Things To Do with Kids in Nelson, BC

We planned a trip to visit my sister in Nelson BC and we didn’t know what to expect. This was the first time we took our girls to explore the City and let me tell you, it exceeded our expectations. From beautiful playgrounds and tram rides to candy shops and restaurants. We loved our weekend stay in Nelson, BC.

Where is Nelson located?

From Penticton, Nelson was a 4-hour scenic drive through towns such as Grand Forks and Greenwood. The drive offered picturesque landscapes and winding roads.

Where to Stay in Nelson

When visiting Nelson, you can choose from a variety of accommodations including boutique hotels, quaint bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals ideal for families, rustic cabins, and motels.

Prestige Lakeside Resort Nelson

We stayed at the Prestige Lakeside Resort Nelson which is located on the waterfront (*hosted). We loved the proximity to the downtown core, where you can explore charming stores and a variety of restaurants. The downtown area is just a short walk or drive away.

When you check in with your family, ask the front desk for a Junior Adventure Activity Booklet. It will keep the kids entertained while you unpack and settle in.

The Rooms

You can choose from a variety of room types, including ones with a king bed, two queen beds, or spacious suites, each offering unique views. We stayed in a two-queen lakeside room with stunning views of Kootenay Lakeand the Selkirk Mountains.

The beds were incredibly comfortable. Our room included a fridge and microwave, perfect for heating up leftovers or making popcorn for a family movie night. The bathroom was equipped with a bathtub, a must-have for our family, and even had a TV, which the kids thought was the coolest thing.

And can we talk about this view? Our patio doors opened to the balcony overlooking the lake and mountain. It was the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or relax in the evening. There is also a pathway in front of the hotel where you can enjoy a walk or bike ride along the boardwalk.

Indoor Pool and Hot Tub

The highlight for our girls at any hotel is always the pool and hot tub. The Prestige Lakeside Resort offers an indoor pool and hot tub, complete with bathrooms, showers, and towels right in the pool area.

The mural, showing the seasons of Nelson, was a beautiful touch that made the pool area feel even more relaxing. We also loved the large windows, which gave us great views outside and lots of natural light.

Things to Do with Kids in Nelson

During our weekend in Nelson, we discovered many fun activities. While we’re not super outdoorsy, we love riding streetcars, exploring playgrounds, and browsing local shops. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly activities in Nelson:

1. Ride the Electric Streetcar

One of our favorite experiences was riding Streetcar #23, a 100-year-old electric streetcar. We hopped on at Suffredine Station, right outside the Prestige Lakeside Resort Hotel. The ride is by donation, with a suggested $2 per child and $3 per adult. The tram offers multiple pickups and drop-offs throughout the day, taking us to Rotary Lakeside Park, Walmart, and Save-On-Foods. It operates every 30 minutes, starting at 11:10 am, with the last pickup at 4:40 pm.

2. Explore Lakeside Rotary Park

We loved ending our streetcar ride at Lakeside Rotary Park. This massive grassy park includes a playground, a concession stand, washrooms, basketball courts, tennis courts, and access to the beach. It’s one of the most beautiful parks we’ve ever visited.

3. Shop at Secret Garden Toys

We had a great time at Secret Garden Toys, a fun-filled 1500-square-foot store packed with toys, games, hobbies, and puzzles for all ages. Our kids loved exploring the wide variety of toys and games.

4. Visit Lion’s Spray Park and Playground

Lion’s Park was a hit with our family. It offers a playground, a vast grassy area, and a seasonal spray park. The playground features swings, slides, and climbing areas. Our oldest enjoyed the open grassy space, perfect for running, cartwheels, and flips.

5. Explore the shops and restaurants along Baker Street

We strolled up Baker Street, exploring local shops and restaurants. There were ice cream parlors, coffee shops, clothing boutiques, gift stores, and even candy shops.

Coffee Shops in Nelson

As parents, we rely on coffee to kickstart our mornings. During our visit to Nelson, BC, we found two coffee shops that we loved: Oso Negro Coffee and Empire Coffee.

Oso Negro Coffee

Oso Negro Coffee is a local hot spot, always bustling with activity due to its amazing coffee. We enjoyed coffee there every day, savoring delicious breakfast sandwiches and sampling other menu items.

The beautiful outdoor patio and ample indoor seating add to the vibrant atmosphere of this popular café.

Empire Coffee

Another great spot is Empire Coffee at the Prestige Lakeside Resort, one of two locations in Nelson.

This coffee shop offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee, breakfast sandwich, or snack before starting your daily adventures. For added convenience, you can have your order delivered to your room.

Restaurants in Nelson

At the Prestige Lakeside Resort, you’ll find three great dining options: Port 701 Marinaside Dining and Raw Bar, BRIXX Brewhouse, and Empire Coffee. We also had delicious bites to eat at Broken Hill, Marzano, and Big Dee’s.

Port 701 Marinaside Dining and Raw Bar

This on-site restaurant has a large lakeside patio with stunning water views, or you can choose to dine inside.

They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, including raw bar options, seafood, pasta, and steaks. We didn’t get a chance to dine here this time, but it’s on our list for our next visit.

BRIXX BrewHouse

Located through the Port 701 dining area, the BrewHouse offers unique burgers, footlong hot dogs, and classic pub food. The kids’ menu features large portions, perfect for hungry little ones.

Broken Hill

This casual dining atmosphere at Broken Hill was a great spot for our family to order and share a few bites to eat. We were there for their ‘Hip Hop Brunch’ and we loved the tunes. You could sit out on their patio or dine indoors.

Marzano

Marzano Italian Restaurant in Nelson is a fantastic spot for families. They have a kids’ menu and a great selection of pizzas and pastas. Our girls loved watching the chefs prepare the pizza dough and throw it in the air. The open kitchen concept makes it fun for everyone to watch.

Big Dee’s Fancy Wieners & Quality Ice Cream

From fancy wieners to ice cream and treats, Big Dee’s is a delicious stop that the kids will want to make. We tried their grass-fed all-beef hot dogs and of course, we had to try some yummy ice cream waffle cones with sprinkles and candy.

Family Fun Tips

Nelson has two Prestige Brand hotels: Prestige Inn Nelson and Prestige Lakeside Resort Nelson. Be sure to confirm the hotel you’re booking.
We are used to Okanagan weather and Nelson is a few degrees cooler. Pack sweaters and wear layers.
Bring good walking shoes if you plan to explore Nelson by foot or visit any playgrounds

*Is this a sponsored post? While we were invited to stay at the Prestige Lakeside Resort for two nights, our thoughts and opinions are our own.

Prestige Lakeside Resort Nelson
701 Lakeside Drive
Nelson, BC V1L 6G3
(250) 352-7222