The Magic of Christmas Lights Display. Photo Provided by The Butchart Gardens
The Magic of Christmas. Photo Provided by The Butchart Gardens
The Magic of Christmas. Photo Provided by The Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens didn’t earn its rank among the top display gardens in the world during the cool months of winter. But should you happen to be in Victoria, the quaint British Columbia capital at the southern tip of Vancouver Island during the dormant ‘off-season,’ The Gardens are well worth a visit.

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There’s no better way to start the holiday season than with a quick winter getaway to Victoria, British Columbia, a city that shines brightest when decorated with festive lights, cozy charm and holiday spirit. With Kenmore Air’s 45-minute trip from Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, you’ll save the time-consuming drive or ferry ride and arrive right in the center of the city. No cars, no stress, just stunning views and instant holiday magic from the moment your seaplane lands.

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Tea at the Fairmont Empress
Fairmont Empress High Tea

Nestled at the edge of the Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress stands as a majestic icon of luxury and history. This grand hotel has been a cornerstone of Victoria’s charm for over a century. No experience is more iconic here than indulging in the renowned Afternoon Tea at the Empress.

Whether visiting the BC capital for the day or enjoying an extended getaway, this is an unforgettable afternoon delight. Wrapped in elegance and sophistication, it gives you a glimpse into a royal tradition. 

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Couple outside the fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck
Couple near Fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck

Some might ask, “Why visit Victoria this winter?” But don’t let this northern gem fool you into thinking it has closed up shop. While the hanging baskets are stored for the season, there are still a plethora of fun things to do in Victoria this winter.

Sure, you’ll want to pack a good jacket. But don’t worry that exploring will put you at risk of frostbite, as it will throughout much of North America. The BC Capital is tucked at the edge of the Olympic Rain Shadow, making winters relatively mild and an early spring a common occurrence.

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Victoria BC in the Fall 70 things to do
Victoria BC in the Fall

While the days grow shorter and the mornings crisp, fall may very well be the best time of year to visit Victoria, BC. Colorful leaves, mild weather, and stunning autumn blooms minus the summer crowds make this stunning seaside city an excellent choice for a quick and relaxing getaway.

Hopping a flight direct from downtown Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour is a quick 45-min zip for an easy international escape.

Ready to get planning? Discover 70 unique and exciting things to do in Victoria, BC this fall, ranging from the best places to grab a bite to can’t-miss iconic landmarks!

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things to do in Victoria BC
Victoria BC

Victoria is just 25 miles from Port Angeles, the closest American shore. That’s 25 miles closer to America than its Canadian mainland. But the quaint British Columbia capital feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of US city life thanks to its walkable streets, historic architecture, and friendly culture. 

Like its residents, its gardens tend to be bright and cheerful — thanks in large part to Victoria’s weather patterns. Tucked within the Olympic Rain Shadow, the small metropolitan hub gets 308 days a year with sunshine! So whether you’re looking for indoor activities or plenty of fresh air, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Victoria, BC. 

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top things to do in Victoria this summer
Victoria BC summer activities

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, walkable streets, and preserved historical elegance — this compact urban hub is rife with things to do. While Victoria’s mild climate lends it to year-round exploring, the city shines during the summer — and not just in the picturesque downtown, where floatplanes land in the harbor and whale watching tours depart.

The rich diversity of British Columbia’s capital glows among its neighborhoods, stretching up the coast and into the interior of Vancouver Island. It is a captivating mix of cultures, from Canadian and First Nations to Chinese and European. Castles. Wineries. Totems. Wildlife. Views. There are more than 70 unique and exciting things to do in Victoria this summer (and throughout all of Vancouver Island)! So whether you make it a Victoria day trip, weekend or extended stay, you’re sure to have fun.

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Victoria, B.C. Parliament Buildings
Carriage rides in Victoria BC

As the days grow longer and the weather turns from cold to sun-filled, the BC capital wakes up. Hanging baskets once again take their stand throughout the city. Foot traffic increases, though not so much as to be overwhelming. The longer days mean more time spent enjoying meals outdoors, exploring parks, and savoring views. 

Depending on who you ask, spring in Victoria may very well be the best time to visit. Discover 75 flower-filled, thrilling, and unique things to do in Victoria, BC, this spring. 

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kenmore air seaplane flying into victoria inner harbour
kenmore air flying into victoria inner harbour

While Victoria is closer to American soil than its British Columbia mainland, it feels a bit like traveling to Europe. (It’s 75 miles from the Emerald City and just 28 miles from the closest US town, Friday Harbor.) Sure, the watery border can make you think twice about the best way to get to Victoria BC. 

But if you know your options, getting there can be just as much fun as being there. The following outlines the five top ways to travel between this Vancouver Island metropolis and Washington’s high-tech hub — including a scenic seaplane flight!

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Hiking at sunset. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang
A couple on a hike during sunset at Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang.
A couple on a hike during sunset at Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang.

Thanks to its old-world elegance, walkable streets, and temperate weather — Victoria oozes romance. Here, mundane tasks, like grocery shopping, can feel like a date. But it’s not just the city’s day-to-day living that’s filled with couple-worthy activities. There’s an impressive selection of romantic things to do in Victoria, BC.

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