Exploring Granville Island Public Market: A Kid-Friendly Adventure
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, Granville Island Public Market stands as a bustling hub of culinary delights, artisanal crafts, and vibrant culture. This market truly is special and appeals to families. From the colorful stalls to the interactive experiences, Granville Island Public Market offers a plethora of activities that cater to the youngest of visitors. If it’s your first time here, you can spend a good half the day walking around the shops, the Kids Market and indulge in the many options for food.
Parking can easily be paid at a kiosk or app. If you will be spending a lot of time at the Kids Market, turn onto Cartwright St. (where it’s located), to find some parking nearby. Since parking is limited, it is encouraged to get to Granville Island by bus, bike, walking, or boat.
The Kids Market is every child's dream. Enter here for everything kids from shops to many play areas.
Kids Market, open daily, 10am-6pm
We spent most of our time at the Kids Market, which can be found easily once you pass the Granville Island Public Market signage, on the right on Cartwright St. Upon entering the Kids Market, you’ll be surrounded by toy shops, play areas and everything kids.
The Kids Market has some really great kids stores like the Granville Island Toy Company, Camelot Kids and Knotty Toys. For kids’ clothing, I really liked Kozy Kermodes (located on the main level).
The Adventure Zone, games and shops were a huge hit for the kids as they wanted to spend hours at the Kids Market.
My daughters loved spending the rainy day indoors, shopping, riding in little bumper cars (2nd level, Let’s Go Bumper Cars, $5 for 3 minute rides), enjoying the play area at Adventure Zone and playing games at Circuit Circus (2nd level of the Kids Market).
The False Creek Ferries and Aquabus Ferries are two companies that operate at the Granville Public Market. Both each provide a similar service and are great options for a family-friendly scenic ride.
False Creek Ferries and Aquabus Ferries
After dragging the kids away from the Kids Market, we wanted to spend some time outdoors so we took them on a boat ride by False Creek Ferries.
Two ferry companies service the area, False Creek Ferries and Aquabus Ferries. Both options provide frequent passenger ferry service to all major destinations in False Creek. Ferries are a fun way to enjoy Vancouver’s waterfront scenery and is kid friendly. We were able to bring our stroller aboard and enjoy a quick ride around False Creek.
Note: Both ferry companies do not operate side by side. Aquabus Ferries dock behind the Granville Island Public Market, whereas the False Creek Ferries ticket counter can be found down a ramp near the Tap and Barrel Restaurant.
The easy 20 minute route on False Creek Ferries meeting and ending point.
We randomly chose to take the False Creek Ferry that day. Various routes are offered to fulfill your ferry sightseeing needs. Since we didn’t want to be confined to the ferry for too long, we chose the 20 minute Mini-Cruise (Adults: $10, Seniors, Children: $7). This option was perfect for us and a great break outdoors. This route went from Granville Island to the Aquatic Centre (Sunset Beach), Maritime Museum (Kitsilano Beach) and back.
Note: The ferries are covered so no need to worry about any rain. Tickets can be purchased right before the ride.
For those who want a longer and more complete scenic tour of False Creek, there’s the 40 minute Sightseeing Cruise (Adults: $14, Seniors, Children: $11). This route takes you from Granville Island to David Lam Park, Stamp’s Landing, Spyglass, Yaletown, Plaza of Nations and Village (Science World).
Aboard False Creek Ferry, we were able to enjoy the beautiful views from the water. The ride was easy and not rocky, so luckily I didn't get motion sickness.
The False Creek Ferries also offer a Hop-On, Hop-Off DayPass (Adults: $20, Seniors, Children: $18) should you want to explore Vancouver and False Creek at your own pace with its’ 9 stops.
Note: If you do want an even shorter ferry ride, there is an option that goes just from Granville Island to the Aquatic Centre.
The False Creek Ferries sign with directions, routes, pricing and schedule
For up-to-date hours of operation and pricing for Aquabus, visit: https://theaquabus.com
For up-to-date hours of operation and pricing for False Creek Ferries visit: https://granvilleislandferries.bc.ca
After our family ferry ride in False Creek, we had lunch at Tap and Barrel Restaurant right next to it and then walked about the many stalls and shops at the Public Market.
Other Kid-Friendly Activities at Granville Island Market:
- Farmers’ Market Fun: Engage your kids in a sensory adventure as you wander through the farmers’ market section of Granville Island. Encourage them to touch, smell, and even taste the fresh produce on display. It’s a great way to introduce them to new fruits and vegetables while teaching them about healthy eating habits.
- Artisanal Treats: Treat your little ones to some delicious artisanal goodies available throughout the market. Whether it’s freshly baked pastries, homemade chocolates, or gourmet ice cream, there’s no shortage of delectable treats to indulge in. Let your kids’ taste buds run wild as they sample the diverse culinary offerings.
- Entertainment Galore: Keep your kids entertained with the lively street performers and musicians scattered around Granville Island. From jugglers to magicians, these performers add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Let your children dance to the music or marvel at the awe-inspiring tricks, creating lasting memories of their time at the market.
- Outdoor Seating Areas: Take advantage of the outdoor seating areas conveniently located near the market. Let your kids run around while you take in the scenic views of the surrounding waterfront. It’s a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the market and provides a chance for kids to burn off some energy.
If you don't want to eat at the Public Market, there are many other restaurants to choose from. After our ferry ride, we had a delicious lunch at Tap and Barrel, very relaxing and kid-friendly.
Granville Island Public Market offers a delightful escape for families seeking a day of fun and exploration. With its diverse array of activities, delicious treats, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this iconic destination continues to charm visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, make sure to add Granville Island Public Market to your list of must-visit spots for an unforgettable family adventure.
Tip: Dress warmly as there is almost always a breeze. Be prepared to walk, so wear comfortable shoes. Granville Island is adapted for the rain, so there are covered walkways and awnings.
For up-to-date hours of operation visit: https://granvilleisland.com
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