The Cowichan Public Art Gallery fills two floors with national artworks to explore, with an outdoor sculpture garden and carving symposium in the works. Beyond the art, it’s a welcoming spot to slow down, offering shaded dining and seating for families, children, nursing mothers, and dogs. From late May through September, the Art in the Alley series brings local artisans onto the property, and in late July you can catch live Shakespearean plays staged outdoors. Come for the art, stay for everything happening around it.