Written by KidApprovedBC 13/09/17
Lazy summer days are firmly in the rearview mirror, and for many families, September begins with a bang! Extracurricular activities, back-to-school routines, childcare changes, new teachers, new faces and new beginnings. So how to reconnect as a family after these first hectic weeks? Think “back-to-bonding” and check out our ideas below for a day of fun-filled, family hang-time.
Kid Approved Guide to Family Bonding
Surrey
Start the day with a little golf! For toddlers, preschoolers and true novices, check out the very kid friendly mini-golf at Art Knapp Surrey. With a playground, train and seasonal pumpkin patch coming soon, it is an easy place to spend a morning.
For older kids who may have some golf experience, hit nearby Birdies & Buckets Family Golf Course and play a very affordable 9 holes on their beautiful course.
Then head into picturesque Cloverdale for lunch. Stroll the quaint mainstreet, check out the refurbished trolley and locally owned shops. Fuel up at the Coast Country Dinner, an old school establishment with classic comfort food and generous portions. Or hit the Vault Restaurant for a more upscale option with local brews, West coast eats and retro glam vibe.
After lunch, plan on an afternoon at the famous Bose Corn Maze. Themed for Canada 150, this family owned attraction is not-to-be-missed.
Don’t have a full day? Hit a bucket of balls at or play a round of mini golf, then head over to the Healthy Monkey Cafe to catch up over smoothies.
Delta
Start the day at the North Delta Farmers Market, open every Sunday until the end of October. Find local produce, honey, herbs and flowers, and snack on freshly baked treats. Hit one of the food trucks and pick up some picnic staples for the road.
After perusing the market, make your way to Burns Bog for a family walk. As the largest undeveloped urban landmass in North America, the bog is an oasis of nature. City sounds vanish moments after entering the peaceful canopy. Wooden boardwalks are mixed with springy, peat trails for a pleasant, level walk for all ages.
Or if biking is more your speed, hit the Delta Watershed Park. This is another great option for all abilities. Some cool jumps and technical choices for more advanced riders, and lots of smooth, wide paths for the littles.
Everyone will undoubtably be starving after all that fresh air and exercise. If you haven’t yet tried ONE20 Public House, now is the time. This North Delta gem is totally committed to all things local, with a seasonal menu inspired by the local farming community. Craft beer enthusiasts will be delighted by the tap selection. And best of all? An affordable kids’ menu with all the classics.
Short on time? Stop by Altmaerker Deli and pick up a snack to go, then walk or ride through your favourite urban escape – Deas Island, Delta Watershed or Burns Bog. A lot can be shared over an hour spent in nature!
White Rock
Get off to a good start with full tummies. Try the Kid Approved favourite – the Wooden Spoon Bistro. Amazing brunch, great cocktails AND a play space! Sounds like heaven to us.
If you’re in White Rock, must be time for the beach… head down to East Beach for family board sports. These shallow, protected waters are perfect for an intro into kayaking or SUP. Feral Boardsports is conveniently located on the beach, and offers a variety of rentals with life jackets and lessons are available too.
After an afternoon on the water, it will be time to feed the crew for sure. Do dinner beach style and watch the sunset as a family. For a casual, quick option, get some fish & chips and picnic on the sand. The always popular Moby Dick is an East Beach standby.
Or for a sit down experience with expansive views, head over to the Washington Avenue Grill.
Need a quick connection? Grab an ice cream and stroll the White Rock Pier. Delightfully less busy in non-peak months, this is a great throwback to summer and an awesome opportunity to hang.