Vancouver averages 166 rainy days a year. If you waited for sunshine to leave the house with kids, you would never go anywhere. The good news? This city has an incredible range of indoor activities that make rainy days genuinely fun — not just survivable.
We have tested every single one of these with our own kids, in real Vancouver rain. Here are our top picks, organized by type, with honest notes on pricing, age suitability, and what to expect.
Science World
Hands-on science exhibits, live shows, the Ken Spencer Science Park, and the OMNIMAX theatre. Plan for at least 3 hours. Toddler-friendly gallery on the main floor.
Vancouver Aquarium
Penguins, jellyfish, otters, and a 4D theatre. The new Amazon Gallery is incredible. Feeding shows run throughout the day — check the schedule at the entrance.
Kids Market (Granville Island)
Two floors of toy stores, art studios, and play spaces. The adventure zone has ball pits, slides, and climbing structures. Pair it with lunch at the Public Market.
Crash Crawly's
Massive indoor play structure with multi-level climbing, slides, ball cannons, and a dedicated toddler area. Socks required. Birthday party central on weekends.
Newton Wave Pool
Indoor wave pool with waterslides, a warm leisure pool, and spray features. Affordable drop-in rates and family swim sessions on weekends.
Watermania (Richmond)
Wave pool, lazy river, three waterslides, hot tub, and a toddler splash zone. One of Metro Vancouver's best indoor aquatic centres.
Extreme Air Park
Trampoline park with foam pits, dodgeball courts, ninja courses, and a rock climbing wall. Waivers required — sign online beforehand to skip the line.
Vancouver Public Library Storytimes
Free drop-in storytimes at branches across the city. Songs, stories, and crafts. Different sessions for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Museum of Vancouver
Local history exhibits and rotating family-friendly displays. The Neon Vancouver exhibit is a favourite. Quieter alternative to Science World.
Pottery Painting Cafes
Paint your own ceramics at spots like Crankpots or Fired Up. Pick a piece, paint it, and they fire it for pickup later. Great for a rainy afternoon.
More Rainy Day Ideas (Quick List)
11. Bloedel Conservatory (tropical dome at QE Park)
12. FlyOver Canada (4D flight simulation, Canada Place)
13. Rec centre drop-in gym time (free at many locations)
14. HR MacMillan Space Centre (planetarium shows)
15. Cooking classes at Dirty Apron (ages 8-14)
16. AR Workshop (DIY wood signs and crafts)
17. Bowling at Commodore Lanes or Grandview Lanes
18. Indoor rock climbing at The Hive
19. Swimming at Hillcrest Aquatic Centre
20. Metropolis at Metrotown play area (free, toddlers)
21. IMAX at Science World
22. Board game cafes (Ludica, Pizzeria Ludica)
23. Baking together at home (printable recipe cards)
24. Fort building with couch cushions (free, classic)
25. Indoor scavenger hunt (printable available)
26. Movie marathon with homemade popcorn
27. PlayPlace Indoor Playground (Burnaby)
28. Go Bananas Indoor Playground (Richmond)
29. Art gallery visit (free for kids under 12 at VAG)
30. Lego building challenge day
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free indoor activities for kids in Vancouver?
Vancouver Public Library storytimes, rec centre drop-in gym times, the Metropolis at Metrotown play area, and the Vancouver Art Gallery (free for kids under 12) are all excellent free options.
What indoor activities work for toddlers in Vancouver?
Kids Market on Granville Island, Crash Crawly's toddler area, library storytimes, and indoor swimming at Newton Wave Pool or Watermania are all great for toddlers (ages 1-3).
How many rainy days does Vancouver get per year?
Vancouver averages about 166 rainy days per year, mostly between October and April. That is why having a solid list of indoor activities is essential for families living here.
