How families can have the best day at YVR even when they're not travelling

Have a little one who's interested in all things aviation? Take the escalator up to the Public Observation Area above the Domestic Food Hall for unmatched views of airport activities and the South Runway. Watch arriving and departing planes, baggage carts, and other airport vehicles out on the airfield. Telescopes and signage provide more information

We invite you to visit the Musqueam Gathering Place downstairs in the Domestic Arrivals area. YVR sits in Musqueam—these lands and waters were home to Musqueam people, villages, harvesting areas, and special places of ceremony. This award-winning space was created in collaboration with Musqueam, dedicated to sharing the Musqueam teachings, culture, and history with all who come to visit and learn.

While you're in the area, stop for a coffee and a treat from Paper Planes Cafe, a cafe where adults with diverse abilities gain real-world, paid training, and employment experience.

Head to the Link Building (in between the Domestic and International terminals) to find ambassador dogs from the St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dog Program. As part of our Less Airport Stress Initiative (LASI), these highly trained dogs are available for pats, friendly snuggles, and photos seven days a week.

Have a budding artist in the family? Discover works of original art throughout the terminal, including many pieces by Indigenous artists. Preview the collection on our website and learn more by reading the plaques that accompany each piece. For an extra challenge, see if you can identify how each piece fits into our themes of land, sea, and sky.

After all that exploring, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Take a break for a meal or snack at one of our many pre-security dining options, including local favourites like White Spot, Paragon Tea Room, 
Purebread, Japadog, and Pajo’s Fish & Chips as well as YVR exclusives like Globe@YVR, located inside Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel.