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Thanks to its mild climate, Victoria boasts thousands of cherry blossom trees.
Typically, Victoria’s cherry blossoms begin to bloom by mid-February. The stunning display continues from February until May, creating pink archways throughout the city. The picturesque backdrops are just another reason to take advantage of the B.C. capital’s pedestrian-friendly streets — but you’ll want to see them before they’re gone.
In 1973, Kristian Graaten opened a roadside fruit stand on the Alberni Highway near the Eastern edge of Vancouver Island. Today, the ‘stand’ is known as the Old Country Market. While the charming shop is filled with everything from groceries and gelato to pottery and libre masks — it’s best known for the goats on its roof.
Each spring, a trip of goats is relocated to the market’s roof. The hungry creatures are given free range of the grassy canopy for a few months while they help keep the elevated field in check.
Goldstream Provincial Park is home to massive trees, majestic waterfalls, and a meandering river that meets the sea. A variety of hiking trails can be found throughout the park’s more than 950 acres — the most popular of which is the Goldstream Railway Trestle Hike.
Though difficult, those willing to make the steep ascent are rewarded with an up-close and personal view of the spectacular train bridge that runs high above the Niagara Creek Canyon. The railway is part of the Esquimalt-Nanaimo Railway, an important element in the development of Vancouver Island as it provided access to the island’s forest and mineral resources. The trestle is no longer active, but be careful.* Work crews do occasionally come by on cars.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its fresh seafood and lush mountainscapes. But speckled throughout its cities and destinations, you’ll also find baked delectables that’ll make you want to ooh and aah.
On an island known for its slow pace, there’s no more delicious way to pass the time than sinking your teeth into a butter-baked treat. For 43 years, Holly B’s small kitchen has turned out a selection of pastries and breads that have developed a cult-like following among locals and tourists alike. While Stephanie and Rory Smith bought the business in 2016 when they moved to Lopez, the island-owned and operated shop remains true to its “love and butter” ethos. Today, you’ll find the same butterhorns and cinnamon rolls that have been popular since the shop opened. But, you’ll also be treated to some new selections inspired by Stephanie’s travels, like her savory rolls loaded with spinach, onions, mushrooms, Kalamata olives, and feta!
Taking an age-old advertisement approach, Brown Bear Baking frequently perfumes the southern edge of Eastsound with its buttery kouign-amanns and gooey sticky buns. But the proof is in the treat and these treats have been delivering since the local shop opened in 2013. Lines are frequently longer than you’d expect on an island and the daily selection is known to quickly dwindle, but as long as there’s something left in the case, it’s hard to go wrong. From the orange-scented morning buns and peach croissants to caramelized banana bread and salmon quiche, you’ll want to come hungry.
Known for its wild-yeast breads and wood-fired brick oven, this Victoria BC favorite opened its Dockside location in 2009. Its commitment to farm-to-table cuisine is so deep it maintains two silos where Red Fife wheat—bought directly from Saskatchewan farmers—is stored. Thanks to its wild popularity, it opened a second location in 2015. At the front you’ll find the expected breads and pastries and at the back is Agrius, the contemporary dinner hot spot known for its seasonally-inspired menu.
If it wasn’t for the steady stream of patrons, you might miss Café Demeter. The humble bakery is housed in one of Friday Harbor’s historic homes. Built in the 1920s, the small kitchen turns out an impressive selection of baked treats — including twice-baked almond croissants, seasonal Danish, and daily pizza specials.
Check the artificial flavorings at the door. Head Pastry Chef and Owner, Eric Ho’s all-natural menu is crafted in the traditional fresh style at Bakery State. Each drool-worthy pastry, cookie, and individually-sized cake is made fresh daily. Best known for its selection of croissants, you’ll find the expected characters like Butter and Chocolate nestled next to untraditional bedfellows, like Coconut and Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Bread Pudding.
Tucked in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood, Rachel Coyle’s Instagram-worthy bakery is a sweet-treat watering hole that attracts crowds from throughout the city. But one bite of a Coyle creation and you’ll quickly attempt to sample the entire daily spread. Which, thanks to her many ‘mini’ variations, like her mini cardamom kouign amann, you may have room for a few! Formerly the pastry chef for notable Seattle-renowned restaurants like The Herbfarm and Le Pichet, the shop opened in 2015. The menu has expanded over the years, now including sandwiches, salads, and soups. But really, it’s the pastries—the seasonal fruit galettes, luscious bundt cakes, and millionaire shortbread that steal—the show.
Photo by Destination BC & Tanya Goehring
How the small and intimate pedestrian paths have preserved bits of the city’s past.
Unlike a city’s major thoroughfares that are typically renovated by the demand of progress, alleys have a way of preserving the past. The narrow, pedestrian-only passageways hold on to their intimate storefronts and leisurely culture. They beckon the outdoor dining parties, strolling lovers, and adventuresome tourists — especially in Victoria.
The most popular of the BC capital’s wall-lined walkways is Fan Tan Alley. It’s located in one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America and spans less than three feet in sections. The entrance to its less-well-known sister alley—Dragon Alley—is located just across Fisguard Street. Though the two walkways share a similarly colorful past of opium dens and gambling joints, they are both now hubs for restaurants, galleries, and interesting shops.
Closer to Victoria’s downtown hub, you’ll find Trounce Alley. Named after the Victoria Pioneer Thomas Trounce, the picturesque passageway features authentic gaslights that are over 125 years old.
But it’s Waddington Alley that’s arguably Victoria’s most unique path — though often overlooked. The relatively nondescript passage doesn’t feature a plethora of cute shops and overhead lights. Rather, its most interesting feature is underfoot. The alley’s walkway is the last of its kind in the city. Constructed from small creosoted wooden bricks, it’s fondly dubbed the “wooden street.”
Seven years and counting, Amazon Canada ranked Victoria the most romantic city in the country. And while it’s pedestrian-friendly streets, epic food scene and historic buildings are swoon-worthy in their own regard — there’s nothing quite like a sunset to encourage a little canoodling.
Victoria may be best known for its afternoon tea and historical charm, but it’s also ground central for British Columbia’s craft beer revolution. The quaint BC capital is home to a variety of craft breweries, where you’ll find full-bodied pours loaded with complex flavors worthy of raising a glass…or two.
Fondly nicknamed the “Garden City,” Victoria’s lush landscape is home to a wide variety of breathtaking outdoor spaces, including the 200-acre Beacon Hill Park.
Have you thought about your travel bucket list? A new year is the perfect time to re-visit and maybe re-map yours with some unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas.
Because while you may have visited Victoria, the San Juan Islands, Vancouver, and Seattle — have you actually seen and done everything? Chances are, there are quite a few unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas that you haven’t yet explored.
Victoria has long-since outgrown the joke that it’s the land of the “newlywed and nearly dead.” The quaint British Columbia capital has a bubbling food scene, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a plethora of historic hangouts. Tucked beside the ocean, its Inner Harbour bustles with activity, offering the ideal hub for those ready to explore — especially families.
Whether you’re escaping Seattle for the day or visiting this northern gem for an extended holiday, Victoria’s kid-friendly activities are so fun even the adults will feel inspired.
From day one, we are tactile learners. Though our world and attention span grows with age, the passion for hands-on activities never goes away completely. At Miniature World, you’ll feel like a giant. While exploring the more than 85 dioramas and displays, you’ll find several push-button actions which do everything from turn on lights to activate trainsets. Wander back in time at Royal BC Museum, where immersive exhibits make you feel like you’ve stepped into snippets of Victoria’s history. Try your hand at mining for gold. Step into the shoes of a submarine captain. Say “Hi” to Wolly, the museum’s unofficial mascot — a life-size mammoth.
Get out all the wiggles at Beacon Hill Park, where the large playground is a year-round favorite. The seasonal petting zoo features goats, alpacas, and more. And for those kids who love creepy crawlers, the Victoria Zoo is a must-visit. In addition to seeing giant walkingsticks, praying mantis, tarantulas, and glow-in-the-dark scorpions, you and your littles will be able to safely handle some of the critters under the supervision of the zoo’s knowledgeable staff.
In recent years Victoria’s food scene has undergone an impressive revival, with a farm-to-table movement that’s earned the city a well-deserved reputation. Indulge in a sampling at the Victoria Public Market — the city’s only year-round market. The indoor food-hub features a diverse range of local food artisans, including loaded waffles and scratch-made pies.
But the city’s old staples should also not be overlooked — especially Roger’s Chocolates. Founded in 1885, Roger’s handmade chocolates have been delighting Victorians with classic flavors and local favorites, like Victoria Creams, for more than 130 years.
Continuing the tasty historic train, be sure to have a spot of afternoon tea. Since the early 1900s, the Fairmont Empress has been serving tea worthy of royalty. And, following its recent renovations, the Empress introduced a special prince and princess tea for children 12-and-under. The Queen Mary Tea Room also offers a fun children’s menu. So too does the Pendray Inn and Tea House.
Saddle up your little one for an awe-inspiring adventure with the ocean’s gentle giants — killer whales. Also known as orcas, the Salish Sea is frequented by both resident and transient pods. Tours, like the ones offered by Prince of Whales, allow you and your little one the chance to see these graceful creatures first hand. You may also see shorebirds, sea otters, seals, dolphins, grey whales, and more!
For a more delicate introduction to nature, head to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Home to over 3,000 butterflies, along with tropical ducks, flamingos, and other rare tropical birds, the 12,000-square-foot enclosure is downright magical.
Introduce your young traveler to some of the city’s quirkiest of rides and funkiest of destinations. Start at Fisherman’s Wharf, where a lively community of floating homes and walk-up food vendors feel like something that may have been plucked from a children’s book. Catch a Victoria Harbour Ferry — the city’s water taxi service. It offers 14 conveniently located stops throughout the Inner Harbour, including at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Excite your young traveling companion with an old-fashioned horse and carriage ride. Carriage rides can generally be found at the corner of Mackenzie St. & Melville St., on the west side of the BC Parliament Buildings. Tours typically last 30 minutes, taking you through some of Victoria’s oldest neighborhoods.
A National Historical Site of Canada, The Butchart Gardens features 55 acres of finely manicured gardens and public trails. Kids will love the endless paths and the children’s carousel. For a heart-pumping alternative, take your kid ziplining with Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours. Special youth tours are available, starting for children as young as five-years-old.
Photo by Tourism Vancouver Island/Ben Giesbrecht
And if you’re looking to get off your feet while spending some quality un-plugged time, head to Interactivity Board Game Cafe. This fun café serves a selection of sandwiches and snacks. But the real star is the 800-plus game collection that’s available to play in-house or buy.
Seven years and counting, Amazon Canada ranked Victoria the most romantic city in the country. And while it’s pedestrian-friendly streets, epic food scene and historic buildings are swoon-worthy in their own regard — there’s nothing quite like a sunset to encourage a little canoodling.
Victoria may be best known for its afternoon tea and historical charm, but it’s also ground central for British Columbia’s craft beer revolution. The quaint BC capital is home to a variety of craft breweries, where you’ll find full-bodied pours loaded with complex flavors worthy of raising a glass…or two.
Fondly nicknamed the “Garden City,” Victoria’s lush landscape is home to a wide variety of breathtaking outdoor spaces, including the 200-acre Beacon Hill Park.
Victoria, known for its old-world elegance, is a city where romance feels right at home. Here, a simple stroll with your honey along the Inner Harbor becomes a memory you’ll treasure forever.
And, if you’re looking to give your date an extra dose of va va voom, we have you covered. Because a brisk fall day is the perfect time to cozy up close.
In the early 1900s, folks knew a thing or two about romance. From the carriage rides to the love letters, courting was elegant. “I love yous” were intentional. “Dates” were planned. Take a cue from the days of old and reserve table at the Fairmont Empress for afternoon tea.
For over 100 years, the Butchart Gardens have been home to a stunning collection of native and exotic plants. The 55-acre floral display has been carefully developed to feature year-round blooms. The twisting trails throughout its grounds invite lingering walks — especially during fall with the grounds are less crowded and the colors abound.
Focusing on native British Columbia wines, Stage Wine Bar has created one of the best wine selections in the city. Rounding out the menu with exquisite global pours, the focus here is always on pleasure. The staff is attentive. The small plate selection is delectable. Plus, toasts are highly encouraged.
Located beside Victoria’s Inner Harbor, the Inn at Laurel Point offers stunning views of seaplanes as they land and take off. The Asian inspired rooms (especially in the Erickson Wing) are light, airy, and so comfortable you might consider staying permanently. Slip into your plush complimentary robe. Savor an exquisite in-room dining experience. Then request a rejuvenating in-room massage for you and your other half.
Book your Victoria trip today.
As one would expect of a city where cobblestone streets still linger and gardens are meticulously manicured, Victoria’s swanky cocktail scene specializes in creative, tasty libations.
Eat and walk your way through British Columbia’s iconic capital, while soaking in Victoria’s breathtaking views, quaint neighborhoods, and thriving food scene.
Remarkable architecture, lush gardens, and a plethora of delectable eateries dishing up some of the best eggs Benedict you’ve ever had make Victoria a must-visit destination.
Photo Courtesy of the Royal BC Museum
Explore the science and belief that shaped the Maya identity at the Royal BC Museum’s world premiere of Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises.
In the tropical rainforest of Central America, the powerful Maya culture rose for thousands of years. Now through December 31, 2019, you can explore the rich civilization like never before at the Royal BC Museum.
The world premiere of Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises boasts the largest and most impressive display of Mayan objects from Guatemala. It includes nearly 300 precious jade, ceramic, gold, stone, and textile artifacts.
Photo Courtesy of the Royal BC Museum
Many of the items have never been seen in North America before, including elaborate incense burners, magnificent jade and gold jewelry, and the exhibition’s namesake, a remarkable three-meter-long lime-and-stucco sculpture of a man with the attributes of a jaguar, dating from between 250 and 600 BCE.
The exhibit’s entrance is surrounded by the sound of bird calls, animals’ squeaks, and insects buzzing — authentic recordings captured in the tropical forest of Guatemala’s lowlands.
You’ll have the chance to wander through a replica of a Tikal temple, where you’ll be introduced to the Mayan’s gods. Don’t miss the murals of San Bartolo — one of the most unique features of the exhibit. The murals are a relatively new discovery — found roughly 50 years ago.
Photo Courtesy of the Royal BC Museum
Original hieroglyphic panels feature 160 glyphs. They are designed to be read left-to-right, top-to-bottom in double columns. While the knowledge of this ancient written language was destroyed during the Spanish conquest, approximately 70 to 80 percent of the Mayan hieroglyphs have been deciphered.
One of the cornerstone pieces on display—the exhibit’s namesake—is a jaguar sculpture. It was discovered by a construction crew while they demolished a cattle ranch in Guatemala. Near the center of the sculpture you’ll see a visible crack.
The crack was caused by trying to lift the sculpture from the ground using ropes. The attempt would have been successful, if the sculpture had indeed been made of stone. Unfortunately, it’s made of stucco. Luckily, the beauty and significance of this piece remains.
Photo Courtesy of the Royal BC Museum
It depicts a man dressed as a jaguar creeping across the floor. The jaguar is one of the most important animals in Maya mythology. It’s seen as the ruler of the Underworld. Jaguar deities were also believed to protect individual communities against external threats. As such a revered deity, the jaguar became a symbol of political and military power.
There’s more to Victoria than the Fairmont Empress and Parliament Buildings. While both of these iconic landmarks are certainly deserving of a visit, B.C.’s quaint capitol is loaded with Instagram-worthy destinations.
When you have just a day to soak up the majestic beauty of Victoria, B.C., don’t let a second go to waste. Hit the streets. Immerse yourself in the culture. And, don’t forget your camera. You’ll want it on this photo walk.
This 24-hour birthday fly away will give you, your friends and your family a taste of Victoria’s rich history, cutting-edge technology and rocking good time vibe.
Seven years and counting, Amazon Canada ranked Victoria the most romantic city in the country. And while it’s pedestrian-friendly streets, epic food scene and historic buildings are swoon-worthy in their own regard — there’s nothing quite like a sunset to encourage a little canoodling.
Photo by Tom Chudleigh
Meet new friends, stay in a place you’ve never dreamed existed, and give yourself a thrill.
Arguably Vancouver Island’s most unique lodging choice, the three spherical lodging options at Free Spirit Spheres are a mix between Hobbit holes and treehouses. The spheres sleep between two and three people, each offering whimsical window views into the forest.
Home to more than 50 different animal and insect species — including praying mantis, scorpions, tarantulas, and Canada’s largest ant colony — the Victoria Bug Zoo’s knowledgeable tour guides are always ready to introduce you to the zoo’s most current residents, sharing a wealth of information and safe bug handling tips.
Photo by Tourism Vancouver Island/Ben Giesbrecht
Located on the southern side of Vancouver Island, Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours will get your juices flowing. The exhilarating rides can get up to nearly 40 miles per hour as you soar 150-feet over the ground on eight separate scenic ziplines that range from 130 feet to 1,000 feet!
Seven years and counting, Amazon Canada ranked Victoria the most romantic city in the country. And while it’s pedestrian-friendly streets, epic food scene and historic buildings are swoon-worthy in their own regard — there’s nothing quite like a sunset to encourage a little canoodling.
Victoria may be best known for its afternoon tea and historical charm, but it’s also ground central for British Columbia’s craft beer revolution. The quaint BC capital is home to a variety of craft breweries, where you’ll find full-bodied pours loaded with complex flavors worthy of raising a glass…or two.
Fondly nicknamed the “Garden City,” Victoria’s lush landscape is home to a wide variety of breathtaking outdoor spaces, including the 200-acre Beacon Hill Park.
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