Victoria, British Columbia

Top 10 things to do in Victoria

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  1. Royal British Columbia Museum

  Bring your magnifying glass for a titillating day exploring natural history at the Royal British Columbia Museum, which houses over 750,000 specimens and artifacts.

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  2. Craigdarroch Castle

  Built in the Scottish baronial style with turrets, pitched roofs, and stained glass, this spectacle of a castle was commissioned by a wealthy Canadian coal tycoon in the late 1800s.

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  3. Butchart Gardens

  Surround yourself with local flora and fauna at the Butchart Gardens. A perfect daytime or evening activity, the gardens are open from 9:00AM to 10:00PM.

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  4. Beacon Hill Park

  The Beacon Hill Park is fantastic for families. You'll find a waterpark, playgrounds, and even a petting zoo inside. Nothing like mini-ponies and goats to distract the little ones!

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  5. Victoria Bug Zoo

  Home to the largest tropical bug collection in all of North America, the Victoria Bug Zoo is a wonderful (and reassuring) place to interact with all kinds of insects.

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  6. British Columbia Parliament Buildings

  The British Columbia Parliament buildings, massive confections of stone built in the Neo-baroque style, feature beautiful works of art depicting the history of Victoria.

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  7. Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site

  This 19th century lighthouse is a beguiling addition to the coastline. Be sure to visit lighthouse keeper's quarters, which were converted into a quaint little museum.

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  8. Emily Carr House

  Find unique beauty at the childhood home of esteemed artist Emily Carr, whose Modernist paintings are beloved across Canada.

• 9. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

  A must on any art lover's list, this gallery houses one of the most significant Asian art collections in Canada, in addition to some of Emily Carr's greatest pieces.

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  10. Fort Rodd National

  An artillery fort built in the 1870s, this monument offers both fascinating regional history and a great ocean view. Kids will delight in scampering across the ramparts.

Frequently asked questions about Victoria, British Columbia

Planning Your Visit

• Getting Around Victoria

  The best way to traverse Victoria is by taking one of 80 bus lines to your destination. You can also take one of several ferries to cross the waterways within the city.

• What to eat in Victoria?

  Go for a farm-to-table brewpub, where you can sample truly local cuisine. Pair the gastropub fare with a Canadian Indian Pale Ale for the ultimate sensory experience.