Considered as one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest, Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver island. It’s not just a great urban escape it is also fully connected to the surrounding nature. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or you want to enjoy the city with your family you can find something that will suit you in Victoria. It truly is a cultural, governmental and educational center. In addition to the natural beauty, museums and shopping, Victoria is often called “a bit of Old England” because of its winding, narrow streets and gorgeous gardens .
Really the range of things to do and see in Victoria are amazing. I would love to tell you about every little nook and cranny, but unfortunately I haven’t got time to write a novel. Instead, I am going to share with you the top 5 places you won’t want to miss when visiting Victoria.
1. Victoria Fisherman’s Wharf – Right around the corner from the inner harbor is this fun and exciting destination. The Fisherman’s Wharf is an actual working fishing wharf, but it is also home to great restaurants, unique little shops, nature tours and a variety of wildlife. You can book both kayaking and whale watching trips from here and when you return have a seafood dinner straight from the boat to your table. The Wharf is also home to a diversity of wildlife from Bald Eagles and Cormorants to Sea Lions, Otters and Seals.
2. Pacific Undersea Garden – Once you’ve seen what happens above the water at the Fisherman’s wharf go take a look at what’s going on under the water at the Pacific Undersea Garden. This is a great way for the family to get a close up view of under the waters of the Pacific Northwest. The viewing area is located 15 feet below the surface and is home to over 5000 different aquatic creatures from anenomes to an amazing variety of fish and you may even get to see a Great Pacific Octopus!
3. Beacon Hill Park – Victoria is known as the City of Gardens for a very good reason. Beacon Hill Park is located along the shore of Juan de Fuca Strait. Comprised of over 200 acres of manicured and landscaped parkland it is the perfect place to experience nature, have a picnic and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the area. You can also enjoy a ride in a horse drawn carriage, take the kids to a petting zoo or enjoy one of the free concerts available most weekends during the summer months.
4. Old China Town – This area once stretched over 6 square city blocks and was the 2nd largest Chinatown after San Francisco. Here you will be able to meander through hidden passages and alleyways and discover traditional Chinese healing arts, experience shops and restaurants and learn about the history and culture of the Chinese in Victoria, which was developed over 150 years of immigration.
5. Go Whale Watching – As the largest mammal on the earth, the whale has been the subject of myths, stories and legends throughout the ages and this gentle giant still conjures up strong feelings in every person who is fortunate enough to see one. From April through October the waters outside Victoria are home to the famed Orca, or killer whale, with over 100 of these magnificent animals living in the area. Whale watching trips promise a 95% success rate in spotting Orca’s during this time and you will also have the possibility of seeing Humpback, Minke and Gray whales.
To make the most out of your stay in Victoria you will want to be close to these amazing sights and the Harbour Towers Hotel and Suites can provide you with comfort at an affordable price. The hotel is just 2km or less from all the attractions I mentioned as well as being close to many others such as the Royal British Columbia Museum, National Geographic IMAX Theatre, the Maritime Museum and many great shops and restaurants.