Yes, not infrequently, grey, rain-laden days descend upon Portland, Oregon. But this truly pleasant city in the Pacific Northwest has readily adapted to its native climate, and usually locals go about their business and pleasure nonplussed. Happily for visitors, all that’s required really is a good umbrella, because Portland, Oregon has a great selection of indoor activities to consider when inclement weather leaves you looking for an escape from the damp.

One of our favorite solutions to rainy day blues? Powell’s. Just in case you thought independent booksellers were a dying breed, spend some time wandering Powell’s City of Books in downtown Portland. Put it this way: they even have their own store map. It’s that big.

Across the water and slightly south, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI, to locals) makes for an excellent, hands-on educational detour. Kids love it, their minders love it, it’s a win-win. Catch an IMAX show when you’re done with exhibits. If you’re looking for other ways to keep your young ones entertained, also add the Portland Children’s Museum, near the Oregon Zoo, to your agenda. Looking for more cultural alternatives? Take a tour of historic Pittock Mansion or enjoy a meander through Portland Art Museum; in addition to a strong collection of Native American and Asian art, this facility also showcases works by American and European artists, both historic and contemporary.

In search of something to do after business hours? Top picks include spending dedicated hours in one or more of the city’s many microbreweries and catching an intimate concert at some small (but lively) downtown venue. In season, you might also want to snag tickets to see the city’s best-known professional sports team, the Portland Trail Blazers, play four quarters at the Rose Garden Arena. Importantly, don’t mind the rain. No one else seems to.