SUTCLIFFE PARK PLAYGROUND

I know, you probably call this playground the “Granville Island Playground” and you’re right. It’s the iconic Granville Island Water Park and Playground and the official Sutcliffe Park name just doesn’t have the same ring to it. 

Many parents who grew up here most likely have some memory of this waterpark and to now share it with their own children hopefully doesn’t trigger an existential crisis, but rather a humbling circle-of-life sort of feeling.

The playground has a wavy slide and a twisty slide. Stairs, ladder, or a medium climbing wall lead up to the top where one can also find a maze panel and a periscope. Below is a music panel with vertical bars.

The sandbox area is nicely shaded with pine trees. There are some stumps and logs scattered about which nicely inspires more nature play. In warmer months, the water feature can be activated to flow water down the stream and into the sand area as well.

A spinning bucket seat and spinning base always attracts the vertigo-immune kids. Right next to is is a tamer 4 seated spring rider, as well as a rope net pyramid (also called a cone spinner) to ride with multiple friends.

Apart from the saucer swing, there is mysteriously no other swings on the entire Island. Surely, that’s a little strange considering Granville Island is very much a children and family friendly destination. Don’t they know that baby swings are the perfect thing for parents to get a handsfree moment? Help a parent out, amirite?

The main attraction of the Granville Island water park is the big yellow water slide, accessible by climbing the stairs on the steep hill. The main waterpark area undulates with bumps and dips in the concrete. Water features include spray poles, arches, fire hydrants and in ground water sprays. A second smaller splash area has a lone fire hydrant and an arch spray. 

Though tempting, the waterpark during off months cannot be used like a pump track for bikes, scooters, skateboards, etc. Instead, go explore the other two playgrounds on Granville island at Railspur Park and the Kids Market Courtyard.