Activities:

 

Dakini Tidal Wilds

Various Locations
Sooke, BC
Phone: (250) 818-4633

Website: https://www.dakinitidalwilds.com/

Contact: Amanda Swinimer
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Join Marine Biologist Amanda Swinimer, of Dakini Tidal Wilds, as she leads you into the dynamic inter-tidal zone of the Pacific Northwest. Immerse yourself in the greatest diversity of seaweeds on the planet. On the beautiful beaches of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, learn which seaweeds are edible, their amazing nutritional and medicinal properties and have a taste straight from the cold waters of the Emerald Sea…”tide to mouth”. See the floating “Kelp forests”, the iridescent “Rainbow Seaweed”, sushi-famed “Nori” and some of the amazing creatures that call this place home.

 

 

A Taste of Victoria Food Tours

Various locations
Victoria, BC .
Phone: (250) 893-9815

Website: http://www.atasteofvictoriafoodtours.com/?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Andy Olson
Email: [email protected]

Description:
A Taste of Victoria Food Tours offers a 2-hour award-winning food and history tasting experience. Starting at the Victoria Public Market (1701 Douglas St.) the tour makes 6 tasting stops through the historic districts of Chinatown, Old Town, and the Inner Harbour. Tastings feature Victoria businesses serving local ingredients including meatballs, perogies, chocolate, and more. Tours depart daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Book your tickets online at www.atasteofvictoriafoodtours.com

 

 

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

1040 Moss ST
Victoria, BC V8V 4P1
Phone: (250) 384-4171

Website: http://aggv.ca//?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Email: [email protected]

Description:
Since 1951 the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has been located just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria in a beautiful park-like setting. The Gallery is housed in a combination of contemporary exhibition spaces and the remarkable 1889 Spencer mansion. It is the largest public art gallery on Vancouver Island and one of the most significant in Canada with its important collection of visual and decorative arts. In addition to historical and contemporary art, the Gallery has an outstanding collection of art from Asia including one of the only authentic Shinto shrines outside of Japan showcased in an Asian Garden. The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is proud to collaborate with artists, art historians, community groups and other cultural organizations to create engaging and relevant exhibitions. The Gallery gift shop features handmade pottery, jewellery, scarves and other beautiful crafts by local artisans and through Art Rental & Sales, art can be purchased or rented. Open year-round and concurrently presenting up to seven exhibitions across a range of media.

 

 

Axe & Grind

910 Government ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1X3
Phone: (250) 590-3229

Website: https://axeandgrind.com/

Contact: Dave Delaney
Email: [email protected]

Description:
We are Victoria’s only axe throwing club. Visitors can try out this quintessentially Canadian backyard sport in a fun and safe environment with trained coaches. Perfect for tour groups, birthday parties, bachelor(ette) parties or corporate team building events.

 

 

The Butchart Gardens

800 Benvenuto AVE
Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8
Phone: (250) 652-4422

Website: http://www.butchartgardens.com/?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Josh Bickerton
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Enjoy 22 ha (55 acres) of gardens year around. In Spring, countless tulips, daffodils and hyacinths provide an abundance of fragrance and colour. You will be wowed when you experience our Summer: The Rose Garden, Night Illuminations, and evening entertainment. Perennial and Dahlia borders start their stunning show in late summer. In Autumn the Japanese maples turn to russet, gold, and red. Be captivated by the Magic of Christmas complete with decorations, expansive lighting, traditional carollers and festive brass. Top off the day with a ride on the Rose Carousel and or enjoy a meal at one of our restaurants. Named a National Historic Site of Canada in 2004, The Butchart Gardens have been in bloom for over 100 years. www.butchartgardens.com

 

 

Cowichan Trading

1328 Government ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1Y8
Phone: (250) 383-0321

Website: http://www.cowichantrading.com/?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Don Whimbey
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Hand-crafted native arts, crafts, jewellery and moccasins. We specialize in hand-crafted native arts, crafts, jewellery, moccasins and authentic Cowichan sweaters plus a selection of t-shirts, giftware and souvenirs.

 

 

Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum

1050 Joan CRES
Victoria, BC V8S 3L5
Phone: (250) 592-5323

Website: https://www.thecastle.ca

Contact: John Hughes
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Craigdarroch Castle is a National Historic Site built by wealthy coal baron, Robert Dunsmuir. Craigdarroch Castle is a stunning example of Victorian architecture, including exquisite stained-glass windows, woodwork and period antiques. Climb the 87 steps up the grand oak staircase to the Tower for the best views in Victoria. Operated by a nonprofit charity, proceeds from admission fund the ongoing restoration of the Castle. Self-guided tour translations available in: Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, and Turkish.

 

 

Explore Songhees

Various Locations
Victoria, BC .
Phone: 

Website: https://www.exploresonghees.com/

Contact: Cecilia Dick
Email: [email protected]

Description:
“əyʔ skʷéčəl “good day” The Songhees Nation welcomes all visitors to lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory with an invitation to join us for meaningful indigenous cultural experiences. Come visit the Songhees Wellness Centre, our cultural hub, where people and traditions come to meet. Take in the incredible views, visit the art gallery + cafe or gather in the full service event facilities for over 600 people. Join us for an adventurous cultural canoe or walking tour departing from the Inner Harbour; here or near, you will find indigenous inspired casual cuisine at the Songhees Food Truck (check website for location by date). We look forward to your visit!”

 

 

Forged Axe Throwing

586 Johnston ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1Z2
Phone: (778) 770-2240

Website: http://www.forgedaxe.ca

Contact: James Anderson
Phone: (778) 770-2240
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Unleash your inner lumberjack with Forged Axe Throwing! Our action packed one hour sessions will take you from zero experience to axe throwing champ in one hour… guaranteed! Transport yourself into a wood lined axe throwing arena and get ready to compete for the championship belt. Great for groups of 2 – 50 people. Book your session today at www.ForgedAxe.ca Opening in June 2023!

 

 

Ghostly Walks

812 Wharf ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1T3
Phone: (250) 384-6698

Website: http://www.ghostlywalks.com

Contact: John Adams
Phone: (250) 384-6698
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Experience Victoria’s popular evening ghost tour, featuring murder, hangings, romance and hauntings! Our entertaining walking tours reveal all. May 1 to October 31: every night. Rest of year: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays. Detailed schedule on website.

 

 

The London Chef

Various Locations
Victoria, BC
Phone: (250) 590-1865

Website: http://thelondonchef.com//?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Micayla Hayes
Phone: (250) 891-5355
Email: [email protected]

Description:
We are a fully interactive cooking school where students cook along with the Chef in real time. Designed to look and feel like you are cooking in your own home, students each have their own cooking stations – complete with Viking Pro ranges, sinks, aprons, and cookware sets. Our unique open cooking space offers an ideal environment for group cooking. The layout of our kitchen encourages socializing, and provides a great opportunity to meet new people, or spend time with old friends while you are learning to cook. We think that cooking should be fun. Ideal number for this venue; Cooking Class – 18. Private Dinning 24. Reception 60.

 

 

Malahat SkyWalk

901 Trans Canada HWY.
Malahat, BC V0R 2L0
Phone: 

Website: https://www.malahatskywalk.com/

Contact: Natasha Eddy
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Visit Vancouver Island’s Newest Attraction. Malahat SkyWalk is an accessible 600 m TreeWalk through a beautiful arbutus forest leading to a spectacular gentle spiral ramp that takes you up 32m to a sightseeing lookout offering views of Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and the distant Coast Mountains.

 

 

Ocean River Sports

1327 Beach Drive
Victoria, BC V8S 2N4
Phone: (250) 381-4233

Website: https://oceanriver.com/

Contact: Lee Phillips
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Ocean River Adventures has been Victoria’s premier kayaking, SUP and adventure company since 1981. We’ve scoured the coast for some of the most beautiful areas to paddle in and we explore from two locations: Downtown Victoria and Oak Bay. With a steady 5 star TripAdvisor Rating, we offer everything from three hour tours, to get a taste of west coast sea kayaking, up to full and multi-day tours for the avid adventurer. Don’t miss seeing the heart of historic Victoria from the seat of a kayak! Our Victoria Harbour Tours run daily and our experienced and knowledgeable guides will ensure your safety and fun. Looking for a distinctive adventure? Try our Oak Bay Shoreline kayak tour. Explore the nooks and crannies of this scenic ocean coastline and check out the marine life on nearby islets. This relaxing and fun tour will bring you along historic Oak Bay’s coastline. With the Olympic Mountains to the south and Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands to the east, there is always a vista that will take your breath away. Oak Bay features pristine kayaking on southern Vancouver Island. Our qualified guides will give you more than just a paddle, they will give you an experience to be remembered! Visit our website and see all our offerings. www.oceanriver.com

 

 

The Pedaler Cycling Tours and Rentals

321 Belleville ST
Victoria, BC V8V 1X2
Phone: (778) 265-7433

Website: http://www.thepedaler.ca/?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Jordan Varga
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Discover Victoria by Bicycle! Our guided bicycle tours showcase the local food and drink culture, the regional Galloping Goose and Lochside trails, favourite scenic vistas, and the distinctive neighbourhoods that make cycling in Victoria so enjoyable. Our menu of fun culinary tours have something for everyone. If you don’t feel like a tasting tour The Pedaler offers a Castles, Hoods and Legends Tour that focuses on the history and architecture of our distinctive neighbourhoods with colourful stories of individuals that have influenced what we see around us. Want to fly some kites and play around with your younger kids on a bike tour? Check out our Private Family Fun tour. If you prefer, rent a stylish bicycle and explore our beautiful city on your own. Our knowledgeable staff will outfit you with a comfortable bicycle and provide you with an itinerary and map to suit your interests. You are just a bike ride away from feeling like a kid!

 

 

Royal BC Museum

675 Belleville ST
Victoria, BC V8W 9W2
Phone: (250) 356-7226

Website: https://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

Contact: Darren Glover
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Discover British Columbia at the Royal BC Museum. From coastal forests to the depths of the north Pacific, explore our gallery and immerse yourself in tales of where we’ve been and where we are going. Experience authentic artifacts and highly realistic settings as you journey to the Ice Age and spot a Woolly Mammoth. Dive under the ocean and check out some of the amazing creatures living in our waters and see how climate change is impacting the world we live in. Learn things you never knew before at what TripAdvisor users have consistently ranked the number one museum in Canada. Continue the adventure with an immersive cinematic experience at IMAX® Victoria, BC’s largest screen. Angkor: The Lost Civilization of Cambodia On now until January 14, 2024 Explore 120 unique artifacts from ancient Angkor, never before seen in Canada. Discover the resilience of Khmer culture and what science reveals about the ancient empire. SUE: The T. rex Experience On now until January 7, 2024 Meet SUE, the most complete and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex ever found, and journey through South Dakota, one of the most well documented ecosystems from the age of dinosaurs. Dinosaurs of BC On now until January 7, 2024 Dig into prehistoric British Columbia and learn about “Buster”, the Iron Lizard of the Sustut River, and the other dinosaurs that once battled, roamed and grazed across the province. Sacred Journey On now until October 29 An ancient tradition nearly lost to history, Sacred Journey tells the story of the repression and resurgence of ocean-going canoes and their vital link to the Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest.

 

 

Saanich Peninsula Flavour Trail

Various Locations on the Saanich Peninsula
Victoria, BC V8L 5S9
Phone: 

Website: http://www.flavourtrails.com///?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral

Contact: Aaren Topley
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Mobilize and connect efforts to develop healthy, equitable and sustainable food systems in the Capital Region.

 


That Girl in Victoria

Various Locations
Victoria, BC .
Phone: (250) 507-4775

Website: http://www.thatgirlinvictoria.com

Contact: Michele Davis
Phone: (250) 507-4775
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Private Car and Driver, Private Tours, Self Guided Audio Tours. Get off the Bus and explore Victoria at your own pace with local tour guide That Girl in Victoria. 1/2-day and full-day tours of Victoria, Butchart Gardens, and the Peninsula wine country are available from April to October. Want a tour but short on time or off-season? Try my Self Guided Audio tours – using your phone as your pocket guide.

 

 

Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit

4063 Cowichan Valley Hwy
Cowichan, BC V9L 6K4
Phone: 1-844-856-0122

Website: http://islandmotorsportcircuit.com/

Contact: Peter Trzewik
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Coined as “the most beautiful circuit’ by Autoweek, Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit offers an unforgettable experience for motorsport enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. As Canada’s only year-round motorsport facility, visitors can chose from an array of circuit programs and driving tours, available for all skill levels. Visitors can also enjoy a clubhouse lifestyle with luxurious amenities as the circuit boasts a contemporary 15,000 square foot clubhouse, a Presentation Centre featuring unique vehicles, a stunning 800 square foot wrap-around observation deck and delicious culinary cuisine at the Paddock Lounge. Surrounded by British Columbia’s beautiful natural scenery, this is a must see for all who appreciate beauty, performance and adventure.

 

 

Victoria Food Tours

Various Locations
Victoria, BC XXX
Phone: (250) 812-8508

Website: https://www.victoriafoodtours.com/

Contact: April-Dawn Best
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Enjoy a 2 hour food and cultural, culinary walking tour introducing you to the local history, food and customs of our beautiful city. Each tour includes food samples from locally owned restaurants and specialty food shops. fun, friendly and experienced guides introduce you to our local history, culture, architecture and entertainment offerings. We take you where the locals eat! Need a customized tour? Special event? Groups? We are ready to assist, and look forward to working with you. Experience Victoria’s food scene like a local and become a ‘foodie on foot’! Year-round, daily departures.

 

 

Victoria Harbour Ferry Company Ltd.

790 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5
Victoria, BC .
Phone: (250) 708-0201

Website: https://victoriaharbourferry.com/

Contact: Heather Robson
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Renowned for its friendly skippers, iconic pickle boats and water ballet, Victoria Harbour Ferry offers 45-minute Harbour Tours, 75-minute Gorge Tours, and Water Taxi service. Discover Victoria’s vibrant down town and adjacent neighbourhoods from the water. For Water Taxi hops go to any of our Harbour Ferry dock locations, scan the QR code or call 250.514.9794. Join us onboard the next ferry, and take a fun and leisurely ride to your destination. Harbour tours and Gorge tours start at the Empress Dock and depart daily from February through October. Welcome aboard Victoria’s most popular attraction!

 

 

WildPlay Element Parks

15 – 1767 Island HWY
Victoria, BC V9B 1J1
Phone: 1-855-959-2251

Website: https://wildplay.com/

Contact: Stewart Scholz
Email: [email protected]

Description:
WildPlay Element Parks nature-based aerial adventures in Victoria and Nanaimo offer a unique way for adults, teens, and kids to have fun together. Both Parks feature the Aerial Adventure of tree-top obstacles and zip lines, where dozens of suspended games weave 2 to 18m (6 to 60 ft) through the island’s beautiful forests. Conquer the wobbly bridges, hanging nets, Tarzan swings, and more surprises. For added adventures, visit the island’s only Bungy Jump, Primal Swing, and Zipline Tour in Nanaimo. Pre-booked and walk-in spots available March through October. Visit WildPlay.com for current hours, and Park amenities. New for 2019 – WildPlay Victoria park shuttle service + Zipline Tour Make your visit even easier and book the WildPlay shuttle, three pick up locations in Downtown Victoria. WildPlay has Victoria’s ONLY dual lifeline, continuous belay zipline tour. Book at Victoria or Nanaimo: 1-855-595-2251 or WildPlay.com

 

Whale Watching companies:

 

 

BC Whale Tours

1234 Wharf ST
Victoria, BC V8W 3H9
Phone: (250) 590-5030

Website: https://www.bcwhalewatchingtours.com

Contact: Harold Benischek
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Leave the crowds behind on our custom made vessels specifically designed for comfort, speed and safety that carry only 12 privileged guests at a time. We have the BEST Guarantee Whale Program in the Industry! ~ No whales on your initial trip and you receive a 20% PARTIAL CASH refund, as well as free trips via standby! The rugged beauty of the West Coast is something that should be experienced with Victoria’s boutique whale watching company. The wildlife and limitless adventure that the Salish Sea has to offer is easily enjoyed when experienced in the comfort of our state-of-the-art vessels! Our knowledgeable crew ensure that each and every trip is an inspiring and educational experience. Inspiring in a marine adventure environment with fun, comfort and an educational, enriching experience! Experience a Whale Watching Tour like no other. Victoria’s premiere whale watching adventure company.

 

 

Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours

1 Dallas RD, Fisherman’s Wharf
Victoria, BC V8V 0B2
Phone: (250) 384-8008

Website: https://www.eaglewingtours.com/

Contact: Nathan Bird
Email: [email protected]

Description:
“We bring the Wild to life!” Whale watching is a major attraction for many visitors coming to Victoria and Eagle Wing Tours has been the #1 rated whale watching company on Trip Advisor since 2007 & the #1 top sustainable whale watching business in Canada. Victoria’s only award winning whale watch operator, we are the Premiere choice when it comes to: being sustainable, responsible, professional, thrilling, comfortable, and safe. People choose us for the thrill of a lifetime in British Columbia’s beautiful capital city – at the center of the world’s highest concentration of Killer Whales (Orca / Blackfish) and other whale (cetacean) species, such as: Humpback Whales, Gray Whales, and Minke Whales! With multiple departures daily and a Peak season success rate of over 95%, Eagle Wing consistently provides the thrill of a lifetime for environmentally conscious travelers from around the globe. Eagle Wing Tours operates year round with an industry best “Guaranteed Whales” sightings program in the Peak season and a Wildlife program in the Shoulder seasons with an excellent chance of seeing whales but no guarantee.

 

 

Five Star Whale Watching

645 Humboldt ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1A6
Phone: (250) 388-7223

Website: https://5starwhales.com/

Contact: Andrew Lees
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Join Five Star Whale Watching for the adventure of a lifetime – an experience that you will never forget! As Victoria’s longest running family owned and operated whale watching company and first Catamaran company, we have built up Victoria as a world class destination for whale watching. Setting the bar high for the local whale watching industry we have been inspiring and educating guests since 1985, introducing them to the wonders of the Salish Sea and our resident Orca whales. Our high speed expedition catamaran is the only vessel of its kind, offering the most stability and best platforms for viewing. With the highest repeat customer base and number one ranking on Tripadvisor, we know you will leave Victoria with a sense of awe and wonder and a longing to return. As our esteemed “local whale guru” Ron Bates (researcher) states so eloquently: “Nothing prepares you for the first sight and sound of a killer whale or whales coming out of the fog. They just sail along so confident and with full knowledge of where they are and what they are doing. Maybe someday we will understand more.” Join us for the adventure of a lifetime – Five Star office is conveniently located at the Fairmont Empress hotel, next to Miniature World.

 

 

Orca Spirit Adventures Ltd.

146 Kingston ST, Marina Level
Victoria, BC V8V 1V4
Phone: (250) 383-8411

Website: https://orcaspirit.com/

Contact: Rachel Thompson
Email: [email protected]

Description:
World-class Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Tours. Orca Spirit Adventures is proud to provide carbon neutral tours in the clear nutrient-rich waters of the Juan de Fuca and Haro Strait. This amazingly rich and diverse ecosystem has been rated the best place on earth to view Killer Whales and other marine life in the wild. Trained marine biologists are onboard every tour offering extensive knowledge of both local waters and marine habitat, making this an educational experience you’ll never forget! Choose from either an exhilarating open-aired zodiac or a luxurious covered vessel. The Orca Spirit II and the Catalina luxury Catamarans have a total capacity of 150 passengers and capacity of 110 for a sit-down dinner. Both vessels are available for whale watching, harbour cruises, weddings, corporate events and customized charters with catering capabilities provided by on or offsite caterers. WHALE GUARANTEE!

 

 

Prince of Whales Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures

812 Wharf ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1T3
Phone: (250) 383-4884

Website: https://princeofwhales.com/

Contact: Prince of Whales Sales
Phone: (250) 383-4884
Email: [email protected]

Description:
Prince of Whales Whale Watching has been sharing premiere whale-watching & marine-wildlife experiences with guests from around the world for 30 years! With locations in Victoria, Vancouver, and Telegraph Cove, we offer a wide variety of marine wildlife experiences that range from three hours long to a half-day. Our floating classrooms serve as a premium platform for provoking thought & educating guests who are naturally curious about killer whales & the other wild creatures that call the Salish Sea home. Our goal is to introduce you to as many marine species as possible on each tour and to leave you feeling inspired after every encounter! For more information, or to make a reservation today, please visit princeofwhales.com.

 

 

SpringTide Whale Watching & Eco Tours

1119 Wharf ST
Victoria, BC V8W 1T7
Phone: (250) 384-4444

Website: https://www.victoriawhalewatching.com/

Contact: Joanne Kukat
Phone: (250) 384-4444
Email: [email protected]

Description:
SpringTide provides whale watching tours that have captivated adventure seekers & wildlife enthusiasts from around the world for over 28 years. Family owned & operated, SpringTide is recommended as Victoria’s best whale watching tour company. All tours are currently running on our luxury 60-foot Ocean Cruiser. Marauder IV is fast, quiet, stable and comfortable. Sit inside, outside, or on the top deck with the Captain – the viewing options are all terrific! Especially unique are side decks running the whole length of the boat – lots of room to move, view and take that perfect picture. A spacious bathroom and limited capacity to allow for social distancing make this 84-passenger boat suitable for all ages and abilities.