9 Ideas for Spring Break Family Fun In The Shipyards District

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Spring Break comes but once a year, and this March 18 – April 2, The Shipyards District has you covered for all the family-friendly fun you can handle. With upcoming events, programs, and special discounts galore, there are so many ways to get out in the neighbourhood and enjoy some quality time with the kids this year. 

We’ve put together some of our favourite, affordable activities for the whole family to enjoy together. Ready? Set? Break!

 

1. Spring Break At The Museum

 

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MONOVA is a great place to explore and learn for all the family. Showcasing special family programs and hands-on exhibits that let your little ones explore everything from urban sustainability, the high seas, and Iranian New Year traditions, to scavenger hunts, the museum is open every day of the break to excite and intrigue. Discover MONOVA’s program of events and exhibitions

 

2. Culture Compass Scavenger Hunt

 

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Did somebody say prizes? This Spring Break, why not put those kids’ curious minds to work, by getting out to experience local culture and heritage, with layer by layer. The Treasure Hunt follows the North Shore Spirit Trail in the direction of the sun. Six places along the trail reveal layers of stories: about the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh people who have been taking care of this place since time immemorial, about the settlers who arrived just over 200 years ago, and about the people who now live in and share this special place. Follow the Treasure Hunt clues, find the code word, and enter to win prizes!

 

3. Spend the afternoon at Lonsdale Quay Market.

 

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With stunning waterfront views, tons of tasty food stalls, and a kids’ play area, there’s always something to keep everyone occupied at The Quay.

 

4. Rent E-Bikes and go for a ride.

 

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Not only is a bike ride one of the best ways to see The Shipyards District, but in honour of Spring Break, Obsession Bikes is offering special discounts on kids’ bikes! You might also rent some eBikes from Reckless Shipyards, pack a picnic, and take a family coast along the Spirit Trail for a continuous tour of the entire North Shore. For other suggestions to make a family bike day worth the ride, check this out.

 

5. Ice cream and sweet treats crawl.

 

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We all know this city loves a beer crawl, but how about treating your kids to a Sweets Crawl for their hard-earned time out of school? There are plenty of great options to choose from, and may we suggest handmade donuts at Cream Pony (try their buttermilk fried chicken too!), small-batch ice cream at Welcome Parlour or Earnest Ice Cream, cupcakes at Butterlane Bake Shop, a waffle/crepe combo at Craffles, and then maybe some hard candy or taffy from Old World Confections for the stumble home?

 

6. Enjoy A Family Meal On The Town

 

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Enjoying a nice meal out with the ones you love is not only a great way to connect, but it’s also a convenient way to avoid washing any dishes! Some of our family-friendly favourites for an easy-breezy lunch or dinner are Burgoo Bistro, Kitchen Craft Eatery, or Lift Breakfast Bakery for brunch.

 

7. Discover The Shipyards District’s Walking Art Tour.

 

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In this neighbourhood, there really is art all around you! Download The Shipyards District Walking Art Tour map, and head out to discover the many pieces of public art and sculpture hidden right in plain sight. It’s fun, free, and a creative way to spend an afternoon experiencing the area with new eyes.

 

8. Take a ride on the Seabus.

The Seabus may very well be the most scenic way to enjoy Vancouver. While many locals take advantage of its convenience to get to and from downtown and North Vancouver for work or play, we love this sea-faring activity for the opportunity to get out on the water, and really take in the full cityscape. Departing approximately every 15 minutes, seven days a week, the Seabus is one more way to experience this city we love!

 

9. Get Ready For Family Game Night 

Get ready to let those competitive streaks shine with family game night! Take the family over to Big Pete’s Collectibles or Play and Learn, and pick out some classic board games, puzzles, or something new for everyone to learn, and have fun with. The hours fly by when you’re having fun, and when you throw in some added perks for the winners (no chores for the rest of Spring Break?), everyone’s got a little skin in the game.

 

This spring, we hope you find time to take advantage of all the family-friendly activities The Shipyards District has to offer. Visit our event calendar to find upcoming events in the neighbourhood