Parliament Victorian Architecture, Victoria, British Columbia
Step out for a stroll along the boat-lined Inner Harbour, home to Victoria’s most notable landmarks. Check out First Nations tribal artifacts at the Royal British Museum. Admire the neo-baroque stylings of Parliament Buildings where the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia gathers. Then marvel at Thunderbird Park’s ornate totem poles.
Garden City Flowers Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia
Enter the colorful and aromatic world of Butchart Gardens to wander its 55 acres of flower-lined paths. This National Historic Site bursts with bright blooming tulips, daffodils, roses and hyacinths. Explore its manicured themed gardens— and don’t miss a ride on the hand-carved Rose Carousel.
Indulge in the city’s time-honored British heritage with classic Victorian afternoon tea at the world-renowned Empress hotel. A beloved tradition for over a century, this quintessential Victoria experience includes a fabulous menu of fine loose-leaf teas served with house-made finger sandwiches, scones and clotted Empress cream.
Victoria’s West Coast cuisine showcases local ingredients from the Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley. Savor shellfish fresh from Pacific waters and shepherd’s pie in an English-style pub. Eat Asian noodles in Chinatown and hit Victoria Public Market for handmade cheese and smoked salmon. With over a dozen craft breweries, cider houses, artisanal distilleries and wineries, you certainly won’t go thirsty.
Waterfront Wharf Street satisfies all your souvenir needs, while Government Street is known for funky boutiques, First Nations art galleries and famous hand-knit Cowichan sweaters. Lower Johnson Street, nicknamed “Lo-Jo”, houses local designer boutiques and indie stores galore. Check out Victoria Public Market for epicurean goods.