britannia library & dilly dally kids

We did this Commercial St loop during an atmospheric river, so consider it as a safe rainy day activity with your littles. You can mix up the order depending on wake up times, but we hit the Vancouver Library – Britannia Branch at opening, then Moja Coffee for an on-the-run matcha, then ended at Dilly Dally for some shopping and perusing before our ride home. If you take the train, you’re spoiled for more neighbourhood favourites to visit on your journey there and back, notably Livia for sourdough, Fratelli Bakery for cannolis and The Bench Bakery for life-changing cinnamon buns.

start at britannia library (aka the best library in vancouver to play)

Britannia Library is hands-down one of the most kid-friendly libraries in the city! It feels more like an indoor play space than a traditional library. The children’s area is huge and thoughtfully designed, with play structures, games, and imaginative stations that keep little ones busy. There are private reading nooks for cozy reads, magnet walls, and even a LEGO tree installation that’s fun for all ages. You can borrow puzzles and games like Jenga, SushiGo! and Magnatiles.

The space truly encourages exploration, movement, play and connection — my little guy played with a bunch of other babies and kids.

There’s plenty of room for strollers, lots of seating for caregivers, and the Britannia complex also includes an Information Centre, a pool, and a fitness centre. A morning visit is your best bet — early enough to avoid after-school crowds.

Hours: Mon-Tues 9:30am-8pm, Wed 9:30am-5pm, Thur-Fri 9:30am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-5pm

coffee break at moja coffee

Once you’ve worked up an appetite (or need caffeine), head over to Moja Coffee, a cozy neighbourhood café that feels especially festive this time of year. Moja brews their own coffee and is largely known for selling the best beans in Vancouver for your buck. Inside, It’s warm, welcoming, and an ideal spot to regroup after library playtime.

Grab a latte and tuck into a treat. It’s a great place to sit and reset, whether your babe is napping in the stroller or people-watching from your lap.

Hours: Sun-Mon 7am-5pm

finish with a browse through dilly dally kids

End the outing across the street at Dilly Dally Toys & Delights, a thoughtfully curated shop full of beautiful, locally made gifts, kids’ toys, books, and special finds you won’t see everywhere else. It’s a mom and boy shop that feels good to support — and a go to for birthdays, holidays, or just a little something special. The real bonus? There’s a play area, so little ones can stay entertained while you browse. You can browse their online catalogue of arts and crafts, STEM toys, books, and figurines here.

Hours: Sun-Mon 10am-6pm

This loop hits all the essentials: free indoor play, a sweet treat, shopping local, and stroller-friendly stops — all within a block. It’s transit friendly with a 20m walk from Commercial Broadway Skytrain Station, or you can drive and park for free in the lot accessible via Venables St and Cotton Dr.

Bonus: Grandview Park is next door and has a playground if you’re visiting on a clear day (or are ready with your Muddy Buddy).

Library pro tips:

• A library card is not required for your visit, but I recommend signing your little one up for their own Juvenile Library Card (a piece of ID for you and baby is needed upon sign up). The Juvenile cards aren’t subject to restocking fees if you lose or damage a book!
• You can rent instruments, toys, etc with your library card. Ask your librarian!
• You can return your books to any Vancouver branch.

📍Vancouver Public Library – Britannia Branch, 1661 Napier St, Vancouver, BC V5L 4X4