A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia is located in the southern part of Vancouver Island, and is the capital of the province. It’s a beautiful and vibrant city, full of history and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to explore the beauty of nature and animals or take part in exciting cultural events and activities, Victoria has a little something for everyone.

Visit Butchart Gardens

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, visiting Butchart Gardens should definitely be on your list. It is a 55-acre garden of unique and exotic plants and trees, as well as beautiful and colourful flower beds. There are also many activities and events held throughout the year, including free concerts, light displays and holiday events, making it perfect for a fun family outing.

Visit Art Galleries

Art lovers visiting Victoria will have plenty to admire, as the city is home to numerous art galleries. The largest is the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, which features Canadian, European and Asian art collections as well as contemporary exhibitions. The University of Victoria’s Maltwood Art Museum and Gallery has the largest permanent collection of European art in Western Canada, which includes works from ranging from the Italian Renaissance to contemporary sculpture.

Explore Old Town

Old Town Victoria is a must-see for anyone looking to take in the city’s history and culture. This area of the city boasts gorgeous Victorian-Style buildings, including France Street’s Beacon Hill Park, which is a designated National Historic Site and one of Canada’s oldest parks. There’s also Craigdarroch Castle, an imposing Scottish Baronial Mansion, which is now a museum featuring artifacts from the cherished past.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Victoria has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. After a fun day of exploring, you can unwind at Rebar, a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the cityscape. Or you can take in some live music at Hermann’s Jazz Club, which is home to some of Canada’s finest jazz musicians. For a more relaxed evening, why not grab a drink at one of the numerous local pubs?

Whale Watching Tours

With its close proximity to the ocean, Victoria is a great spot for whale watching tours. A variety of boats are available for hire, allowing you to choose from a range of packages that suit your level of adventure. You may even be lucky enough to see orcas in their natural habitat!

Go Shopping

If shopping is your thing then you won’t be disappointed with what Victoria has to offer. On Government Street you will find everything from luxurious stores selling locally crafted items to independent boutiques selling everything from antiques to clothing. Plus there’s an abundance of shopping malls dotted around the city that make picking up souvenirs a breeze.

Conclusion

Victoria is brimming with sights and experiences worthy of exploration and enjoyment. From the gardens and art galleries to the nightlife and whale watching tours, there’s something for everyone in this culturally rich Canadian city. So what are you waiting for? Head over to TourismVictoria.com today and start planning your trip!

A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia, is a beautiful city that offers a dizzying array of things to see and do. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, cultural diversity, and delicious food scene, Victoria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Canada’s west coast. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there is something for everyone in this charming city. In this guide, we’ve highlighted some of the best things to do in Victoria.

Local Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Victoria is the iconic Butchart Gardens. Comprising 55 acres of stunning gardens with beautiful blooms all year round, the Butchart Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Victoria. Enjoy a leisure walk, take a picnic, or dine at their restaurant while enjoying the gardens’ beautiful view.

Another famous attraction is the Royal British Columbia Museum. The museum features exhibits showcasing the province’s history, the First Nations, and natural history. It’s a great way to learn about the local culture and history.

Plus, you can’t skip visiting the Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site built-in 1890. With its Victorian-era vacation home architecture, beautiful stained glass, and furnished elegant rooms, Craigdarroch Castle is a feast for the eyes that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Dining Spots

Victoria is an unmissable destination for foodies. The city boasts numerous restaurants, cafes, and street-food vendors alongside the marina that offer exotic premiers of British Columbia seafood and locally sourced produce.

Fisherman’s Wharf, for instance, is a lovely spot for outdoor dining with various seafood options. The Red Fish Blue Fish located at the waterfront with a dock seating area is a great spot for enjoying fresh fish, fish tacos, fish and chips, and other seafood treats. Lastly, The Empress is a historical landmark famous for its luxurious Afternoon Tea, which is a must-try.

Cultural Experiences & Local History

Aside from Victoria’s traditional attractions, travelers can dig into the city’s culture with a visit to Chinatown. It’s a cultural hub with various lanes featuring Chinese architecture, diverse boutique shops, and restaurants, including Fan Tan Alley, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs.

Moreover, Visit the world-famous Ghost Tours for a chance to learn more about the city’s history with spooky tales and legends. The tours are led by historians; you’ll hear various stories from the city’s past.
Finally, a visit to the Victoria Public Market, an indoor market with over thirty vendors, is a chance to sample the city’s diverse cultural cuisine.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, head to the Thetis Lake Regional Park. It’s a great spot for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.

Another hidden gem is the Ross Bay Cemetery. Established in 1873, the cemetery is a beautiful outdoor museum, and it’s a great place to appreciate Victoria’s local architecture history.

Conclusion:

Victoria is a fantastic travel destination, offering an array of experiences, itineraries, and memory-making opportunities. From exploring scenic gardens, spice-laden alleys, indulging in local and international cuisine, and wanders in historic landmarks, the city never disappoints anyone. With this insider’s guide, you’re promising to have an immersive and unforgettable Victoria vacation.