It’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest sees a lot of wet weather, but that’s no reason to stop you from enjoying Vancouver to its fullest! Seek out these indoor adventures when the forecast calls for rainfall.
Cozy Hideaways
Nestled in downtown Vancouver, Birdhouse Books is a cozy haven for book lovers, offering vintage and used titles across a range of interests. Stop by Java House for a coffee, then settle into one of Birdhouse’s comfy chairs beneath its colorful ceiling for a relaxing read. For more finds, White Oak Books in Uptown Village features a mix of authors and a warm coffee station, while The Romance Era Bookshop brings love stories to life alongside brews from The Great North. These local spots, along with Vintage Books and Flirting with Fiction, are part of Burnt Bridge Cellars' new passport program: grab a passport card at any participating shop or the winery, collect a stamp for every $5 spent, and when it’s filled, enjoy a complimentary glass or tasting at Burnt Bridge Cellars. The winery also welcomes book clubs with reserved meeting space and discounts on tastings, making it perfect for connecting with fellow readers over a glass of wine. And when Vancouver’s weather turns wet, step into the historic Clark County Historical Museum to explore the region’s past, present, and future through exhibits like History A-Brewin’ and Currents of Progress—a perfect day out for any book and history buff.
Creative Outlets
For a creative hands-on activity, Live Laugh Love Art offers walk-in activities and classes for glass fusing, wood sign painting, candle making, and more. Or simply order an art kit to go and get crafty back at the hotel. Find glassblowing demonstrations and art galleries open after-hours during downtown’s year-round First Friday Art Walks. Discover Kilnfolk Studio & Gallery, your friendly neighborhood pottery studio for all ages and skill levels. Offering pottery wheel classes, pottery painting, parties, and studio memberships. Find the brighter side of a dreary day at Kiggins Theatre on Main Street. Grab your movie theater popcorn (rumored to be the best in town!) and step back in time with a classic movie, or take part in one of their signature recurring events, like Comedy on Tap or Re-Imagined Radio—instrumental accompaniments to silent films.
Warm and Savory Bites
Nothing hits the spot on a damp day like some soup to warm the soul, and Amaro's Table believes it is always soup season. There is something to be said about their homemade soups made fresh each morning—from Chicken Yellow Curry or Clam Chowder to Tuscan White Bean with Potatoes, Sausage, and Kale, you can’t go wrong. Find Honeycomb Bakery, an Eastern European bakery. Try a selection of freshly baked delights, pastries, and desserts – all made with organic ingredients! Kenji's Ramen & Grill in east Vancouver provides signature ramen that is oh-so-savory, with homemade broths and a boiled egg to top it off. If you're looking for a warm drink to lift your spirits, visit Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary. This cozy spot features a tea bar and plenty of seating where you can watch products being crafted. The owner offers her signature tea blends, bulk herbs, plant-based skincare products, and items from other local makers.
Family Fun
When it comes to spending quality time with family in Vancouver, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy on rainy days. The Vancouver Community Library boasts one of the largest discovery zones in the nation and a viewing deck on the third floor for young kids to explore. Burn off some extra energy at Sky Zone's expansive indoor trampoline park. Or find interactive exhibits and hands-on activities while learning about the future and safety of our water supply at the Water Resources Education Center. Bounce the energy out at the northwest's largest indoor jungle at Kid's Club. Downtown Lyon and Pearle is the perfect stop to shop for the cutest clothes, toys, and gifts in Vancouver. Experience fun-filled activities at Big Al's, like bowling, arcade games, sports viewing on mammoth screens, and much more. Find more things to do on our Family Activities page.
For the 21+ Crowd
Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ilani is the place to escape the rain for dining, casino gaming, and entertainment. For concertgoers, the RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater features nearly 8,000 covered seats, and they know how to put on a show rain or shine. If the outing calls for wine, the Vancouver Waterfront has attracted notable wineries from all around the state and the Pacific Northwest, with beloved vintages from the likes of Maryhill Winery and Brian Carter Cellars. Or have a night out with a group at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver's first full axe-throwing bar and restaurant in the city’s original Fire Station from 1932. Keeping the historic charm (and iconic mural!) and the firefighter theme with their own flair.
VDA's Umbrella Share Program
If you're exploring downtown Vancouver on a rainy day, the Vancouver Downtown Association has a great program to keep you dry! The VDA has expanded its Umbrella Share Program to include 30 locations. Anyone, including customers and employees, can borrow an umbrella for free from any of the participating locations. Pick up a vibrant yellow umbrella from one of the locations and return it to one of the specially marked VDA-branded receptacles as you explore, shop, and dine along our charming sidewalks.