It’s that time of year again when here in the Pacific Northwest you can expect many rainy days. The Vancouverites have adapted to their climate and are prepared for it. But if you’re planning a West Coast visit this Fall, be sure to pack your weather-proofs and bring an umbrella. Don’t let the weather deter you, though. You’ll see Vancouverites out running, cycling, hiking and walking in all kinds of weather — even in the rain! However, if that doesn’t strike your fancy, there’s lots of things to do where you can enjoy a pleasant “dry” afternoon out of the weather.
Museum and Art Galleries: 
We have a number of excellent museums in Vancouver where you can see some of Vancouver’s history, and enjoy a variety of exhibits. Check the calendar of events for current shows. Here are a few of my recommendations:
- Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia.Open daily 10 pm - 5 pm, except Tuesday 10 pm – 9 pm. Closed Monday.
- Museum of Vancouver, 110 Chester Street in Vanier Park. Open Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday until 8 pm. Closed Monday.
- Vancouver Police Museum, 240 East Cordova Street. Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm. Closed Sundays and statutory holidays.
- Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby Street. Open Monday, Wednesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm, Tuesdays till 9 pm.
Indoor gardens & viewpoints:
Take a little trip to the tropics, scope out some places to get great panoramic photos of the city, or just look out on all that Vancouver has to offer. You can see lots from the inside. Here are some suggestions:
- Bloedel Conservatory allows you to experience the tropics right here in Vancouver. Cambie at 33rd Avenue, Queen Elizabeth Park (map). October 1 – April 30 open Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm, Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 9 pm.
- The Lookout at Harbour Centre, 555 W. Hastings Street. Open daily until 9 pm. Take the glass elevator to the top for great views.
Family Entertainment:
If you’ve brought your family along and need entertainment for children, there are plenty of locations and activities for them to enjoy. Try one of these favorites:
- Vancouver Aquarium at Stanley Park. Open daily 9.30 am – 5 pm.
- Science World, 1455 Quebec Street. Take the Main Street sky train station.
- Aquatic Centre, 1050 Beach Avenue. One of several indoor swimming pools in the city Open ours are Monday – Thursday 6:30 am – 9:45 pm; Friday 6:30 am – 8:45 pm; Saturday 8 am – 8:45 pm; Sunday 9 am – 8:45 pm
Theatre:
There’s a whole range of movie complexes like the Scotiabank Cineplex, Tinseltown and the Van City Theatre where you can watch art films. And if you check the weekly Georgia Straight free newspaper you’ll find listings for all sorts of art and theatre events.
Shopping: 
From shopping malls to specialty markets, there are plenty of spots for you to find something distinctively Vancouver. Try one of these:
- Granville Island Market
- Lonsdale Quay (that will include a fun trip across Burrard Inlet by sea bus
- Metrotown Mall
- Oakridge Mall
- Park Royal Mall
- Pacific Centre Mall downtown
Dining and Nightlife:
For night-life, there’s the hundreds of excellent restaurants to choose from in the downtown area as well as clubs and bistros where you can hear live music. The Yale Hotel on Granville Street at Drake has live music most nights of the week with special guest stars including a Blues night on Thursdays. There is a small cover charge but you’ll have a great time listening and dancing to some of the best Blues on the West Coast.
Outdoor activities:
Why not just brave the weather and take a refreshing walk on the seawall at Stanley Park and Coal Harbour or the False Creek pedestrian walk in Yaletown? You’ll be sure to meet lots of locals out the rain in Vancouver. Be sure and bring your umbrella, take a deep breath of the refreshing cedar-scented air, and enjoy yourself!
After all of these activities, you’ll be glad to return home! Find your perfect short term accommodation in Vancouver.
Photo Credits: W. Ruth Kozak Post by: thevancouverguide
