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The Best Tips for a Rainy Day in Vaasa

Caught off guard by the rain, or simply exhausted from the heat?

In Vaasa, you’ll have a great time whatever the weather. Whether you’re looking for experiences with friends, activities for teenagers, or a change of pace during your vacation, Vaasa won’t let bad weather ruin the mood. This city has plenty of fun and exciting things to offer all year round — whether you’re a culture lover, a wave surfer, or the Tarzan of the backstreets. Take advantage of these top tips and make the most of every moment!

One Ticket — Endless Exhibitions

Are you fascinated by traces of the Ice Age and curious about how nature might look in the future? Or are you simply longing for a memorable exhibition visit that will be the talk of the evening? A day ticket gives you access to multiple attractions: The Ostrobothnian Museum, Tikanoja Art Home, and the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art — all in one day. Vaasa Art Gallery offers free entry, as does the Old Vaasa Museum, open June through August.

At the Ostrobothnian Museum, you’ll find the renewed Terranova natural science exhibition, Vaasa 400, a cultural history exhibition, and rotating exhibitions of modern art — all under one roof.

Many of the city’s museums are located in the scenic waterfront area, which is worth a visit in itself. Read more: Vaasa City Museums

Fun fact: Both the Ostrobothnian Museum and Tikanoja Art Home once served as private residences. Dr. Karl Hedman and Commercial Counsellor Frithjof Tikanoja were art collectors, and their collections form an essential part of Vaasa’s art history.

Travel Abroad in an Eco-Friendly and Tasty Way

Did you know that the sea crossing between Vaasa and Umeå, in Sweden, takes just four hours? You can also enjoy a full day at sea on a scenic cruise on board Wasaline’s ferry Aurora Botnia.

What’s a sea journey without unforgettable food? The Aurora Botnia ferry’s Archipelago Buffet now offers an all-inclusive option — with beer and wine on tap for an additional fee. Local ingredients take center stage, both at the buffet and the à la carte restaurant. You’ll also find classic shrimp sandwiches and other tasty options at the onboard café.

The bar offers live music, and during summer, there’s an outdoor deck bar with stunning sea views.

Kids will love the playroom, and you can quickly grab gifts from the onboard shop, which features many locally produced products from the Kvarken region.

Fun fact: The Aurora Botnia is powered by a combination of fuel solutions and batteries. The main fuel source is liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Paradise Island — Fun for All Ages

Who wouldn’t want to enjoy tropical warmth and a fun day filled with water activities? At Tropiclandia’s indoor pools, it’s always over 30 degrees Celsius, so you’ll be comfortable even when it’s cold outside. In summer, you can also enjoy the outdoor pools, wild water slides, and the sunbathing park.

If you want to treat yourself, you can book spa and relaxation services on the lower level. The saunas and hot tubs offer perfect relaxation for the tired traveler.

Water activities will work up an appetite, and the restaurant offers pizzas, simple but tasty dishes, and refreshing drinks. You can conveniently pay using your locker key. Outside, the café serves ice cream, snacks, and cold drinks.

Kylpylä Tropiclandia

Fun fact: The beautiful surroundings of Vasklot are known as Paradise Island. You’ll also find romantically named spots like Lover’s Path (Lemmenpolku) and Summer Path (Kesäpolku).

Who’s the Climber in Your Family?

Heavy rain or heat wave? No problem! Wasa Up Climbing Center invites you to see the world from a higher perspective.

You don’t need previous climbing experience or your own equipment — just comfy clothes and a curious spirit. When you arrive, you’ll receive an introduction, rental equipment, and safety instructions. Then it’s time to start climbing!

Children are often great climbers, and the activity is fun for the whole family, especially if the kids are over six years old.

Did you know you can also climb sideways? Try bouldering, a style of climbing where you’ll quickly pick up the basics.

Fun fact: The climber’s safety is guaranteed by anchors strong enough to hold a hippopotamus. Since a hippo weighs around 1,500 kg, you can trust the anchors will safely hold you.

The Magic of Theatre Takes You Around the World

Vaasa City Theatre (Vaasan kaupungin teatteri) is a house full of stories, offering affordable escapism.

High-quality musicals, captivating dramas, hilarious comedies, and wonderful children’s performances will transport you far away from everyday life. From your theater seat, you could suddenly find yourself in the Alps, the streets of New York, on Stormskär Island, or at the cheerful Villa Villekulla.

At the theatre restaurant, Kulma, you can enjoy a glass of wine and snacks with friends. Remember, you can use the Kaikukortti and culture vouchers as payment here, and students get discounted tickets.

Fun fact: The theatre was inaugurated in 1992 by the President of Iceland, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir. Don’t forget to check out the tree she planted behind the building — it’s still growing strong.

Pancake Feast for Breakfast — Yes, Please!

Sometimes a little break from everyday life is all you need. Even a short hotel getaway by the sea can feel like a real holiday. Why not upgrade your staycation with a suite featuring a bathtub?

Scandic Waskia’s gym and sauna are great for both body and soul. For extra relaxation, you can visit the neighboring spa. Dinner is best enjoyed at the atmospheric à la carte restaurant.

Families with children always need something to keep the little ones busy. The playroom’s toys and crafts will keep them entertained, and the breakfast pancake feast is always a hit.

Fun fact: Scandic Waskia is named after Vasklot Island, where the Wasa Sugar Factory once stood. Today, the area is home to industry, a campground, a harbor, a beach, and scenic outdoor areas.

Also, have a look at our other tip lists

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