What to do in Vancouver when it rains

When the skies open up and the rain starts to pour, Vancouver transforms into a cozy haven with plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained. Wondering what to do in Vancouver when it rains? Worry no more as here comes 10 awesome things to do in Vancouver when it rains. From exploring world-class museums to enjoying immersive experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of a rainy day in this vibrant city.

1. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

On a rainy day in Vancouver, the Vancouver Aquarium is a perfect indoor destination to explore and enjoy. Located in the heart of Stanley Park, the aquarium is home to over 65,000 aquatic creatures, offering a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

You can immerse yourself in a variety of displays indoors, such as the Tropic Zone, the Amazon Gallery, and the Arctic Canada show. Don’t pass up the interactive 4D Experience, which makes your visit even more exciting. In addition to providing entertainment, the Vancouver Aquarium is also an important location for the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals.

Opening Hours

• Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• Adults (ages 13-64): $40.95 – $56.95 (it is cheaper to book tickets in advance)
• Seniors (65+): $27
• Youth (ages 13-18): $27
• Children (ages 4-12): $21
• Children (3 and under): Free

2. Check out the Vancouver Art Gallery

When the weather is uncooperative, the Vancouver Art Gallery offers a perfect indoor refuge. Recognized as one of North America’s most dynamic and progressive visual arts institutions, the gallery, located at 750 Hornby Street, features a diverse array of exhibitions ranging from contemporary innovators to historical icons. Rain or shine, the gallery’s exhibits captivate and inspire. With special events, educational tours, and programs for families, youths, and art enthusiasts of all ages, the gallery showcases works by renowned Canadian artists such as Emily Carr. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in arts and culture while staying warm and dry.

Opening Hours

• Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• General Admission (Non-BC Residents): $35
• General Admission (BC Residents): $29
• Youth (ages 13-18): Free
• Children (ages 12 and under): Free
• Indigenous Peoples: Free (for those who self-identify at the Admissions Desk)
• Annual Access Pass: $58 (12 months of unlimited access)
• Family Tickets: Prices vary, typically offering discounts for groups

3. Go to an Escape Room

One of the top escape rooms in Vancouver is Find and Seek which known for its immersive and innovative puzzle adventure escape rooms. Located at 88 Pender St W in the Stadium District, between historic Chinatown and Gastown, on the 2nd floor inside the International Village Mall (also known as Tinseltown). If you’re taking public transit, it’s just a two-minute walk from the Stadium Skytrain station.

Imagine this: you and your friends are locked in a high-stakes thriller, racing against the clock to solve intricate puzzles and uncover clues that lead you to your escape. The experience is designed to be seamless and engaging, with multiple chambers and a gripping storyline that makes you feel like the protagonist in your own adventure. With the rain pouring outside, it’s the perfect time to dive into an indoor adventure that will keep you entertained and challenged. Have you ever tried an escape room before, or is this your first time?

Opening Hours

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• Adults: $37.28
• Children (12 and under): $34.13

4. Explore Science World

When it’s pouring outside in Vancouver, there’s no better place to explore than Science World. Nestled along the False Creek Seawall at 1455 Quebec St this interactive science museum offers a world of discovery indoors, away from the drizzle outside. Picture yourself wandering through the bright, engaging exhibits while raindrops patter gently on the windows, creating a cozy atmosphere. From the fascinating Omnimax Theatre to hands-on experiments, Science World is perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Members: Early access to the dome at 9:30 AM

Ticket Prices

• Adults: $26.20
• Youth (13-17): $20.95
• Children (3-12): $15.70
• Children (2 and under): Free

5. Exotic getaway at Bloedel Conservatory

For a rainy day escape, the Bloedel Conservatory provides an enchanting refuge. But bear in mind that it is temporarily closed and is scheduled to open again in January 2025. Located at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park at 4600 Cambie Street this dome is a haven of lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. Upon entering, you’re greeted by the warm, humid air and the cheerful chirping of birds flitting among the tropical plants. The sounds of rain outside enhance the sense of coziness as you wander through pathways lined with exotic flowers and towering palms. You’ll encounter colorful parrots, playful finches, and serene koi fish ponds, making for an engaging and peaceful experience. The conservatory also offers educational displays about the plants and animals, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and learning.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays

Ticket Prices

• Adults (19-64 years): $8.72
• Seniors (65+ years): $6.09
• Youth (13-18 years): $6.09
• Children (5-12 years): $4.36
• Preschoolers (4 and under): Free

*Opens again in January 2025

6. Tranquility at Vancouver Public Library

The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) is an inviting sanctuary for book lovers and curious minds. Located at 350 W Georgia St the library is a cultural and educational hub that welcomes visitors with its vast collection and serene atmosphere. The VPL is home to a staggering 1.5 million books and other materials, managed with a high-tech conveyor belt system and RFID tags. Established in 1869, it has grown significantly, with its central branch, known as Library Square, designed by Moshe Safdie and opened in 1995.

This impressive building was the largest capital project ever undertaken by the City of Vancouver. One of the library’s notable features is its Instagram account, VPLGold, which showcases unusual books from its collection, including guides to naturism in Canada and ramen recipes from prisons. Another intriguing fact is the return of a book that was 31,000 days overdue, making it one of the most overdue books in the library’s history.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• Library Access: Free for all visitors

7. Get awed by FlyOver Canada

FlyOver Canada offers an exhilarating indoor adventure that will transport you to the stunning landscapes of Canada. You will find it at 201 – 999 Canada Place. FlyOver Canada provides an immersive experience that captures the sights, sounds, and spirit of spectacular places across the country. Try travelling through the sails of an Atlantic schooner, flying over the tundra of the territories, and discovering the core of Canada from a whole different angle. With encircling screens, swooping and dipping motion chairs, and special effects that let you feel the wind and mist, the experience is made to appeal to all of your senses. The realism is further enhanced by the inclusion of distinctive fragrances, which give you the impression that you are actually flying over these famous sites.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• Adults: $31.45
• Youth (13-17): $26.20
• Children (5-12): $20.95
• Children (4 and under): Free

8. Search for treasures at Museum of Anthropology

Rainy weather has never stopped treasure hunters. So why not give it a try by yourself, but indoors. The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia ( 6393 Marine Dr) offers a fascinating experience to the whole family. This museum is a treasure trove of world arts and cultures, with a special emphasis on the First Nations peoples of the Pacific Northwest.

The Great Hall, which greets you as soon as you enter, is home to famous works such as the sculpture “The Raven and the First Men” by Bill Reid. With around 50,000 ethnographic items and more than 535,000 archeological artifacts, the museum’s collection is a wealth of information for study and discovery. By guaranteeing that originating communities have access to their cultural legacy, the MOA also upholds the tenets of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays

Ticket Prices – bought upon arrival

• Children (4 and under): Free
• Adults: $18.90
• Youth (13-17): $14.70
• Children (5-12): $10.50

9. Relaxation at CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver

Especially on those gray and drizzly days, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver is a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Found at 1128 West Georgia Street, this luxurious spa is known for its holistic treatments, inspired by traditional Asian wellness practices. Each suite is designed as a private retreat, equipped with a cozy fireplace, a soothing private bath, a shower, a relaxation lounge, and a changing area, ensuring a deeply personalized and serene experience.

The moment you step inside, the serene atmosphere wraps around you, making you forget about the wet and gloomy weather outside. The spa’s signature treatments use organic ingredients sourced from the wild seaweeds of Vancouver Island, adding a special local touch to your relaxation.

Opening Hours

• Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Prices

• Treatments start from $157.50, not including smaller treatments such as manicure.

10. Get a grip on indoor rock climbing

Clip ‘n Climb Vancouver is the perfect spot for indoor rock climbing, especially on a rainy day. Located at 1751 Savage Road, this climbing gym provides a safe and fun environment for climbers of all abilities. With its innovative Trublue auto belay system, climbing is made easy and enjoyable—simply clip in and start your ascent. The gym boasts 44 different climbing routes, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned climbers. Indoor rock climbing is not only a fantastic workout, engaging muscles you didn’t even know you had, but it’s also a thrilling way to test your problem-solving skills. As you plan your route up the wall, you’ll be strategizing your moves, figuring out the best way to reach the next hold, all while strengthening your body. It’s an excellent way to stay active and challenge yourself while waiting for the sun to come out.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Ticket Prices

• Adults: $26.25
• Youth (13-17): $21.00
• Children (5-12): $15.75
• Children (4 and under): Free