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34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

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Set on the finish of the largely wild Vancouver Island, Victoria is an excellent metropolis on Canada’s west coast. Identified for the abundance of outside actions and gorgeous Victorian structure, it’s a spot the place colonial historical past is intertwined with indigenous tradition. I lived in Victoria, BC, for a 12 months and acquired to discover all the good issues that it has to supply. These are all my private suggestions.

Attend excessive tea for brunch after which head to Chinatown for dinner whereas stopping by the harbor to observe seals and gigantic cruisers. Victoria is a metropolis that may provide one thing to everybody as a result of it has all of it, from wonderful artwork galleries to thrilling ziplines and mountaineering trails. 

34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

Whether or not you’re on the town for a day or per week, you received’t battle to fill your itinerary with enjoyable actions. With my insider information, I compiled this information of the highest issues to do in Victoria BC that may assist you to put collectively the very best itinerary! 

Finest Issues To Do In Victoria BC

Best Thing To Do In Victoria BCBest Thing To Do In Victoria BC

Victoria BC is understood for its expansive botanical gardens, whale-watching excursions, and huge parks. Nearly all of the town’s finest points of interest are outdoor, making it a prime vacation spot for vacationers who love exploring off the overwhelmed path. 

However don’t let that idiot you; Victoria additionally gives an countless quantity of issues to do indoors, together with a haunted manor with a pinball machine and a number of the finest museums in British Columbia. 

Better of Victoria BC Fast Information

Should See: Chinatown, Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Citadel, Beacon Hill Park, Parliament Buildings,  Afternoon Tea
The place To Keep: Ocean Island Inn, Fairmont Empress, The Oak Bay Seashore Lodge
Enjoyable To Do: Whale Watching, Zipline Excursions, Mount Douglas, Boat Excursions, Kayaking
Day Journeys: Fort Rodd Hill, Thetis Lake Park, Malahat SkyWalk 
Should-Strive Meals: Wild Salmon, Dungeness Crab, Bannock Bread, Chinese language meals 

1. Guided Strolling Tour of Victoria

Things to do in Victoria BC Walking TourThings to do in Victoria BC Walking Tour

Victoria is a beautiful metropolis with many gorgeous buildings. After all, if it’s your first go to, you received’t be aware of the aim of a lot of these buildings, and also you may miss out on some gems which are open for guests. 

Organize a guided tour with an area, and also you’ll not solely be taken to all the very best spots within the metropolis but in addition study the historical past behind a few of its finest architectural gems. Most strolling excursions of Victoria cowl the town’s finest neighborhoods and streets, together with the well-known Authorities Road and Fan Tan Alley. 

My favourite strolling excursions of Victoria additionally mean you can uncover the town’s culinary scene. Strolling across the metropolis will burn fairly just a few energy, and what higher method to make up for them than to bask in Victoria’s specialties in its finest eating places? 

Sensible Data 

Strolling excursions of Victoria normally take 2-3 hours and value $60-100 per participant. 

2. Royal BC Museum 

Things to do in Victoria BC Royal BC MuseumThings to do in Victoria BC Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is Victoria’s finest and hottest museum. If in case you have time to go to just one museum or gallery when you’re within the metropolis, make it this one. It has three principal galleries: Pure Historical past, the First Peoples Gallery, and Turning into BC. 

Come right here to study concerning the indigenous individuals of British Columbia, in addition to concerning the state’s normal historical past and the way it developed over time. Youthful guests usually tend to benefit from the Pure Historical past gallery, which options dinosaur skeletons and fashions of varied animals. 

Plan to spend at the very least a few hours at this museum, and that’s if you happen to’re going to hurry by way of the place. When you take your time with every exhibit, the go to can simply final 3-4 hours. Additionally, I have to point out that the museum has a pleasant IMAX theater, the place you may attend screenings of nature documentaries in addition to blockbuster movies. 

Sensible Data

The Royal BC Museum is open each day from 10 AM to five PM. Admission is $18 for adults, and attending IMAX screenings is an additional $12. 

3. Tour The Unbelievable Craigdarroch Citadel

Things to do in Victoria BC Craigdarroch CastleThings to do in Victoria BC Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Citadel is without doubt one of the prettiest Victorian buildings in Victoria and a very fashionable historic landmark. It was initially constructed by Robert Dunsmuir, a coal magnate, in the course of the late nineteenth century. 

Go to the fort and go on a guided tour of the premises to see opulent interval furnishings, stunning decorations, and beautiful stained-glass home windows. The constructing is magnificent each in and out, and it’s probably the greatest places for structure excursions in Victoria. 

The fort is located in Rockland, roughly a 30-minute stroll (or 10-minute bike journey) from Downtown Victoria. 

Sensible Data

Craigdarroch Citadel is open for excursions Wednesday by way of Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Guided excursions are $20.60 for adults, and tickets may be purchased on-line or on the entrance. 

4. Lease A Bicycle

Things to do in Victoria BC Rent a BicycleThings to do in Victoria BC Rent a Bicycle

Victoria BC is named Canada’s biking capital, and it’s some of the bike-friendly cities within the Pacific Northwest. Bike leases can be found all through the city, and plenty of lodging provide them to their friends. 

Biking round Victoria isn’t just nice for getting across the city rapidly for little or no cash, but in addition a brilliant method of immersing your self within the native tradition. To not point out that it’s normally sooner than touring by bus, plus you received’t have to fret about rush hour visitors. 

When you’re in nice bodily situation, you may even have the ability to bike to points of interest far exterior the town heart, and also you’d get to see some great surroundings alongside the way in which. And if spending a number of hours on a bicycle isn’t all that interesting, contemplate it for a fast tour of Downtown Victoria at the very least. 

Sensible Data 

Bikes can be found for rent in a number of spots all through the city. The typical value is $40 per day, though you may get a greater price whenever you hire a motorcycle for an extended interval. 

The Artwork Gallery of Larger Victoria is an excellent mid-size gallery housed in two distinct areas. One a part of the gallery is in a brand new, fashionable constructing, whereas the opposite sits contained in the historic Spencer Mansion. 

Come to this gallery to admire a sizeable assortment of beautiful artwork, together with items from Canada and Asia. Actually, the gallery’s backyard even has a Shinto shrine that every one guests are inspired to see. It’s one among Victoria’s finest points of interest for lovers of artwork, historical past, and structure. 

Sensible Data

The Artwork Gallery of Larger Victoria is open from 10 AM to five PM and prices a $15 entrance payment. Nonetheless, admission is free on the primary Sunday of the month and on Thursday evenings from 5 PM to 9 PM. 

6. Tour The Parliament Buildings 

Things to do in Victoria BC Parliament BuildingsThings to do in Victoria BC Parliament Buildings

The Legislative Meeting of British Columbia is fingers down some of the gorgeous authorities buildings I’ve seen in my total life. For me, the buildings appear to be they have been plucked from a European metropolis and transported to Victoria. 

However they weren’t; the Parliament Buildings have been constructed in neo-Baroque model on the finish of the nineteenth century proper right here. All the park between Authorities Road and Menzies Road is a superb place the place you may take pleasure in a number of the finest structure within the metropolis. 

See the fountains, the impeccable landscaping, and all of the totally different memorial statues. You may even be part of a guided tour to see the spectacular inside of those magnificent buildings. It is going to price you nothing, and it’ll undoubtedly enrich your expertise in Victoria, BC. 

Sensible Data

Free guided excursions of the Parliament Buildings in Victoria happen a number of instances all through the day, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. 

7. Picnic at Beacon Hill Park

Things to do in Victoria BC Beacon Hill ParkThings to do in Victoria BC Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill is a sprawling public park separating James Bay from Fairfield. It’s simply accessible from central Victoria and probably the greatest locations within the metropolis if you wish to spend a few hours in nature however aren’t fairly within the temper for an tour that features touring far exterior the town heart. 

That includes ponds, strolling trails, and landscaped gardens, Beacon Hill is an oasis amid this concrete jungle. It has every part from totems to peacocks, and coming here’s a should for understanding why Victoria and British Columbia, typically, are identified for improbable pure landmarks and out of doors actions. 

Sensible Data

Beacon Hill Park is open each day from 8 AM to eight PM. Entrance to the park is freed from cost. 

8. Stroll Via Historic Fan Tan Alley

Things to do in Victoria BC Fan Tan AlleyThings to do in Victoria BC Fan Tan Alley

Fan Tan Alley is a historic alleyway in Victoria’s Chinatown district. It’s lined with eating places and boutique retailers on both facet, which supply some wonderful procuring and eating within the metropolis. Right here, you’ll discover retailers that promote every part from Matcha tea to crystals and incense, so it’s positively a spot you need to try if you happen to’re in search of distinctive souvenirs to purchase in Victoria. 

Nonetheless, I’ll say that this expertise is completely skippable if you happen to’re even a little bit bit claustrophobic. The alley is so slender that passing subsequent to somebody isn’t all the time attainable, and the buildings are tall sufficient to trigger discomfort to individuals who don’t like confined areas.

However if you happen to can navigate the tight alley and not using a sense of dread, will probably be a prime expertise. The crimson and inexperienced storefronts are charming and go splendidly with the uncovered crimson brick of the buildings. The doorway to the Chinese language Canadian Museum is right here, and though it’s small, the exhibit is attention-grabbing and price supporting.  

Sensible Data

Fan Tan Alley is free to entry at any time, however most retailers are closed till 5 p.m. 

9. Go to Fort Rodd Hill

Things to do in Victoria BC Fort Rodd HillThings to do in Victoria BC Fort Rodd Hill

Fort Rodd Hill is a Nationwide Historic Website finest identified for the Fisgard Lighthouse. The oceanfront park gives strolling trails with views of outdated army constructions, however it’s the Fisgaard lighthouse that draws the majority of holiday makers to the location. 

Climb the steps to the highest of the lighthouse to expertise improbable panoramic vistas. On clear sunny days, the view stretches all the way in which to the Olympic Mountains in Washington on one facet and the San Juan Islands on the opposite. 

Sensible Data

Fort Rodd Hill is accessible from 10 AM to 4 PM, with an admission payment of $9.

10. Hike To The High of Mount Douglas 

Things to do in Victoria BC Top of Mount DouglasThings to do in Victoria BC Top of Mount Douglas

Mount Douglas is a hill north of Victoria Metropolis and an incredible place to return for 360° panoramic views. You may cycle to the foot of the hill in about 50 minutes from central Victoria, and from there, it’s only a 30-minute hike to the lookout level on the prime. There’s even a car parking zone on the summit, so you may simply drive as much as the scenic level if you happen to’re not within the temper for an uphill stroll.  

The vista from the lookout level is without doubt one of the finest in Victoria BC and it stretches into the US. Additionally, a number of mountaineering trails can be found at Mount Douglas, and you could possibly spend a few hours roaming exploring the world, and marveling on the good views. However if you happen to’re in a rush, it’s good to know that this exercise is doable in about an hour from downtown Victoria. 

Sensible Data

Mount Douglas Park is open for guests from 12 PM to eight PM. Entrance to the world is freed from cost, and parking on the prime can also be free however very restricted. 

11. Historic Excursions at Hatley Citadel

Things to do in Victoria BC Hatley CastleThings to do in Victoria BC Hatley Castle

Hatley Citadel is located in Larger Victoria, roughly a 20-minute drive (or 50-minute bike journey) from the town heart. It’s completely definitely worth the problem it takes to get there as a result of the place is phenomenal. The early Twentieth-century fort was beforehand used as a residence and a naval coaching web site and these days is a historic park. 

Are you able to think about that individuals really lived on this improbable mansion? Even at this time, elements of it are used as workplace house and to carry lessons, so you may’t simply stroll inside everytime you like. Guests should join guided excursions to discover the inside of the mansion, however the formal gardens are accessible free of charge all through the day. 

Sensible Data

Guided excursions of Hatley Citadel can be found upon reservation and are $22 per participant. The gardens are open from 10 AM to nightfall, and entry is freed from cost. 

12. Swimming At Thetis Lake Regional Park

Things to do in Victoria BC Thetis Lake Regional ParkThings to do in Victoria BC Thetis Lake Regional Park

Thetis Lake Regional Park is the primary nature sanctuary in Canada identified for mountaineering trails and seashores on the lakeshore. Come right here in the summertime to loosen up within the unspoiled nature of British Columbia and luxuriate in some improbable panoramic views. 

It’s a 15-minute drive from Victoria and a very good place to return if you wish to escape the crowds of the city jungle. Pack a meals basket and produce a blanket so you may arrange a picnic with panoramic views of the lake after a day filled with mountaineering and swimming. Thetis Lake Regional Park is a good vacation spot for nature lovers in Victoria who wish to discover past the town streets.  

Sensible Data

Thetis Lake Regional Park is accessible at any time. There is no such thing as a admission payment, however there’s a parking payment of $2.25 per day. 

13. Bike Alongside The Galloping Goose Path

Things to do in Victoria BC Galloping Goose TrailThings to do in Victoria BC Galloping Goose Trail

This enjoyable exercise is just for probably the most avid hikers and mountain bikers, so skip it if in case you have zero curiosity in driving a mountain bike for 50+ miles. But when that sounds enjoyable, the Galloping Goose Path may simply be the highest Victoria exercise for you! 

The path follows an outdated railway line for roughly 55 miles from Victoria to Sooke. It’s 55 miles for the out-and-back journey, so you may cowl this path and be again on the town for dinner if you happen to’re quick sufficient on a mountain bike. 

This historic path passes by way of city and rural areas, in addition to wilderness. You may observe the whole path on a motorcycle, or hike simply part of it. You may even select to journey horses alongside the extra rural sections of the path, which is as a lot enjoyable because it sounds. 

Sensible Data 

The Galloping Goose Path is 55 miles for the return journey. This MTB route is really helpful just for skilled mountain bikers in wonderful bodily circumstances, because it takes roughly 5 hours to finish. 

14. Stroll To The Breakwater Lighthouse 

Things to do in Victoria BC Breakwater LighthouseThings to do in Victoria BC Breakwater Lighthouse

The Breakwater Lighthouse sits on the finish of a protracted pedestrian pathway that extends into the ocean. As you stroll from James Bay to the lighthouse, you’ll get an excellent view of all of the cruise ships and ferries that depart Victoria’s internal harbor. The strolling path gives an excellent view of the town’s marine visitors, and it’s significantly pleasant on heat, sunny days. 

The lighthouse on the finish of the pathway dates again to 1916, and it’s surprisingly massive. It doesn’t look that massive from the space, however the nearer you get to it the extra you’re impressed by its dimension. 

One factor to notice is that it’s attainable to stroll down the Breakwater and the Decrease Breakwater. I like to recommend you follow the common strolling path that’s fenced off. The decrease path options no fence, and the concrete blocks are sometimes very slippery. 

Sensible Data

The Breakwater strolling path is accessible at any time of day or night time, freed from cost. 

15. Wander Round Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Things to do in Victoria BC Victoria Butterfly GardensThings to do in Victoria BC Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Located roughly a 20-minute drive from the town heart, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a good place to return and neglect you’re in Canada for an hour. It’s an indoor tropical forest with free-flying butterflies and birdlife, to not point out all of the totally different bushes and flowers. 

You would tour the place rapidly in below an hour, however I’m optimistic you’ll wish to spend extra time on the gardens when you cross by way of the entrance door. Additionally, I actually like that every one the animals listed here are rescues or donations, and are thriving within the lush rainforest setting. 

One factor to notice is that it will get actually scorching within the tropical jungle, so that you may must take breaks if you happen to keep there for some time. Be certain that to convey a bottle of water to hydrate, and step exterior every so often to chill down a bit.

Sensible Data

Victoria Butterfly Gardens has an entrance payment of $19.50 for adults. It’s open each day from 10 AM to 4 PM. 

16. Play Mini Golf in a Haunted Manor

Haunted Manor mini golf will not be an exercise for everybody, so be happy to go away it off your itinerary if it’s not one thing you’re more likely to take pleasure in. However if you happen to like mini golf or ping pong and also you’re into haunted homes and ghost excursions, it’s a really enjoyable method of spending a night in Victoria. 

The mansion gives an 18-hole minigolf course, pinball machines, and ping-pong tables. The on-site bar and restaurant serve a number of (non) alcoholic drinks and basic pub meals. 

Sensible Data 

Haunted Manor is open from 3 PM to 12 AM. Basic admission to the place is $24.95. 

17. Really feel Stylish At Afternoon Tea

Things to do in Victoria BC Afternoon TeaThings to do in Victoria BC Afternoon Tea

Victoria was as soon as a British Colony, and at this time it’s acknowledged as probably the most British metropolis in Canada. So, it’s not too shocking that many standard British traditions have survived within the metropolis. A type of is excessive tea, and it’s the right afternoon exercise for vacationers who wish to spend a day feeling fancy. 

There are fairly just a few totally different tea homes in Victoria, however I feel the one at Pendray Inn is a best choice for vacationers within the metropolis. It’s in an enthralling Victorian mansion in James Bay, so only a brief stroll from the downtown. The elegant inside of the tea home is completely acceptable for top tea, whereas the meals and drinks served there get solely the very best markings. 

When you’re accomplished with the afternoon tea, take this chance to stroll across the neighborhood a bit. The harbor is simply a few minutes from Pendray Inn with views of the ocean and large ships. 

Sensible Data 

The Pendray tea home is open each day from 11 AM to three/4 PM. Reservations are really helpful, and the common price per particular person is $60-70. A vegan choice is out there.  

18. Flower Fields at The Butchart Gardens

Things to do in Victoria BC Butchart GardensThings to do in Victoria BC Butchart Gardens

Spanning greater than 22 hectares, this huge botanical backyard is without doubt one of the best-known in British Columbia. With 26 greenhouses, ponds, statues, and a number of eateries, you could possibly spend the higher a part of the day roaming across the Butchart Gardens. 

One factor I’ll say is that this is without doubt one of the priciest points of interest in Victoria, BC, so that you may wish to depart it off your itinerary if you happen to’re on a tighter price range. With each day tickets going as excessive as $40, it’s not a spot everybody can comfortably take pleasure in. 

However you may get a significantly better deal on tickets if you happen to come within the low season, and actually, the place is so great I’d say it’s definitely worth the cash. Come right here to see the countless area of colourful flowers and luxuriate in probably the best-scented a part of Victoria, BC. 

Sensible Data 

The Butchart Gardens are open from 9 AM to 4 PM. The grownup entrance payment is $25-40, relying on the season.  

19. Panorama Views at Malahat SkyWalk

Located northwest of Victoria, simply off the Trans-Canada freeway, the Malahat SkyWalk gives probably the very best panorama views in British Columbia. It’s solely a 30-minute drive from Victoria BC, and properly definitely worth the journey if you happen to’ve acquired entry to a automobile. 

Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral tower on hilly floor in the midst of the forest. From the highest, you may see the surroundings of each the US and Canada, and it’s such a pleasant view that you simply’ll hardly wish to depart. 

Sensible Data 

Malahat SkyWalk is open from 9 AM to five PM. Entrance to the spiral tower is charged $36.95. 

20. Be Amazed At Miniature World

Miniature World is a novel museum in Victoria, BC. It options miniature dioramas of real-life and fantasy places and is nicknamed The Best Little Present on Earth. The element within the dioramas is staggering, whether or not you’re trying on the duplicate of Toronto in 1915 or the depiction of Camelot. 

A fast tour of the place is feasible in 45 minutes, however provided that you rush by way of the place. Take your time to understand all of the little particulars and actually perceive every part concerning the dioramas, and you could possibly simply spend 2+ hours on the museum. 

Sensible Data 

Miniature World is open each day from 10 AM to six PM. The doorway payment is $19 for adults. 

21. Scent The Flowers at Abkhazi Backyard

Victoria is well-known for its many gardens and the Abkhazi Backyard is without doubt one of the finest near the town heart. Located only a 15-minute bike journey from the guts of Victoria, it’s a wonderful different for vacationers who don’t wish to exit of their method to see the Butchart Gardens. 

It is a a lot smaller backyard, masking an space of “solely” 1.4 hectares. It first began again in 1946, and it took some time for all of the crops and bushes to develop to their present dimension. The rhododendrons are the undisputed star of the stunning backyard, adopted by the tea home and ponds. Afternoon tea on the Abkhazi Backyard is a good concept, however I’ll say that it’s in the identical value vary because the teahouse at Pendray Inn, however the inside decorations are usually not fairly as good. 

Sensible Data 

The Abkhazi Backyard is open each day from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission payment for adults is $10. 

22. Go For A Journey In A Pickle Boat 

Things to do in Victoria BC Pickle BoatThings to do in Victoria BC Pickle Boat

Pickle boat excursions are operated by Victoria Harbour Ferry, they usually’re superior. Uncover Victoria from the ocean whereas driving in a pickle boat, which sounds lots cooler than it really is. 

It’s only a small boat that may match as much as 12 passengers. Whereas I really like that it’s far more non-public than a basic tour boat, I used to be completely dissatisfied to study that it isn’t certainly formed and painted like a pickle. 

The small boats will take you on excursions of Victoria Harbor, they usually typically go all the way in which as much as Burnside. It’s a good way of exploring much more of this excellent metropolis and seeing the areas that aren’t fairly as handy to succeed in on basic strolling excursions. 

Sensible Data 

A number of choices can be found for excursions of Victoria Interior Harbour, they usually final from 45 to 75 minutes. The value is round $40-50. 

23. Test Out Fisherman’s Wharf

Things to do in Victoria BC Fishermans WharfThings to do in Victoria BC Fishermans Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is probably the most picturesque space of Victoria Interior Harbour. The piers are lined with floating houseboats painted in shiny colours, a number of of which function eating places or retailers. Simply remember that individuals stay in a lot of these houseboats, so respect their privateness whereas exploring the world.  

As you stroll down the piers, you may typically spot seals swimming within the water. They love the eye they get from guests and sometimes interact in playful antics to entertain the onlookers. 

Fisherman’s Wharf extends past the piers lined with colourful boats to embody an expansive park with picnic areas and a playground for youths. 

Sensible Data 

Fisherman’s Wharf is free and accessible at any time. Most retailers and eating places are open till 7 PM. 

24. Morning Jog Down Songhees Walkway

Things to do in Victoria BC Songhees WalkwayThings to do in Victoria BC Songhees Walkway

Songhees Walkway is a waterfront strolling path that extends from Johnson Road Bridge to Sailor’s Cove Marina. It takes round 40 minutes to do the whole stroll in a single route, and there are many benches alongside the way in which so you may sit down for breaks. 

The walkway gives good views of Victoria Interior Harbor with loads of scenic viewpoints alongside the way in which. It’s additionally an incredible path for joggers within the morning, however provided that you’re not simply distracted by the view. 

Sensible Data 

Songhees Walkway is accessible at any time free of charge. The strolling path extends for about 3 kilometers in a single route. 

25. Be part of a Meals Tour 

Things to do in Victoria BC Food TourThings to do in Victoria BC Food Tour

Locals all the time know the place the very best meals of their metropolis is, and also you’ll turn into aware of that information if you happen to be part of an area meals tour. These normally embrace journeys to the town’s finest landmarks and loads of stops in standard native eateries alongside the way in which. 

The delicacies of Victoria, BC, is various. The classical native delicacies is heavy on seafood, however a correct Victoria meals tour will embrace far more than what is taken into account conventional Canadian meals. In any case, it’s the town with the oldest Chinese language neighborhood in Canada, and no culinary tour of Victoria is full and not using a cease there.  

Sensible Data 

Meals excursions of Victoria, BC, normally final 2-3 hours. The beginning value is $60. 

26. Admire the Plane at The BC Aviation Museum

The BC Aviation Museum is at Victoria Airport, so you need to have at the very least two alternatives to go to it. It’s additionally an incredible incentive to reach on the airport early and make sure you don’t miss your flight. 

The museum exhibit spans three hangars filled with historic and fashionable plane. Helicopters, warplanes, and plane engines are all on show at this museum. When you’re provided a guided tour of the museum, take it. You’ll get to study a lot concerning the plane on show, and it’s lots higher than simply strolling across the hangar by yourself. 

Sensible Data 

The BC Aviation Museum is open each day from 10 AM to 4 PM. The doorway payment is $17 for adults. 

27. Go Kayaking or Canoeing 

Things to do in Victoria BC KayakingThings to do in Victoria BC Kayaking

Kayaking and canoeing are each very fashionable actions in Victoria, BC, and the right method to discover the town past its busy streets. Be part of a guided kayaking tour or hire a canoe and take to the seas by yourself—no matter your desire is, it shouldn’t be an issue. 

One factor I’ll say is that guided excursions are the best choice for individuals with little expertise in kayaks and canoes. The currents right here may be unpredictable, and if you happen to’re not aware of the climate circumstances it might turn into an disagreeable and even harmful expertise. 

The fantastic thing about these water adventures is that they’ll take you to locations that will in any other case stay undiscovered. Wave between the small rocky islands and luxuriate in a unique perspective on Victoria’s Interior Harbor. 

Sensible Data 

A number of operates provide kayak and canoe excursions in Victoria BC, however Kelp Reef Adventures is without doubt one of the hottest. 

28. See the Sakura Bushes in Chinatown 

Things to do in Victoria BC Sakura Trees in ChinatownThings to do in Victoria BC Sakura Trees in Chinatown

I’ve talked about Fan Tan Alley because the central level of Victoria’s Chinatown, however the historic district extends method past it. It’s the oldest Chinese language neighborhood in Canada and one of many prettiest elements of Victoria. 

A gate marks the doorway to this historic space, so it’s tremendous straightforward to seek out. Sakura bushes line the streets of Chinatown, they usually’re motive sufficient to think about touring to Victoria within the spring. All the neighborhood can also be embellished with conventional Chinese language lanterns. 

Other than being aesthetically pleasing, Chinatown can also be identified for the very best Chinese language meals in Victoria. You’ll additionally discover a great deal of retailers that promote conventional Chinese language souvenirs, and also you may wish to peruse them if you happen to’re available in the market for distinctive souvenirs. 

Sensible Data 

The historic Chinatown neighborhood is within the northern a part of the Downtown district in Victoria BC. 

29. Whale Watching Adventures

Things to do in Victoria BC Whale Watching AdventuresThings to do in Victoria BC Whale Watching Adventures

Victoria and British Columbia, typically, are a few of Canada’s finest spots for whale watching. There should be a dozen tour operators within the metropolis, however my favourite one is Prince of Whales, located within the Vacation spot Larger Victoria tourism heart constructing within the harbor. 

The skilled operators will take you to the very best spots to see whales, orcas, and even seal colonies. However in addition they know to maintain their distance from the animals in order that they don’t disturb them of their each day routines. 

This operator gives year-round whale-watching experiences in 12-passenger Zodiac boats. With a 95% success price of the excursions, you’re virtually assured to identify the majestic mammals. 

Sensible Data 

Prince of Whales whale-watching excursions can be found year-round. They begin at $150 and final 3-6 hours. 

30. Enterprise Out To Swan Lake

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is inside biking distance of downtown Victoria. It’s an incredible place to go to if you happen to don’t wish to go to parks which are farther exterior the town heart however nonetheless wish to take pleasure in a brief mountaineering journey. 

The character sanctuary encompasses a loop strolling path that even crosses the lake at one level. It takes roughly half-hour to finish, and it’s a well-maintained and simple strolling path appropriate for everybody. You don’t need to be an skilled hiker to benefit from the Swan Lake Loop, which is able to reward you with some stunning views of the lake and the encircling forest. 

Sensible Data 

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is open from 10?AM to 4?PM. Admission to the park is freed from cost, however the entrance payment to the Nature Home museum is a instructed $6 donation. 

31. Totems at Thunderbird Park 

Things to do in Victoria BC Totems at Thunderbird ParkThings to do in Victoria BC Totems at Thunderbird Park

Thunderbird Park is a small public park in central Victoria. Located proper subsequent to the Royal BC Museum, the park is finest identified for its totem pole replicas and historic homes. 

The totems aren’t fairly as spectacular as those in Vancouver, however they’re nonetheless fairly a stunning sight. Mungo Martin Home is understood for its painted exterior, whereas the Helmcken Home Pioneer Physician’s Residence gives brief excursions of a surgeon’s home with interval furnishings. 

Sensible Data 

Thunderbird Park is free and accessible at any time. 

32. Ziplining in The Forest 

Thrill seekers received’t be let down by the number of actions in Victoria. Only a 30-minute drive from the Downtown you’ll discover Adrenaline Zip – an area firm that operates ziplining excursions within the rainforest. 

One factor to notice is that that is alongside the way in which if you happen to embark on the Galloping Goose Path. The zipline rides are thrilling and really enjoyable. All the journey takes about two hours, and it consists of 8 zipline rides, a suspension bridge, and an ATV journey. 

Sensible Data 

The ziplining tour begins at $120. For an additional $30, they’ll throw in a shuttle service to Victoria.

33. Journey The Hop On Hop Off Bus

Things to do in Victoria BC Hop On Hop Off BusThings to do in Victoria BC Hop On Hop Off Bus

I’m not the largest fan of Hop-On Hop-Off buses, however I’ve to confess they’re an incredible choice for vacationers who’re on the town for a really brief time. When you’re in Victoria for under a day or two, driving the double-decker bus is nice for seeing all the town’s prime landmarks in that point. 

The fantastic thing about these buses is that you may get out at any cease, discover the world, after which simply get on the bus once more. You may even keep seated on the bus the whole time and simply sightsee from the consolation of your seat, whereas the tour information tells you the story behind the totally different points of interest. 

Sensible Data 

Purchase Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets for $55 (legitimate for twenty-four hours) or $88 (legitimate for 48 hours).

34. Craft Beer Crawl

With greater than 20 craft breweries all through Victoria, the town is really an incredible spot for beer lovers. A great deal of pubs within the metropolis serve native craft beer, and you may even tour breweries to attempt the drink proper on the supply. 

The Craft Beer Market in Victoria Harbor is without doubt one of the finest pubs within the metropolis. It gives a wide array of native and worldwide craft beer. They even provide tasting menus, so you may attempt half a dozen glasses. 

The Whistle Buoy Brewing Firm within the Downtown is my best choice for an area brewery tour. 

Sensible Data 

Pubs in Victoria, BC, are normally open till 9/11 PM and a bit longer on the weekends. 

FAQ For Finest Issues To Do In Victoria BC

Is Victoria, BC, price visiting?

Sure, Victoria BC is price visiting. It’s a beautiful metropolis with gorgeous Victorian structure, a picturesque harbor, and a walkable downtown space. 

What’s Victoria BC well-known for?

Victoria BC is understood for a lot of botanical gardens and lovely Victorian mansions. Town can also be nicknamed the biking capital of Canada, due to numerous kilometers of biking and mountain biking trails. 

What’s the #1 vacationer attraction in British Columbia?

The Stanley Park Totem Pole is by far the most well-liked vacationer attraction in British Columbia. The Butchart Gardens is probably the most well-known vacationer attraction in Larger Victoria. 

Is Victoria BC a walkable metropolis?

A lot of Victoria BC is walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Nonetheless, there are a lot of attention-grabbing locations exterior the downtown which are price visiting however not accessible on foot. 

Ideas And Data For Visiting Victoria BC

Things to do in Victoria BC Tips and InformationThings to do in Victoria BC Tips and Information

Finest Time To Go to 

The most effective time to go to Victoria is determined by what your priorities are. If you wish to be within the metropolis when it’s heat and sunny, then you need to plan a visit in the summertime. However count on greater costs of resorts and enormous crowds of vacationers. 

If, then again, you don’t thoughts strolling round in a jacket if it means fewer vacationers and higher lodge offers, journey to Victoria in April-Might or September-October. Simply remember that the town will get fairly a little bit of rainfall within the spring and autumn, so it’s not the perfect interval for out of doors actions. 

What concerning the winter season? Victoria is spectacular within the winter and the temperatures not often drop beneath 0 Celsius. It’s particularly good there in the course of the Christmas festivities.

Getting There

Victoria Worldwide Airport is the closest airport to the town, however it has a direct connection to only a few worldwide locations. The airport in Vancouver, then again, is the second-busiest within the nation and chances are high will probably be your first cease in Canada. 

From there you’ve acquired a great deal of choices. Native flights, seaplanes, and ferries all make it attainable to journey from Vancouver to Victoria. You may even take a bus from the airport to the town, which takes about 4 hours to succeed in the vacation spot, with a ferry crossing. 

Getting Round 

Downtown Victoria is a really walkable space and you may go to most points of interest within the historic a part of the town on foot. Biking is a good way of getting across the metropolis as a result of you may get to the extra distant elements of Larger Victoria in about an hour, plus you received’t need to take care of rush hour visitors as a lot. 

Bike leases can be found all through the town and are nice for vacationers visiting Victoria. As a result of the town doesn’t have a metro system, buses are the one viable mode of public transport. They’re handy for touring across the metropolis however are typically fairly sluggish. 

Uber and taxis are an alternative choice for reaching the extra distant areas, however they’re additionally the costliest method of getting round Victoria. As for automobile rental, I feel it is smart provided that you’re on the town for an extended time. In any other case, it’s actually not price it as a result of many of the finest points of interest within the metropolis are inside strolling distance of each other. 

How A lot Time Do You Want

Victoria is a reasonably large metropolis and I reckon you want at the very least three days to discover all the finest points of interest downtown and some well-known sights in Larger Victoria. I feel it’s attainable to cowl the very best landmarks in Victoria in about two days, however you’ll be in a little bit of a rush the whole time. 

Vacationers who love being outdoor and exploring nature may have a good time in Victoria. When you can swing 5 days right here, you may have sufficient time to discover an excellent chunk of Vancouver Island, a lot of which is untouched nature. 

The place To Keep In Victoria BC

Keep in Downtown Victoria or the historic James Bay neighborhood for straightforward strolling entry to all the very best landmarks and points of interest within the metropolis. Each areas provide all kinds of resorts in each value vary, in addition to a great deal of attention-grabbing vacationer points of interest. A number of the finest resorts in Victoria for all budgets are: 

Ocean Island Inn gives price range lodging with a improbable location in Downtown Victoria. 
Fairmont Empress is without doubt one of the finest resorts in central Victoria, with pretty views of Victoria Interior Harbor. 
The Oak Bay Seashore Lodge is a five-star lodge with an oceanfront location. It has a improbable spa heart and enormous rooms, however it’s fairly removed from the town heart. Take into account staying on the Oak Bay Seashore Lodge if you happen to’re planning a soothing trip in Victoria, BC.