You will find plenty of things to do in Victoria, Canada. From cliff-hanging views to world-class sailing, the city has it all. If you are traveling to Victoria as a foodie, check out some of Victoria’s top dining spots. From Fishhook for fresh seafood, to Tacofino for innovative Mexican food, to the incredible tapas and pastries at Crust Bakery, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Craigdarroch Castle
If you’re visiting Victoria, be sure to visit the historic Craigdarroch Castle. It is a Victorian-era Scottish Baronial mansion and a National Historic Site of Canada. The castle is located in the downtown core and is one of the most visited landmarks in the city.
The castle is open daily, mid-September to mid-June. It is closed on Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. However, if you’re visiting Victoria during these holidays, don’t miss out on the castle’s enchanting interiors and gorgeous views of downtown Victoria.
The historic castle was originally a Victorian home, so the decor isn’t quite medieval in style. The interior has a mixture of modern and renovated architecture, including a climate-controlled basement room. The museum is accessible by wheelchair, and is close to several downtown Victoria shopping areas.
If you’re looking for a historic building to see, you can also visit the Royal British Columbia Museum. This historic building, built in the 19th century, is home to the British government’s Lieutenant Governor, Queen Elizabeth’s representative to the province. The museum also has a stunning collection of totem poles.
Butchart Gardens
Located in Brentwood Bay on Vancouver Island near Victoria, the Butchart Gardens are a group of floral display gardens. They receive more than a million visitors each year and are listed as a National Historic Site of Canada. The gardens have been a popular tourist destination since the early twentieth century, and are a must-see attraction for garden lovers.
Visitors can take a boat tour of the gardens from the harbor. This tour will provide an overview of the gardens as well as some history. You’ll also have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife that frequents the area. Various types of boats are available to take you to different parts of the gardens.
When planning your trip to the Butchart Gardens, keep in mind that the area can be quite crowded. If you’re planning a family outing to the gardens, consider visiting at least one day before the peak summer season. You’ll also want to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
While the Butchart Gardens are beautiful all year round, they’re particularly lovely during the winter. The gardens are beautifully decorated for Christmas, and there are seasonal events that take place here. There’s even a special Santa’s Breakfast, held on select weekends in December.
Sailing
Sailing in Victoria is a great way to enjoy the water and the beautiful scenery while having a relaxing holiday. There are plenty of options for sailing, whether you’re an experienced boater or a first-timer. Gippsland is a popular destination for sailing, and offers secluded bays and rivers. This area also features coastal parks and beautiful views. Several towns along the way offer ample opportunities for dining and picnicking.
The Victoria 30 is a fun little sailboat. It has a dedicated following across the Atlantic. There’s an active Facebook page for the Victoria yachts company, and designer Chuck Paine frequently updates it. There’s a Victoria 34 that’s popular in the UK; the Royal Navy has 15 of these.
For adults with physical disabilities, the Disabled Sailing Association of BC (DSABC) offers sailing opportunities. The registration process for the 2022 season is open. Participants need to sign waivers, which will be available onsite. For sailors with hydraulic lifts, there’s a limited capacity at DSABC.
While sailing in Victoria, you may be tempted to catch a glimpse of whales and other marine life. A whale-watching tour departs from Victoria Harbour and takes you on a three-hour adventure through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The tour includes stops at various points along the way and is a great way to see marine life up close.
Sightseeing
There are many activities that can be done in Victoria, British Columbia. A few of these include visiting Chinatown and the Inner Harbour. If you enjoy nature, you may also like a trip to the Bug Zoo, where you can see reptiles, birds and butterflies. This attraction is located downtown near the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Located 45 minutes outside of Victoria, Sooke is a popular spot to visit for its waterfalls and eroded rocky pools.
The Government Buildings are another place that you can visit when visiting Victoria. The architecture of these buildings is a mix of gothic and colonial styles, and you can see many statues of famous people. The Government Buildings are also home to a statue of Queen Victoria. Visiting the Government Buildings will take you about an hour and a half, so make sure to schedule some time for it.
You can also check out the city’s famous harbors and parks. The Inner Harbour features many boat tours and horse-drawn carriages. It is also a great place to walk during sunset.
Water ballets
Water ballets have been an iconic part of Victoria’s waterfront since the early 1990s. Initially, they were a fun way to get people to explore the harbour. However, they soon became popular and people started requesting them. Today, these free performances are an important part of the Victoria Harbour Festival.
Water ballets in Victoria take place in the Inner Harbour, one of the most beautiful areas in the world. It is surrounded by historical buildings and picturesque landmarks and features a gorgeous walkway along the harbor. This picturesque spot is also home to some of Canada’s mildest weather. As a result, many visitors choose Victoria as their vacation spot.
Sightseeing in Cowichan Bay
If you’re looking for a little seaside getaway in British Columbia, Cowichan Bay is the place to go. Located about an hour’s drive north of Victoria, this small seaside community has a laid-back fishing-village feel and a bounty of fresh seafood. There are also plenty of wildlife and kayak tours to enjoy.
Whether you’re visiting Cowichan Bay for a day of whale watching, a locally-owned storefront, or a unique art gallery, this small town is a great place to spend your vacation. The quaint town is full of interesting shops and historic buildings. It’s also home to local wineries and organic farms that embrace sustainable practices. And when you’re tired of sightseeing, why not take a break and relax?
In addition to its scenic vistas, Cowichan Bay is home to the Cowichan Wooden Boat Society, a community-based maritime museum. This museum offers information about the local native culture, wooden boat culture, and maritime history. It’s well worth the trip! There are several buildings with displays to explore and many hands-on activities for children.
