Top Rainy-Day Activities in the San Juan Islands
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’t mean it never rains. The lush forests and fertile farmland are proof that they San Juans get their fair share of drizzle — especially during the cooler months. Luckily, there are a plethora of things to do in the San Juan Islands when it rains.
12 Things to do on San Juan Island When it Rains
1. Whale Museum
This family-friendly educational museum was founded in 1967 to study the region’s beloved Southern Resident Whales. It’s located in downtown Friday Harbor and offers a variety of interactive exhibits about not only orcas, but all ocean life.
2. Jolly Trolley
Operated seasonally, the Jolly Trolley offers guided tours of San Juan Island. It takes participants along some of the most stunning stretches of Washington State’s Scenic Byway, and offers stops at several key locations.
3. San Juan Island Brewing
From their fabulous pours to their family-friendly atmosphere, San Juan Island Brewing has been a community hub since day one. Witness the brewing process, sample the locally brewed pints, nosh on some top-notch pizza, and more!
4. Palace Theater
This quaint hometown theater offers a fun place to catch recently released films and beloved classics.
5. A Place to Play
This fun indoor play space offers hands-on, interactive games similar to a children’s museum. Perfect for a rainy day — it encourages your kids to get their wiggles out in a fun, safe, and dry environment with other kids.
6. San Juan Island Museum of Art
The San Juan Island Museum of Art is a stunning addition to Friday Harbor. Its three galleries featuring rotating collections specially selected to inspire the mind and enliven the soul.
7. San Juan Island Distillery
Making the best apple brandy in the US, the San Juan Island Distillery is located on the northern side of San Juan Island near Roche Harbor. In addition to sampling their latest varieties, you’ll also be able to tour the distillery.
8. Bowling at Paradise Lanes
There’s nothing like throwing an ace on a rainy day.
9. San Juan Community Theatre
The San Juan Community Theater hosts a wide range of engaging performances ranging from plays and musicals to instrumental concerts and community showcases.
10. San Juan County Historical Museum
Located in Friday Harbor, the San Juan County Historical Museum is comprised of eight historic buildings. Housed on the once expansive James King farmstead, it includes the original farmhouse, carriage house, stone root cellar, milk house, as well as the first jail in San Juan County.
11. Lavendera Massage
Spend a rainy day letting your body be pampered at the Lavendera Massage. Services include relaxation massages and couple’s massages to hot stone massages and balancing treatments.
12. San Juan Vineyards
San Juan Vineyards tasting room allows you to sample the locally grown varieties and often meet the wine =makers themselves. Hours change seasonally. Please consult the website for current openings.
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9 Things to do on Orcas Island When it Rains
1. Island Hoppin’ Brewery
This Orcas Island staple has been attracting locals and visitors since day one, thanks to its impressively flavorful beers. Visit the tap -room where you can sample their regular selection and seasonal pours. Sometimes you might even be treated to something “just now” available.
2. Orcas Island Artworks
Looking for a locally-made memento? Orcas Island Artworks is a must-visit. The gallery’s collection features more than 40 different artists with pieces ranging from paintings and carved wood bowls to intricate jewelry and organically made soap.
3. Lunch at Catkin Café
While visiting Orcas Island Artworks, snag a table at Catkin Café where the island-sourced menu will delight your senses.
4. Orcas Island Historical Museum
Located at the heart of Eastsound, Orcas Island’s hub, the Orcas Island Historical Museum features historical artifacts and stories from Orcas Island.
5. Orcas Island Winery
This boutique family vineyard and winery is located just below Turtleback Mountain. The tasting room hours change seasonally. Please visit their website for current availability.
6. Orcas Island Escape Room
Test your wits at the Orcas Island Escape Room. For 60 minutes, parties of up to four will be invited to try and puzzle their way out of the Harry Potter-themed escape room, located in the heart of downtown Friday Harbor.
7. Doe Bay Wine Co.
Opened by Orcas Island native Cole Sisson and his wife Stephanie, Doe Bay Wine Co. features a carefully curated selection of wines and beers. But the real star of the shop is their tastings. They feature pours selected by the exceptionally well-educated, yet down-to-earth, couple.
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8. Rosario Organ Concert
The breathtaking mansion at Rosario Resort doesn’t just sport one of the island’s best restaurants. It’s home to a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano. Enjoy a free concert and history lesson on Saturday nights to see these stunning musical pieces in action.
9. A Massage by the Sea
Let your body and your mind relax at A Massage by the Sea. Each service has been carefully developed to promote healthy living through relaxation.
