Written by KidApprovedBC 24/02/17
This picturesque community rests on the banks of the Fraser River in South Delta. Enjoy a stroll down the quaint main street, full of locally owned shops and restaurants. And on a rainy afternoon, who can forget some puddle jumping! Join the waterfowl at the Reifel Bird Sanctuary on beautiful Westham Island.
Kid Approved Itinerary
Start with a drive to Westham Island to visit the Reifel Bird Sanctuary. The ducks love the rainy days and the sanctuary is pleasantly quiet. Don a muddy buddy and rubber boots to feed some feathered friends. Look for majestic Sandhill cranes, shy chickadees, mallard and wood ducks and seasonal flocks of snow geese. Get cozy by a wood burning fire in the warming hut near the entrance.
After the sillies have been shaken out, head back into Ladner for hot chocolate and some kid-friendly shopping. Localz Urban Café on Delta Street offers a wide variety of home baked treats and hearty sandwiches. Or pop by Stir Coffee House just around the corner for a hipster vibe and locally sourced eats.
With full tummies, cruise over to Buttercup Children’s Boutique. Kids can hang in the play kitchen while parents browse the adorable apparel and accessories. If you like to save pennies while supporting a good cause, don’t miss Finds Children’s Thrift Store on Elliot Street. Full of gently loved and vintage toys and books and games at bargain prices that will keep everyone busy on those rainy days at home.
If your afternoon begins to stretch to evening, have dinner at The Dancing Pig before heading home. This comfy and casual BBQ joint is quintessentially family friendly, with a reasonably priced kids’ menu of homemade, classic favourites like mac & cheese, chicken strips and scaled down portions of pulled pork and sliders. The chalkboard tables, eclectic décor and hearty portions will keep everyone happy.
Only 30 minutes from Vancouver, Ladner is an easy trip for a total change of scenery. Discover beautiful parks, faming country and many family-oriented options for shopping and dining