Nestled in Victoria Harbor, the royal city of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada is a natural beauty. No matter the season, Victoria’s visitors can experience seaside dining, scenic walks, and harbor tours. The perfect blend of historic architecture and strong British heritage creates an enchanting atmosphere throughout the province’s capital.
Things To Do:
Experience Traditional Afternoon Tea
Known as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast,” the luxurious Fairmont Empress overlooks the shimmering inner harbor. Book a suite or simply stop in for a visit, but don’t miss the view of this building’s exquisite interior. Guests can relax at the award winning spa, enjoy fine dining and shop a variety of luxury boutiques. Serving traditional afternoon tea since 1908, the cherished tradition is hosted daily in the hotel’s sophisticated Lobby Lounge. This special experience fills fast, so be sure to book your reservation in advance.
Take a Ride on a Water Taxi
The Harbour Ferry is an affordable, convenient and fun way to explore. With 14 ferry stops, the water taxi connects guests to the city’s must-visit destinations including Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Fairmont Empress. One way tickets are approximately $11 (15 CAD) regardless of ride distance. I recommend taking the longest ride possible across the harbor to enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you’re lucky, you might get a front row seat to watch the seaplanes landing!
Walk the Streets of the Oldest Chinatown in Canada
Named after the Chinese gambling game, Fan Tan Alley is Canada’s oldest Chinatown. This vibrant passageway is the narrowest commercial street in North America. Colorful string lights and lanterns elevate the dreamy atmosphere surrounding the red brick buildings. A variety of unique shops and restaurants bring rich culture to this popular tourist attraction.
Stroll Through Scenic Parks
The beautiful, 182-acre Beacon Hill Park is the perfect space for popular outdoor activities. Located inside the park is the starting point of the Trans Canada Highway, the “Mile 0” landmark. With footpaths for scenic walks, a variety of courts for playing sports and shimmering ponds to watch wildlife, this natural public space offers fun for the entire family.
A short walk from Beacon Hill is Spiral Beach. Towering over the beach’s entrance at 173 ft. is the world’s largest totem pole. Follow the whimsical “staircase to nowhere” that leads to the rocky, black sand beach where you’ll wander along the shoreline, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean and find a cozy spot to watch the sunset.
Visit the Legislature
The Parliament Buildings are home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Located on the waterfront in downtown Victoria, the renaissance-style structure is a captivating sight. The buildings are open for free guided and self-guided tours year round. Tour times may vary based on Legislative events. There is a gift shop located on the first floor and the dining room is open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday.
Shop ‘Til You Drop on Government Street
The iconic Government Street runs through the heart of downtown Victoria. Lined with a variety of niche shops, the bustling shopping district is the ideal location for personal souvenirs and gifts for loved ones. From specialty tea vendors to chocolatiers, extravagant boutiques to handcrafted jewelers, and collectible toy emporiums to vintage book stores, you’re guaranteed to find something you can’t leave without.
I have visited many of the shops on Government Street. Mentioned below are the companies I have personally done business with, which is why I felt they deserved to be mentioned specifically.
Cool As A Moose is a one-stop-shop for the cutest Victoria apparel. Specializing in simple design T-shirts and sweatshirts, they offer a variety of colors that can be easily integrated into any wardrobe. The store’s upbeat atmosphere makes souvenir shopping an enjoyable experience for its guests.
On a mission to provide memorable puzzling experiences, Puzzle Lab encourages people to trade screen time for tactical, social bonding. The company combines the work of talented Canadian artists with high-quality products that provide entertainment with a side of challenge. Each wood puzzle incorporates signature wiggly piece shapes that are laser cut with precision. These unique creations are the ultimate hands-on activity and make great gifts for puzzle lovers.
To satisfy those sweet cravings, be sure to visit Rogers’ Chocolates Heritage Store. Dating back to 1903, Charles “Candy” Rogers established the storefront that was designated a historical building in 1991. Charles’ first and original creation, the Victoria Cream, quickly became a local favorite and skyrocketed the success of the retail store. Rogers’ Chocolates still remains privately owned by those who take great pride in continuing the chocolatier’s legacy.
Dining:
Union Pacific Coffee Co is the perfect blend of Pacific Northwest and rich heritage. The bistro’s extensive beverage menu ranges from drip coffee to specialty brews and teas. For the perfect pair, choose from a variety of freshly made scones, stuffed croissants or pastries. The building’s architectural elements amplify the atmosphere, making it a great spot for social gatherings.
Nautical Nellie’s Steak and Seafood House is a place where guests feel part of the family. With creativity at the forefront, their premium dining experience is considered a “foodie’s paradise.” The award-winning wine list has been carefully curated to match each and every dish perfectly. I opted for a bowl of fresh clam chowder paired with the lobster mac n’ cheese.
Fisherman’s Wharf offers a colorful waterfront experience for all. From seafood favorites to popular comfort foods, the seaside wharf is a trendy summer site. In addition to meal options, the wharf is a hot spot for many tours including whale watching, kayaking and the Victoria Harbour Ferry.
Bard & Banker has claimed the best happy hour in Victoria. In addition, the pub offers live entertainment, an award winning wine list and spectacular weekly food and drink specials. The historic building opened in 1885 as the Bank of British Columbia. Many of the building’s original architectural features have been preserved over the years, which brings an old-fashioned vibe to the modern establishment.
Craft Beer Market is a beer lover’s paradise providing 110 taps of draft beer from locally crafted brews to popular world-wide brands. Their extensive food menu compliments the beverage options, making it easy to find the combination your taste buds are craving. Happy hour specials run daily from 2-5 pm and 9 pm to close. Ask your server about the “OG Shaft,” a Victoria original.
Bartholomew’s English Style Pub strives to provide premium drinks and service in a comfortable pub atmosphere. Offering a range of British and Irish imports and local craft beers, Bartholomew’s puts a modern, west coast twist on the gastro English pub. Happy hour snacks and drinks run 3-6 pm daily.
I could visit Victoria over and over and uncover a new experience each time. And what a great name for a city, right? Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, a shopaholic or an ocean-lover, the opportunities in British Columbia’s capital are endless. A melting pot of history and culture, you’ll be sure to bring home more than just souvenirs.
Love Always.
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