Things to do in Victoria: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
The Butchart Gardens, Victoria
Overview: The Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned botanical garden offering 55 acres of vibrant floral displays, themed gardens, and scenic beauty.
History: Originally a limestone quarry, Jennie Butchart transformed it into a lush garden in 1904, turning it into a landmark for horticultural excellence.
Since When: The gardens have been open to the public since 1904, gradually expanding into the iconic attraction it is today.
Review: Visitors praise the enchanting seasonal blooms and meticulous landscaping, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.
When to Go: The best times to visit are spring through early autumn for blooming displays, with winter featuring beautiful holiday lights.
How to Go: Located about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria, you can reach the gardens by car, bus, or via tour buses.
What to Do: Explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and enjoy summer fireworks or winter illuminations.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with ticket prices varying by season.
Royal BC Museum, Victoria
Overview: The Royal BC Museum is an extensive museum showcasing British Columbia’s natural and human history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
History: Established in 1886, the museum has become a premier institution, preserving and celebrating British Columbia’s diverse heritage.
Since When: The museum has been a cornerstone of Victoria’s cultural landscape since its opening in 1886.
Review: Visitors highly recommend it for its immersive exhibits, especially the First Nations gallery and the historical re-creations.
When to Go: Open year-round, it’s ideal to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located downtown near the Inner Harbour, it’s easily accessible by foot, bus, or car.
What to Do: Explore the First Peoples Gallery, the Natural History Gallery, and special exhibitions, or watch an IMAX movie.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with separate fees for the IMAX theatre.
Beacon Hill Park, Victoria
Overview: Beacon Hill Park is a lush, expansive city park offering gardens, walking trails, a petting zoo, and beautiful coastal views.
History: Established in the 1880s, the park is one of Victoria’s oldest public spaces, developed into a popular recreational area over the decades.
Since When: Beacon Hill Park has been a public park since the late 19th century, continually serving as a natural retreat.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, diverse wildlife, and scenic vistas, making it a favorite spot for leisurely outings.
When to Go: The park is beautiful year-round, with spring and summer offering the best weather and blooms.
How to Go: Easily reachable from downtown Victoria by foot, car, or public transit.
What to Do: Enjoy picnics, explore gardens, visit the petting zoo, or walk to the Mile Zero marker of the Trans-Canada Highway.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free.
Fisherman’s Wharf Park, Victoria
Overview: Fisherman’s Wharf Park is a lively waterfront area known for its colorful floating homes, fresh seafood stalls, and vibrant atmosphere.
History: Originally a working dock, Fisherman’s Wharf evolved into a popular tourist destination, retaining its unique character and maritime charm.
Since When: It has been a public destination since the 1990s, blending tourism with its fishing heritage.
Review: Visitors love the quirky floating houses, fresh seafood, and the chance to see seals up close.
When to Go: Summer is the best time to visit for dining and whale-watching tours, though it’s scenic year-round.
How to Go: It’s a short walk from downtown Victoria or accessible by water taxi.
What to Do: Stroll along the docks, enjoy local seafood, rent kayaks, or take a whale-watching tour.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, though activities and food are paid.
Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria
Overview: Craigdarroch Castle is an iconic Victorian-era mansion showcasing period architecture, artifacts, and the history of the Dunsmuir family.
History: Built in the late 1880s by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, the castle reflects the wealth and elegance of the Victorian era.
Since When: It has been open to the public as a historical site since the early 20th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate the castle’s architecture, historical significance, and beautiful city views from its tower.
When to Go: Open year-round, though the holiday season adds festive decorations to the experience.
How to Go: Located a short drive from downtown, it’s accessible by car or local bus routes.
What to Do: Tour the castle’s lavish rooms, admire Victorian furnishings, and learn about the Dunsmuir family’s legacy.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with tickets available for self-guided tours.
Inner Harbour, Victoria
Overview: The Inner Harbour in Victoria is a bustling waterfront area, known for its scenic views, historic landmarks, and vibrant activity.
History: This harbor has been central to Victoria since the city’s early days, serving as a key port and later evolving into a tourism hub.
Since When: The Inner Harbour has been a focal point of Victoria’s development since the mid-19th century.
Review: Visitors love the picturesque scenery, lively atmosphere, and proximity to notable attractions like the Parliament Buildings and museums.
When to Go: Best enjoyed in spring and summer for outdoor events and harbor tours, though it’s scenic year-round.
How to Go: Located centrally in downtown Victoria, it’s accessible by car, foot, or public transit, and is also served by ferries and seaplanes.
What to Do: Stroll along the harbor, enjoy waterfront dining, watch street performers, or take a whale-watching tour.
Free or Paid: Access to the harbor area is free, though tours and certain activities may have fees.
Fairmont Empress, Victoria
Overview: The Fairmont Empress is an iconic luxury hotel known for its historic architecture and famous afternoon tea service.
History: Opened in 1908, the Empress was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway and quickly became a landmark of elegance in Victoria.
Since When: The Fairmont Empress has been a symbol of Victoria’s hospitality and charm since 1908.
Review: Guests and visitors appreciate its classic ambiance, luxurious amenities, and beautiful waterfront views.
When to Go: Open year-round, but the gardens and harbor views are especially enjoyable in spring and summer.
How to Go: Situated on the Inner Harbour, it’s within walking distance of downtown Victoria attractions.
What to Do: Enjoy the traditional afternoon tea, explore the hotel’s architecture, or relax in the elegant spa.
Free or Paid: Entry is free for visitors, but services like tea and spa treatments are paid.
Victoria’s Chinatown National Historic Site, Victoria
Overview: Victoria’s Chinatown is Canada’s oldest Chinatown, filled with historic architecture, vibrant shops, and cultural landmarks.
History: Established in the 1850s during the gold rush, it became a cultural center for Chinese immigrants in Victoria.
Since When: Chinatown has been a part of Victoria’s landscape since the 1850s and designated a National Historic Site since 1995.
Review: Visitors appreciate its rich history, unique shops, and the charm of Fan Tan Alley.
When to Go: Open year-round, with spring and summer offering the best weather for strolling.
How to Go: Located near downtown Victoria, it’s easily accessible by car, foot, or bus.
What to Do: Explore Fan Tan Alley, visit local shops and eateries, and learn about the area’s history.
Free or Paid: Free to explore, though individual attractions and shops may have fees.
Fisherman’s Wharf, Victoria
Overview: Fisherman’s Wharf is a unique waterfront area featuring floating homes, seafood stalls, and scenic harbor views.
History: Originally a working dock, it transformed into a popular tourist spot with vibrant floating homes and food kiosks.
Since When: Fisherman’s Wharf has been welcoming tourists since the 1990s as an attraction blending residential, tourism, and maritime activity.
Review: Visitors love the lively atmosphere, fresh seafood, and the chance to spot seals.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for food stalls, tours, and sunny harbor views.
How to Go: It’s a short walk or drive from downtown Victoria and accessible by water taxi.
What to Do: Walk the docks, enjoy local seafood, take a kayak tour, or watch for marine wildlife.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with paid options for food, tours, and activities.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Victoria
Overview: The Victoria Butterfly Gardens is an indoor tropical rainforest habitat filled with exotic butterflies, birds, and lush plants.
History: Established to offer an immersive tropical experience, it has become a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts.
Since When: The gardens opened in 1999, providing a year-round escape into a tropical environment.
Review: Visitors are captivated by the beauty and diversity of butterflies and other tropical species in the lush environment.
When to Go: Open year-round, making it an ideal activity during both summer and rainy winter days.
How to Go: Located about 15 minutes north of Victoria, it’s accessible by car or bus.
What to Do: Walk through the tropical habitat, observe butterflies, birds, and reptiles, and enjoy interactive educational displays.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with tickets available for adults, seniors, and children.
Malahat SkyWalk, Victoria
Overview: Malahat SkyWalk is an elevated treetop walkway offering panoramic views of Vancouver Island, coastal mountains, and nearby forests.
History: Opened as a unique tourism attraction to showcase the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.
Since When: Malahat SkyWalk has been welcoming visitors since July 2021.
Review: Visitors praise the breathtaking views and the gentle, accessible pathway that culminates in a thrilling slide down.
When to Go: Best visited on clear days for unobstructed views; open year-round.
How to Go: Located about 30 minutes north of Victoria, accessible by car along the Trans-Canada Highway.
What to Do: Walk the spiral pathway to the top, take in the views, and enjoy the slide back down.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with tickets required for the SkyWalk experience.
Ogden Point Sundial, Victoria
Overview: Ogden Point Sundial is a popular public art piece and landmark at the cruise ship terminal, offering stunning ocean views.
History: This large sundial was created to enhance the waterfront area, offering both function and artistic appeal.
Since When: The sundial has been a feature of Ogden Point for several years, serving as a scenic stop for locals and tourists alike.
Review: Visitors enjoy the scenic walk along the breakwater and the artistic sundial against the backdrop of the ocean.
When to Go: Visit year-round, though sunsets are particularly beautiful.
How to Go: Located at Ogden Point, it’s accessible by foot, bike, or a short drive from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Take a walk along the breakwater, enjoy the views, and take photos by the sundial.
Free or Paid: Free to visit and explore the area.
Black Ball Ferry Line, Victoria
Overview: The Black Ball Ferry Line offers ferry service between Victoria and Port Angeles, Washington, making it a convenient route for cross-border travel.
History: Operating since 1959, it connects British Columbia to the U.S., supporting tourism and local transportation.
Since When: The ferry service has been in operation since 1959.
Review: Travelers appreciate the scenic and convenient ferry ride, noting the onboard amenities and beautiful views.
When to Go: Operates year-round, with more frequent sailings during peak summer months.
How to Go: The ferry departs from the terminal near the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Enjoy the scenic voyage, dine on board, and explore Port Angeles or Victoria upon arrival.
Free or Paid: Paid service with ticket fees for passengers and vehicles.
Hatley Castle, Victoria
Overview: Hatley Castle is a historic mansion on a beautiful estate, known for its gardens and role in popular films.
History: Built in 1908 for coal baron James Dunsmuir, it later became a military college and is now part of Royal Roads University.
Since When: Hatley Castle has been an iconic part of Victoria’s heritage since 1908.
Review: Visitors are charmed by the castle’s architecture, lush gardens, and historical significance, making it a popular spot for photography.
When to Go: Open year-round, though spring and summer bring blooming gardens and ideal weather.
How to Go: Located about 20 minutes from downtown Victoria, accessible by car or bus.
What to Do: Tour the castle grounds, explore the Japanese and Italian gardens, and enjoy the scenic views.
Free or Paid: Entrance to the grounds is free, but guided tours of the castle’s interior are paid.
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Victoria
Overview: The Legislative Assembly is a grand, historic building serving as the center of British Columbia’s provincial government.
History: Built in 1898, the Parliament Buildings are a blend of neo-baroque architecture, showcasing British Columbia’s early prosperity.
Since When: The Legislative Assembly has been open since 1898 as a seat of governance and landmark.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the building’s architectural beauty and informative free tours detailing provincial history and governance.
When to Go: Open year-round, with tours available most weekdays.
How to Go: Located in downtown Victoria, it’s easily accessible by foot, bus, or car.
What to Do: Take a free guided tour, explore the architecture, and learn about British Columbia’s government.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and join the guided tours.
Miniature World, Victoria
Overview: Miniature World is an attraction showcasing detailed, scaled-down replicas of famous historical scenes, fairytale worlds, and cityscapes.
History: Opened in the 1970s, Miniature World has become a beloved destination for exploring intricate model worlds.
Since When: Miniature World has been open since 1971.
Review: Visitors love the attention to detail and creativity, making it a favorite for families and model enthusiasts alike.
When to Go: Open year-round, ideal for rainy days or winter visits as it’s an indoor attraction.
How to Go: Located in downtown Victoria, accessible by car, foot, or public transit.
What to Do: Explore numerous displays, including miniature castles, space adventures, and historic battles.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with tickets available at the door or online.
Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Victoria
Overview: Esquimalt Lagoon is a coastal sanctuary ideal for bird-watching, scenic walks, and enjoying nature.
History: Established as a bird sanctuary in the early 20th century to protect migratory species and local wildlife.
Since When: Recognized as a sanctuary since 1931.
Review: Nature lovers appreciate the peaceful environment and variety of bird species, including swans and herons.
When to Go: Open year-round, but spring and fall bring the highest diversity of migratory birds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, about 20 minutes from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Bird-watch, walk along the lagoon, or enjoy a beachside picnic.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and explore.
Cadboro-Gyro Park, Victoria
Overview: Cadboro-Gyro Park is a family-friendly beachfront park featuring a playground, picnic areas, and scenic views.
History: The park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and community events for several decades.
Since When: Established as a public park in the mid-20th century.
Review: Families love the large playground and sandy beach, making it a great spot for a day out.
When to Go: Open year-round, with summer being the most popular season for beach activities.
How to Go: Located in the Cadboro Bay neighborhood, accessible by car or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy the beach, let kids play on the playground, and take a walk along the waterfront.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and enjoy the facilities.
Clover Point Park, Victoria
Overview: Clover Point Park is a popular seaside park with beautiful views of the ocean, popular for picnicking and kite-flying.
History: Originally a popular lookout, it has been developed into a recreational area for locals and tourists.
Since When: The park has been open to the public for several decades.
Review: Visitors love the sweeping ocean views, and it’s a great spot to catch sunsets or enjoy sea breezes.
When to Go: Open year-round, though summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Located along Dallas Road, easily accessible by car, bike, or foot.
What to Do: Take a walk along the shore, fly kites, or relax and enjoy the scenery.
Free or Paid: Free to visit and enjoy.
PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park), Victoria
Overview: PKOLS, also known as Mount Douglas Park, is a forested park featuring hiking trails and a summit with panoramic views.
History: The park has a rich cultural history and has long been an important site for local Indigenous communities.
Since When: Recognized as a public park since the 1930s.
Review: Hikers and nature lovers praise the variety of trails and stunning views from the summit.
When to Go: Open year-round, with clear days offering the best views from the top.
How to Go: Located about 15 minutes from downtown Victoria, accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Hike to the summit, explore the trails, and enjoy scenic views over Victoria and nearby islands.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and hike.
Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada, Victoria
Overview: The Empress Hotel is a historic luxury hotel and iconic landmark in Victoria known for its beautiful architecture and famous afternoon tea.
History: Built in 1908 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for over a century.
Since When: Declared a National Historic Site in 1981, it has been a symbol of Victoria’s elegance and history.
Review: Guests love the old-world charm, luxurious ambiance, and traditional afternoon tea experience, often described as a “must-do” in Victoria.
When to Go: Open year-round, though summer months offer beautiful views of the nearby harbor.
How to Go: Located on Government Street, easily accessible by foot from downtown Victoria or by car.
What to Do: Enjoy afternoon tea, explore the architecture, and take in views of Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but experiences like afternoon tea or dining are paid.
Victoria Bug Zoo, Victoria
Overview: Victoria Bug Zoo offers a unique, interactive experience with live exotic insects and arachnids from around the world.
History: The zoo opened in the late 1990s, offering an educational and fun environment for people to learn about bugs.
Since When: Operating since 1997, it has been a favorite attraction for families and bug enthusiasts.
Review: Visitors enjoy the hands-on exhibits and knowledgeable guides, making it a fun, educational experience for all ages.
When to Go: Open year-round and ideal for any day, especially rainy or cooler days.
How to Go: Located in downtown Victoria, easily accessible by foot, car, or public transit.
What to Do: Explore various exhibits, handle certain bugs with assistance, and learn about insect behavior and habitats.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with tickets available at the door.
Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park, Victoria
Overview: Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park is a natural oasis popular for swimming, hiking, and boating in a serene setting.
History: Established as a regional park in the 1960s, it has long been a recreational hub for the Victoria area.
Since When: Open as a regional park since the 1960s, providing a retreat into nature for locals and visitors.
Review: Visitors appreciate the wide range of activities, from relaxing by the water to enjoying forested trails.
When to Go: Open year-round, with summer being ideal for swimming and picnicking, while fall and spring are great for hiking.
How to Go: Located about 15 minutes north of Victoria, accessible by car.
What to Do: Swim, kayak, hike, have a picnic, or watch for local wildlife in the park’s scenic surroundings.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and enjoy.
Saxe Point Park, Victoria
Overview: Saxe Point Park offers stunning ocean views, quiet walking trails, and picnic spots along Victoria’s waterfront.
History: Created in the 1930s, the park has since become a tranquil retreat for locals and tourists alike.
Since When: Open to the public since the 1930s.
Review: Visitors love the scenic views, peaceful setting, and well-maintained gardens, making it perfect for relaxation.
When to Go: Open year-round, though sunny days enhance the views and make it ideal for picnics.
How to Go: Located in Esquimalt, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Walk along the waterfront, enjoy a picnic, and take in views of the Olympic Mountains.
Free or Paid: Free to visit and explore.
Willows Beach, Victoria
Overview: Willows Beach is a family-friendly beach offering sandy shores, calm waters, and beautiful views.
History: The beach has been a popular local destination for beachgoers and families since the early 20th century.
Since When: Known as a community gathering spot for decades, especially during warmer months.
Review: Families love the gentle waters, scenic views, and play areas, making it one of Victoria’s best beaches.
When to Go: Best enjoyed in the summer, though the beach is open year-round.
How to Go: Located in the Oak Bay area, about 15 minutes by car from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, have a picnic, or explore nearby parks and cafes.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and enjoy.
Market Square, Victoria
Overview: Market Square is a historic open-air plaza with boutique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.
History: Built in the late 19th century, Market Square was initially a commercial hub for trade and industry in Victoria.
Since When: Established in the 1880s, it has evolved from a trading center to a popular shopping and dining destination.
Review: Visitors appreciate the charming architecture, unique shops, and lively vibe, making it a must-visit in Victoria.
When to Go: Open year-round, though best enjoyed on sunny days when outdoor seating is available.
How to Go: Located in downtown Victoria, it’s easily accessible on foot, by car, or by public transit.
What to Do: Explore specialty shops, dine at local restaurants, and enjoy live music or events hosted in the plaza.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with shopping and dining as paid activities.
Interactivity Board Game Cafe, Victoria
Overview: Interactivity Board Game Cafe is a cozy cafe offering a wide selection of board games and light refreshments.
History: Opened in 2013, the cafe became Victoria’s first dedicated board game venue, offering a social experience for all ages.
Since When: Operating since 2013, it has quickly become a favorite spot for game lovers.
Review: Visitors love the friendly atmosphere, extensive game library, and reasonable prices for a unique outing.
When to Go: Open year-round, and ideal on rainy days or evenings.
How to Go: Located in downtown Victoria, accessible by foot, car, or public transit.
What to Do: Choose from hundreds of board games, enjoy snacks, and challenge friends or family to a game.
Free or Paid: Paid entry fee per person, which includes access to the game library.
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, Victoria
Overview: Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is a family-friendly petting zoo located within Beacon Hill Park.
History: Established in the 1980s, the farm was created to provide a hands-on animal experience for children and families.
Since When: Open to the public since the early 1980s, it has been a favorite for young visitors.
Review: Families appreciate the interactive experience, especially the daily goat stampede, which is a highlight for kids.
When to Go: Open seasonally from spring through fall.
How to Go: Located within Beacon Hill Park, a short drive or walk from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Pet farm animals, enjoy the “goat stampede,” and learn about the animals from friendly staff.
Free or Paid: Admission is by donation.
Victoria Public Market at the Hudson, Victoria
Overview: Victoria Public Market is a vibrant indoor market featuring local food vendors, artisans, and specialty shops.
History: Housed in the historic Hudson’s Bay building, the market was revitalized to connect the community with local producers.
Since When: Open since 2013, it has quickly become a local favorite for fresh and specialty products.
Review: Visitors love the fresh, local products and diverse food options, making it a great stop for food enthusiasts.
When to Go: Open year-round, with weekends being particularly lively.
How to Go: Located on Douglas Street, accessible by car, public transit, or a short walk from downtown Victoria.
What to Do: Shop for fresh produce, enjoy local delicacies, and explore artisanal products.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; purchases are paid.
Orca Spirit Adventures, Victoria
Overview: Orca Spirit Adventures offers thrilling whale-watching tours and marine life experiences on the waters around Victoria.
History: Founded in the 1990s, the company has built a reputation as a premier whale-watching provider in Victoria.
Since When: Operating since the 1990s, known for its ethical approach and knowledgeable guides.
Review: Guests rave about the friendly guides and frequent sightings of orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life.
When to Go: Best from May to October, during peak whale-watching season.
How to Go: Tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, reachable by foot, car, or public transit.
What to Do: Set out on a guided boat tour to spot whales, sea lions, and other marine wildlife.
Free or Paid: Paid; ticket purchase required for tours.