In contrast to the newness of Vancouver,
a stunning ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia, Victoria,
British Columbia is a city that has preserved its heritage.
Victoria BC Canada has long presented itself as a quaint,
English-influenced town extremely different from other
Canadian cities such as Toronto
or Ottawa. Residents of the capital
city of Victoria have incorporated this ‘Englishness’
into their lifestyle and identity.
Inner Harbor Area
The many things to do in Victoria will leave you breathless! Located on the southern most tip of Vancouver Island, the city’s gorgeous inner harbor to its well restored downtown area and original facades offers lots of things to do in Victoria. The focal point of the inner harbor is the Fairmont Empress Hotel and is one of the most esteemed hotels in Victoria. The Parliament Buildings which were built in the Victorian era overlook the breathtaking harbor and combine a vibrant past and present. There are many things to do in Victoria around the harbor. Close by is the Royal British Columbia Museum which features a 6 story tall screen at the IMAX National Geographic Center.
Castle Craigdarroch
Castle Craigdarroch , Victoria's legendary landmark,
is only a 20-30 minute walk from Victoria's Inner Harbor
with interesting antique shops and services along the
way. Bus service to Joan Crescent, a two minute walk from
the Castle is available from downtown. Round off your
day downtown with a magical tour of James Bay, downtown
Victoria, or Beacon Hill Park in a horse drawn carriage
from Victoria Carriage Tours. Head back to your Victoria
hotel and freshen up for a delicious dinner at one of
the areas unique restaurants.
Old Town
Take a walking tour alongside Wharf Street in the center of Old Town where architecture is exemplified and take in another of the Victoria BC things to do. Visit The Maritime Museum of British Columbia which is situated in Bastion Square and housed in an 1889 Provincial Law Courts building full of history. The Royal BC Museum is a Victoria attraction that will best explain the history and people of BC.
Victoria Ferry Rides
With The 90-minute ferry ride from the mainland to Victoria
BC things to do on this journey include taking photos
of the scenic backdrop and watching out for orcas, porpoises,
seals and bald eagles along the way. Whale watching is
another of the Victoria BC things to do and can be enjoyed
on a tour in and around the harbor as well. When in the
city take advantage of the exciting calendar of events
and holidays that are celebrated including the Government
Street markets from April to September or the Jazzfest
in June when the weather is optimal.
English Village
Things to do in Victoria BC also include the authentic
English village, 10 minutes from downtown, which holds
some re-created English Tudor-style buildings and is decorated
with authentic 16th century antiques. A highlight: the
replica of Shakespeare’s birthplace and cottage
of his wife, Anne Hathaway’s Thatched Cottage. For
a bit of exercise and to see the true beauty of Victoria,
climb up Mount Douglas to see the panoramic view of the
Saanich Peninsula. If you aren’t ambitious enough
to climb, go ahead and drive. Pair the English Village
with a trip to Butchart
Gardens for an impressive display of meticulous and
diverse flora.
Downtown
With many attractions nearby the downtown area, things
to do in Victoria BC become easy and convenient minimizing
travel time in between thus making day trips and outings
more enjoyable. Finish off your day downtown with a superb
tour of James Bay or visit Beacon Hill, the crowning jewel
of the park system in Victoria and an oasis of landscaped
and natural beauty. Make sure to pay a visit to one of
Victoria’s Tourist Centers and snatch up brochures
and pamphlets from hotels to get the most out of this
beautiful Canadian city.
