The best things to do in Victoria
Victoria is a beautiful city located in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. Known for its picturesque gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Victoria.
Explore the Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens is a must-see attraction in Victoria. This 55-acre garden is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, including roses, rhododendrons, and cherry blossoms. The gardens are open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom. Visitors can take a tour of the gardens, or simply explore on their own.
Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum
The Royal British Columbia Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Victoria and British Columbia. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including natural history, First Nations culture, and the history of the region. Visitors can also see a replica of a coastal village and learn about the history of the fur trade. The museum is open every day, and admission is free on Sundays.
Take a Walk Through the Inner Harbour
The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and a great place to take a stroll. Visitors can see the historic legislative buildings, the Empress Hotel, and the boats in the harbour. The Inner Harbour also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
Visit the Craigdarroch Castle
The Craigdarroch Castle is a historic mansion located in Victoria. The castle was built in the 1890s and is a great example of Victorian architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about the history of the family who lived there. The castle is open every day and the tour takes about 45 minutes.
Relax at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Oak Bay Beach Hotel is located on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a swim in the ocean, or simply enjoy the view. The hotel also has a spa, a restaurant, and a bar, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Victoria.
Go Whale Watching
Victoria is a great place to go whale watching. Visitors can take a boat tour to see killer whales, humpback whales, and other marine life. These tours usually last about 3-4 hours and depart from the Inner Harbour. Visitors can also see whales from land at the Victoria Whale Watching Centre.
Take a Day Trip to the Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens is a great place to take a day trip from Victoria. Visitors can take a bus or a bike to the gardens, which is located about 30 minutes from Victoria. The gardens are open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
Visit theArt Gallery of Greater Victoria
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a great place to see art from local and international artists. The gallery features a wide variety of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The gallery is open every day and admission is free on Tuesdays. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the gallery to learn more about the art and the artists.
Take a Tour of the Craigdarroch Castle
The Craigdarroch Castle is a historic mansion located in Victoria. The castle was built in the 1890s and is a great example of Victorian architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about the history of the family who lived there. The castle is open every day and the tour takes about 45 minutes.
Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo
Victoria Bug Zoo is a unique attraction in Victoria. Visitors can see a wide variety of insects, spiders, and other arthropods from around the world. The zoo is open every day and admission is free for children under 5.
Take a Bike Ride Through the City
Victoria is a great place to explore by bike. Visitors can rent a bike and take a tour of the city, or simply explore on their own. There are many bike trails and bike lanes in Victoria, making it easy and safe to bike around the city.
Visit the Victoria Butterfly Gardens
The Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a great place to see butterflies from around the world. Visitors can see a wide variety of butterflies, including some that are rare and endangered. The gardens are open every day, and admission is free for children under 5.
Go Kayaking in the Ocean
Victoria is a great place to go kayaking. Visitors can take a kayak tour of the ocean and see marine life, such as seals, sea lions, and whales. Kayak tours usually last about 2-3 hours and depart from the Inner Harbour. Visitors can also rent a kayak and explore on their own.
Take a Boat Tour of the Inner Harbour
The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and a great place to take a boat tour. Visitors can take a tour of the harbour and see the historic legislative buildings, the Empress Hotel, and the boats in the harbour. Boat tours usually last about 1-2 hours and depart from the Inner Harbour.
In conclusion, Victoria is a beautiful and charming city with plenty of things to see and do. From visiting historic sites and museums, to exploring gardens and parks, to relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone in Victoria. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’re sure to have a great time exploring this amazing city.
