Archie MontroseThis summer, my kids had completely different ideas about how to spend their days. While some were eager to run around in the park, others were about finding ways to beat the heat with water play.
Luckily, I discovered the perfect solution: spray parks! If you’re in the same boat, you’ll want to check out the best spots I found that cater to both kinds of fun.
Curious to know where to find the best spray parks in Vancouver? Keep reading, and I’ll spill the beans on my top picks.
1. Granville Island Water Park
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Website: https://falsecreekcc.ca/waterpark/
Address: 1318 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R8
Contact details: +16046666655
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
Granville Island Water Park opened its doors in 2001, and since then, it’s become a go-to place for some fun in the sun—plus, it’s completely free to enter! When I walked in with my kids, they couldn’t wait to race to that big yellow water slide.
And if slides aren’t your thing, all these spray poles, arches, and playful fountains are splashing around. They can just run around and splash to their hearts’ content, all while we soak up the views of False Creek and the Granville Island market.
They have a little toddler area, which is perfect for my youngest—she loves that! We can easily make a day of it since picnic spots and playgrounds are right next door.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring water shoes! The ground can get slippery when wet, and having some grip will make it easier for you and your little ones. Plus, they’ll protect your feet from the occasional sharp edge or hot pavement!
2. Lumberman’s Arch at Stanley Park
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Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-seawall.aspx
Address: 3250 Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Operating hours: 7 AM–10 PM
Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley Park is a charming spot, and its history makes it even more special. Originally built in 1912 to honor the Duke of Connaught’s visit, the arch we see now was built in 1952 after the old one fell apart.
When you visit, you’re surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flower gardens, and it’s just beautiful. The fun part, especially if you have kids, is the nearby Variety Kids Water Park. Those water cannons and spouts? They’re a blast!
It’s the perfect way to cool off on a warm day. Plus, the whole area has stunning views of the forest and mountains, making it a lovely escape. There are also designated parking spots nearby, and the paths are stroller-friendly.
Pro tip:
And if you want to keep the adventure going, the Vancouver Aquarium is just a short walk away. It’s a great place for the kids to see all sorts of marine life.
3. Connaught Park
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Address: 2390 W 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 4K9
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 24/7
Connaught Park has an amazing splash zone that’s perfect for kids. It’s like their personal water wonderland. It’s so much fun watching them run through the various water features, shrieking with glee as they try to dodge the sprays!
The amenities are super family-friendly, which I appreciate. There are restrooms, picnic spots, and plenty of green space begging for frisbee or a lazy afternoon.
The best part? It’s wheelchair accessible! This is a huge plus for ensuring everyone can enjoy the park. It’s a vibrant, welcoming place, perfect for families or anyone looking to relax in a lively setting.
Pro tip:
Bring water shoes for the kids; they can make navigating the splash pad even more fun and comfortable!
4. Prince Edward Park
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Address: 3773 Prince Edward St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3Y3
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 6 AM–10 PM
Prince Edward Park is like stepping into a little paradise, especially if you’ve got kids. There are gentle water features—splash pads and shallow pools—perfect for little ones to explore.
I love that the park has nice shaded seating areas where you can kick back and relax while keeping an eye on your kids. They thought of everything to create a safe and engaging spot for families.
You’ll be happy to find clean washrooms and picnic tables when you visit. The well-maintained paths make it easy to stroll around with a stroller or navigate in a wheelchair.
Pro tip:
Arrive early on weekends to secure a good picnic spot under the trees. The shaded areas fill up quickly as families flock to enjoy the water features during warmer days!
5. CRAB Park at Portside
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Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=28
Address: 101 E Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC
Operating hours: 6 AM–10 PM
CRAB Park at Portside is a charming little urban oasis spread out over 8 acres right by the waterfront. In the 1980s, the community came together to advocate for public water access, which led to the creation of CRAB Park.
And if you’re wondering about the name, it stands for “Create a Real Available Beach.” You can’t help but notice its kid-friendly water fountains and the cute little spray park with all those fun nautical themes when you’re there.
There are also picnic areas everywhere, where you can gather with family, kick back, and enjoy a meal while soaking in the beautiful views of Burrard Inlet and the North Shore mountains.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring your own beach toys or water gear! The park’s unique spray features are perfect for kids to explore, but having your items will enhance their playtime experience even more.
6. Garden Park
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Address: 1851 Garden Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4W6
Operating hours: 10 AM–7 PM
Garden Park is a vibrant spray park with playgrounds and sprawling green spaces. It’s the perfect hangout for families wanting to enjoy the outdoors.
You’ll see families enjoying themselves, laughter ringing out as kids dash through the water jets, and it just makes the whole place feel alive.
There’s plenty of room for picnics, too. There’s nothing like spreading a blanket with friends or family and kicking back. One of my favorite things is simply lounging on the grass, soaking up the atmosphere.
Garden Park is super accessible, which is great because everyone can join in. The pathways are perfect for strollers and wheelchairs, so it’s truly a place for all.
Pro tip:
Be sure to bring along a waterproof blanket. It will keep you dry if you decide to sit near the spray area and make an excellent picnic spot on the lush grass.
7. Oak Park
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Address: 900 W 59th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6P 1X7
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 10 AM–8 PM
Oak Park is another perfect spot for kids to run wild and enjoy themselves. Your little ones will laugh as they splash in the interactive water features. There’s so much room for everyone to spread out and have fun.
I love how the park has beautifully maintained playgrounds and expansive fields. Plus, the history behind Oak Park is pretty neat—it’s part of Vancouver’s effort to create accessible green spaces for all.
There are also picnic areas with tables to kick back and relax. And let’s not forget the restrooms and shaded spots—trust me, on a hot day, they’re a lifesaver!
Pro tip:
If you’re thinking about throwing a gathering or a birthday party, you couldn’t pick a better spot! The layout is spacious, and the facilities are super engaging.
8. Edmonds Park
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Website: https://www.burnaby.ca/recreation-and-arts/recreation-facilities/edmonds-community-centre
Address: 7433 Humphries Ave, Burnaby, BC V3N 1B1
Contact details: +16042974838
Operating hours: 24/7
Edmonds Park has a fun spray park with huge splash buckets that come tumbling down in thrilling cascades. It’s perfect for little ones (and, let’s be honest, the young at heart!) to cool off.
And if you’re thinking about food, the picnic areas are fantastic. You can lay out a blanket, dig into some snacks, and enjoy a meal under the sun while the kids are having the time of their lives.
This place isn’t just a park; it’s got a bit of history, too! Edmonds Park has been a community hub for ages, mirroring Burnaby’s commitment to keeping recreational spots accessible for everyone.
Pro tip:
The Edmonds Community Centre is right there, so it’s super convenient if you want to take a dip in the swimming pool or hit the gym afterward.
9. Steveston Community Park
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Address: 4011 Moncton St, Richmond, BC V7E 6T4
Contact details: +16042764000
Operating hours: 6 AM–10 PM
Steveston Community Park nailed the perfect mix of history and fun. The playground’s incredible fishing village theme reflects Steveston’s rich maritime past.
There’s a giant trawler play structure they can climb all over, salmon-inspired climbers that make for great little adventures, and tons of interactive panels that get their imaginations going.
And let me tell you about the spray park—it’s a lifesaver on hot summer days! And you know what’s even better? The waterplay area runs from late May to early September, giving the kids a fun splash zone to enjoy all summer.
Pro tip:
Check out the historic Interurban Tram located within the park. It’s not just a fun photo op; it offers insight into the area’s transportation history and serves as a unique backdrop for family pictures!
