If you are living in Victoria – or even just visiting for a short time, this list of fun things to do will hopefully give you some travel ideas and experiences to be had. So here it goes: Our list of things you shouldn’t miss while in Victoria!
Whale Watching
Make a splash! Spend the day on the wild, open Pacific waters taking in views of the pristine Northwest coastline and checking out some local whales! With a plethora of Whale Watching companies to choose from, we highly recommend the following for their professionalism, highest ratings, and value:
Eagle Wing Whale and Wildlife Tours: eaglewingtours.com
Fantasea Charters: fantaseacharters.com
BC Whale Tours: bcwhalewatchingtours.com
Fisherman’s Wharf
Just around the corner from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Fisherman’s Wharf is a charming treasure. This unique marine destination offers food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Wander down the docks with your lunch, buy seafood fresh off the boat, see moored pleasure vessels and float homes, and watch as fishing vessels unload their wares. Definitely an enjoyable experience on a sunny afternoon!
Beacon Hill
We think that it is fair to call this park “Victoria’s Secret”. With over 200 acres of parkland, Beacon Hill Park is the crowning jewel in Victoria’s park system. There are natural areas, manicured flower beds, footpaths and many sports and fun features for everyone! Another tradition is the ice cream at the Drive-In located in the park, but they do have a full menu to sooth any cravings.
Steps from downtown, enjoy a walk around the ponds and spot some sassy peacocks strutting their stuff! Make your way to Dallas Road to take in some breathtaking ocean views.
Parliament buildings
The Parliament buildings are a dominant feature of the Inner Harbour. The buildings are the official residence for the B.C. Parliament to pass laws and where the Provincial Legislative Assembly gather and discuss the direction of the province. The BC Parliament Buildings provide guided tours year-round.
For more information, you may email Tourism Victoria’s Visitor Centre at info@tourismvictoria.com, or phone 250-953-2033 or toll-free 800-663-3883.
China Town
Just a three-minute walk from Market Square, Canada’s oldest Chinatown is characterized by narrow, winding streets and lots of little shops and restaurants. The Chinatown in Victoria is the second oldest in North America after San Francisco’s. Victoria’s Chinatown had its beginnings in the mid-nineteenth century in the mass influx of miners from California to what is now British Columbia in 1858.
Be sure to check out the shops in Fan Tan Alley!
Ogden Point
A popular walk near downtown following the cement structure from Dallas Road out towards the Juan de Fuca Strait. There’s a lighthouse at the furthest point of the structure (which you’ll want to walk to). Take in the breathtaking ocean views, Victoria’s busy harbour, seagulls, seals and fisherman coexisting. Grab a coffee or a beer at the Breakwater Cafe.
Emily Carr House