10 things to do in Victoria, BC
On my Journey with G Adventures one of my favorite stops is Victoria, capital of British Columbia. I’ve already told you about Whistler and the Athabasca glacier, as well as Lake Louise. Victoria is different than all of those. Colorful and vibrant, yet a place for nature lovers. Here is my top 10 list of things to do in Victoria:
Whale watching
There are several companies offering whale watching in Victoria. I went with Orca spirirt – they have zodiac boats and covered vessels to choose from. I saw Orcas, seals and a coastal wolf on my trip. Sometimes you’ll see Humpback whales, too. It’s a 3h activity and in the summer I recommend to book ahead!
Fisherman’s Wharf
This is the most colorful part of town, with floating homes in every color of the rainbow. Some houses are still residential, others have been turned into shops, activity centers and eateries. Some of the best seafood along the coast is served here, fresh as can be. You’re basically still on the ocean when you eat it.
Butchart Gardens
The gardens are about 30min drive from Victoria but worth it if the weather is right. I will let the pictures speak for themselves here. On their concert lawn they host a range of activities. There are restaurants on site as well.
BC parliament building
At night it’s lit like a palace at Christmas, during the day there are several free guided tours all day in summer. Actors in period costumes bring history to life on the steps outside in free, 10min plays introducing historical characters from BC. Located right on the waterfront, the parliament building is hard to miss.
Beacon Hill Park
A large park with sports facilities and a petting zoo called the children’s farm. I’ll let you be the judge of nomenclature. But it’s a great thing to do with kids in Victoria.
Royal BC Museum
The museum is located just next to the parliament building and houses a sizable collection of First Nation totem poles. A must-see for anybody interested in indigenous culture.
Dinner in Bastion Square
BC is famous for it’s fish and seafood. In Bastion Square you’ll find a lot of pubs and restaurants. Victoria has been called more British than Britain. Here it shows! Wether you opt for fish & chips in a pub or some infamous BC salmon, it’ll be fresh! Many pubs here have live music at night.
Shopping on Government Street
Centrally located Government Street is full of restaurants and cute little shops. This is also where you’ll find a Canadian staple desert – Beavertails! A deep fried pastry with tasty toppings, it’s sure to brighten up even a rainy day.
Bug Zoo
This is another unique thing to do with kids. They have a bug zoo filled with insects! Not only the ones you’d run away from but also beautiful butterflies and other little creatures.
Sea plane tours
Victoria is home to the only official sea airport in the world. In the harbor you’ll find the airport terminal. From here they offer sea planes tours for a view from the top starting at $125 Canadian.
Obviously there is even more to discover and explore, but I hope to give you an idea. As always, let me know if you have any questions in the comments below!
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