A friendlier way to use Vancouver recreation facilities.
Vancouver’s Leisure Access Program offers free and reduced-fee recreation to eligible low-income residents.
✓ Checked: Aug 5, 2026
Pools, skating and neighbourhood programs can make it easier to stay active and meet people. If you may qualify, the City’s Leisure Access Program is worth checking.
What the program does
The program helps eligible low-income Vancouver residents access Park Board facilities and programs, including everyday recreation and swimming options.
Benefits beyond the pool
The current program includes several activity and event discounts.
- 50% off pitch & putt admission and club rental at Rupert, Queen Elizabeth and Stanley parks
- 50% off Playland and PNE Fair admission, with exclusions such as ride passes
- Discounts for some special events
- Community Pass application information on the same City page
Before applying
Eligibility and documents depend on your situation, so use the current City application instructions. If you live outside Vancouver, check whether your municipality offers a similar access program.
For the first visit, choose the closest centre
Pools, fitness rooms, skating and classes can make the program feel overwhelming. Start with one community centre that is easy to reach from home, school or work, then find one time this week that genuinely fits your schedule.
Some activities are drop-in and others require registration. Check the facility schedule, rental options and what to bring before leaving. At the front desk, say that you plan to use LAP so staff can point you to the eligible session.
- Easy travel from home or school
- Drop-in or advance registration
- Equipment rental
- Cancellation or wait-list rules
Use it to build a routine, not to maximize every benefit
A regular place outside work or school can make a new city feel more manageable. Visiting at the same time each week lets familiar faces appear naturally, without forcing conversation.
There is no need to fill the calendar with long programs. A swim or skate a few times a month can be enough. The most valuable benefit is the one that fits into daily life and is easy to continue.
