Whether you’re coming to Victoria for a visit, entertaining out of town guests, or simply looking to play tourist in your own town, it is vital to have a list of must-see’s in your travel arsenal. We at Victoria Hype get that, and we’ve got you covered!
Tours:
photo: travel.nationalgeographic.com
– Parliament Buildings: one of the most expansive and historic buildings in Victoria, the Parliament Buildings are a must-see while in town. They even offer free tours at regular intervals every day!
– Ghost Walks: A popular choice among locals and return guests, the ghost walks offer a different narrative than other historic tours. Learn about all of the spookiest spots in town!
– Royal BC Museum: It’s a classic. Explore the exhibits and enjoy an IMAX.
– Butchart Gardens: Ok, so you’ll have to drive out of the downtown core for this one, but we promise you it is entirely worth it. Especially if you go during the 12 Days of Christmas light up, or Saturday night fire works!
– Hatley Castle: You’ve seen this architectural marvel on the big screen – featured in X-Men, Deadpool, Witches of East End and even more! We highly recommend taking a tour of this vast jaw-dropping residence.
– The Bug Zoo: Ever wanted a centipede on your face? Yeah, me neither. But looking at the collection of cool bugs at the zoo is a nice divergence from the historic tours and also pretty neato!
On the Town:
photo: tripadvisor.ca
– Government Street: Ah government street; the ultimate downtown tourist experience. Small side streets brimmed with taverns and boutiques are a plenty in this area of town. Spend the afternoon doing some serious shopping (AKA beer tasting).
– Fisherman’s Wharf: On a sunny day you will be amongst so many friends down at the wharf. During the summer time this spot is always abuzz with tourists and locals alike. Get some tasty grub, feed the seals and check out the funky floating houses.
– Bay Centre: For serious shoppers. This is our largest mall!
– Fisgard Lighthouse: A great historic site with an incredible view, head down to Fisgard Lighthouse for a little escape from the city.
– Mile Zero: This area marks the beginning of the 8,000 km Trans-Canada Highway. It is also the location of the Terry Fox memorial. Take in some history and learn a little bit about Terry Fox’s mission to cure cancer.
–Beacon Hill Park: Visit the petting zoo or check out the peacocks! Beacon hill park is home to a ton of fun creatures, as well as the tallest freestanding totem pole in the world!
Neature:
photo: victoria-bc-vacation-paradise.com
– Goldstream Trestles: Ah, now I’m sure you’re familiar with the photos. This has to be hands down the most instagrammed outdoor pic of Victoria – and for good reason! After a short hike you will arrive at a breathtakingly high trestle that you can walk across freely. Scared of heights? Make sure to bring a friend to cling to.
– Dallas Road: Victoria’s sunset hotspot. Dallas road is the perfect spot to catch the last dregs of sunshine over the Olympic mountains. It is also a fantastic spot to come down and walk your dog. You are guaranteed to meet many people and their furry friends along this path.
– Mount Tolmie: If you find yourself in the Oak Bay/Gordon Head area, wander down to Mount Tolmie. I would categorize this one as one of the more understated locations for a nice walk/easy hike that is close to town.
– Moss Rocks: Located right off of Dallas Road, Moss Rocks is a small park that has some light rock climbing and steep trails that will give you a 360 view of the city.
– Cadboro Bay Beach: Highly recommend this beach if you are into skim boarding. Some have dubbed this the best skim south of Rathtrevor, and we would agree. Grab your board and your bathing suit and soak up some sun in this beautiful bay.
– Willows Beach: Not into skim? Try Willows Beach. With a large grassy area, this park is great for botche, volleyball, badminton, soccer and any number of other outdoor activities. The beach stretches on for quite a ways, so you never have to worry about finding some decent sand to set up camp in. They also have a canteen for when the afternoon hangrys hit.
Eats:
photo: hellobc.com
– Brunch *everywhere* : Okay, so I admit it. It is physically impossible for me to only suggest one brunch spot. I’m obsessed with Victoria brunches, and I think anyone you talk to from here will agree… Whether you’re looking to fill your boots at Floyd’s, John’s Place, or Spoons, or you want to start off with something health conscious like Nourish, Be Love, or Picnic, you are bound to leave with a smile on your face. Brunch is what we do – and we do it good!
– Ferris’ Oyster Bar: Seafood-centric, Ferris’ Oyster Bar is a great place to visit to try out lots of local and fresh goodies.
– Red Fish, Blue Fish: Located in the inner harbour, this place’s line up speaks for itself. The fresh fish at RFBF is so incredible that you’ll be lining up at any and every occasion for more.
– The Empress: It’s gotta happen. High tea at the Empress. That’s all I need to say.
– Il Terrazzo: Yuum! My mouth is watering just writing about this place! Il Terrazzo has delicious Italian dishes and an extensive wine list – no – wine BOOK. Enjoy not only the food but the experience of dinner by a personal fireplace at this swanky establishment.
Nightlife:
photo: tripadvisor.com
– Distrikt: One of Victoria’s hottest clubs located in the popular Strathcona complex downtown. Wander through the Sticky Wicket, Rooftop, or Big Bad John’s to start off your night, and then bust out your best dance moves at this rowdy party.
–Darcy’s/Upstairs: Ah, the Darcy’s/Upstairs combo. It’s a classic. Spend your early evening at the bar, mingling and listening to live music and then head upstairs to Upstairs (that’s correct, it is literally up the stairs) to dance the night away.
– Bard and Banker: One of the many fantastic bars on historic Government Street, the Bard offers delicious drinks with live music and a laid back atmosphere.
– Canoe Club: Thursday nights there is no better place to be than Canoe Brewpub. With live music from our favourite, Electric Sex Panthers, and their Canoe brand beer flights, you are bound to have an awesome time.
– Hecklers: Looking for a laugh? Head on down to Hecklers for some serious comedy. Monday night is grilled cheese night and it is even more delicious than it sounds.
– Peacocks: If you’re not into dancing, try Peacocks. A licensed billiard house with a great bar and kitchen, you can easily spend the evening showing off your pool shark moves, or trying your hand at ping pong.
With such a comprehensive list of all possibilities, planning visits has never been easier!
Do you have a favourite tourist attraction in Victoria? Let us know @VictoriaHype on Facebook
feature image: tourismvictoria.com