Ooh, nice, this week is the old 7-11 week in Vancouver! Is this week observed by anyone we know other than ourselves? No. Are we still going to hold it in the highest reverence? Yes. After all, it’s little miracles like this that keep us going. Well, that and a ton of great things to do around the city. While the weather might not be the best, there’s still a lot to look forward to!

Here are 10 things to do in Vancouver this week.

Have some fun at Playland

Not one but two iconic BC attractions are set to open this week, and we can check out both of them. First up is Playland, which is officially coming back after deciding to postpone its original opening this summer. Expect delicious food, a safety-first atmosphere, and of course, thrills a-plenty.

When: Reopens Friday, June 11th
Where: 2901 E Hastings Street
Tickets: $39.50 for GA

Show your support for the Sea to Sky Gondola

Looking for a different kind of thrill? Why not hang around on top on a mountain for a couple of hours. After dealing with their second act of serious vandalism in as many years, the Sea to Sky Gondola is back up and running! We say go show some love for this amazing attraction.

When: Slated to open Friday, June 11th
Where: 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Tickets: $55.95 for GA, $14.29 for Ride-Down Only

Go on a spooky walking tour

Know what’s actually aided by a light drizzle? A spooky walking tour of Gastown. The Lost Souls of Gastown, put on by Forbidden Vancouver, is a deep dive into this city’s more notorious stories. What’s more, the tour mixes theatre elements for just that little extra bit of immersion.

When: Tours weekly
Where: Corner of Water and Cordova
Cost: $29

Step into a tropical paradise

Ready to ignore the rain for a little bit? There’s no better way to do so than with a trip to the Bloedel Conservatory. Filled to the brim with tropical plants and birds, this spot is both an escape during the winter and a wonderful way to spend a rainy summer day.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05

Head over to the farm!

U-pick strawberry adventures are back at this beloved Abbotsford farm! If you’re thinking that some fresh strawberries would be perfect for dessert this weekend, you’re absolutely right. What’s more, strawberries are only ripe for the next week or so, so you’re window is closing!

When: On until Sunday, June 13th
Where: 790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford
Cost: $18 (medium) and $26 (large)

Treat yourself to a donut

Know what will mitigate any rainy day? A delicious donut from one of the many amazing spots around Vancouver. While we don’t know exactly what you’re after, we do know that we covered all the bases in our recent roundup. Crazy flavours? Check. Cult icons? Double-check. We could go on, but we think you get the point.

When: Available throughout the week
Where: All around Vancouver

Check out a roundup of things to savour in the city

That’s right, savour. The folks behind Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants have expanded their range, rounding up everything from great delivery services to new initiatives and iconic restaurants. If you’re looking for a little local inspiration this summer, this is a great place to look.

Where: Click the link above for more info

Browse the Vancouver Art Gallery Auction

While we certainly can’t afford to bid on any of the pieces, the Vancouver Art Gallery’s first-ever online auction offers a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s big dog art scene. We like to play a little game where we make bets with our friends about the selling price. Our first pick? A vase made by Seth Rogen.

When: On throughout the week
Where: Online
Cost: Free

Watch a movie

With any luck, we’ll be able to start recommending actually going to the movie theatre here soon. While we wait, it’s good to know that Vancouver’s local theatres are continuing to stream some amazing stuff. Our pick right now? Tarkovsky’s Solaris, hosted by The Cinematheque. The Russian film is frequently compared to 2001: A Space Odyssey and a noted influence of Inception. Basically, it’s part of the sci-fi movie canon.

When: On throughout the week
Where: Online
Cost: $9.99

Or enjoy a digital opera

The Vancouver Opera has returned with a brand new virtual offering called Carmen: Up Close and Personal. Inspired by a French arthouse staple (fun), this reworks the classic piece of opera in a new and exciting way. So, if you’re looking for a little culture next month, this is a great option.

When: Streaming throughout June
Where: Online
Cost: $30

That’s what we’ve got in mind this week, Vancouver! We hope you enjoy it.