What to Do on Rainy Days
During the months of spring, the weather in Quebec is notoriously unpredictable. Sometimes the sun shines and there is a gentle breeze. At other times, the breezes are replaced by fierce gusts of wind, accompanied by driving rain. Those swings in the weather are, however, what mark the changing seasons, making them so memorable.
When the weather gets so bad that you don’t feel like being outdoors, you definitely need a plan B. Here are suggestions for attractions that you can enjoy inside, until the weather once more turns into a lovely spring day!
Within the Complex
Even if the weather turns awful, we can offer everything you need, inside the complex. There are many options!
You can take a dip in the pool, unwind in the whirlpool bath, exercise in the glass-enclosed gym or treat yourself to a massage at the Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa.
Afterwards, you can head to the entertainment area for a game of pool or foosball. Alternatively, you could curl up with a good book and let your imagination roam…
Maybe it’s the time of day for an aperitif? In that case, head to Bistro 4 Saisons or Burger Pub for a glass of wine, a microbrewery beer, or a classic cocktail.
With the Family
Did you bring the kids with you? The following will help to burn off all their excess energy!
D-Vert | Magog
You’ll love this 16,000-square-foot sports complex with its collection of climbing walls. They’re designed for all ages and levels of ability—from small fry (in the family area) to teenagers. Mom and Dad can give it a go too!
©D-Vert
Motion Park | Granby
Do your children like to imagine that they’re little ninjas? Let their fantasies run riot as they exercise their bodies at Motion Park. They can climb, jump and test their strength, balance and agility, during a parkour activity and by following a Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course. Young and old can enjoy the facilities at this sports centre, and there’s even an area designed for mini ninjas (aged 3-6).
Musée de la nature et des sciences | Sherbrooke
The Museum of Nature and Science (MNA2) runs a series of fascinating exhibitions that change with the seasons. An upcoming show entitled “It’s Circus Time” features memorabilia from this most colourful and exciting of artistic endeavours. The exhibition highlights the history of the circus arts in Quebec, including the world-famous Cirque du Soleil—sure to be particularly popular with small fry!
Going to the movies is always a good idea in inclement weather! Load up on popcorn and catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster.
As a Couple or With Friends
Some activities are more enjoyable when you share them with other, like-minded folk…
High-tech entertainment through virtual reality (VR) is on offer at this centre in downtown Sherbrooke, with its huge selection of computerized games. Choose your game and pay by the hour.
The wine, cheese and cider routes…
Nasty weather may not entice you to actually tour a vineyard, but you can always drop by a winery boutique. Stock up on wine, cheese, and other local and regional produce. The people manning the counter will be happy to chat, especially on a dull, grey day.
Go shopping
A dreary day presents the perfect opportunity to shop ‘til you drop! After filling up the trunk with gourmet products, do the rounds of our many talented artisans. At their boutiques and studios (interesting in and of themselves), you’ll find personal care products, clothing, decorative items, and handcrafted accessories.
Live entertainment at the Vieux Clocher | Magog
Check the lineup of entertainers at this theatre in downtown Magog, housed in a former church. You may well find that your favourite band, singer, or stand-up comic is performing while you’re in the region.
On Your Own
Sometimes, it’s good to go somewhere on your own! You can explore a place by yourself, at your own pace and choose the things you want to see and do, without having to consider other people…
Museums
Musée international d’art naïf de Magog and Galerie Jeannine Blais (North Hatley) both showcase “naive” art, while Musée des beaux-arts, Sherbrooke’s Fine Arts Museum, houses a comprehensive collection of local and regional artists. The exhibits in any one of these three museums will keep you browsing for hours, allowing you to examine (and appreciate!) the finer details of the artwork.
Should you opt for a massage or a facial? It doesn’t really matter what you choose! The important thing is to enjoy some “me” time by allowing yourself to be pampered by expert wellbeing therapists.
©Dôme de Morphée
If there is one place that lends itself to a visit on your own more than anywhere else, this Benedictine monastery fits the bill! Wander the corridor lined with interpretive plaques explaining the life of the monks and the Order of St. Benedict. The building itself, embellished with unique architectural designs, is extraordinary and at the monastery store, you can buy food products and memorabilia.
Grange du parfumeur | Magog
Alexandra Bach (Bachand) is a perfumer par excellence! She prides herself in being a practitioner of the ancient craft of perfume making and she will suggest just the right scent for you—an aroma that will remind you of her magical skills every time you wear it!
Given this great choice of activities that we outline above, don’t they almost make you long for a rainy day?
