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Fun Things to Do in Victoria

Out and About in One of Canada’s Most Beautiful Cities

Victoria, British Columbia is a city as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. As one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest, Victoria has managed to preserve its past even as it keeps its eyes on the horizon. Filled with parks, notable architecture, and amazing attractions, Victoria draws nearly four million visitors per year. And once you’ve had a chance to experience its charm and splendor, it’s not hard to see why.

Victoria is absolutely brimming with amazing things to do and places to go. Here are just a few of our favorites to spur you on your adventure.

When you’re ready to explore these activities for yourself, check out our Special Offers page and start planning your stay.

Beacon Hill Park

A truly lush, lovely natural treasure within walking distance of our hotel, Beacon Hill Park is a 200-acre gem for nature lovers. Visitors will discover abundant wildlife, picturesque bridges and fountains, walking trails, a putting green, a native totem pole, a bandshell featuring live music performances, and even a petting zoo.

Craigdarroch Castle

Known to locals simply as “The Castle,” Craigdarroch Castle is a magnificent example of Victorian architecture. Its four floors of palatial rooms, historic furnishings, and exquisite stained glass stand on a hill overlooking the city. Originally built between 1887 and 1890 as the home of wealthy local industrialist Robert Dunsmuir, the castle is today a museum and event venue that offers a glimpse into another period in history.

Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal BC Museum serves as British Columbia’s repository of culture and history. Originally founded in 1886, the museum houses exhibits on the province’s social, environmental, and human past, with an emphasis on education. Numerous exhibits educate and enlighten countless visitors on 550 million years’ worth of history each year.

Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

Serving as the headquarters of BC’s Parliamentary proceedings, the campus of the Legislative Assembly represents a collection of architecturally impressive, beautiful Neo-Baroque/Romanesque buildings completed in 1898. Inside, the local government maintains order and deliberates matters of public interest. Tours are offered daily.

Inner Harbour

Long-renowned as one of the most beautiful ports on the planet, Victoria’s Inner Harbour has been beautifying the coastline for decades. Dotted with quaint shoppes, delightful eateries, art galleries, souvenir stands, and other pleasant places, Inner Harbour is truly one of Victoria’s crown jewels. Take a walking tour of the piers and drink in the calming seaside sights.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Just a brisk stroll from Inner Harbour, visitors will discover Fisherman’s Wharf. Here houseboats bob softly with the waves, hole-in-the-wall shoppes offer fascinating curiosities, and colorful kiosks serve up some of the freshest seafood available anywhere in town. Pleasure cruises and fishing charters are also available for those who feel confident about the status of their sea legs.

Victoria Bug Zoo

The Victoria Bug Zoo has been offering visitors a close-up look at the incredible insect kingdom since opening its doors in 1997. You won’t find any labeled or pinned specimens here — the Bug Zoo’s entire population crawls around their habitats in exhibits that are as captivating as they are educational. Perhaps not surprisingly, the Zoo is a favorite stop for kids. But anyone with an interest in the smaller side of the animal kingdom will discover lots to love here.

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The AGGV is a fantastic museum that houses nearly 20,000 works from notable artists within its sprawling 2,500-square-metre (27,000 square foot) modern-style complex. With a focus on Canadian artists, indigenous art, and Pacific Rim crafts, the museum’s assembly of art is the largest in the province. In addition to its permanent collection, the AGGV also hosts several touring exhibits each year.

Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours

The Pacific waters adjacent to Victoria are home to abundant levels of spectacular sea life. Peak whale-watching season runs from May to October, but it’s possible to see whales here any time of year. Several charter and tour companies offer whale and dolphin-spotting tours of these areas, including Five Star Whale Watching, Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife, BC Whale Tours, Prince of Whales Whale Watching, and Spring Tide Whale Watching & Charters. Don’t miss your chance to see these spectacular sea creatures in their natural habitat!

The Butchart Gardens

Built on the site of a 19th-century limestone quarry, The Butchart Gardens represent a vibrant oasis of renewal and endless beauty. First envisioned by Victorian Jennie Butchart in 1904, the Gardens were developed by Jennie and her family over several generations, eventually blooming into the breathtaking spectacle they are today. In addition to fragrant explosions of colorful plant life, the Gardens also host fireworks displays, as well as several other seasonal celebrations.