Head to Vancouver Island for a great escape from life on the mainland while discovering the very best things to do in Victoria
Exploring the capital city of British Columbia is a great way to spend some time. This island’s urban juxtaposition is beautiful, charming and vibrant. You will be handsomely rewarded for your exploration. Let’s take a look at some of the key locations because you will want to discover them for yourself.
The Best Things To Do In Victoria, BC
The Inner Harbour
The Inner Harbour is the crown jewel of Victoria. Discover British Columbia’s legislature building, a must see. Constructed over a four year period the final price tag came in at almost twice its budget of $500,000. The legislature opened in 1897.
Free tours of the legislature are offered seven days a week. For more information tap here.
The other main building at the Inner Harbour is the Empress hotel. It is know for Hosting the King and other British royalty during official visits this hotel is spectacular. Currently it is managed as a Fairmont Hotel Group.
Additionally, it is the most popular place to go for high tea. Usually it is quite busy so reservations are recommended. Find out more details at the Empress website here.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is the most visited park in the Capital Region District. Unsurprisingly so, cause it has something for everyone. It is over 700,000 square meters, but also conveniently located right next to downtown.
There are numerous different sports fields including cricket, soccer, and baseball. Furthermore, there are tennis courts, putting green, and lawn bowling.
Footpaths lead through a variety of gardens, a petting zoo and multiple playgrounds including two water spray parks. On the south side of the park stands the world’s tallest totem pole. Incredibly, it is 200 feet tall.
Dallas Road
Dallas Road is one of the best parts of Victoria. This 7km long park stretches from Clover Point to Ogden Point where a large breakwater guards the harbour. It has a walking and biking trail that guides you through the park which is quite flat for the most part.
There is a large dog off leash section of the park which is great for puppies learning to socialize. Every step you take filled with epic views. The beaches are accessed by taking one of the several staircases. These staircases are along the main path. It’s worth going down and walking along the beach for a while.
Chinatown
The Chinatown in Victoria is the second oldest Chinatown in North America, San Francisco being the oldest. Though it is not the largest it is in a ton of culture. It’s only a few blocks but there is a lot to see.
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The Gate of Harmonious Interests is the unmistakable entrance to Chinatown. This beautiful piece of architecture has great cultural significance. Furthermore, there are trendy restaurants and cafes, and shopping that features specialty imported asian products.
Also, the one place that you must check out is Fan Tan Alley. It’s a not so hidden gem.
Big Bad John’s and the Bard and Banker
Going to go out for a few drinks? Two places you should check out are Big Bad John’s and the Bard and Banker. These two watering holes are both awesome but in completely different ways.
Big Bad John’s is a hole in the wall and plays up its carefree vibe. It’s decorated like an abandoned cabin while peanut shells are strewn across the ground and bras are stapled to the ceiling. Big Bad John’s tables are wedged together. Many of the chairs are stumps of wood. It’s a scene.
The Bard and Bankers is an ornate Scottish pub. It is on Government Street and just a few minutes walk from the Inner Harbour. Everything in the Bard and Banker is clean, polished and speaks of respectability. However, don’t be fooled. It is a really good time. There is live music every night so you are sure to have a blast.
Considering getting after it? Then check out their towers menu. They will get you heading in the right direction. Cheers!
Market Square
Market Square is a cool little cosmopolitan shopping and dining area. Located between Chinatown and the Inner Harbour, it is worth popping into while venturing between locations. Market Square has nearly 40 different shops, restaurants, and more.
Mount Douglas
Mount Doug, as the locals call it, is located in the Saanich, towards the University of Victoria. This park has many trails that climb this small mountain.
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With the peak only being roughly 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level it isn’t overly strenuous to get to the top. Although the summit isn’t very high, the views from the top are expansive.
You can see many of the Gulf islands in Canada and the San Juan islands and Olympic mountain range in the United States. The views of the Salish Sea are unparalleled.
Life hack, if you have a car there is a road that will take you there as well. However, the gate isn’t always open.
Thetis Lake
Thetis Lake is the most popular swimming local in Greater Victoria. Located in the suburb of Langford this 40 square km park has great hiking trails and beaches.
Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens are located in the suburb of Brentwood Bay and hosts over a million visitors a year. The symphony of floral delight will brighten even the most somber person’s day. They also hold the honour of being a National Historic Site of Canada.
During the Christmas season the Butchart Gardens go all out with their decorations.
In summer there are also fireworks shows at night.
Mapped Out – Best Things To Do In Victoria
Victoria, BC – The Verdict
Enjoying Victoria is so easy and a fantastic place to go for a weekend or more. Its peaceful strolls and desirable watering holes contrast and enhance the culture, history, and architecture. Go and explore British Columbia’s capital. It will keep you as occupied or tranquil as you desire. Most likely you’ll desire to return more than once.