For those days when it’s just too rainy to play outside, you can still find adventure at a museum or nature house – there are no shortage of both on the Island! Here are a few of our favourite places to get out of the rain while still connecting with our local ecosystem.
Don’t forget to follow @play.grow.adventure on Instagram for a local mom’s perspective on year-round adventures, both indoor and outdoor, for active Island families!
Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, Cowichan Bay
Inside the Nature Centre, you’ll find interactive opportunities for all ages to learn about the estuary, its watershed, marine life, and natural and cultural history. www.cowichanestuary.ca
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, Sidney
At this one-of-a-kind aquarium and learning centre, the whole family will have fun learning about the Salish Sea and all its weird and wonderful creatures. Enjoy self-guided tours, interactive games, and hands-on learning — no matter how your little explorers like to learn, there is something for everybody at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. www.salishseacentre.org
Qualicum Beach Museum, Qualicum Beach
This cozy museum brings local history to life with exhibits on fossils, early settlers, and quirky artifacts. Kids will love discovering ancient sea creatures and stories from the town’s past. qbmuseum.ca
Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria
What kid doesn’t love castles? The iconic Craigdarroch Castle is full of history and even has a fun scavenger hunt for your little ones. Step back in time and spend a rainy day exploring a historic piece of Victoria’s past! thecastle.ca
Museum at Campbell River, Campbell River
This community museum provides a peek at Vancouver Island’s history. You will feel transported back to another time as you explore the exhibits, and don’t forget to check out their website for the latest events and newest exhibits. crmuseum.ca
Swan Lake Nature House, Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary
Families can duck inside this small but engaging nature centre to learn about wetlands and local animals. www.swanlake.bc.ca
Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Brentwood Bay
There is no better place for some rainy-day magic than the Butterfly Gardens. Learn about all kinds of butterflies, insects, birds, and plants while enjoying a stroll through the indoor gardens. butterflygardens.com
Ucluelet Aquarium, Ucluelet
Explore the magic of our local oceans at Canada’s first catch-and-release aquarium. uclueletaquarium.org
Royal BC Museum, Victoria
Step inside this world-class museum to explore fascinating natural history displays, Indigenous stories, and hands-on exhibits. It’s the perfect place for kids to learn and play while staying warm and dry on a rainy day. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
