What to do in Victoria BC? An Insider Guide from a Local

Victoria, BC is an incredible city full of many exciting things for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, a cultural experience, or a night out on the town, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. As a local, I’ve pulled together my favorite activities that I think you should definitely put on your must-see list when visiting Victoria.

Explore the City’s Outdoors

No trip to Victoria is complete without exploring the area’s natural beauty. Choose from a variety of outdoor pursuits such as kayaking, whale watching, fishing, and much more. Take a stunning hike to an incredible viewpoint and appreciate Victoria’s stunning landscapes from a unique vantage point. If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a guided tour and explore the wilderness of Vancouver Island more thoroughly.

Stroll Through Butchart Gardens

With over 55 acres of stunning gardens, Butchart Gardens is a must-see destination and one of the top attractions in Victoria. Explore lush gardens, vibrant floral displays, tranquil Japanese and Mediterranean gardens, a rose garden, and much more. Visitors are also welcome to tour the Craigflower Manor House, taste delicious meals in the restaurants, and purchase unique and locally-sourced souvenirs from the shop.

Visit a World-Famous Castle

Take a step back in time and explore Hatley Castle, one of the world’s most visually stunning buildings and a favorite among visitors to Victoria. Originally designed in the Edwardian style and built at the beginning of the 20th century, this castle is surrounded by lush gardens, The Italian Gardens, Cedar Walk, and 400 acres of pristine landscaped grounds. It’s carefully kept and looks so regal that it’s hard to believe it still exists in modern times.

Sample Delicious Local Dishes

Victoria is well known for its delicious seafood offerings and local flavors. Lobster lovers must try the award-winning dishes at Red Fish Blue Fish — one of the most popular restaurants in town. Did you know that British Columbia is also famous for its wine? Head over to Barbs Bistro & Wine Bar for an extensive list of wines from some of the country’s best wineries – all making for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Go on a Helicopter Pub Crawl

Experience something truly unique when you go on a helicopter pub crawl with air tours! Fly over stunning views of downtown Victoria followed by a stop at four different pubs awaiting your arrival. But safe to say you won’t need to worry about any drunk driving afterwards! Let Viator book your pub crawl Victoria activity if don’t want to miss out on this amazing opportunity that only Victoria offers.

Conclude your Visit with Shopping

Victoria is home to many eclectic stores and boutiques – especially in downtown! Pop into some of the popular independent stores such as 18 Karat Boutique where you’ll find clothing by local designers and jewelers, or Toque Creative Kitchen Store where they have creative gadgets and kitchenware galore! No matter what type of shopping you like to do, you’ll find something great here.

As a local, I absolutely love calling Victoria home! There’s so much to explore here – I hope you get to experience it for yourself one day soon.

Pub Crawl Victoria – An Insider’s Guide to the City!

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a charming destination filled with a rich history, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife. To experience the city like a local, follow this insider’s guide filled with recommendations, hidden secrets, and unique experiences for an unforgettable trip!

Local Attractions – Discovering Hidden Gems

While Victoria has no shortage of popular tourist attractions, there are also a few hidden gems worth exploring. First, head to the Fan Tan Alley. The narrowest street in Canada is home to eclectic shops, restaurants, and cafes that are sure to excite your senses. Next, make your way to Beacon Hill Park. Not only is it a perfect spot for a picnic and a stroll, but you can also catch a glimpse of peacocks roaming free!

Dining Spots – Indulging in Local Cuisine

To eat like a local, head to the Victoria Public Market. This one-stop-shop offers a diverse range of food options from all over the city, from fresh seafood to locally-produced cheeses. For a more upscale dining experience, try 10 Acres Kitchen, sourcing most of their ingredients from their own farm! Did you know that Victoria is known for its high tea? Head to the Fairmont Empress Hotel for a proper English experience, complete with a vast selection of teas and bite-sized sandwiches and pastries.

Cultural Experiences – Embracing Traditions and Customs

Immerse yourself in the city’s art and culture scene by visiting the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. It features an extensive collection of contemporary and historical works of art, whereas Victoria’s Chinatown offers a glimpse into the city’s Chinese heritage. Don’t miss the annual Victoria Dragon Boat Festival, where teams from around the world compete in a lively and colorful tradition that dates back over 2000 years in Chinese history!

Local History – Revealing Captivating Stories

Explore the birthplace of British Columbia’s provincial Legislature by taking a tour of the Parliament Buildings. Learn about the history of the building, along with the art and culture of the province. To fully understand the city’s ties with the First Nations communities, visit the Royal BC Museum. Here, you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of British Columbia through interactive and immersive exhibits.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Create Unique Memories

For a unique and memorable experience, try a whale-watching tour from Victoria Harbour. You’ll get an up-close look at these majestic creatures while taking in stunning views of the city and the mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, try ziplining over the forest canopy at Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours. Another great way to experience the city is by taking a walking tour, where you’ll get to hear some fascinating stories and traditions passed down by locals over time.

Now that you’ve got this insider’s guide to Victoria, let the adventure begin! With so much to discover and explore, this city is sure to leave you with countless memories to share with your friends and family.