We need the rain after such a dry summer, but after a couple of rainy days in Victoria, we’re already aching for the sun…
Reminds us of the impending doom of the rainy season — is that dramatic?
Anyway, while the sun is slated to return, there are ways to have fun on the rainy days too, so we wanted to highlight a couple of them for you to fight boredom and all things gloomy.
So, without further ado, here are 7 things to do on a rainy summer day in and around Victoria:
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Humid, naturally-lit, filled with tropical animals and plants, the Butterfly Gardens is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours out of the drizzle.
You begin by browsing their collection of exotic bugs and slowly move towards their vibrant jungle adventure that’s been beautifully crafted for visitors and animals alike.
The ceilings are high to allow for spacious flying zones and growing trees. There are also multiple water features and plenty of gorgeous flowers to peek at.
Ticket prices vary, but a general adult ticket is $18.50 and tickets for children between the ages of 5 and 7 is $7.50.
- Where: 1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
- When: Open 7 days a week
- Monday to Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Royal BC Museum
With something new always on the go, you’re bound to find something interesting even if you’re a returning visitor!
If you’ve seen their permanent displays already, consider checking out their current exhibition, Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia!
It opened in June 2023 and will remain open until January 2024 and is full of spectacular artworks and original artifacts from ancient Angkor — never before seen in Canada.
Another exhibit to check out is the museum’s traveling exhibition, Sacred Journey.
It details an ancient tradition nearly lost to history, and teaches us about the repression and resurgence of ocean-going canoes and their vital link to the Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
- Where: 675 Belleville Street
- When: Open 7 days a week
- Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Drake Eatery
Try a new beer within the cozy brick walls of The Drake.
With over 25 different beers on tap, and a list that frequently chances, you’re bound to find a new favourite flavour every time you visit!
They serve snacks, small plates, and mains too if you’re feeling it — anywhere from a soft-salted pretzel to a roasted pork shoulder.
- Where: 517 Pandora Avenue
- When: Open 7 days a week from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Victoria Public Market
Get into the heart of downtown Victoria at this public market!
Here, you can shop local vendors for produce, artisanal items, flowers, and chat with brewers, vintners, and more.
This is a great place to spend hours walking around as there’s always something to catch your attention — whether you’re sampling, buying gifts, or just simply passing the time.
Don’t just take our word for it, go and check it out for yourself!
- Where: 1701 Douglas Street #6
- When: Open 7 days a week
- Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tour Craigdarroch Castle
Travel back in time and stroll through this impressive home as if it is your own.
They invite you to pace the halls, explore the many rooms, read about the extensive history, and imagine what the late 1800s would’ve been like.
If you wish, different tour options are available and can be scheduled here. Otherwise, general admission is around $21 for adults.
Once you’ve seen and read everything, you’re welcome to stop by the gift shop too for some extra wandering.
- Where: 1050 Joan Crescent
- When: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
White Heather Tea Room
This intimate, relaxed, and cozy tea shop is a wonderful place to stop in for afternoon tea out of the rain.
They offer a vast selection of different teas and coffee as well as culinary delights for every palate and hunger level.
Prices vary depending on the tier you choose for your afternoon tea and any additional food items you might treat yourself too.
Snuggle in and enjoy the calming aromas!
- Where: 1885 Oak Bay Avenue
- When: Thursday to Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (check their website for afternoon tea sitting times)
Haunted Manor Victoria
Haunted Manor Victoria on Yates Street prides themselves on being not your average mini golf—you’ll putt your way through a dilapidated manor with a ghoulish history that lures you through your 18-hole game.
The family-friendly attraction offers a series of twists and turns that lead you through the maze, with spots to snap the perfect photo along the way.
- Where: 711 Yates Street
- When: Monday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Have a rainy day activity you prefer? Let us know in the comments!
