Vancouver is best known for its rainy weather, and though I could point you in the direction of chic rain boots or maybe the cutest umbrella shop, instead I’ve decided I’m going to give you the best places to spend a lovely and lazy afternoon in this country’s wettest city. That’s a lie, Prince Rupert is considered Canada’s wettest city, but I doubt they have as many patterned umbrellas.

EAT
Bellagio Cafe
I love this place because it is often deserted during the day which means you can occupy one of their large booths and read from their vast selection of art books that sit on the shelves that line the place. Or, you know, eat at the establishment of the guy who is suing James Cameron for stealing his idea for Avatar. They have a mean Chai latte and their shrimp salad is not to be missed.
773 Hornby Street, Vancouver

The Dirty Apron Cooking School
Technically this is an “EAT” and a “DO” so kill two birds with one stone and take a class here. They are associated with Chambar and Medina, two amazing places to eat in Vancity, so really you have no reason to not learn from the best of Vancouver. Online they often get associated with a porn site, so I’m not going to give you their web address and let you have fun with that one.
540 Beatty Street, Vancouver

DO
Vancouver Art Gallery
This is absolutely a DO in Vancouver, and though you might have gone here before in recent weeks, I recommend seeing exhibits a second time around because it allows you to really soak it in. Like finding deeper meaning in Clueless the fifteenth time you’ve seen it. Go to the gift shop too and find your mother a present, she’ll appreciate it.
750 Hornby Street, Vancouver

Raw Canvas
In the heart of Yaletown lies a place where you can paint a canvas and drink yourself silly with a massive wine selection at your fingertips. Prove to yourself you are better than that finger painting of the British Columbian sunset and rainbow you did in the third grade.
1046 Hamilton Street, Vancouver

SHOP
Macleod’s Book Store
Lose yourself for an afternoon pondering over titles, authors, and prices of used books. Let’s support the independent bookstores of Vancouver, they need it!
455 West Pender Street, Vancouver

Umeboshi
I did say I wouldn’t do this, but it honestly can’t be helped. Splurge on a pair of colourful Hunter rainboots at this shoe store on Main. This boutique is pretty pricey, but the unique selection and cute yet dark atmosphere will probably keep you coming back every three months to spend some heavy coin. While you are at it, walk yourself in your new shoes across the street to Liberty Bakery and enjoy a macaroon.
3638 Main Street, Vancouver

~Aimee Laurel