There’s still plenty of summer left here in Vancouver. The kids have been off for a few weeks now and, if your family is like mine, the bliss of slow mornings has devolved into bickering and boredom. So, as we head into August, I wanted to share with you some of my favourite boredom-busting Vancouver summer activities for families. Some of these activities do require some travel outside of Vancouver, but they are guaranteed to keep the kids occupied, exploring and off the devices for the month of August.

Favourite Kid-Friendly Vancouver Waterparks

I’m actually disappointed it’s taken me this long to discover my family’s new favourite Waterpark in the Lower Mainland – the Otter Co-op Outdoor Experience Waterpark. This Vancouver summer activity is a great for younger kids and older kids alike. The waterpark has three larger waterslides for kids 48 inches or taller, as well as the Big Top play feature with multiple smaller waterslides and a giant dumping bucket for the little ones. It also has a wave pool, a lazy river, a pool with diving boards and a rope swing, as well as a smaller wading pool and hot tub. You do need to reserve your tickets in advance, and unless you reside in Aldergrove, can only access tickets the week prior to your date. But this super fun half-day experience is relatively inexpensive and was a huge hit with my three kids ages 2-7.

For the full day, more epic waterpark experience, Cultus Lake is of course the best option. I was definitely impressed with how many slides my little ones could go one. With my two and a half year old being somewhat tall at 37 inches, he was able to go on most slides with an adult. This is one of those Vancouver Summer activities for families that I recommend planning with a group and ensuring you have at least one adult per small child.

Favourite Vancouver Summer Activities in Nature

If your kids love the great outdoors and exploring nature, Van Dusen Botanical Gardens, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Bloedel Conservatory and the Sea-to-Sky Gondola are such great activities! They keep the kids engaged, moving and learning more about their environment. Easy to get to with the exception of the gondola, most of these make great last minute plans for the days you just feel the need to get out of the house.

Added bonus? Kid’s passes to all four of these awesome activities are being features in White Spot’s Pirate Paks for their Celebrate BC Days from now until August 28th! Grab lunch one day to make less work on yourself and each Pirate Pak will include a pass for a child to an awesome adventure!

Vancouver Summer Indoor Activities

For the odd rainy or very hot day when it’s just best to stay out of the sun, Kidtropolis, HR MacMillan Space Centre, and Science World are our favourite ways to keep our kids occupied. These three indoor activities will keep your kids off their devices and burning energy on the days they’re likely to be stuck inside.

Other Vancouver Summer Activities

I’m sure at this point you’ve been to Kits Beach too many times, but I know from experience that my kids always play better, are happier and are easier when they’re in or near water! We have the most beautiful beaches, so keep taking advantage!

Summer is also a great time of year to update your family portraits! Take advantage of the gorgeous weather to create show-stopping memories at the beach, lake, river or in a beautiful park!