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.

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.

The Fairmont Empress hotel 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.

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.

Bastion Square, located in Victoria, holds great historical significance and now serves as a charming pedestrian mall. As you enter the square from View and Government Streets, you'll be greeted by a ceremonial arch, marking the beginning of this captivating area. On the Wharf Street side, the exit opens up to a staircase that provides a picturesque view of the Inner Harbour.

Back in 1963, under the guidance of city planner Rod Clack, Bastion Square underwent development as part of the modernization efforts for Centennial Square. View Street was closed off to vehicular traffic, giving rise to a pedestrian-friendly space. The square was skillfully enclosed by beautifully restored historic buildings on three sides, while the fourth side offered a scenic vista of the harbor.

Among the notable historic buildings within the square are Burnes House, the Beaver Building, the Board of Trade Building, Chancery Chambers, the Law Chambers, the Rithet Building, and the Supreme Court Building. These architectural gems add to the overall charm and character of the square.

Bastion Square is also known for hosting various events throughout the year, including the Bastion Square Public Market, the Holiday Market, and the Art Walk. These gatherings further enhance the vibrant atmosphere and provide opportunities for locals and visitors to engage with art, crafts, and local produce.

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.

Fan Tan Alley is a fascinating and unique attraction located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Victoria. Known for being the narrowest commercial street in North America, this alley is less than 0.9 meters (3.0 feet) wide at its narrowest point.

The alley runs south from Fisgard Avenue to Pandora Avenue, between Government Street and Store Street. The alley's name comes from the Chinese gambling game Fan-Tan, which was once played here. During the 1910s, it was well-known for illegal gambling clubs and opium factories. However, police raids and declining visitors led to the closure of the gambling clubs in the 1950s and 60s. The alley fell into disrepair, but it was revitalized in the 1970s and 80s with leadership from David Chuenyan Lai.

Today, Fan Tan Alley is a popular tourist destination that contains a variety of small shops, an art gallery, restaurants, apartments, and offices. It was designated as a heritage property by the local government in 2001. The alley's original gate was salvaged and donated to the Six String Nation project, where it now serves as kerfing on a guitar located there. Interestingly, in the 1990 movie "Bird on a Wire," Mel Gibson rides a motorcycle down the alley.

Visitors to Fan Tan Alley can immerse themselves in its rich history and enjoy its unique atmosphere. The narrow alleyway is a testament to Victoria's multicultural past, and visitors can explore its many shops and businesses.

The Gate of Harmonious Interest is not only a cultural symbol but also a magnificent gateway to Victoria's Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and second only to San Francisco's in North America. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, when a mass influx of miners arrived from California to what is now British Columbia.

The gate was erected in 1981 to celebrate the revitalization of Chinatown by the City of Victoria and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, with participation from both Chinese and non-Chinese communities. It stands as a shining emblem of unity and harmony, reflected in the two inscriptions: "To work together with one heart" and "To help each other achieve harmony."

The structure itself is a spectacular piece of architecture, adorned with elaborate red and gold decorations—a true feast for the eyes. Two hand-carved stone lions, gifted by Victoria's twin city, Suzhou in China, stand guard on either side, adding a touch of grandeur. The outer red pillars each contain two time capsules, set to be opened in 2081 and 2096, providing a glimpse into the past for future generations.

A plaque engraved with the names of 61 Chinese Canadians who fought and died for Canada during World War II is also located at the site, honoring their sacrifices.

The ambiance of Victoria's Chinatown is vibrant, with alleys brimming with unique boutique shops. From vegan cork purses to specialty soaps, these shops offer items that cannot be found elsewhere. Other stops include fresh produce, chocolate, bakeries, and metaphysical literature. The alleys themselves are charming, featuring exposed brick, vibrant colors, and impeccable cleanliness, creating a welcoming and atmospheric experience.

Tip:
Not all restaurants are great, so make sure you read some reviews before choosing where to eat.

Thunderbird Park, located in Victoria, is an enchanting park adjacent to the Royal British Columbia Museum. Within this park, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the First Nations through the presence of numerous totem poles (monumental carvings), predominantly representing the Gitxsan, Haida, and Kwakwaka'wakw peoples. These awe-inspiring totem poles prominently feature the mythological Thunderbird, a significant figure in Indigenous North American cultures.

Thunderbird Park features historic landmarks like Saint Anne's Schoolhouse (1844), Helmcken House (1852), and the Mungo Martin House (Wawadit'la) (1953). These structures represent the area's educational heritage, Victorian-era architecture, and traditional Kwakwaka'wakw style, respectively.

Thunderbird Park forms an integral part of the Royal BC Museum Cultural Precinct, a captivating area encompassing the museum and various historical sites and monuments. It serves as a living testament to the deep-rooted history and artistic expressions of the Indigenous peoples.

The park's story began in 1940 when totem poles were erected in Thunderbird Park to conserve Aboriginal art. The park was officially designated in 1941. However, by 1951, the original poles decayed. The Royal BC Museum launched a restoration program in 1952, led by Chief Martin. After Chief Martin's passing in 1962, Henry Hunt became the head carver. Throughout the years, talented artists like Richard Hunt, Tony Hunt, Tim Paul, Lawrence Bell, David Gladstone, David Martin, and Bill Reid joined the program. By 1992, all original poles were replaced, with some originals preserved in the museum.

Helmcken House was built in 1852 for Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken, a prominent physician, and politician who played a crucial role in the early history of British Columbia. Considered one of the oldest remaining houses in British Columbia, it is now a popular tourist attraction.

The building's architecture reflects the colonial style of the mid-19th century. It is a simple, rectangular wooden structure, with a steep gabled roof and a central chimney. The walls are made of hand-hewn, square-cut timbers that were covered with split cedar shakes. Inside, the house is divided into several rooms, with a central hallway and a staircase leading to the upper level. Interior furnishings are mainly original or replicas from the mid-19th century.

The history of Helmcken House is closely linked to the history of British Columbia. Dr. Helmcken played a significant role in the establishment of the colony and the creation of the province. He was also one of the signatories of the BC Terms of Union, which united British Columbia with the rest of Canada in 1871.

Helmcken House remained in the Helmcken family until 1930, when it was purchased by the Province. The house was restored to its original condition in the 1940s and became a historic site open to the public in 1955.

Why You Should Visit:
Quick glimpse into the past that provides some additional insight and history in a different context than that of the Royal Museum.

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.

Standing proudly on Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings are impossible to miss. Completed in 1898, they are considered a perfect example of Neo-Baroque Renaissance architecture. Their stunning design incorporates a range of features, including columns, pediments, domes, and classical motifs.

The central building is the most notable of the complex, featuring a magnificent central dome reaching a height of 75 meters, making it one of the tallest domes in the world. Atop it stands a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver.

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

The west wing of the complex contains the offices of Members of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Library. The east wing is home to government administrative offices, including those of the Premier and the Lieutenant Governor.

The interiors are adorned with mosaic tiles, painted ceilings, and beautiful stained glass windows, as well as numerous works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and murals.

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 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. Self-guided and guided tour of portions of the Parliament are available.

The Parliament Buildings and the surrounding garden knoll are spectacular both by day and by night.

Tip:
Make sure to take both the indoor and garden tours—they’re spectacular by day and by night, and best of all, both are free!
You can also sign in at the security desk and visit the basement restaurant which is frequented by all the politicians.