Discover Vancouver: A Perfect March Break Getaway for Families
It may not be very glampy, but a Canadian adventure is a Canadian adventure! This past March Break, my husband and I embarked on a delightful five-day getaway to Vancouver, British Columbia. In part to visit our eldest daughter attending Simon Fraser University (SFU), and in part to further explore this thriving Canadian metropolis. With our friends, their children, and our two younger kids in tow, we set out for an adventure that combined family bonding, sightseeing, and quintessential Canadian experiences. From soaring high above the Rockies to exploring Vancouver’s vibrant streets, parks and hiking trails, this was a trip to remember.
Day 1: Accomplished Arrival and Amazing Accommodations
Our journey began with a drive from Kingston, Ontario, to Toronto Pearson International Airport which took us about three hours. Boarding a WestJet flight, we were whisked across the country, arriving at Vancouver International Airport in the early afternoon. From there, we embraced Vancouver’s efficient public transit system, taking the and buses to our accommodations at The Simon, located on SFU’s Burnaby campus.
Nestled atop Burnaby Mountain, The Simon provided hotel-style accommodations that were both comfortable and convenient. Our rooms offered amenities such as 55” ROKU TVs, private washrooms, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to a lobby coffee station. Surrounded by a tranquil courtyard, it was the perfect place to unwind after a day of travel. After settling in, we toured the SFU campus and enjoyed dinner at the campus dining commons, immersing ourselves in the vibrant student atmosphere.
Day 2: Granville Island, Gastown, and NHL Excitement
The next day, we headed northwest to Granville Island, a bustling hub of culture, art, and food. Once an industrial area, it now boasts iconic hotspots like Lee’s Donuts and the Granville Island Brewery. As we wandered through the Public Market and artisan shops, the kids marvelled at the colourful murals and delicious scents from the various food vendors. A key highlight was quality time spent at Hamuhk Hangout Place, where you can try-before-you-buy a variety of hammocks in fun colours, patterns and sizes!
Later that day, we explored Gastown, one of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhoods. Its cobblestone streets and historic charm were the perfect backdrop for dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory. To cap off the day, we attended an NHL game at Rogers Arena, where the Vancouver Canucks faced the Montreal Canadiens. The energy in the arena was electric, making it a thrilling experience for hockey fans of all ages.
Day 3: Vancouver Aquarium and Stanley Park
Rain didn’t dampen our spirits as we ventured to the Vancouver Aquarium, located in the heart of Stanley Park. From playful sea otters to the glowing jellyfish, every exhibit captivated our group. The kids were particularly enthralled by the Amazon Rainforest habitat, teeming with unique creatures.
After the aquarium, we strolled through Stanley Park, taking in the lush greenery and scenic views of the city skyline. Even in March, the park’s natural beauty was on full display, offering a serene escape from the bustling city.
Day 4: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, North Vancouver
Our fourth day was spent in North Vancouver at the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. We took public transit to within a short walk of the park to get there, and were able to take a free shuttle from the park back into Vancouver on the way back. The free shuttle is a great feature!
Crossing the 137-metre-long bridge over the Capilano River was both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. The Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk provided additional thrills, with stunning views of the coastal rainforest. Educational exhibits throughout the Nature’s Edge Boardwalk and the Story Centre enriched our visit, offering insights into the region’s history and rich Indigenous culture.
With a mix of adventure, exercise, and education, the park was a hit with both the kids and the adults. Before leaving, we stopped at the gift shop to pick up souvenirs, a perfect way to remember our time in this enchanting setting.
Day 5: Farewell to Vancouver
On our final day, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at the dining commons before packing up and making our way to the airport. The public transit system once again proved reliable, getting us to Vancouver International Airport with time to spare. Flying WestJet back to Toronto, we retrieved our car from Econ Park & Fly and began the final leg of our journey home. Despite the late-night arrival in Kingston, the memories of our Vancouver adventure made it all worthwhile.
Reflections on Our Vancouver Adventure
This trip was more than just a getaway; it was a celebration of family, friendship, and the incredible beauty of Canada. From the cultural vibrancy of Granville Island, and the excitement of watching an NHL game live, to the natural wonders of Stanley Park and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, every moment offered something special. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a solo adventure, Vancouver’s blend of urban excitement and natural splendour makes it a must-visit destination. We can’t wait to return and discover even more of what this remarkable city has to offer.
~ Anja