With February winding to a close, and warmer, sunnier weather across the city, playground weather has arrived. Our city is home to many great playgrounds, both in Vancouver and across the region. Picking just six was hard – we know we missed some real gems. We really do love these ones, though. So, without further ado, here are six Metro Vancouver playgrounds to visit with your little ones.
Six Metro Vancouver Playgrounds
We’re not playing favourites, here – these Metro Vancouver playgrounds are listed in alphabetical order.
Granville Island
Situated beside False Creek Community Centre on Vancouver Island, this playground and water park is a great place to while away an afternoon. All of the amenities of Granville Island are nearby – food, shopping, bathrooms, the Kids Market. The playground equipment is new with lots of options for kids of all ages, and in the summer the waterslide is a hit with slightly older or more adventurous kids.
John Lawson Park
Right on the waterfront in West Vancouver, John Lawson Park is gorgeous. The updated playground is gorgeous, and the spray park is a great place to cool off. The pier is beautiful, and you can swim in the ocean during the summer months. There’s also a picnic area, wide grassy areas to play on and a seawall where you can wander and take in the views.
westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks/john-lawson-park
Lions Park
The newly-renovated Lions Park in Port Coquitlam is one Metro Vancouver playground that’s worth a drive. The massive playground has natural features, giant tires to climb on, a zip line, a toddler-friendly spray park, swings, picnic tables, large musical instruments, sandboxes, walking trails, clean washroom facilities and a whole lot more. Your little one will never want to leave.
portcoquitlam.ca/Recreation_and_Culture/Parks__Sports_Fields___Trails/L_-_Parks.htm
Queens Park
Queens Park in New Westminster tops many a list of favourite Metro Vancouver playgrounds, and for good reasons. You’ll find great play structures, a spray park, food, washroom facilities and a small petting zoo for your little ones to enjoy. The gardens are a highlight, too, if you’re looking for a quiet stroll.
newwestpcr.ca/parks/community_parks/queens_park.php
Second Beach
Second Beach Playground’s stunning location next to the water in Stanley Park makes it a favourite for many local families. Who can blame them? The play area is lots of fun. There are picnic areas, and all the amenities of Stanley Park are nearby, including Second Beach concession and the Second Beach Pool.
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-playgrounds.aspx
Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment
Located in Richmond, the Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment is unique among Metro Vancouver playgrounds. Built using locally-sourced yellow cedar, the play equipment is designed to help children re-connect with nature. There are two distinct zones. The “Paddock” includes ziplines for the big kids down to a meadow maze for toddlers. The “Tree House” has a climbable timber structure and sand and water play area. Note that no dogs are allowed in the park, and while there are plans to put in permanent washrooms, as of last summer there were only portable toilets.