How to Spend a Rainy Day in Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia

You’ve arrived in Victoria for a couple of days and it’s scheduled to rain on your first full day. With its many forests, lakes, and mountain views across the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island looks beautiful in the rain. But if you don’t have a car with you, what can you do?

Luckily, there are many options to keep you entertained in the downtown core of British Columbia’s capital city.

The first decision of the day is breakfast. Victoria has many great breakfast and brunch options, including Jam Cafe and Blue Fox Cafe. The problem is, because these restaurants are so popular, you often have to wait in line. If the lineup continues once you have your table, you might feel somewhat rushed to eat quickly so others can get inside (or maybe this is just me?). These restaurants are also quite small and can feel a little crammed.

For a relaxing sit-down experience in a light and spacious environment, consider Fathom Restaurant inside the Hotel Grand Pacific on Belleville St. At the time of writing, the menu includes avocado toast, coconut chia pudding, tiramisu pancakes, chorizo and bacon hash, salmon and shrimp tartine, and more exciting options. If you’re less of a sit-down breakfast person, the Hotel is also home to the cozy Courtyard Cafe which sells various warm beverages, smoothies, sandwiches and baked goods (all made in house) in a friendly, quiet atmosphere. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).