As the days grow longer and the skies (mostly) clear up, summer in the Pacific Northwest is a dream come true for families. From mountain peaks to sandy shores, bustling cities to quiet forest trails, our area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy—perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your kids.
Whether you’re based in Seattle, Bellingham, or Vancouver, or visiting the area for the first time, here’s a curated list of family-friendly activities that promise summer fun for all ages.
1. Island Hopping and Ferry Adventures
Few experiences say “PNW Summer” like riding a ferry across glistening water.
- San Juan Islands (WA) – Take the ferry from Anacortes and enjoy kayaking, orca watching, biking, and exploring charming Friday Harbor.
- Bowen Island (BC) – Just a short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, this quiet retreat offers hiking, beaches, and art galleries.
- Salt Spring Island (BC) – Known for its farmer’s markets, lakes, and laid-back pace—great for a weekend getaway with kids.
2. Outdoor Exploration: Parks, Hikes & Nature Centers
With forests, lakes, and mountains on every side, getting into nature is easy—and free!
- Mount Baker (Whatcom County, WA) – Select from a dozen remarkable hikes and experience some of the most spectacular scenery in Washington State.
- Lynn Canyon Park (North Vancouver, BC) – Home to a free suspension bridge, swimming holes, and easy forest trails.
- Zuanich Point Park (Bellingham, WA) – A family favorite! Harborside park with picnic tables, playground, and paved paths.
- Stanley Park (Vancouver, BC) – Rent bikes and cruise the seawall, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or explore the miniature train ride.
3. Beach Days and Waterfront Playgrounds
Cool off or dig in the sand at one of the region’s beautiful beaches.
- Alki Beach (Seattle, WA) – Great for sandcastles, volleyball, and people-watching with a city skyline view.
- Larrabee State Park (Bellingham, WA) – Postcard views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. Explore 8,100 feet of saltwater shoreline.
- Spanish Banks (Vancouver, BC) – Low tides mean endless sandbars, tide pool discoveries, and room to roam.
- Birch Bay State Park (WA) – Calm waters and easy clamming make it ideal for young explorers.
4. Wildlife and Animal Encounters
Kids love animals—and both Washington and BC have amazing opportunities to get up close.
- Woodland Park Zoo (Seattle, WA) – One of the best urban zoos in North America.
- Greater Vancouver Zoo (Aldergrove, BC) – Offers a safari-like experience with wide enclosures and train rides.
- Reifel Bird Sanctuary (Delta, BC) – A hidden gem for spotting herons, ducks, and even sandhill cranes.
5. Splash Pads and Water Parks
When the temperatures rise, these water-based spots keep everyone cool.
- Snohomish Aquatic Center (WA) – Indoor fun with slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator.
- Big Splash Water Park (Tsawwassen, BC) – An outdoor park with slides and splash zones just south of Vancouver.
- Kitsilano Pool (Vancouver, BC) – A saltwater pool with stunning views of English Bay.
6. Museums and Rainy-Day Backups
For those occasional summer showers, these indoor attractions will keep the fun going.
- SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention (Bellingham, WA) – Science and history museum. Experience the marvelous history, science, and power of electricity.
- Science World (Vancouver, BC) – A favorite for hands-on science experiments, live shows, and the iconic geodesic dome.
- The Museum of Flight (Tukwila, WA) – Let imaginations soar with aircraft of all sizes, including the Concorde and space shuttle exhibits.
7. Festivals and Family Events
Summer brings lively events to every corner of the region.
- Northwest Washington Fair (Lynden, WA) – Family fun at its finest! Live music, carnival rides, games, entertainment, animals, fair food and more.
- Seafair (Seattle, WA) – A mix of hydroplane races, airshows, and parades—a staple of Seattle summers.
- Richmond Night Market (Richmond, BC) – Full of kid-friendly street food, games, and cultural performances.
- Bard on the Beach (Vancouver, BC) – Even kids can get into Shakespeare when it’s performed in tents with mountain and ocean backdrops.
Quick Travel Tips:
Cross-border travel: Bring passports or enhanced IDs, and be prepared for wait times.
Wildlife safety: Teach kids to respect nature—especially around wild animals, orcas, and tidal areas.
Reservations: Book ferries, campsites, and accommodations early—summer is peak season!
Make It a Summer to Remember!
Whether you’re paddling in Puget Sound, biking around Stanley Park, or catching a sunset over the San Juan Islands, the Pacific Northwest—on both sides of the border—is packed with family-friendly magic. Mix a little planning with a lot of curiosity, and you’ll find summer fun around every corner.
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