Finding indoor things to do in Vancouver when it rains is a key part of getting through the gloomy months. At some point, binge-watching TV just isn't enough.
Vancouver gets tons of rainy days (hence its nickname, Raincouver) and you don't have long to get your fix of sunny weather, so knowing how to get out of the house is a must.
Here are some unique indoor activities to do in Vancouver so you can still have fun the next weekend when the weather isn't ideal (which seems like far too often in the city).
Take a walk in nature without going outside
Price: $7.40 per adult
Where: Bloedel Conservatory
Why You Need To Go: If you're itching to get outside, but don't want to get drenched by the rain, this is the perfect option. The conservatory is filled with beautiful plants and birds that make you feel like you're in a tropical rainforest. It's the best way to feel like you're out of the city, without actually leaving town.
Explore the Granville Island Public Market
Price: Free
Where: Granville Island
Why You Need To Go: The public market is a fun place to explore, find local products and get some yummy food. It's a great activity to do with some friends to get you out of the house on a rainy Saturday morning.
Get a birds-eye view
Price: Price varies depending on the day.
Where: Canada Place
Why You Need To Go: You can get the feeling of flying and the views, all virtually. It sounds a bit touristy but it's actually really fun. Your feet will hang as you're suspended and immersed in a beautiful experience of incredible scenery. They use special effects like wind and mist so you really feel like you're soaring high.
Fly Over Canada website
Climb high at an indoor gym
Price: $30 for a day pass
Where: The Hive Vancouver
Why You Need To Go: Bouldering has gained some popularity these past few years, and for good reason. Not only is it an intense workout, but there is also a really cool vibe in the gyms.
The Hive has a few locations around Metro Vancouver, so you take your pick and get climbing.
The Hive website
Go to the art gallery
Price: $29 per adult
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby St., Vancouver, BC
Why You Need To Go: Taking a walk through the gallery makes the rain feel like more of a mood and less of a gloomy day. It's a stunning building and they usually have some great exhibits that are fun to see even if you're not super into art.
Practice your putting
Price: $17.50
Where: West Coast Mini Putt, 7391 Elmbridge Way, Richmond, BC
Why You Need To Go: Glow in the dark mini-golf is a classic rainy-day activity that never disappoints. You can spend hours perfecting your game and getting competitive with friends.
Attempt an escape room
Price: $35 per player.
Where: I-EXIT, 1129 Granville St., Vancouver, BC
Why You Need To Go: Escape rooms will either seriously bond your friend group or cause some serious disagreements. Either way, it's some entertainment for the day.
Go on a coffee tasting tour
Price: Varies
Where: Make sure to stop by Revolver, Birds & the Beets, and 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters.
Why You Need To Go: Get a caffeine buzz and go around the city stopping at local coffee shops. There's nothing like a warm cup of coffee on a rainy day. Either go with a friend and use the time to catch up, or go solo with a good book.
Maybe switch to decaf halfway through though.
Embrace your artsy side
Price: Varies depending on the workshop
Where: 4 Cats Art Studio, 3573 Main St., Vancouver, BC
Why You Need To Go: There are workshops at this studio where you can make mugs, bowls and other cute projects. You get to be creative and take something home with you at the end!
This article has been updated since it was originally published on October 17, 2021.
