This trip was a short notice opportunity to head out to BC with my youngest son for a visit with my parents.  Flying into Vancouver always sets the mood for a good trip as the scenery is outstanding.  We were staying in the Fraser Valley which is approx 60 mins from the airport. Along the drive we enjoyed the view of the Coastal mountains and as we neared our destination, Mount Baker offered a spectacular welcome.

The first few days we visited the local towns such as Langley, Fort Langley and Maple Ridge .  The area mixes city centers with farms, golf, parks, outdoor activities and history as Fort Langley was the first settlement in the region. Driving in this area offers opportunities to visit quiet cafes and enjoying the warm BC weather.

A day trip into Vancouver gave me the opportunity to show my son a few areas I spent time growing up.  We started out inEast Van where I attended high school and the area sure has changed in 25 years. Next stop was kitsalino where we spent some time on one of the local beaches to stretch our legs.

Heading towards downtown, we detoured into False Creek and Granville Island.  You will find the Public Market which has numerous shops, dining venues, theatres, breweries and scenic lookouts. I do recommend arriving early as parking is limited.  Crossing over Granville Street bridge, the highrise apartment complex filled out view. We made our way along the old Expo 86 grounds which has transformed into a new community.  Also found in the area is BC Place, home of the BC Lions and Vancouver Whitecaps.  Just around the corner is GM Place where you can catch a Vancouver Canucks hockey game.  Heading east, we drove through Chinatown which is only 2nd in size after San Francisco. Cross a couple more roads and you find yourself on East Hastings which may not be for the faint of heart. There are many homeless in this area which opens your eyes to their plight. Gastown was next which is a cobblestone tourist area of the city just blocks from the cruise pier at Pan Pacific.  Great area for people watching, dining and shopping, but don't forget to checkout the Steam Clock!  Getting late afternoon, we headed through downtown enroute to Stanley Park. Famous for the 10km seawall, the aquarium, walking trails and views.  You will find many locals enjoying the day in the park along with tourists stopping at numerous spots.Maybe you will want to rent a bike for the day to explore this famous park.

Capalino Suspension Bridge was next on our list which meant crossing Lions Gate Bridge. You will enjoy a spectacular view from the bridge and if any luck one of the many cruise ships calling on Vancouver, may sail right below you.  I highly recommend a visit to Capilano for a unique perspective on the rain forest of BC. Trees over 200 years old with trunks so wide that it could take 4 people linking arms together to just make it. Crossing the bridge may take some nerves, but you won't be disappointed.  Head over to the  tree walk which will offer you a bird's eyeview as you cross between 10 of the largest trees in the park.  Another feature is the Cliff Walk which I have to say my son truly enjoyed, but did take a little extra nerves for me to follow him.

Seattle was an overnight trip as the Toronto Bluejays were facing the Seattle Mariners for a 4 game stretch. As my son is a huge baseball fan, I couldn't turn down the opportunity for him to experience his first ball game. Just over 2 hour drive from Vancouver, we headed down the night prior to the game and enjoy a little time in Seattle. 

Game day had us up early to take in all the action from warm up to a special event with kids running the bases after the game.  Even though the Bluejays lost, my son walked away with 2 autographs, a game ball and walking onto the ball field along with a lifetime of memories.

The week went by quickly and left us with wanting to return as there is so much to do!