sights, such as Grouse Mountain and the Vancouver lookout.
Whistler day tour
A trip to Whistler is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Vancouver. On this day tour, you’ll experience all Whistler has to offer, from its stunning natural scenery to its world-class ski resorts.
You’ll also get to enjoy some of the local cuisine and culture. Whether a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, this day tour will leave you with lasting memories. Whistler in summer has just as many highlights as the winter, making it a year-round destination.
Best things to do in Vancouver for young adults
In Canada’s British Columbia, Vancouver offers many exciting activities for young adults. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant urban scene, there are numerous things to do in Vancouver for young adults.
Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on adventures such as hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring the lush Stanley Park, or cycling along the picturesque seawall. For those seeking cultural experiences, the city offers diverse art galleries, museums, and theatres showcasing local talent.
Young adults can immerse themselves in Vancouver’s lively nightlife by exploring its trendy neighbourhoods, enjoying live music performances, or trying out the renowned craft beer scene. Head to the Granville Entertainment District for a great night out.
Moreover, Vancouver is known for its thriving food scene, offering many unique and international cuisines for young adults.
Whether seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, vibrant nightlife, or culinary delights, there is certainly no shortage of things for young adults to do in Vancouver.
Best places to eat in Vancouver for teens
Vacationing with teens must include a brilliant meal to remember the family holiday. Family travel with teenagers is beautiful, and bonding over a meal at the end of the day or while is a great way to connect with your teen travellers. Having dinner with family is one of the top things to do in Vancouver with teenagers.
Dine at the Hard Rock Café in Vancouver and be surrounded by Rock music memorabilia while dining down on ribs, burgers, seafood and more. Catch the latest sports and live music in this centrally located restaurant in Vancouver.
The Old Spaghetti Factory in Vancouver is a popular restaurant among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant has a unique atmosphere, with its antique décor and family-friendly vibe. The menu features classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and chicken Parmesan.
Peaked Pies is a pie shop in Vancouver that sells Australian-style meat pies. Peaked Pies are made with grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and organic vegetables. The shop also offers vegan and gluten-free options. Thanks to its delicious pies and friendly staff, peaked Pies has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Granville Island Public Market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, art and craft vendors, and specialty shops.
Street food in Vancouver
Street food is a popular way to eat in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get some delicious local food without having to go to a full restaurant.
Street food can be found in many different styles and options. Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, Dan Dan noodles in China, and Shawarma in Middle Eastern countries.
Street food in Vancouver often has its origins in the cultural history of people who have immigrated to Canada in the past. Some of the most popular Vancouver street foods include the Terimayo dog, Fried Beets (Beetroot) and Czech chimney cakes.
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Know before you go. Our top Vancouver travel tips
Travelling to British Columbia with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family, and Vancouver is one of the top family destinations in Europe. Did you know that Vancouver was recently ranked as the third most livable place in the world?
There are so many things to do in Vancouver, B.C, and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use, and more is extremely important. Below is some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation in Vancouver Canada.
Where to stay in Vancouver with teenagers
Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to North America with teens, you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation in Canada.
In Vancouver, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Vancouver, Canada.
- For luxury family-friendly hotels in Vancouver, we recommend Fairmont Waterfront Luxury, Four Seasons Vancouver and the Wedgewood Hotel and Spa.
- For affordable family-friendly hotels in Vancouver, we recommend Canada House Bed & Breakfast, Ramada by Wyndham Vancouver and Times Square Suites Hotel
We recommend using Expedia and Hotels.com to find the best prices for your family vacation to Vancouver.
Vancouver apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation on your Vancouver trip with teenagers in Canada, an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. Vancouver has so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options. You can search VRBO for apartments in Vancouver.
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Getting to Vancouver B.C
Vancouver is one of the best family destinations in North America for family travel with teens. The city is the capital of British Columbia and is connected by highways, long-distance buses, trains, and planes, all bringing people to the city daily.
This makes flying and driving to Vancouver one of the most accessible family travel destinations in North America.
- Vancouver International Airport is located on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia. It is located 12 km from downtown Vancouver. Vancouver Airport is a hub for Air Canada, Flair Airlines, Pacific Coastal Airlines and West Jet, while international carriers such as Air France, Air China and Air New Zealand land here.
- If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
- Book domestic and international flights to Vancouver with Skyscanner
- Book an airport transfer to your hotel in the city
- Book domestic and international flights to Vancouver with Skyscanner
- If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
- You can catch a train to Vancouver from the major Canadian cities in the east, such as Toronto and Montreal or American cities in the south, such as Portland and Seattle. Book your train to Vancouver and beyond with Omio.
- Vancouver can be reached directly from 4 places in Canada and indirectly anywhere across Canada and the USA. Flixbus tickets are available at great prices. Bus travel with teens in Canada can add many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets to Vancouver with Flixbus.
- If you plan to go on a road trip with teenagers in Canada, you can hire a car at any international airport and dealership nationwide. Book with rentalcars for the largest options.
- Maybe you want to make a trip cross-country? An RV is a great way to travel to Vancouver and beyond with teens. Hiring an RV in Canada is not as expensive as you think.
How to get around Vancouver
An efficient and reliable public transport network services Vancouver. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry and the SkyTrain (light rail) services, which run from about 5 or 6 a.m. to around 1 a.m. daily. You can find more on the Translink website.
Weather in Vancouver
August is the hottest month in Metro Vancouver, with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F), and the coldest is January at 3.5°C (38°F). Snow only falls an average of 10 days a year in Vancouver. The wettest month is November, with an average of 200mm of rain.
Seasonal essentials for travel to Vancouver
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Men’s & women’s sunhat
- Winter scarf
- Small travel umbrella
- Base layers for warmth
- Gloves
Vancouver for international visitors
Visiting Vancouver for international travel requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in Canada. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.
The official currency of Canada is The Canadian Dollar. If you use your bank account from home you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about.
- For International travellers, travel insurance is a must, get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses
- Do you need a visa to visit Vancouver? The country of Canada may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorization) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa
- Load a Revolut Travel Money card with Canadian dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees
- Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone
- A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer
Travel accessories for teenagers
For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.
Frequently asked questions about Vancouver
Vancouver stands out as one of the top destinations for family city breaks in North America, offering an excellent choice for vacationing with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Vancouver to help you make your family holiday easy and hassle-free.
What is the legal drinking age in Vancouver?
The legal drinking age in Canada varies from 18 to 19, depending on what region you are in. In Vancouver and British Columbia, the legal drinking age is 19.
Is Vancouver a safe city for families to visit?
Even though Vancouver is one of the least dangerous cities in Canada, tourists should be aware of the possibility of petty crimes and pay attention to their surroundings
How do I call the Police in Vancouver?
Much like its neighbour, the United States, you can call 911 in Canada
Is tipping required in Vancouver?
Tipping in the service industry is expected; 15% of the bill is a customary amount, however, if you believe you did not receive good service, tip as you see fit on your family vacation in Vancouver, BC.
Can I drink tap water in Vancouver?
Drinking water in Vancouver contains chlorine, which has been added to kill bacteria in the water. Most people use a water filter because they prefer the taste. You can purchase a water bottle with a filter.
What type of power sockets are used in Canada?
For Canada, there are two associated plug types, types A and B.
Buy an A or B adaptor for your trip to Canada.
Where are the best places to stay in Vancouver for teenagers
At the top of the article, we suggested some accommodation choices for your holiday in Vancouver with kids. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices for your family stay in the Vancouver area, please find below an interactive map to find your perfect stay for your Vancouver vacation.
Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more? Are you unsure what companies you can trust to book your travel online? We have a resource page full of companies we use and book through for all trips, from a weekend away to long-term travel worldwide. Click here to search our travel resources page.
We hope this article from Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit Vancouver with teenagers. There are so many things to do in Vancouver with young adults that will entertain you for your family’s whole stay in the city. Kids will enjoy participating in a variety of family activities in Vancouver.
Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, working out a budget, deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials, and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential.
Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation, making it an epic adventure with your teens.
For more unique ideas on where to holiday in Vancouver, click our Canada Destination Guide page for more brilliant inspiration.
More travel inspiration for your trip to North America
Author bio:
Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.
Mark Wyld
Content Creator