Indoor Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is a stunning coastal city located in British Columbia, Canada. With a population of over 2.5 million people, it is the most populous city in the province and has become a popular tourist destination for its stunning mountain views, vibrant culture and laid-back atmosphere. Vancouver is home to plenty of outdoor activities like skiing, mountain biking and kayaking, but there are also plenty of fun activities to do indoors. From fun activities like visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, to checking out the city’s many museums, there are plenty of things to do in Vancouver, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Explore the Aquarium

One of the most popular indoor activities in Vancouver is exploring the famous Vancouver Aquarium. Located in Stanley Park, the aquarium is the largest in Canada and is home to over 50,000 aquatic animals from over 800 species. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits like the Amazon River Gallery, which features tropical fish and reptiles, or the Arctic and Pacific galleries, where visitors can learn about aquatic life from colder climates. There are also interactive exhibits like the touch pools where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the sea life.

Visit the Museum of Anthropology

Another great indoor activity in Vancouver is visiting the Museum of Anthropology. The museum, located on the campus of the University of British Columbia, houses one of the world’s largest collections of cultural artifacts from all around the world. Visitors can explore artifacts from cultures like the Haida, Coast Salish and Kwakwaka’wakw nations, as well as collections from ancient Egypt and other parts of Africa. The museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that help visitors gain a better understanding of different cultures.

Stroll Through the Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of the city’s best indoor attractions and features over 10,000 works from Canadian and international artists. Visitors can explore a variety of artwork from classic masters like Vincent Van Gogh and Monet to contemporary works from local artists. The art gallery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year like lectures, films and concerts.

Explore Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist attractions and is home to a variety of markets, galleries and shops. Visitors can explore the Granville Island Public Market where they can find fresh produce, meats and other goods from local vendors. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore, as well as outdoor activities like kayaking. Granville Island is also home to several art galleries, including the Emily Carr University Art Gallery which features contemporary art from local and international artists.

Take in a Show at The Centre for Performing Arts

The Centre for Performing Arts is one of Vancouver’s premier venues for live entertainment. The venue hosts a variety of concerts, plays, musicals and comedy shows throughout the year. From popular musicals like “The Lion King” to stand-up comedy shows from top comedians, there’s something for everyone at The Centre for Performing Arts.

Check Out the Chihuly Garden & Glass

The Chihuly Garden & Glass is one of Vancouver’s must-see attractions. Located at Canada Place in downtown Vancouver, the exhibition features a variety of glass sculptures created by American artist Dale Chihuly. The exhibition features eight galleries filled with vibrant glass sculptures and displays that tell Chihuly’s story as an artist. The exhibition also features an outdoor garden with four distinct areas where visitors can explore more of Chihuly’s work in a natural setting.

Go Shopping at Pacific Centre Mall

Pacific Centre Mall is one of Vancouver’s most popular shopping destinations and features over 150 stores and restaurants spread out over three levels. From top retailers like Nordstrom to popular restaurants like Earls Kitchen & Bar, there’s something for everyone at Pacific Centre Mall. Visitors can also check out the mall’s other attractions like its movie theatre, ice skating rink and arcade.

Experience an Escape Room

Escape rooms are one of the hottest new trends in entertainment and are a great way to challenge your mind and have some fun at the same time. There are several escape room attractions in Vancouver where visitors can test their problem-solving skills in one-hour long experiences that involve solving puzzles to “escape” from a themed room. Escape rooms are a great activity to do with family or friends.

Visit Science World

Science World is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions for adults and children alike. The interactive science museum features a variety of exhibits including a biodome where visitors can explore different ecosystems, an OMNIMAX theatre that screens educational films on its five-story screen and interactive exhibits that let visitors explore topics like robotics, chemistry and physics.

Check Out the UBC Botanical Garden

The University of British Columbia Botanical Garden is one of Vancouver’s most beautiful attractions and is home to over 8,000 species of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens like the Alpine Garden, Fragrance Garden and Medicinal Garden, as well as greenhouse exhibits like the Tropical Rainforest Exhibit which features rare plants from around the tropics. The UBC Botanical Garden also offers guided tours as well as educational programs for kids.

Experience a Day at Playland

Playland is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions for families and adrenaline junkies alike. The amusement park features over 30 rides ranging from family-friendly attractions like carousels to thrill rides like roller coasters and water rides. Playland also features a variety of carnival games and food vendors selling classic carnival snacks like funnel cakes and cotton candy.

Popular Tours

Vancouver Aquarium Tour

A great way to get an up-close look at some of Vancouver’s aquatic life is by taking a tour of the Vancouver Aquarium. This guided tour will take you through all of the aquarium’s exhibits including its Amazon River Gallery, Arctic and Pacific galleries, and its touch pools where you can get hands-on with some of the sea life. The tour also includes behind-the-scenes access to areas normally closed to visitors so you can get an even closer look at some of the aquarium’s animals and exhibits. Book your Vancouver Aquarium tour today!

Granville Island Tour

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most beloved attractions with its mix of markets, galleries and shops that make up this vibrant destination. On this guided tour you’ll get to explore all that Granville Island has to offer including its famous public market, art galleries including Emily Carr University Art Gallery, restaurants, cafes and more! You’ll also get to learn more about Granville Island’s history as you explore this unique part of downtown Vancouver. Book your Granville Island tour today!

Chihuly Garden & Glass Tour

The Chihuly Garden & Glass exhibition at Canada Place showcases some of the most spectacular glass sculptures created by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. On this guided tour you’ll get to explore all eight galleries within the exhibition featuring vibrant glass sculptures that tell Chihuly’s story as an artist. You’ll also get to explore their outdoor garden which features four distinct areas showcasing more of Chihuly’s work in a natural setting. Book your Chihuly Garden & Glass tour today!

There are so many fun indoor activities to experience in Vancouver! From exploring the city’s stunning aquariums and stunning art galleries to taking in a show at The Centre for Performing Arts or experiencing an escape room adventure with friends or family, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained indoors even during rainy days in Vancouver!