Curator’s statement
After years of struggling with infertility, we became parents with the assistance of the Victoria Fertility Clinic in Saanich, BC on Vancouver Island. I fell in love with the whole area. From being close to the ocean, getting to see the seals up close and personal at Oak Bay Marina, to witnessing random wildlife come out of a majestic forest right in the middle of what was meant to be an urban area. Vancouver Island quickly felt like home, and became a top contender when we were deciding where to move our lives.
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Where to stay in Victoria
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Things to do in Victoria
Butchart Gardens
Whale watching: More than whale watching, during this marine wildlife tour off southern Vancouver Island, you may encounter orcas, humpbacks, seals, sea lions, and even bald eagles in their natural habitat. I went with SpringTide Whale Watching & Eco Tours, a highly regarded local company offering both covered vessels and open zodiac-style boats, led by knowledgeable guides.
Stroll the souvenir shops of Downtown Victoria: Explore the charming historic streets of downtown Victoria, where locally crafted goods and souvenir stores line Government Street and surrounding blocks. Be sure to go down Waddington Alley to experience the cobblestone road.
Afternoon high tea at The Fairmont Empress: The iconic Victorian tradition of high tea at The Fairmont Empress offers an opportunity to practice your etiquette—complete with fine teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in an elegant historic setting overlooking the water. Fill your belly while watching the seafarers come and go.
Historic horse-drawn carriage ride: Travel through Victoria’s scenic harbor front and historic streets aboard a classic horse-drawn carriage. Let Tally‑Ho Carriage Tours be your guide, sharing the stories of the past and showing you Downtown Victoria at a slower pace.
Harbor cruise or water taxi tour: A harbor tour or water taxi is a unique way to see Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Aboard the ferry, you’ll get a front-row view of the runway for aircraft, as well as all kinds of marine vessels coming into and leaving the port.
Visit Fisherman’s Wharf: At Fisherman’s Wharf, you can enjoy a quick bite to eat while taking in the beauty of their houseboat village. A great place to go when you want a good vibe.
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea + Sidney Lunch: Take a drive up to beautiful Sidney by the Sea to visit the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. Take in the beautiful aquatic life in their aquarium, then enjoy lunch at West Coast Grill. Try their amazing clam chowder!
Drive to Oak Bay and Lunch at Oak Bay Beach Hotel: Take a scenic drive through charming Oak Bay Village and stop for lunch at the upscale Oak Bay Beach Hotel—known for its ocean views and refined fare.
The Butchart Gardens: The world-famous Butchart Gardens features 55 acres of floral displays, themed gardens, fountains, and walkways designed to create a stunning botanical experience. The Gardens are adapted seasonally to maintain a year-round evolving experience.
The Butterfly Gardens: Step into a lush tropical conservatory filled with exotic butterflies, tropical birds, reptiles, and vibrant plants. This hidden gem is sure to bring out the kid in everyone.
Places to eat & drink in Victoria
Breakfast
Jam Cafe: A Victoria brunch institution known for hearty comfort food, towering bennies, and indulgent pancakes—expect generous portions and a lively, energetic atmosphere (worth the wait).
Blue Fox Cafe: A long-time local favorite offering creative breakfast classics with plenty of gluten-free options, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser for groups with dietary needs.
Lunch
Fishhook: A personal favorite and a must-visit for vibrant, West Coast—inspired Indian cuisine—their seafood curries and signature “fishhook” wrap are fresh, flavorful, and uniquely Victoria.
Milestones Grill + Bar: A polished yet relaxed option along the Inner Harbour serving dependable crowd-pleasers, craft cocktails, and patio views perfect for a leisurely lunch.
El Furniture Warehouse: A fun, budget-friendly spot where everything on the menu is affordably priced, making it a great stop for casual bites and drinks without breaking the bank. The chicken fingers there were a personal favorite.
Afternoon treat
Fairmont Empress afternoon tea: An iconic Victoria experience, Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress features elegant finger sandwiches, house-made scones, and premium teas served in a grand, historic setting overlooking the harbor.
Piggy & Paisley Tea Room: A charming and whimsical alternative for tea lovers, offering beautifully presented tiered trays and a cozy, boutique atmosphere.
Dinner spots
West Coast Grill: Located in Sidney with sweeping ocean views, this spot specializes in fresh seafood and elevated West Coast cuisine—ideal for a scenic dinner by the water.
Uni Modern Sushi: A sleek and contemporary sushi bar serving artfully presented rolls and fresh sashimi, perfect for a lighter yet refined evening meal.
The Old Spaghetti Factory: A family-friendly classic set in a historic downtown building, known for its hearty pasta plates, nostalgic décor, and excellent value.
Need to know
Getting around: Downtown Victoria is highly walkable, especially around the Inner Harbour, Government Street, and James Bay. If you plan to visit Sidney, Butchart Gardens, or Oak Bay, renting a car offers the most flexibility, though public transit and guided tours are available.
Getting to Vancouver Island: Most visitors arrive via BC Ferries from the mainland or by seaplane into Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Ferry reservations are strongly recommended in summer months and on long weekends.
Book tours in advance: Whale watching, harbor tours, carriage rides, and Afternoon Tea at the Empress frequently sell out in peak season. Advance reservations—especially for SpringTide Whale Watching & Eco Tours, and tea at Fairmont Empress—are highly recommended.
Budget expectations: Victoria can be on the pricier side, particularly for waterfront dining and attractions like The Butchart Gardens. Mixing splurge experiences with casual spots (like local cafes or budget-friendly eateries) helps balance costs.
Dress in layers: Even in summer, coastal breezes can make evenings cool—especially on the water during whale watching tours. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for cobblestone streets and garden pathways.
Wildlife and nature etiquette: This is an ecologically rich region. Follow marine wildlife viewing guidelines, never approach wild animals, and respect marked trails in gardens and parks.
Pair attractions strategically: Some attractions are conveniently located near each other. For example, The Butchart Gardens and Victoria Butterfly Gardens are minutes apart, making them an easy half-day combination.
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Heather Genik
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