Call it a day trip, call it a road trip, or call it a “the kids are bored and I need outta here” trip. Making a quick getaway out of town is a superb way to spend a day off and an even better way to help you and the little ones see some cool new things. Sometimes you just need a little inspiration. Here are three of our favourite easy day trips out of Vancouver.

Bowen Island

A beautiful 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, Bowen Island is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get a feel for quiet island life while you’re still so close to the city. You’ll find little shops, restaurants, a few historic buildings, beaches, and family-friendly hikes (a walk around Killarney Lake is a must).

Fort Langley

Explore the cute little historic town of Fort Langley, located just a one-hour drive southeast of Vancouver. You and the kids will love the interactive Fort Langley National Historic Site itself, a recreated historic village from when settlers first came to the area. The town has bookstores, galleries, shops, cafes and an historic train station to check out.

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Sunshine and Sunflowers: Sunflower Festivals around Metro Vancouver

Squamish

Less than an hour’s drive from the city, Squamish has lots of fun stuff for the family to do. Get ready for whoa-worthy views as you make your way up to this great little town found on the way up to Whistler. Make a stop at the Sea to Sky Gondola, then head into town for a delicious lunch at one of the cute little cafes along the main strip. There’s a great playground, plus a must-see West Coast Railway Heritage Park — it’s a 12-acre park with historic trains to explore and a 3 km miniature train to ride.