Visit Victoria, Queen Of British Columbia
Museums and family-friendly attractions fill Vancouver Island
Make a friend at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

With the mildest climate in Canada, half the rainfall of neighboring Seattle and Vancouver, and a stunning setting on the edge of Vancouver Island, Victoria is a great year-round destination full of family-friendly events and attractions. It’s small and walkable, too, making it a great multi-generational vacation for families whose family membres have different attention spans.

Getting Oriented to Victoria

In addition to museums, Victoria offers a wide variety of family oriented attractions. If you want to get oriented quickly, and tour the the city from a different perspective, check out Tally Ho Carriage Tours (250/514-9257 or 866/383-5067), a horse-drawn carriage company that has carted both tourists and locals around Victoria since 1903. With a homebase at the corner of Belleville and Menzies Streets, the tour offers a rich history of Victoria with fun and humorous ancedotes, making it a favorite activity for locals, who enjoy celebrating birthdays and anniversaries en route! There are six different route options to choose from, with tours ranging from 15 minutes to almost two hours. The carriages can accommodate up to six people and pass by various attractions depending on which route you select.

Options include: Victoria Harbor, Southern Vancouver Island, Beacon Hill Park, Dallas Road Waterfront and Chinatown, the second oldest in North America. If you are traveling with a large family, there is no need to worry: Tally Ho Carriage Tours offers wagon rides as well, which can accomdate much larger groups. Also, make sure you request Rowdy as your horse. He is famous with the children of Victoria and the young and old alike love him.

Victoria’s Favorite Family Attractions

The highly regarded Royal British Columbia Museum (888/447-7977 or 250/356-7226) is centrally located at 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC Canada V8W 9W2. This extraordinary museum has a wide array of permanent and temporary exhibits that make for a full day of activities. The Ocean Station Exhibit allows visitors to explore, interact and experience the underwater world of the West Coast. The 360 liter aquarium is visible from a floor to ceiling window with portholes and all. Inside the tank are sea stars, fishes, sea urchins and more. Other permanent displays include the First People’s Gallery, Modern History Gallery and Natural History Gallery. Scheduled hourly tours are offered free with admission and will guide visitors through all three exhibits. The Museum is open daily with later hours in summer, and offers a family entrance package in addition to individual entry fees.

Also housed in the Royal BC Museum is the National Geographic IMAX Theater (250/953-4629). With 406 seats, this 2-D screen is six stories high and 70 feet wide, nearly 10 times larger than a standard movie theater. Although admission is separate from the museum (family package pricing applies here, too), it is worth it to see a film on this really, really big screen. The theater features educational films, especially those pertaining to wildlife and nature, but also shows major motion pictures that have recently been released in theaters.

The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre (250/665-7511) at 9811 Seaport Place, Sidney, BC V8L 4X3 opened in 2009 and boasts 87 tonnes of seawater in 17 different habitats. Kids will love the elevator that descends into the “ocean” and the array of interactive exhibits. Teens and little ones shoudl not miss the enormous Giant Pacific octapus and a touch pool for the curious. Be sure to ask one of the uniformed Oceaneers for their insights; they man each exhibit.

Also on our agenda was Miniature World (250/385-9731), “The Greatest Little Show on Earth” is located at 649 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC V8W 1A7. The kids loved the 80 little attractions such as the world’s smallest operating sawmill and the world’s largest dollhouse. The newest addition is Space 2201, an Avian spaceship which makes our huge universe seem very tiny and compacted. Other great attractions include: Frontier Land, Fields of Glory, the World of Dickens, Olde London Towne of 1670 and the Enchanted Valley of Castles. Hours of operation vary depending on season, please check the website for exact times.

For nature lovers, Victoria boasts an indoor tropical rainforest at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens (877/722-0272 or 250/652-3822) at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1R3. This paradise experience includes 35 specides of free flying butterflies, including the uniquely exotic Blue Morpho and Giant Owl. Waterfalls, trees, orchids and even carnivorous plants are also included in the display. Beauty is not the only thing the Butterfly Gardens offers to family, it is also an incredibly educational find. Before entry there is video preview which explains the cycle of a butterfly’s life; tours and access to the Learning Center are also available. Family discounts are offered.

Victoria Trip Planning Details

Our home base in Victoria was the waterfront Hotel Grand Pacific (800/663-7500 or 250/386-0450), just down the street from the Royal BC Museum at 463 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC V8V 1X3. This lovely hotel has introduced a year-round family package that includes two nights in deluxe accommodations for two adults and two children for two nights, as well as free admission for the whole family to the Royal BC Museum and IMAX Theatre. Madeleine and Jamie enjoyed the goody bags they received at check-in (part of the package) that included a disposable camera for each, a voucher for nightly cookies and milk via room service, and a free in-room movie or Nintendo session. The name of this package is constantly changing as the Hotel Grand Pacific tailors this package to fit the name of the highlighted traveling exhibit that is currently on display at the Royal BC Museum. However, the price stays the same ranging from CDN$$$ and up.

Visit Tourism Victoria or call 800/663-3883 for more information and get started planning your trip today. 

 

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

1 Reply to “Visit Victoria, Queen Of British Columbia”

  • The Holiday Story

    HI

    Although this is a different kind of article. But love to read. Thanks for sharing.

    Thanks
    Ruma

  • Dan Ritter

    Do you know if the Philippines are offering any kind of residency or tourist visas right now with covid-19 going on? I’d like to take my family there, thanks.

  • Bunny Mastropaolo

    Complimenti bravo continua cosi!! ottimo lavoro Grazie!!

  • SasiKumar I

    If you want to practice your French or take Insta-worth pics on cobblestone streets, Montreal is definitely worth a visit. Plus, there are so many sights and landmarks to see, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal’s oldest Catholic church) and Olympic Park, which helped host the 1976 Summer Olympics.

  • EBRU YILDIZ

    Celebrate Halloween night by watching the Sanderson sisters rise from the dead and wreak havoc in this cult classic. PS: where did the last 25 years go?

  • NUMRA SOHAIL

    good. We believe everyone deserves access to factual information, and analysis that has authority and integrity.

  • Thomas McGee

    Since before recorded history, the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs in this area have drawn people here. and this article is helping us a lot. also visit travpart for more ideas

  • Thomas McGee

    this is best but i will visit after the era of corona virus so it could be a safe journey

  • Thomas McGee

    yes exactly like this. The joyful and entertaining cattle fights attract tens of thousands of spectators each year.

  • Thomas McGee

    great work ! While river cruising’s epicenter is undoubtedly situated over in Europe, the waterways of the United States are becoming more competitive with each passing year.

  • Thomas McGee

    this is a great idea to explore these places in a safe and enjoyable way. and adding the storybooks is much helpful here for us.

  • Thomas McGee

    In this era of corona virus everything regarding to travel is difficult But it is not like that we should not travel. these tips are really very helpful.

  • Thomas McGee

    Yes, you are right and the thing which is important is to take care of ourselves if we do this we can travel anywhere.

  • Thomas McGee

    wow ! this is really amazing and thank you for giving enough details . this is going to be very helpful . After this lockdown situation I will visit Europe.

  • Thomas McGee

    You’ve been under lockdown all spring, and summer is finally here. But it’s a COVID-19 summer, and it likely won’t look like any other in modern history. Still, the wanderlust is strong.“People want to travel. It’s a wonderful part of life.If you’re thinking about traveling later this summer, factor in the possibility that your destination may face a new outbreak before you arrive. You can make your plans now for a destination that appears to be relatively safe, but it may not be safe two to three weeks later.

  • Lucas Silva

    I am trying to find out what dates the apples are harvested in the Annapolis Valley and area. We are taking a trip around the southwest area of Nova Scotia and would like to go at harvest time. This would include any other fruit harvesting. I can t seem to find any approximate dates. Thank you.

  • Mohammad shekh dabs

    this is touristy. But there’s a good reason for that. Soar to the top of the Rockefeller Center via an elevator to take in the views at its observatory, Top of the Rock. You’ll be able to take in the many lights of the city from above, including a red-and-green Empire State Building.

  • Thomas McGee

    Northern Lights are one of the most beautiful sights to see from Earth. Also known as the Aurora Borealis, I wished to visit is place. Travpart always help me to Explore the World, with Suitable packages & Travel tips.

  • Kris

    Hi, nice blog. Very informative and helpful. Please take a few minutes to share your unaccompanied minor flight experience. Several popular airlines are listed on http://unaccompaniedminortravel.com which will help real people like you to be better informed. This is the only site that offers actual unaccompanied user travel feedback as well as all of the information you might need. This site is new so we are also anxious to hear from you if you yourself have in the past used the Unaccompanied Minor service. Thanks!

  • Nicoly Teixeira

    The majority of the general media coverage focused on virtual vacations, highlighting beach webcams, travel videos and virtual experiences in the destination. Additionally, U.S. News World Report featured Myrtle Beach as an affordable dream destination.

  • Marialejandra Garcia Palma

    Stay at Castle Hotel and Spa and treat yourself to a Thai-inspired spa that is great for pampering or a romantic activity for couples.

  • Per Edlund

    New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Scenic Byway, running through the White Mountain National Forest, is renowned for its autumn leaves, making it one of the top road trips during the fall leaf-viewing season.

  • Ligia Lopes

    Good to know : Keep an eye on their Facebook page for opening day updates. And remember, the farm has chickens, geese, ducks and guinea hens walking around, so dogs are not allowed in the orchard or in the parking lot.

  • elahe

    It’s free to enter if you’re in costume and arrive before m, so arrive on time and party the night away!

  • FLAVIO WHEYDISON

    Multibillion-dollar innovation fair, largest to be held in Arab world, postponed by one year due to coronavirus.

  • Mead Cannon

    Enjoyed reading the article above, actually explains everything
    in detail,the article is extremely interesting and effective.

    Best regards,
    Mead Cannon

  • Anonymous

    Travellers’ arrangements are being thrown into doubt, and many are wondering whether it’s worth going overseas in the first place. What should you do if you’ve booked a trip?

  • Ivory Perret

    I am an mom who is 45 years old thanks.

  • asc

    “This is entirely due to airlines reducing space between rows and squeezing passengers into smaller and smaller seats, so small that there is now no longer room for a service animal on some planes,” the NDRN said. “Cramped space on planes is a nuisance to all travelers, but it now prevents some people from traveling at all.”

  • Anonymous

    Discover a great camping location and book your next camping adventure. Our friendly, passionate staff is waiting to help you make the most of your experience. We can’t wait to see you!

  • Anonymous

    The Arizona Family Campout Program is a one-weekend adventure designed for families who have little or no experience camping. This program will provide some equipment and introduce families to the new adventure of camping at an Arizona State Park.

  • Anonymous

    Practise camping before you go, especially with young children. Talk about it with your kids. Set up a tent inside or outside, and spend some time in it.

  • Vernita

    Hello my family member! I want to say that this post is amazing, great written and include almost all significant infos.

    I’d like to see extra posts like this .

  • brian hamstead

    I enjoy reading your website Have you got a instagram i can connect to?

  • Achyut

    Corona (COVID-19) is made herbal everywhere now corona travelling worldwide so there is no any option for travelling this day only how to prevent so what you mention it is really nice I will follow off your suggestion thank you for the nice forum.

  • Anonymous

    Love to spend time near Sea !

  • Philip Sebastian

    I wish i can be there soon and to feel myself on how beautiful it is.

  • Charlena Willes

    It is always better to have more space when traveling with children.

  • C

    Known as “Kidsburgh” thanks to all the family-oriented activities in the area, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is an affordable and fun pick for families. Book tickets to popular attractions, like the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, on the VisitPittsburgh

  • Anonymous

    Love watching movies every morning !

  • Robertino

    If you Love small cruise tour visit Amsterdam

  • Josey

    Love to spend time near Sea !

  • Marc Grazier

    First time visiting your website, I enjoy your website!

  • QWANTURANK

    je visite l’ensemble des pages du site tout le temps tres bien fait
    longue vie au blog

  • Adventure Great Himalaya

    Trekking In Nepal is one of the most popular tourist Activities. Trekking in Nepal generally involves walking on trails with beautiful views for around 6 to 8 hours a day. In a trek, a trekker walks along routes with the variety of land topography including passes, river, high altitude routes, and much more. Travelers enjoy trekking in Nepal because they can enjoy the beautiful nature and sceneries of the country.

    Nepal is a land of wonder and home to 8 breathtaking mountains above 8000 meters. These include Mt. Everest (the tallest mountain in the world), Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Dhaulagiri, etc. Needless to say, these are some of the tallest mountains in the world. These mountains and the wonderful trails nearby make trekking in Nepal a delightful prospect.

    All of these mountains are well-protected. Besides, the area and surrounding forests form a part of many national parks and conservation areas. There are many lakes, gorges, waterfalls, and culturally significant places nearby these trekking areas. Thus, people from all over the world dream of trekking in Nepal.

    There are many trekking in Nepal, Some of these treks are short in length. These treks last anywhere from a day to one week. On the other hand, there are also longer treks that can take anywhere between a week and a month.

    Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Everest Base Camp treks are some of the most popular treks in Nepal. These treks are moderate in their length.

    Langtang valley trek, Everest view trek, and Ghorepani Poonhill trek are some of the popular short treks. Due to their short span, these Short treks in Nepal tend to cost a lot less than longer treks.

    As you trek to the high altitude, high Himalayas and their beauty will greet you. Panoramic mountains and the beautiful sunrise/ sunset amidst the soaring mountains will be a delight.

    Most trekking areas are also declared as national parks and conservation areas. These are home to beautiful species of birds and animals. You can get to see some exotic animals, butterflies, and birds during your trek in Nepal.

  • AsC

    Belgium forbade all international travel early in the pandemic, according to the United States Embassy in Belgium. Any travelers who are permitted entry (there are strict restrictions) must self-quarantine for 14 days. The country started easing its strict lockdown on May 4 and will continue to open parts of the country in a phased way, but tourism is not among the phases.

  • James bond

    wow, What a journey, totally impressed

  • Devesh

    I really like your post..

  • Achyut

    Agra is one of the best beautiful places in India and the Taj Mahal is one of the Beautiful world heritage places in the world. Thanks, for sharing great information learn something new today.

  • Janis Coleman

    Have a vehicle in Tracy, California that I need driven cross country to Columbus, Georgia.