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Victoria BC Like Never Before: Best Things to Do

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Jan 20, 2025

Imagine stepping into a city that feels like a postcard come to life. That’s Victoria, British Columbia! With its stunning gardens, historic landmarks, and sparkling waterfront, Victoria, BC is bursting with things to do waiting for you!

Best Things to Do in Victoria BC

Photo by Armon Arani on Unsplash

Best Things to Do in Victoria BC

Victoria is a place where old-world charm meets outdoor excitement. Therefore, it is not hard to find something that every type of person would enjoy, especially tourists eager to see what Victoria, BC, has in store for them. Here are some must-try activities in the city.

Visit Butchart Gardens

Let’s begin by delving into the enchanting world of Butchart Gardens, one of the most paradisiacal things to do in Victoria, BC! Located in Brentwood Bay, just a short drive from Victoria, this spectacular place offers themed areas that will captivate you like the Sunken Garden with its diverse plant life and the serene Japanese Garden.

Take your time and wander through the many other unique attractions this garden has to offer. You can’t miss the rose garden that has over 2,500 fragrant roses and a special treat: a beautiful carousel for adults and kids alike to ride! There are several on-site food options, and they are fully wheelchair accessible for those with mobility challenges. You won’t regret visiting this unique place!

Tip: For an especially unique experience, plan your visit during the summer evenings to experience the magical ambiance of the gardens' night illuminations..

Things to do in Victoria BC: Butchart Gardens

Photo by john xiao on Unsplash

Tour the Royal BC Museum

Are you ready for an exciting trip back in time? The Royal BC Museum is waiting to take you on this journey, where you’ll discover the history of British Columbia. This museum isn’t a typical, display-only experience. There are captivating, interactive exhibits for all visitors.

At 675 Belleville Street in Victoria, you can explore galleries on natural history and indigenous cultures. And, plan your visit between Sunday through Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM or Friday to Saturday from 10 AM to 10:30 PM, as these are its opening hours (however keep in mind the museum will close earlier on specific days). Also, the museum provides on-site 2% Jazz Coffee as well as a couple of food trucks daily, if you get hungry!

Entrance to the Royal British Columbia Museum

Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Explore Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is waiting to whisk you away to another time completely! This historic mansion, built in the Scottish Baronial style, will certainly have you feeling as if you’ve stepped right into a 19th-century story. Each corner tells its tale, each space has intricate woodwork and stained-glass windows. They include the majestic oak staircase and the many lavishly furnished rooms. Craigdarroch offers an incredibly detailed experience for those wanting to dive into the past, for a perfect escape definitely worth seeing!

You’ll find the castle at 1050 Joan Crescent, it opens from Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed Mondays and Tuesdays, and during holidays like December 25th, 26th, and January 1st), so be sure to plan ahead accordingly. As you enter the castle, the admission rates are $20.00 for adults, $18.00 for seniors, $15.00 for students and kids 6–12 at $10, and under 5’s enter for free ( however keep in mind the price may change slightly, therefore confirm before your arrival to be extra sure.)

Pro Tip: When visiting this architectural masterpiece don’t forget to bring a camera (non-flash photography is welcome) to capture the amazing ambiance, that is waiting just for you

Walk Through Beacon Hill Park

Let’s wander into Beacon Hill Park, a lush, 200-acre green space located just south of downtown Victoria. It’s incredibly easy to get to by foot from most hotels. Established way back in 1882, this place provides a beautiful blend of manicured gardens, walking trails, and natural areas. This park has beautiful flower beds and native Garry Oak trees. It’s the perfect thing to relax and reconnect with nature in Victoria, BC.

You might spot many different wild animals during your stroll. Look out for peacocks, ducks, swans, and even blue herons by the peaceful ponds. Plus, the park has several historical landmarks. These include its once world’s tallest 38.8-meter totem pole and the Mile ‘0’ marker of the Trans-Canada Highway. With playgrounds, a waterpark, sports fields, and the Cameron Bandshell offering concerts during summer.

Additional Tip: Visit the park early in the morning to observe wildlife at its most active, and capture some stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains

Wooden Beacon Hill Park sign surrounded by flowers in Victoria BC

sergfokin, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Discover Inner Harbour Activities

Victoria’s Inner Harbour is a place where the city’s magic truly comes alive. Its bustling waterfront, where colorful buildings reflect on the water’s surface, is simply a sight to behold! Red Fish Blue Fish, known for its fresh seafood and vibrant setting, is a popular local favorite that you should not miss. You can explore the Harbour from a different point of view by opting for a guided tour with Victoria Harbour Ferry. It’s perfect for those who want to learn a little more about the area’s history and admire its wildlife.

As the summer months arrive, the Inner Harbour really shines with various festivals, entertaining street performers, and talented artists which all happen in the Lower Causeway. Do not miss the many colorful seaplanes coming in and out that the Harbour has to offer either. Don’t forget, you’ll be close to historic landmarks. They include the stunning British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the impressive Fairmont Empress Hotel. Both add architectural and historical richness to the Harbour, it’s an incredible experience.

Scenic view of Victoria’s Inner Harbour with waterfront and boats

Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Experience Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a hidden gem and one of the unforgettable things to do in Victoria BC that you won’t want to miss. You will find a community of colorful, floating homes here. Together they create a picture-perfect setting. You may even spot playful harbor seals swimming close by as they add to the lively feel of the wharf! There are lots of waterfront spots where you can eat, most known for their delicious menus. Be sure to try the iconic Barb’s Fish & Chips, known for its fresh seafood since 1985.

Beyond dining, this unique area is the departure point for many tours! For those seeking more action, this spot also hosts tours, like whale watching or kayaking excursions. These eco-tours provide great opportunities to see marine life in their natural habitats. You will also find shops that sell local crafts and unique gifts too! Plus, you might even get to enjoy some talented street performers!

Pro Tip: Purchase food packets at nearby shops so you can feed the many seals that frequently visit the wharf.

Stroll the Historic Chinatown

Get ready to step into Canada’s oldest Chinatown! The beautiful heritage buildings, bright murals, and charming small alleys will mesmerize you. When it comes to culinary experiences, it’s the perfect place to grab a unique and delicious bite, whether you want authentic Cantonese flavors or wish to grab some unique souvenirs.

Victoria’s Chinatown is a historic landmark. As soon as you walk through its ornate entrance, the Gate of Harmonious Interest, your immersion will truly begin! Be sure to discover the narrowest commercial street in North America known as Fan Tan Alley, a place historically known for gambling and opium that today offers boutique and art shops to wander through. Consider, also, visiting its traditional Chinese Public Schools and discovering all it has to offer. As a reminder, this was built to keep cultural and traditional learning going!

Bright red lanterns hanging at night with soft golden lights

Image by H. Hach from Pixabay

Visit the British Columbia Parliament

Prepare to be amazed by the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, a true landmark in Victoria and a spot you cannot miss! Designed by the talented Francis Rattenbury, this neo-baroque wonder has been the heart of BC’s Legislative Assembly since 1897, a fact that makes them all the more important for visitors to learn about!

Free guided tours are available from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (with extended summer hours!). They let you explore its magnificent halls. These tours last around 40 minutes, providing a perfect way to appreciate the rich detail of interiors like the Upper Rotunda, where impressive historical murals adorn the walls. For something unique, explore the Parliamentary Dining Room for a meal. And stop at the gift shop for exclusive BC legislative assembly memorabilia!