Seattle Skyline
Seattle Skyline

Published Nov. 7, 2019 | Last Updated November 23, 2024

Sure, Seattle gets the 鈥榦ccasional鈥 rainy day during the winter. But natives have long since learned that the grey skies aren鈥檛 a reason to write off the Emerald City. In fact, with its plethora of cozy refuges, lively winter events, and inspiring museums, you鈥檒l never be short of unique things to do this winter in Seattle.

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couple on a rainy day in Friday Harbor

Originally Published Dec. 19, 2019 | Updated Nov. 13, 2024

Thanks to being located in the heart of the Olympic Rain Shadow, the San Juan Islands enjoy an average of 270 days with sunshine. But, that doesn鈥檛 mean it never rains. The lush forests and fertile farmland are proof that they San Juans get their fair share of drizzle 鈥 especially during the cooler months. Luckily, there are a plethora of things to do in the San Juan Islands when it rains.

There are a variety of ways to get from Seattle to San Juan Island and Orcas Island, the fastest and (in our humble opinion) most beautiful way is to fly. We offer regular flights from Boeing Field to Eastsound Airport and Friday Harbor. Seasonally, we also offer seaplane flights from Lake Washington and Lake Union to the San Juan Islands.

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Couple outside the fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck
Couple near Fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck

Some might ask, 鈥淲hy visit Victoria this winter?鈥 But don鈥檛 let this northern gem fool you into thinking it has closed up shop. While the hanging baskets are stored for the season, there are still a plethora of fun things to do in Victoria this winter.

Sure, you鈥檒l want to pack a good jacket. But don鈥檛 worry that exploring will put you at risk of frostbite, as it will throughout much of North America. The BC Capital is tucked at the edge of the Olympic Rain Shadow, making winters relatively mild and an early spring a common occurrence.

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Christmas at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria BC
Parliament Buildings Christmas

Christmas in Victoria, B.C., is a magical experience. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal events, and charming traditions. The world-renowned flower displays at The Butchart Gardens become a dazzling display of lights, while the iconic Fairmont Empress turns into a winter wonderland filled with charm and intrigue. 

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Dinner at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton
Dinner spread at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton

Come for the craft cocktails. Stay for the fuss-free, locally sourced cuisine.

Clive鈥檚 Classic Lounge has the essence of a sultry speakeasy 鈥 a windowless bar, moody lighting, and plush seating where one might linger a little closer to their partner. 

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HAVN tubs
HAVN in Victoria

Like chicken soup for the soul, self-care offers the opportunity to relax and recharge. It鈥檚 the soothing remedy for a fast-paced life where meetings can pile up and deadlines loom. 

But the practice of self-care isn鈥檛 one-size-fits-all. From ocean-side soaking tubs and rejuvenating facials to farm-to-table cuisine, we all need something a bit different. As the summer season tapers into cool crisp days, take a moment to let yourself relax and replenish. Discover some of the best destination-worthy self-care getaways in the San Juans, Victoria, and beyond!

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Tea at the Fairmont Empress
Fairmont Empress High Tea

Nestled at the edge of the Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress stands as a majestic icon of luxury and history. This grand hotel has been a cornerstone of Victoria’s charm for over a century. No experience is more iconic here than indulging in the renowned Afternoon Tea at the Empress.

Whether visiting the BC capital for the day or enjoying an extended getaway, this is an unforgettable afternoon delight. Wrapped in elegance and sophistication, it gives you a glimpse into a royal tradition.聽

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Victoria Hot Tub Boats
Victoria Hot Tub Boats in the Inner Harbour

Despite Victoria鈥檚 sunny weather, you might think twice about donning your swimsuit for a dip in the B.C. capital鈥檚 Inner Harbour. Even during August, the average water temperature is around 52.7掳F (11.5掳C). But those who want to take a dip (while skipping the cold plunge) can take heart. You can rent a Hot Tub Boat to enjoy a warm, scenic float.聽

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fall in seattle
Seattle during the fall

With a blend of natural beauty and urban charm, Seattle is a bucket list destination. Whether you鈥檙e sipping coffee at Pike Place Market, taking in the stunning views from The State Hotel鈥檚 rooftop bar or watching the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena 鈥 there鈥檚 a plethora of iconic things to do in Seattle. Here the misty fall mornings and crips days are as vibrant as the neighborhoods and quirky art. 

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Fall at the Inn a Laurel Point
Inn at Laurel Point during the fall

Thanks to its natural beauty and cultural charm, Victoria, BC is one of those exquisite destinations that just gets better with every changing season. A fall escape to the Inn at Laurel Point is no exception. Nestled on a small peninsula in Victoria鈥檚 Inner Harbour, this waterfront retreat offers a peaceful destination within the city鈥檚 core. 

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