Celebrated on the third Sunday of June, the history of Father’s Day took root when Mrs. Sonora Smart Dodd decided to celebrate her father William Smith, who raised his six children alone after his wife passed away from delivery complications.
The first Father’s Day was observed on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, and thereafter families have used the holiday to remember and celebrate all things associated with dad. As a boutique hotel in Vancouver, many families come to the city to celebrate Father’s Day. To help create the perfect celebration, the team at the Victorian Hotel has put together a list of places that are easily accessible from the hotel’s Downtown Vancouver location.
Buy Dad a Beer—or Three
Vancouver is famous for a wealth of microbreweries that are ready to serve up a tall glass of frothy, chilled goodness on demand. Enjoy a tall cool one or enjoy a tasting flight at nearby venues like the CRAFT Beer Market, the Alibi Room, Rogue, or Tap & Barrel which features all the heavy hitters with over 20 taps at both their Gastown, Olympic Village, and West Broadway locations.
Take a Brunch Break
Okay, we know that brunches are more associated with Mother’s Day, but who doesn’t love a good omelette station? Food-wise, Vancouver is dotted with an array of West Coast eateries, many of which lay out lavish dad-inspired brunches. A few of our favourites are Café Pacifica in the Vancouver Hotel, the Boathouse Restaurant (located 10 minutes away in English Bay), and for the more down-to-earth dad, we recommend Jethro’s Fine Grub, which is located about 20 minutes away in Vancouver, near the University of British Columbia. A hidden gem breakfast spot and favourite with the downtown Vancouver locals is Café Medina just 10 minutes walking distance at 780 Richards Street.
Tee Up
If dad’s a golfer, a Father’s Day treat should be no problem. If a full round of golf isn’t quite within reach, opt for the more budget-friendly Pitch & Putts at Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, or Rupert Park. Favourite Public Golf Courses in Vancouver (just 25 minutes away by car) are McCleery, Fraserview, Langara, and Northlands. These golf courses defy the myth that having “public” in its name means “mediocre”. Tourism Vancouver and locals alike recommend these great courses where mountains serve as a backdrop to their lush fairways and rolling greens.
Indulge in Some Culture
Shakespeare had quite a lot to say on fatherhood. If literature is a popular pastime for your household, a visit to “Bard on the Beach” may be just the ticket. Bond with Dad over creative modern renditions of all The Bard’s greatest plays. Starting from June 10th, this year’s performances include Much Ado About Nothing, The Winter’s Tale, The Merchant of Venice, and The Two Gentlemen of Verona—all from the quaint Bard Village at Kits Point, an outdoor elegant theatre company located at Kitsilano Beach waterfront. A must do adventure on a gorgeous summer night!!
Spend the Day at Stanley Park
This one is weather permitting. On a sunny Vancouver day, Stanley Park is only 10 minutes away by bus. Bike (renting bicycles at the park entrance) or walk the Seawall before finding the perfect picnic spot. As a bit of a splurge, several eateries offer premade picnic baskets to go. A few of our favourite suggestions are The Dirty Apron, Nosh, Giovane Café, and Picnix, which specializes in delicious, seasonal foods that are beautifully presented and cleverly stored for that perfect picnic with Dad.
Father’s Day only comes around once a year, so seize the opportunity to show Dad how much you care. Vancouver is full of unique activities, so find one that appeals to your dad—and make sure to book in advance. If you’re staying at the Victorian Hotel and need some advice to facilitate the perfect Father’s Day plans, just ask our knowledgeable staff for their assistance.
reservations@victorianhotel.ca
514 Homer Street
Vancouver, BC
V6B 2V6