FUNK. coffee & holiday crawl (downtown)

start at FUNK. Coffee Bar

FUNK. Coffee Bar is an underrated mom-friendly spot in downtown Vancouver, tucked inside the Bentall Centre and run by the team behind FUNK Coffee. As the name suggests, the vibe is funky and fun, with plenty of open seating and wide pathways so you can easily navigate a stroller (or five). You can check out their menu of drinks, pastries, and Chinese-inspired dishes like dumplings and bao here.

What makes it perfect for parents:

A retro photo booth: Snap baby holiday photos for $7 (tap to pay).
Lots of seating: Tables, counters, and lounge-style setups with tons of stroller space.
Meeting rooms: Draw a curtain for a private feed or pump session.
Holiday decor: Right now there’s a huge Christmas tree and seasonal touches that make the space feel extra cozy.

It’s the perfect place to caffeinate, take some photos, and kick off your adventure. They also host local workshops and events, so check their event calendar while you’re there.

walk down Dunsmuir + take in the Bentall Centre Christmas trees

Once you’ve got your bevvies, head outside and stroll around the Bentall buildings on Dunsmuir. This stretch transforms in December with decorated Christmas trees, twinkle lights, and big open plazas where you can stop for more photos.

visit Gingerbread Lane

Stop at the Hyatt Regency for Vancouver’s iconic Gingerbread Lane, now in its 33rd year. You’ll find gingerbread house creations made by local bakeries, artists, and schools. It’s free to visit, but donations are encouraged, with proceeds supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Gingerbread Lane is stroller-friendly and filled with giant gingerbread displays perfect for both you and your babe to enjoy. It’s open to the public from Nov 27th–Dec 28th.

end at Fairmont Waterfront: HYPE Chocolate holiday popup (Fridays)

Stroll a few blocks to the Fairmont Waterfront, which is hosting the HYPE Chocolate popup in their lobby every Friday until December 19th from 3–6 PM. Their vegan dark hot chocolate is the best I’ve ever had, and you can load it up with unlimited toppings — dark chocolate shavings, candy cane, OREO, Biscoff, and more.

HYPE Chocolate is made locally in East Van, and they also have giftable bars and candy boxes available for purchase.

If you still have time between naps, take your hot chocolate across the street to Canada Place, where you’ll find even more holiday lights, structures, and photo ops.

The route is easily accessible via Burrard skytrain station or there’s paid parking options. There’s plenty of change-friendly bathrooms and spacious lobby space along the way for any baby or toddler issue!

📍1025 Dunsmuir St, Vancouver, BC V7X 1M5 Hours: Mon, Tues, Fri 7am-7pm, Wed 7am-4pm, ThuSat 9am-4pm, Sun Closed