Rainy day things to do in Edmonton when the weather won't cooperate
If it feels like Edmontonâs been nothing but rain this summer, youâre not alone. But rainy weather doesnât have to ruin your plans or keep you stuck at home.
Edmonton is full of fantastic options to make the most of a rainy day. Check out our roundup of the best cozy things to do in the city when the weather forces you indoors.
Muttart Conservatory
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If you want to be close to nature without the risk of getting soaked, check out the stunning Muttart Conservatory, where each glass pyramid features a different environment with plants from around the world. Itâs a relaxing, beautiful, and insightful way to spend a rainy day in Edmonton.
Try a cooking class
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There are plenty of spots around Edmonton where you can spend a rainy day indoors learning something new in the kitchen. From cooking classes at the Stanley A. Milner Library and LâOCA to the Get Cooking studio, you can sharpen your skills with help from talented chefs and learn a few dishes to impress your friends and family.
West Edmonton Mall
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A trip to West Edmonton Mall on a cold, wet day is a no-brainer. Escape the weather and feel like youâre on a tropical getaway at World Waterpark, or ride a rollercoaster at Galaxyland and pretend itâs summer in another universe. Not looking to spend much? You can still get your steps in (mud and rain-free) while exploring one of the biggest malls in North America.
Art Gallery of Alberta
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Right in the heart of downtown, the Art Gallery of Alberta has been Edmontonâs go-to for art and culture for 100 years. With rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events, itâs the perfect spot to get inspired, learn something new, or just soak up some creativity.
Go for a bowl of pho
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You canât go wrong on a rainy day with a hearty bowl of pho: steaming broth, silky rice noodles, fresh herbs, veggies, and thinly sliced meat make it the perfect cold-weather comfort food. Luckily, Edmonton has plenty of spots serving up slurp-worthy bowls. Check out our roundup of the best pho in the city that you have to try at least once.
Check out an indoor farmers market
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We love checking out Edmontonâs farmers markets in the summer, but rainy days can dampen those outdoor plans. Luckily, there are indoor, year-round markets like the Bountiful Farmers Market and Old Strathcona Farmers Market, where you can browse local produce, handmade goods, and maybe even snag a nice-looking zucchini.
Board game cafe
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Board game cafes are perfect for a cozy day out, whether youâre grabbing a coffee or settling in for games with friends, especially when the rain keeps you indoors. Check out our guide to some of Edmontonâs board game cafes, most open late and serving snacks, wine, or beer to pair with your Dungeons & Dragons.
Telus World of Science
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Head over to the Telus World of Science when the weather is dreary, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain by navigating through mazes, and try your hand at some awesome games and challenges!
Paint pottery
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Thereâs something so cozy about spending a rainy day inside, sitting around a table and painting pottery. Edmonton has plenty of spots, from Crankpots on Whyte Avenue to The Pottery Clay Cafe in northwest Edmonton, where you can choose a plate, mug, teapot, or whatever you like, and make it completely your own!
Hit up a cozy cafe
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Edmonton has countless coffee spots perfect for a rainy day. From Iconoclast to Fawkes to The Carrot and beyond, there are plenty of neighbourhood cafes to choose from. Grab a tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, settle in, and watch the rain fall on the windows.