Located in British Columbia, on the southernmost point of Vancouver Island, Victoria offers an incredible blend of a rich past, breathtaking scenery, and a thriving metropolitan culture. It is well known for its lovely waterfront, Victorian architecture, and a wide range of fun activities that tourists can enjoy year-round.
Victoria provides a variety of experiences that will attract visitors, whether they are nature enthusiasts, history lovers, or art and culture enthusiasts. Here are the awesome things to do in Victoria, British Columbia.
10 Explore The Royal BC Museum
A distant view of Victoria, BC from the water
The Royal BC Museum is one of Canada’s best museums and top tourist destinations. Dating back to 1886, this museum collects artifacts, specimens, and documents of the human and natural history of Canada’s British Columbia for the purpose of preserving them for future reference and sharing them with the public.
The museum’s exhibits allow tourists to see the authentic, original records of BC’s rich history and culture. Some of the exhibitions to catch include BC Archives on Display, Natural History Gallery, Dinosaurs of BC, and Scared Journey: Traveling Exhibit. This is a must-visit attraction for history lovers.
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Cost of entrance
: $18 for adults, $11 for seniors, students (19+), and youth (6-18). It is free for kids (3-5).
9 Visit Mystic Beach
An aerial view of Victoria, BC, Canada
Nestled along the spectacular shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Mystic Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia to visit in the summer. The beach is about a 30-minute walk from the parking lot along a trail through the trees.
One of the most beautiful features of this beach is a small stunning waterfall cascading from the rocky cliff. Vacationers will also enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Northwest coastline. Mystic Beach is one of the best places for visitors looking for relaxation in a secluded spot.
8 Go Whale Watching
A whale swimming in the water in Victoria, BC, Canada
Victoria is one of the best places in Canada to go whale watching. Taking whale-watching tours in this city guarantees an experience that travelers are going to cherish forever.
Humpback whales and the orca are two of the most common whales that vacationers will find in Victoria. One can enjoy whale watching at any time of the year, but May through November is the best time for a perfect experience.
7 Visit Rodd Hill National Historic Site
Buildings in Victoria, BC, Canada
Dating back to the 19th century, Fort Rodd National Historic Site is an awesome hidden vacation spot for families. It is on the Esquimalt Habour, near the bustling city of Victoria. Exploring the gun batteries and artillery emplacements is a lot of fun for both kids and adults.
History buffs will definitely enjoy taking audio tours that give an insight into the major historical events from the 1800s. Enjoy listening to the interesting tales of spies and soldiers who fought major wars in Canada.
6 Swim At Willows Beach
Willows Beach at sunset
Willows Beach is one of the most impressive beaches for swimming in Victoria, and the fact that it features shallow and protected spots makes it a perfect option for families with children. Families looking to hold gatherings and some barbecues.
Even at the height of summer, the water temperatures remain cool. Wondering why summer is the best time to visit British Columbia? Willows Beach is one of the top reasons, as it’s brimming with fun activities, such as skimboarding and beach volleyball.
Being a favorite among locals and travelers alike, one can expect crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
5 Spend Some Time At Chinatown, The Oldest In Canada
Looking for awesome things to do in Victoria, British Columbia? Its Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and North America’s second oldest, is definitely a must-visit. The area is incredibly popular with tourists, who explore Fisgard Street, Fan Tan Alley, and the beautiful historic buildings.
Travelers can also see the Old Chinese School, theaters, delicious restaurants, and multiple shopping areas. Chinatown is one of the most striking features of downtown Victoria and is well worth visiting.
4 Eat And Watch Sea Life At Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf in Victoria, BC, Canada
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the most striking tourist attractions in Victoria that boasts numerous beautiful colors on display. Vacationers will find multiple uniquely adorned floating homes and eateries. This facility is extremely awesome, and there are so many different colors on show.
Another attractive thing to catch at Fisherman’s Wharf is the local seals that sometimes swim to the pier to watch as travelers stroll through the place.
Don’t leave without trying some of the most delicious foods sold at the food kiosks that were once the floating homes at the Wharf.
3 Stroll Along Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Loop in Victoria, BC
Beacon Hill Park is one of the loveliest parks to explore in Victoria, BC. It is home to incredible trails that winds through some of the most magnificent gardens, lush forests, ponds, and farms.
The park has everything families need for a memorable family adventure, including sports fields and a kids’ park, where children can spend happy and fun moments with other young ones.
- Some of the must-stops in Beacon Hill Park are Moss Lady, the Stone Bridge, and the Petting Zoo.
2 Take A Walking Food Tour
A street in downtown Victoria at night
Taking walking food tours is one of the best things visitors can do, as it allows them to enjoy some of the best Canadian foods, including chocolate, meatballs, and pierogies. The tours also allow vacationers to have a taste of some of the best wines in Canada in Victoria’s wineries and breweries.
By going on these tours, vacationers experience some of the city’s award-winning restaurants, bakeries, and specialty gourmet shops, while passing by some of the most iconic landmarks. Many food-tasting tours pass through the Old Town, historic buildings in Chinatown, and the Inner Harbor.
1 Take A Day Trip To Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens near Victoria
Located only a short drive from Victoria, Butchart Gardens is one of the busiest tourist destinations on Vancouver Island. The gardens stretch over 55 acres of space and are divided into five distinct kinds.
It is also home to millions of bedding plants, available in more than 900 species. Without a doubt, visiting Victoria’s Butchart Gardens should be on the tourist’s bucket list of things to do.
It’s easy to spend hours wandering through all the various gardens, thanks to the beautiful colors and various scents of the plants.
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Summer event to catch
: Saturday night fireworks show, running from June 30 through September 1
Though Butchart Gardens isn’t exactly in Victoria, it’s one of the best things to do in the greater Victoria area.
