Family Fun Things to Do in New Westminster

The oldest incorporated city in western Canada, New Westminster has plenty of historic and heritage sites, mixed with exciting opportunities for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoor areas, specialty restaurants and creative outlets available here.

25 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN NEW WESTMINSTER

FRASER RIVER DISCOVERY CENTER

The discovery center offers an excellent chance for kids to learn about the Fraser River and the history and ecological aspects of the area. With two floors full of interesting exhibits and interactive displays, kids will find this a fascinating stop. Those families with little ones will enjoy tot time once a week, where small children will be entertained by stories, songs and circle time. Details

WESTMINSTER PIER PARK

Kids will love a stroll along the beautiful waterfront boardwalk here with its views of the mighty Fraser River. Children can play at one of the two available playgrounds, or perhaps get wet in the fun spray park. Basketball courts and sand volleyball courts add an extra dimension of play for kids of all ages. Grassy areas allow for other sports and plenty of room to run. Details

NEW WEST QUAY

Take a walk along the quay and enjoy the fresh air, watch tug boats move down the river, and enjoy the area. Kids will absolutely fall in love with the world’s largest tin soldier, standing right outside the Public Market here. Your family can easily spend the whole day in the area, as this is within easy walking distance of the Pier Park and several other activities. The market itself has plenty of dining and shopping opportunities. Details

PAMOLA BAKERY COOKING CLASS FOR KIDS

Located right in the Public Market at New West Quay, Pamola’s is a great destination for those kids who are interested in learning how to roll cookies, decorate cupcakes, and create amazing sweet treats. Let them get messy in someone else’s kitchen as they learn the basics of baking during the River Critters Class. Check the website for more details. Of course, kids will enjoy a visit here at any time to taste the lovely treats available. Details

TRE GALLI GELATO CAFFE

The River Market is full of sweet surprises and the kids will love everything they eat here. Let them enjoy a traditional Italian pizza for lunch, or one of the absolutely divine homemade gelatos. Parents can indulge in a delicious Italian expresso as their kids enjoy every bite of food provided. Details

SOAPMAKING CLASSES

Appropriate for kids 6 years and older, you can take advantage of the drop-in soap making classes at Jolene’s Natural Soap store located right in River Market. Have some fun and learn some new skills with your kids as they use their creativity to make their own soap products. Details

BIKE ALONG THE QUAYSIDE BOARDWALK

Tucked away under the pedestrian bridge at the Quay you can find Cap’s Bike Rentals. The Quay is an excellent place for a bike ride, even for those little kids who are still learning, as everything is flat here. You can rent a bike from Cap’s for as short as one hour, and they have bikes of all sizes available. They have extremely reasonable rental rates, so why not take your kids on a bike ride while you are here! Details

VANCOUVER CIRCUS SCHOOL

Fun, fun and more fun, as kids tumble and play as they learn some basic circus skills. Classes are split into age groups, from toddlers to adults, so activities are appropriate for the age of your child. Single classes are available or sign your kids up multiple sessions. Details

PADDLEWHEELER RIVERBOAT CRUISES

A completely different way for families to experience the river, taking a paddlewheeler cruise down the Fraser River will open your kids up to an adventure on the water. This 100-passenger authentic paddlewheeler offers a live narration of the facts, and the fiction of life on the river. There is a variety of cruises to choose from, so ask your kids what they would like to experience. Details

PLANET LAZER

Hide and seek at its extreme, this laser tag facility will have your kids hopping as they seek each other out in the three level, 16,000 square feet arena. The largest laser tag arena in North America, this is the best place for kids to burn off some energy and have some fun. If your kids have never played this game, then this is a must do! Details

SAMSON V MUSEUM

Boating loving children will enjoy a visit to this old wooden sternwheeler. This steam powered vessel was originally launched in 1937 and is now preserved as a museum for all to enjoy. Kids can have the chance to see what these boats were really like and what they contributed to the life on the river. Details

OLD SCHOOLHOUSE PARK PLAYGROUND

Pack up your kids, take a picnic, and enjoy some time at this playground. With natural features and equipment for both toddlers and older children, this is a good destination for families. Shady areas and water features allow for opportunities to cool off during hot summer days. Details

QUEEN’S PARK

A lovely park with lots to do, children will be occupied throughout the day with all the amenities available here. There are tennis and pickleball courts, basketball courts, soccer and football fields, baseball diamonds and plenty of room to run and play. With a playground, spray park, and even a petting zoo, kids will love it here. Details

NEW WEST MUSEUM

A fantastic indoor activity that will entertain your kids for hours, the museum hosts an incredible array of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the area. The museum aspires to be a fun and interesting place for all ages, so your family will definitely enjoy some time here. Details

IRVING HOUSE

Technically part of the museum listed above, this site is a must visit for the family, on its own or in conjunction with the rest of the museum. This original house is the oldest house in the area, and kids can visit the past as they visit this house of the 1800’s. There are 14 rooms to explore and visit, and children can learn a little about the past as they enjoy the site. Details

BURGER HEAVEN

With a name like this, kids will be bound to love a meal here. They can choose from classic burgers to fun sounding delights such as Perogy Burgers and Heaven Sent Burgers, among other delicious snacks, meals and beverages. Details

ANNY’S DAIRY BAR

A fast food joint like no other, kids will enjoy every bite of every treat here. If you are visiting, especially from out of the country, your family must try the Canadian treats available. Specializing in our famous Canadian Poutine, you can round off your meal with a delicious maple twist soft serve ice cream to get a truly Canadian experience. Details

SAPPERTON PARK

With a brand-new playground and fun spray park, this should definitely be on your families visit list this year. Sports courts and grassy areas complement the play areas and give your kids a range of activities to do. Picnic tables and bathrooms are available at this park, so families can easily spend an enjoyable day here. Details

GRIMSTON PLAYGROUND and WADING POOL

A new playground with fun features monkey bars, swings, slides, a climbing wall and more, this is a great place to play for kids of all ages. With an actual wading pool, even small children will be able to have the pleasure of cooling off in this lovely little pool. Details

MOODY PARK ARENA

Let your kids experience the feeling of gliding on the ice, with skating lessons or during public skate times at this facility. Little ones will love the chance to learn how, and older kids can sharpen their skating skills as they enjoy this activity. Details

HUME PARK

An upgraded water spray park, and an outdoor pool are featured in this park, so kids can enjoy hot summer days in style. A playground, tennis courts, walking trails, and picnic areas complete the amenities here, so families can spend hours enjoying themselves at any time of the year. Details

GLENBROOK RAVINE PARK

A wonderful area to escape the hectic pace of the city, children will appreciate a walk or bike ride along the trails in this park. Check out the nature, birdlife, and breathe the fresh air as you take your kids out for some physical activity. Details

OUTDOOR MOVIES

Provided by the City of New Westminster, this is a fun way to spend a summer evening with your kids. Over the summer months eight family friendly movies are offered at Queen’s Park Stadium. Pack a blanket or some lawn chairs and head off to enjoy a movie outside. A charity run concession is available for purchasing snacks. Details

NEW WESTMINSTER FAMILY PLACE

Offering programs for both parents and kids, this is a good place to drop in for events and classes. There is a place for children to play, and opportunities to make new friends for all members of the family. Kids can enjoy music, art, games and more. Details

KIDS DAY at LANDMARK CINEMAS

Every Sunday is Kids Day at Landmark Cinemas. Take advantage of a fantastic deal to take your kids to the movies on Sundays, as they get their entrance, popcorn, drink and choice of candy (Kids Snack Pack), for one low price. An excellent way to spend a Sunday afternoon, kids will enjoy the experience of seeing movies on the big screen. Details
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