Robert Lee YMCA
Rating
Family of 4
$20-$30 for a family drop-in swim, or $80-$150/month for a family membership
Duration
1.5-3 hours
Best Ages
0-17
About
The Robert Lee YMCA is a full-service community center on Burrard Street in downtown Vancouver. For families, it's one of the most practical indoor activity options in the city core — swimming, fitness, youth programs, and childcare all in one building. The pool is the biggest family draw.
It's not a waterpark-style pool with slides and splash features — it's a straightforward lap and leisure pool. But the family swim times are well-organized, the water is warm, and swim lessons run continuously throughout the year. Family changing rooms make the logistics of getting young kids in and out much easier.
Beyond the pool, the Y offers a full schedule of youth programs — gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, dance, and more. Summer day camps are popular and fill up early. The facility also has a gymnasium, a fitness center, and childminding services so parents can work out while kids are supervised.
The building is modern and well-maintained. It's fully accessible with elevators, family washrooms, and changing stations. Located right on Burrard Street, it's easy to reach by bus or by walking from the Burrard SkyTrain station.
Membership is the best value if you'll visit regularly. Family memberships include pool access, gym use, and discounts on programs. But the Y also offers day passes and drop-in rates if you're visiting Vancouver or just want to try it out.
The YMCA's financial assistance program is worth knowing about.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings for the pool and toddler programs. After-school hours (3-5pm) are the busiest for youth programs.
Wait Times
Pool can have 10-15 minute waits during peak family swim times. Gym and fitness areas are first-come.
Nearby Food
Downtown Burrard Street has endless restaurant options. Vera's Burger Shack on Davie is a family favorite. Pacific Centre food court is a 10-minute walk.
Why Kids Love It
The Robert Lee YMCA has a pool, gym, and tons of kids' programs all under one roof in the middle of downtown Vancouver. Kids can swim, take a class, or play in the gym without ever going outside. The pool is the main draw for families — warm water, family swim times, and swim lessons that run year-round.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Ask about financial assistance if cost is a concern — the YMCA subsidizes memberships based on what you can afford
- Register for swim lessons and summer camps early — they fill up weeks in advance
- Family changing rooms are on the pool level — much easier than the regular locker rooms with young kids
What to Bring
- Swimsuits and towels for the pool
- A lock for lockers (coin-operated lockers also available)
- Indoor shoes if using the gym or taking a class
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$20-$30 for a family drop-in swim, or $80-$150/month for a family membership
Tips to Save
- Ask about financial assistance — the YMCA offers subsidized memberships for families who qualify.
- Family memberships are significantly cheaper per person than individual rates.
- Drop-in rates work if you only visit occasionally.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Monday
- 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday
- 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
