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Market Square, located in the heart of downtown Victoria, is a vibrant town square and shopping center that exudes a charming blend of history and contemporary flair. Nestled adjacent to Chinatown, this bustling square offers visitors a delightful mix of shops, restaurants, and clubs, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Stepping into Market Square feels like taking a journey back in time. The square's rich history dates back to the late 19th century when it was initially established. During this era, the building housed a three-level structure that served as a gathering place for sailors, lumberjacks, and whalers seeking entertainment and relaxation during their days off. This historical significance imbues the square with a unique character that sets it apart from other shopping destinations in Victoria.

Today, Market Square boasts a diverse collection of over 35 shops, each offering a distinct shopping experience. From the moment you enter, you'll be greeted by a plethora of specialty stores that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're in search of exotic teas, high-quality camping gear, or charming souvenir t-shirts, you're sure to find something that catches your eye.

Beyond its shopping allure, Market Square offers more than just a place to browse and buy. The square's central courtyard serves as a hub for vibrant live festivals and events, which are held regularly throughout the year. These festivities create an electric atmosphere, filling the air with excitement and attracting visitors from all walks of life.

In the late 1800s, Wharf Street was the bustling center of Victoria's shipping industry, where ships would dock to unload cargo and passengers. The street was lined with warehouses, hotels, and businesses that catered to the needs of sailors and merchants.

Today, it still retains much of its historic charm, with beautifully restored buildings that house a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy views of the harbor, the Parliament Buildings, and the historic Johnson Street Bridge.

In recent years, Wharf Street has undergone significant redevelopment, with new buildings and attractions popping up. The street is now a bustling hub of activity, with a lively mix of locals and visitors enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of Victoria. The combination of old-world charm and modern amenities makes it a memorable experience.

Victoria's Inner Harbour is a feast for the senses! The moment you arrive, you are greeted with the picturesque sight of the stunning Fairmont Empress Hotel, standing proudly with its historic facade and elegant architecture.

The hustle and bustle of the harbour will draw you in, with horse-drawn carriage rides, whale watching excursions, and harbour ferries calling out to you. You'll find yourself swept away by the picturesque views of yachts bobbing gently in the harbour, the majestic British Columbia Parliament Buildings standing tall in the distance, and the charming old buildings, now renovated into restaurants and shops, lining the waterfront.

As you meander along the harbour, you'll be treated to the melodies of street musicians, the performances of jugglers, and the mesmerizing creations of artists. All of this, set against the backdrop of the sparkling waters and the majestic architecture, will create a memory that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

Why You Should Visit:
One of the most beautiful waterfront walkways anywhere; very scenic and very quaint. Lots of free entertainment of breathtaking variety.

Tip:
If you're into it, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or take a mini-boat tour (fee).

The Fairmont Empress hotel is situated on Victoria's Inner Harbour and has been a celebrated symbol of the city since it was first opened in 1908. Its architecture is grand and majestic, with a mix of Châteauesque, Renaissance Revival, and Beaux-Arts styles, and features an imposing facade with a prominent central dome and grand entrances that lead to the opulent interior.

The Fairmont has been described as one of Canada's finest examples of Edwardian architecture, and has been recognized as a National Historic Site. Its grand exterior is matched by its equally grand interior, which features ornate furnishings, luxurious finishes, and grand public spaces that showcase the best of early 20th-century design. The most iconic feature -- the grand lobby -- features a grand staircase, high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and is dominated by a large fireplace, which is a popular gathering spot for guests and locals alike.

Another popular feature is the world-famous tea room, where guests can enjoy the hotel's signature Afternoon Tea experience. The tea room has been serving high tea since 1908, and its opulent decor and traditional service have made it a Victoria institution.

In addition to the tea room, the hotel has several other dining options, including a seafood restaurant and a lounge bar. Guests can also take advantage of the waterfront location, with views of the Inner Harbour and easy access to nearby attractions.

Come take a stroll down Government Street, a vibrant hub of entertainment and commerce in Victoria. This bustling street is a veritable treasure trove of fashion, handicrafts, museums, and historical landmarks, including Canada's oldest Chinatown. With its wide sidewalks, Government Street is perfect for leisurely strolls on foot. Begin your journey at the opulent British Columbia Parliament Buildings, a neo-baroque palace that towers over Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour. Follow the street northwards past the Edwardian gem, The Fairmont Empress hotel, which was built in the early 1900s.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Roger's Chocolates, a local favorite that has been serving up delectable treats since 1885. Antique enthusiasts will relish exploring the auction houses on Antique Row, where precious furniture and objects abound. For a truly spine-tingling experience, visit the harbor's visitor information center and sign up for a Ghostly Walks tour, where a knowledgeable local guide will regale you with the street's fascinating history on a 90-minute walk.

Government Street also boasts bookstores, a mall with international department stores, and coffee shops, offering visitors a one-stop-shop for all their needs. Don't forget to explore the pedestrian-only alleys off Government Street, such as Trounce Alley, where you'll find a bevy of fashionable boutiques. At Bastion Square, be sure to catch the street performers at work and browse the market during weekends and the warmer seasons. Don't miss the Maritime Museum of British Columbia housed in the historic Old Courthouse building.

Chinatown Victoria is undoubtedly one of Government Street's highlights, and the colorful Gate of Harmonious Interest marks its entrance. This historic district is impeccably preserved and boasts fortune tellers, souvenir shops, restaurants, and teahouses. Visitors can indulge in a "tea flight," comprising three blends that harmonize perfectly with each other.

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is divided into several permanent galleries, including the Natural History gallery, the First Peoples gallery, and the Modern History gallery. The Natural History gallery features exhibits on the province's flora and fauna, including displays of taxidermied animals and interactive exhibits that explore the region's diverse ecosystems. The First Peoples gallery showcases the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples of British Columbia, with exhibits that include ceremonial regalia, carvings, and artwork. The Modern History gallery examines the province's more recent history, with displays that focus on the colonial period, the gold rush, and the impact of industrialization on the region.

The museum's main focus is a fascinating journey through time, with two primary themes taking center stage: the rich history of the major cities in British Columbia, and the captivating history of the indigenous peoples who have long called this area their home. As you wander through the museum's carefully curated collection, you'll discover an impressive array of artifacts and exhibits that vividly illustrate the lives of these communities during a pivotal period of change, when the first Europeans arrived on these shores.

One particularly impressive exhibit focuses on the history of 20th century Vancouver and Victoria, taking visitors on a journey through the bustling city streets of yesteryear. A full-scale mockup of a classic town awaits, complete with a vintage movie theater featuring the legendary Charlie Chaplin, bustling Chinatown streets teeming with activity, and a hotel that showcases various pivotal moments in history. Visitors can even board Capt. Vancouver's ship and witness a gold panning operation in action.

The museum also hosts touring exhibitions. Some of the previous ones have included artifacts related to the RMS Titanic, Leonardo da Vinci, Egyptian artifacts, the Vikings, the British Columbia gold rushes and Genghis Khan. The Royal BC Museum partners with and houses the IMAX Victoria theater, which shows educational films as well as commercial entertainment.

Why You Should Visit:
The main museum in Victoria, BC, with a huge section of anthropology, nice section on natural history and geology of Vancouver Island, and the most amazing reconstruction of entire sections of the city of Victoria during different historical periods.

Tip:
Don't skip the outdoor section on the side of the main entrance. You can visit one of the original houses of the first big settlement in Victoria, totems, and a First Nation chief house, in a very nice and quiet setting. Otherwise, plan at least 3 hours to enjoy all the exhibitions (permanent and temporary).

Victoria is renowned for its vast array of beautiful parks, but Beacon Hill Park is perhaps one of the most beloved. This sprawling 62-acre space in the heart of downtown boasts a diverse range of attractions to suit all interests. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, visit the petting farm and wading pool, admire the water fountains and monuments, play sports on the fields and playgrounds, attend concerts at the band pavilion, and marvel at what was once the world's tallest totem pole.

Beacon Hill Park is steeped in history, having been officially established as a park in 1882. Its name originates from a pair of masts that were erected on a hill to act as a beacon for mariners approaching Victoria’s inner harbour. Today, the park is a lush oasis of landscaped gardens, lakes and ponds, and an alpine and rock garden. It is home to a variety of bird species, including Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons, as well as an assortment of other wildlife.

One of the most charming features of Beacon Hill Park is the presence of peacocks that roam freely throughout. Children will love visiting the petting zoo, and there are plenty of sports fields and playgrounds for active visitors to enjoy. During the summer months, the park comes alive with the sound of music, as concerts are held regularly at the bandshell.

Beacon Hill Park is a peaceful and idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown Victoria. The park is home to a staggering array of exotic and native trees, including Garry Oak, Arbutus, Douglas-fir, Western Red Cedar, birch, willow and maples. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on a sunny day or take a quiet stroll through the park's many trails. And of course, the totem pole – once the world's tallest – still stands tall as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Why You Should Visit:
Spectacular grounds with manicured beds, rose garden, bandstand, lakes.
The petting zoo is wonderful and the running of the goats (twice daily – at 10am and 4pm) is a must.
At the South end of the park, you can walk along the cliffs and admire the view of the ocean.

Tip:
Visit the Bird Cages Confectionery at the corner of Michigan and Government before you come and buy a bag of oats to feed to the ducks.

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are a group of imposing structures situated in Victoria, which were completed in 1898 and are considered a perfect example of the Neo-baroque Renaissance style of architecture. Their stunning design incorporates a range of features like columns, pediments, domes, and classical motifs. The central building is the most notable of the complex, with a magnificent central dome reaching a height of 75 meters, making it the fourth-tallest dome in the world. Atop it is a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver.

The Neo-baroque complex consists of three main buildings, namely the central legislative building, the west wing, and the east wing. The central building houses the Legislative Assembly, which is the lawmaking body of the province. The legislative chambers located in the central building are open to the public when the legislature is not in session.

The west wing of the buildings houses the offices of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and the Legislative Library. The east wing is home to government administrative offices, including the offices of the Premier and the Lieutenant Governor.

These buildings are rich in history, having witnessed many significant events since their opening in 1898 - including the introduction of women's suffrage, the establishment of the provincial flag and coat of arms, and the first meeting of the Western Premiers Conference.

Today, they are a popular tourist destination and are open for public tours. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture, learn about the history of the buildings and the province, and witness the daily workings of the Legislative Assembly. The interiors are also home to numerous works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and murals, which further enhance the beauty of this historic site.

Why You Should Visit:
The buildings and the surrounding garden knoll are spectacular, both at night and during the day.
Mesmerizing interior with mosaic tiles, painted ceilings, and stellar stain glass windows.
You'll be able to take a self-walking tour or a guided tour of portions of Parliament.

Tip:
Make sure you do the indoor tour, as well as the garden tour – both are free!
You can also sign in at the security desk and visit the basement restaurant which is frequented by all the politicians.

A popular destination for visitors to Victoria, Fisherman's Wharf is a newly-formed space that has been rehabilitated from previously unused land. This park is now home to a variety of attractions, including a rain garden that serves to filter storm drain waters, a public herb garden, a children's playground, a 'beach', a playing field, and areas for visitors to relax and read a book.

Adjacent to the park is the actual wharf that the park is named for; a unique marine location that offers food kiosks, interesting shops, and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Visitors can wander along the docks with their lunch, buy seafood fresh off the boat, view moored pleasure vessels and float homes, and watch as fishing vessels unload their day's catch.

One of the most enjoyable things to do at Fisherman's Wharf is to feed the resident seals. These friendly creatures are used to people and will usually come looking for a handout. Food (fish) for the seals can be purchased at a small fish store located at the wharf.

Just steps away from the bustling and festive commercial plaza, the eastern end of Fisherman's Wharf is largely populated by colorful float homes, which serve as permanent residences for their owners. The residents share their lively neighborhood with a variety of wildlife, including harbour seals, herons, eagles, geese, cormorants, gulls, otters, and raccoons.