TECHNICALLY, it was our first family trip as a family of 5 if we include Louie. This spring, we took our first family trip to Vancouver. It was a whirlwind. It was fun and we got up to a lot in just a few short days. From staying at the iconic Fairmont Waterfront to exploring some of the city’s highlights, here’s a recap of our Vancouver getaway.
Staying at the Fairmont Waterfront: A Pet-Friendly Luxury Experience
We chose the Fairmont Waterfront for its central location and its reputation for being both family- and pet-friendly. We love that they’re always so consistent. Not only were the staff incredibly accommodating, but they also made sure our dog felt welcome, which is always a plus for us. The views of the harbor and North Shore Mountains from our room were breathtaking, and having access to the rooftop pool made the stay even more enjoyable.
For families looking for a touch of luxury while keeping things relaxed, the Fairmont Waterfront is such a great option. Plus, the fact that it’s pet-friendly means you can bring along your furry family members without worry. Louie comes everywhere with us, so it’s just a non-negotiable when we travel.
Dining at Nightingale: A Much-Needed Parents’ Night Out
We spent the day with one of Justin’s former students, and she watched the kids for us so we could enjoy a date night out in Vancouver! We headed to Nightingale, one of our old haunts. The atmosphere was perfect for a night out—elegant yet laid-back. It was exactly what we needed to unwind and reconnect after a busy day with the kids.
If you’re a parent visiting Vancouver and can manage a night away from the little ones, I highly recommend a date night at Nightingale.
Fun at the Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium was a highlight of our trip and a must-do for families. With interactive exhibits, playful sea otters, and the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibits, there’s something for everyone. We try to go to the aquarium every time we visit.
The aquarium is a great mix of education and entertainment, making it ideal for families with young kids. We spent a good part of the day there, and it never feels like enough time. We always try to go early in the day, because the parking situation can be quite the drag. Other families are often doing the same, so expect a walk. It’s a nice walk since the aquarium is in Stanley Park, but when it’s raining it’s a little less nice.
Checking Out the Vancouver International Auto Show
One of the highlights of our trip was the Vancouver International Auto Show. Justin’s a car enthusiast and we wanted to share that love of cars with our kids, so we couldn’t resist popping in to see what was on display. The highlight? Getting up close and personal with a Tesla Cybertruck! It’s just as futuristic in person as it looks in photos, and seeing it up close was pretty wild. The show had plenty to keep everyone entertained. It ended up being a really fun stop for the whole family.
Vancouver Art Gallery: Not Our Favorite Stop
We decided to visit the Vancouver Art Gallery, hoping to expose the kids to some art and culture. We lived in Vancouver for almost a decade and had never gone. But better late than never! While the gallery had some interesting pieces, we felt it was quite small compared to other major city galleries. To be honest, we didn’t think it was worth the price of admission. It might appeal more to serious art enthusiasts, but for us, it was such a letdown.
If you’re on the fence about visiting, it might be worth checking their special exhibitions first or opting for a family-friendly museum like Science World instead.
Conclusion: A Memorable Trip with a Few Lessons Learned
Our first family trip to Vancouver as a family of four (plus our dog!) was a success. Staying at the Fairmont Waterfront provided the perfect balance of comfort and luxury, while outings like the Vancouver Aquarium offered fun for the whole family. While the art gallery wasn’t our favourite, it was something to check off the list (forever, haha).
Overall, we loved our time in Vancouver and can’t wait to visit again—maybe next time with a different itinerary to explore even more of what the city has to offer. But we’re creatures of habit, so we shall see what we put into rotation.
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