15 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC
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Victoria is the picturesque capital city of British Columbia, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Known for its mild climate, Victorian-era architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery, Victoria offers visitors a diverse array of experiences. I spent a long weekend in Victoria earlier this year and was surprised by how many fun activities this walkable, charming city has to offer.
From exploring the city's historic sites like Craigdarroch Castle to enjoying iconic high tea, whale watching tours, and the beautiful Butchart Gardens - Victoria has something for everyone! Let’s explore some of Victoria's top attractions and activities, as well as a few unique things to do. Foodies will enjoy discovering the city's emerging food scene on a Taste of Victoria food tour (this was one of my favorite things I did while visiting!). Outdoor enthusiasts can rent an e-bike and bike around scenic Beacon Hill Park, or take in breathtaking views of the area from the Malahat Skywalk. At night, learn about Victoria's haunted history on a spooky ghost tour or sip a delicious hand-crafted cocktail at one of the many top-notch bars in town. Whether you're traveling as a couple, family, or solo, Victoria offers tons of unique and memorable experiences!
1. A Taste of Victoria Food Tour
Victoria's food scene is bustling with delicious eats and drinks from across the globe. One of the best ways to experience the flavors of the city is through A Taste of Victoria Food Tour. This 3-hour walking tour takes you to about 7 different local eateries to sample a variety of dishes and beverages.
Your knowledgeable, local guide will lead groups of 12 or less on the tour, and between tastings, you’ll learn fascinating facts about Victoria's food culture and history. The tour stops at a variety of establishments, from long-standing institutions to up-and-coming hotspots. If you love food like I do, this is a tour that you won’t want to miss!
2. Victoria Hot Tub Boat
Ever dream of floating in a hot tub with your friends or significant other in the new city that you’re exploring? Well, you’re in luck! Book a hot tub boat for a couple of hours with Hot Tub Boat Victoria. A Victoria hot tub boat tour is a unique and relaxing way to explore Victoria's scenic Inner Harbour. You'll cruise along the harbor in a boat equipped with a heated onboard hot tub, taking in all the sights from the comfort of the warm, bubbling water.
These private hot tub boat rentals start at $200 for two people and you get to indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience for two hours. This type of unique experience is available in Seattle and is coming soon to Vancouver as well!
3. High Tea
Victoria is well known for its tradition of serving afternoon tea, commonly called "high tea." The custom of afternoon tea originated in England in the 1800s and was eventually brought over to Canada when Victoria became a British colony. High tea is typically served in the afternoon and consists of a spread of dainty sandwiches, scones, pastries, and cakes, accompanied by a pot of tea. It's meant to tide one over between lunch and dinner, but I quickly realized that the portions would’ve been a full lunch for me!
The iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel serves high tea in the Tea Lobby, with scenic views of the Inner Harbour. Another popular destination for high tea is Butchart Gardens. Here, you can have high tea and take a break from strolling around the grounds of the park. We had high tea at Pendray Inn and Tea House and it was a truly fantastic experience! Pendray Inn serves mouthwatering freshly baked scones, a variety of tea sandwiches, and a great selection of desserts - and let’s not forget about the tea selection! It was really tough to choose just one type of tea with their vast list of options, but I was delighted with my selection of Jasmine tea.
4. Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park is a public park just steps from downtown Victoria that spans over 150 acres. Visitors are greeted with lush green landscapes, vibrant flower gardens, and mesmerizing wild peacocks. I loved this park so much that we visited twice and I couldn’t get enough of seeing the peacocks! The park has an extensive network of walking paths, playgrounds for children, and unique sculptures like the Moss Lady. This park is an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility. It’s also a great place to have a picnic in the warmer months or enjoy a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate in the colder months.
5. Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle is a stunning Victorian-era mansion located in Victoria, British Columbia. Built in the late 1800s, this historic castle provides an awe-inspiring glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the wealthy during that era. Craigdarroch Castle was commissioned in the late 1800s by the wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. The castle was built in the Victorian architectural style with ornate stonework, intricate wood details, and a distinctive tower.
Upon entering Craigdarroch Castle, visitors are greeted by an elegant stained-glass window and a grand wooden staircase. The castle is filled with impressive details that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the era. There are hand-carved marble fireplaces, walls covered in intricate wooden paneling, and painted canvas ceilings. A tour of Craigdarroch Castle offers a glimpse into the lives of Victoria's ultra-wealthy during the late 1800s. From the lavish interior design to the incredible architecture, Craigdarroch Castle is a stunning historic attraction not to be missed during a visit to Victoria. Tours take place Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.
6. BC Parliament Buildings
The majestic Parliament Buildings are one of Victoria's most iconic landmarks. Sitting on the edge of the Inner Harbour, their stunning architecture and lush gardens make them a must-see for any visitor, day or night. The Parliament Buildings hold British Columbia's elected legislative assembly and offer free guided tours on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Visitors can attend proceedings from the Public Galleries or even enjoy breakfast or lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room. It's an architectural wonder and the heartbeat of BC's capital city.
When visiting, be sure to see the massive front gates made of bronze and the Legislative Assembly Fountain out front towards the Inner Harbour. The buildings are surrounded by gorgeous grounds holding many sculptures and monuments. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the grounds and snap photos of the exterior. This building comes to life at night when the entire building is lit up by an impressive light display and it makes Victoria a magical place after sunset.
7. Fan Tan Alley
Located in downtown Victoria, Fan Tan Alley is part of Victoria’s Chinatown and this narrow alleyway has a fascinating history! Back in the 19th century, Fan Tan was a popular gambling game played in the backrooms of Chinatown. Fan Tan Alley got its name from these gambling dens that once operated there. While gambling is no longer permitted, you can still feel the history in the narrowest street in Canada.
Today, Fan Tan Alley is lined with independent shops, art galleries, and cafes. Take your time strolling down the cobblestone lane taking in the sights, smells, and tastes. Go inside the Chinese-Canadian Museum which calls Fan Tan Alley home or get lost in the maze-like corridors throughout the Chinatown district. With its storied past and eclectic shops, Fan Tan Alley is one of the most interesting areas to explore in Victoria.
8. Whale Watching Tour
Victoria is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Several operators offer whale-watching tours year-round, giving you the chance to see majestic orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales in their natural habitat. The types of whales that can be seen on whale-watching tours in Victoria are Orcas, Humpback Whales, Gray Whales, and Minke Whales.
The peak whale-watching season in Victoria is from March to October. This coincides with the migration periods of humpbacks and grays passing through the area and is the same as in Seattle. However, orcas can be seen year-round, so winter whale-watching tours are always an option if you're well prepared for the cooler weather. Embarking on a whale-watching tour is one of the most amazing ways to experience Victoria's incredible marine environment. Watching these majestic whales surface and dive in their natural habitat is a memory you'll cherish forever!
Colorful floating homes at Fisherman’s Wharf.
9. Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is a lively oceanside destination with a unique ambiance. Wood docks extend into the harbor and the area is dotted with colorful houseboats, fishing boats, and floating homes. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood right off the boats at the many restaurants and eateries at the Wharf. You can watch the seals playing in the water and relax with a snack or meal outdoors along the waterfront. Souvenir shops and galleries featuring local artists line the boardwalk.
Fisherman’s Wharf is a seasonal destination in Victoria and most shops are closed during the winter months. We visited in January and still made it a point to see this area, but didn’t stay long. You can reach Fisherman’s Wharf by walking from the Inner Harbour or by taking one of the water taxis to the Fisherman’s Wharf stop.
10. Royal BC Museum and IMAX
Housing a vast collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and galleries, the Royal BC Museum offers an immersive experience about the history of the region's indigenous communities, the colonial period, and other natural history. The museum itself is large and you could easily spend an entire day here and it’s a great option when the weather isn’t at its best.
Inside the museum is the largest IMAX screen in all of British Columbia which boasts a six-story high and 85-foot wide screen. Here, you can find both educational documentaries and Hollywood new-release movies. It offers a deeper level of understanding of our world through a selection of educational and beautiful documentary films.
11. Butchart Gardens
One of Victoria's most famous attractions, the Butchart Gardens is a must-see oasis, blooming with garden beds meticulously designed and maintained year-round. This National Historic site of Canada offers 55 acres of stunning floral display. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll through the Sunken Garden, appreciate the serenity of the Japanese Garden, or marvel at the exotic plant varieties in the Mediterranean Garden, there’s something here for every nature lover.
You’ll want to plan your visit to Butchart Gardens accordingly based on how much time you’re spending in Victoria. Butchart Gardens is located in the town of Brentwood Bay, just 13 miles away from Downtown Victoria. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Victoria or up to an hour via the bus. Another option is booking a tour through Sightseeing Victoria which includes roundtrip transportation and admission to the park.
Dallas Road Staircase
12. Rent an E-Bike
Love the blend of exercise, scenic beauty, and a coastal breeze? Renting an e-bike in Victoria and biking along the coast can be one of the most pleasurable experiences during your visit. Victoria is dubbed as the "Cycling Capital of Canada," and rightly so. It offers a diversity of scenic paths, including picturesque coastal routes that wind past beaches, parks, and viewpoints.
An e-bike allows you the freedom to navigate these paths and cover plenty of ground without the strain of conventional biking, making it ideal for all fitness levels. Feel the coastal breeze on your face as you ride along the Dallas Road waterfront pathway, stopping for a photo or a picnic along the way. We rented e-bikes from Pedego for a few hours and loved riding along the coastline right before sunset.
13. Malahat SkyWalk
Malahat SkyWalk is a newer attraction to the area and is an elevated, spiraling pathway leading you through towering trees of the Arbutus Forest to an awe-striking 40-meter high viewing platform. As you ascend the gentle grade on the wheelchair-accessible walkway, you will experience a transformation in the environment, from the flourishing forest floor to the tree crowns. Interpretation stations throughout the pathway provide insight into the ecology, geology, and cultural history of the area.
Once atop the lookout, you will be rewarded with panoramic vistas stretching out over the Saanich Peninsula, the Salish Sea, and even as far as Washington's Mt. Baker on a clear day. And if the ascent filled you with adrenaline, then prepare for the thrill of the adventure net; an optional experience that allows you to hover over the forest below, or make your way back to ground level by taking the metal slide! This is a wonderful half-day trip from Victoria and Malahat SkyWalk even offers a free shuttle from downtown Victoria from May through September to make the trek even easier!
14. Ghost Tour
As one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest, Victoria has a haunted history that comes back to life when the sun goes down. Ghost tours at night in downtown Victoria offer a unique journey through the city’s dramatic past. Led by knowledgeable, local guides, these tours provide fascinating insights into the city's history, architecture, and of course, its most famous ghosts.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush with their history lesson, these ghost tours are an exciting way to see a different side of Victoria!
15. Mini Golf at Haunted Manor
Release your inner child at Haunted Manor located near Victoria’s Chinatown! This indoor mini golf course is unlike any other and will keep you on your toes for all 18 holes. A one-of-a-kind indoor, glow-in-the-dark 18-hole golf course, it’s a great place for fun with friends, family outings, or even a fun date night. There are tons of 3D effects, theatrical lighting, and pulse-pounding sound effects around every corner. Make reservations beforehand and enjoy a local beer or cider while you wait your turn in the lobby. Every game at the Haunted Manor promises bundles of laughter and entertainment for all ages!
As you can see, Victoria is filled with exciting activities and beautiful scenery for an unforgettable getaway. From exploring the gorgeous Butchart Gardens to whale watching and indulging in high tea, Victoria offers something for everyone. The opportunities for fun and exploration in Victoria are endless and will keep you wanting to revisit again and again. Make sure to put Victoria, BC on your travel bucket list — you won't be disappointed!
Happy travels!
-Tess
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Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!
