Lonsdale Quay Market

Lonsdale Quay Market is one of those family outings where the getting-there is genuinely part of the experience. The SeaBus ferry from downtown Vancouver's Waterfront Station to North Vancouver is a 12-minute ride across Burrard Inlet, and for kids, it's magical — you're on a real boat, passing beneath massive freighters, with the city skyline shrinking behind you and the North Shore mountains growing ahead.

The market itself is a two-level public market with around 40 locally-owned businesses. The ground floor is a food hall with fresh produce vendors, bakeries, fishmongers, and specialty food stalls. The upper level has retail shops and restaurants. It's smaller and less touristy than Granville Island Public Market, which some families prefer.

But the real family appeal is what's outside. The Shipyards District, right next to the market, has been transformed into a vibrant public waterfront. In summer, a splash pad keeps kids cool and entertained. There's a modern playground nearby. Wide boardwalks are perfect for strolling with a stroller or running with kids. In winter, an outdoor skating rink takes over the Shipyard Commons.

The Shipyards Night Market (Friday evenings in summer) adds food trucks, live music, and a festive atmosphere that families love. The working shipyard across the water provides industrial eye candy that fascinates curious older kids.

Practically, Lonsdale Quay is easy and affordable. Entry to the market is free. The SeaBus fare is the same as a regular TransLink bus ride — use a Compass Card. Parking is available if you drive, but taking the SeaBus is cheaper and more fun. The market has family washrooms, baby changing facilities, and is fully stroller-accessible.

This outing pairs perfectly with North Shore attractions. From Lonsdale Quay, you can catch buses to Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain, or Lynn Canyon Park. Many families use the market as their lunch stop before or after a North Shore adventure.

A visit to Lonsdale Quay typically takes 1.5-2.5 hours — longer if the splash pad is running and your kids refuse to leave. Combined with the SeaBus rides, it makes for a satisfying half-day family outing that feels like an adventure without requiring a car.