Early in September, we hit the road from Prince George to Prince Rupert for a late summer getaway to the coast. I’ve always been a huge fan of the ocean, I mean who isn’t? This was the first time I’ve gone with kids, and it didn’t disappoint.

If you’re thinking of visiting Prince Rupert this year or next, year are ten things to check out! Oh, and don’t’ forget to pack your raincoat, umbrella, and gumboots. Prince Rupert is one of the rainiest places in Canada, but don’t ask me – It was gorgeous and a sunny 27C when we visited. #majorfluke

Ten things to do in Prince Rupert with Kids

1. Dawn a Life Jacket and check out the pier.
   A public pier is now available in Prince Rupert connecting you down onto the ocean to look at the boats and barges coming in and out of the harbour. Kids don’t float, so borrow a life jacket from the top and scamper down for a look. You might even see a whale, but more likely a sea otter!
   
2. Play at a local PlayGround.
   Several playgrounds can be found around Prince Rupert. Closest to Cow Bay is Mariner’s Playground. This is an ideal location for picking up some sushi and having a dinner date.
3. Stop for Ice-cream & Shop Downtown
   Check out Eddie’s Newsstand for hard ice cream, soft serve or even a milkshake! Then take a walk around downtown and check out the local non-tourist shops.
   
4. Stop at Cowpaccunio’s
   Devour a delicious milkshake, or perhaps a more traditional coffee drink while enjoying one of their sweet desserts! A tiny play corner with toys provides toddlers with a nice travel break. Don’t forget to check out what else Cow Bay has to offer with local shops and restaurants; this neighbourhood is a tourists delight.
5. Watch for Whales
   Dare to take the kids on a Whale Watching tour? Prince Rupert Adventure Tours frequently depart for whale watching along the coast. Or maybe try your hand with a ferry ride to many of the connected communities along the North Coast.
6. Look for Shells
   The deep port of Prince Rupert on Kaien Island leaves little for beaches, but tackle the moderate hike of Butze Falls down to the Grassy Bay. When the tide is out, walk along the beach looking for shells, rocks, and whatever else the sea left!
7. Find the Sunken Garden.
   Somewhere between CowBay and Downtown Prince Rupert is the mysterious sunken garden. I’ve yet to seek it out but hear of this elusive beauty.
8. Eat.
   When in Prince Rupert you must eat! Local restaurants serve up a favourite from fish and chips to ethnic specialities. My favourite stops are Dolly’s Fish Market, Opa Sushi, and now Pho 88.
   
9. Check out the North Pacific Cannery
   History buffs will enjoy the guided tour at the North Pacific Cannery. A wealth of information about the coastal cannery options that once dominated the coast of BC.
10. Go for a Hike.
    Butze Rapids Interpretive Trail isn’t the only trail on the island, and depending on your interest, and you can find a variety of other trails thru coastal old growth, swamps and more. Check out Kaien Trails for hiking trail developments.

Bonus: There’s a train table inside the Visitor Information Centre & Port Interpretive Centre. Stop in for some wifi and let your toddler play. This space also doubles as the port interpretation centre, and you can learn more about the pot.