Top Tourist attractions in Victoria, Canada

Lovely well planned building - part of an old house with a modern add on. Easy to navigate. Appears to offer free admission on first Saturday of each month!

Community days are the first Saturday of each month, with free entry. Love this level of accessibility.

Lovely Sunday afternoon stroll. Warhol to Banksy exhibit was engaging. Kudos to curator and gallery staff. Good experience all 'round.

A wonderful little museum with great curated collection and they also have art for sale done by local artist. We have reciprocity with Seattle Art Museum so we didn’t have to pay. I love the Japanese inspired garden with select bonsai. Highly recommended

Old Victoria Custom House
The Malahat Building/Old Victoria Custom House is a three-storey, mansard-roofed, brick building, built in 1874-5. It is located on a waterfront site, overlooking the harbour of the city of Victoria, British Columbia.
The Malahat Building/Old Victoria Custom House was designated a national historic site in 1987 because: it is closely associated with Victoria when the city was the pre-eminent commercial centre on Canada's Pacific Coast; and it is a rare surviving example of a 19th-century Second Empire style federal building.
As the customs house for Victoria from 1875 to 1899, the Malahat Building served the city's import and export trade during a time when Victoria was the busiest centre on the West coast. Mining licenses for the Klondike gold rush were administered here.

Mile 0 monument was erected by the Victoria Auto Club in 1958 and maintained by the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA)

Oldest building in Victoria! Amazing building.

Awesome nice place with a lot of Canadian naval history

Small château or huge house. Very interesting to know about the many owners of this place. 5 pianos! The view is quite pretty. I recommend walking the neighborhood to see the beautiful mansion, a lovely park nearby. The beach is not far too. The visit takes no longer than 1 hour

It is the part of the fort Rodd Hill museum.
There is a small exhibition inside.
Nice spot but I’d like to go to the top of the lighthouse.

The place is incredible. The castle has 4 floors with a front and a rear part. In each room, there are signs explaining the history of the place. In one of the rooms on the 2nd floor, there is a video that is projected on the wall. This one explains in more details the different periods lived of the castle during the years. It was very interesting. We stayed there for 2 hours to know more and explore this place. Also, there is a discount for students.

I've toured a lot of old houses like this. The only one that seemed grander to me was The Biltmore in Asheville, NC. Something that really struck me was the detailed floors. This place just smacks of opulence.

What's nice about the tour is that they give you a map with information so you can read details about each of the many rooms. They have done a great job of preserving the eras of the house - when it was the family's, when it was used as a hospital during WW1, and when it was Victoria College. We left the tour both impressed by what we saw and more educated about some history.

One of our favourite scenic places around Victoria! The fort is awesome by itself, you can also go in a lot of the buildings and see what it was like. Also, you can go around the fort to see the lighthouse, and you definitely won't regret going up to it. You can go inside and explore what life was like there and you'll get a great view of the ocean from its balcony. Also, you can just go behind the lighthouse and go up on the rocks to enjoy the view (they even have a couple chairs there). It was an awesome experience which kids would probably also enjoy (there were a lot of camp field trips there). The admission is cheap, there's big proper parking, good clean toilets and nice personnel. We came there right when they opened and we were the only ones there, but closer to noon people start coming since it's a pretty popular place.
We also got to see some swallow chicks and they were adorable, but make sure not to disturb them!

Great spot with beautiful ocean views and a peaceful park. Start of the Trans-Canada Highway, the highway that goes all the way across Canada!

Nice exposition of modern and controversial art. Also they had rotating exhibition of Asian crafts starting from ~1300 BCE.
Nice yard with Shinto shrine of 19th century.
The gallery occupies an old mansion which is nice.
Affordable gift store.
Free parking.

Tidy, well-maintained, and staffed perfectly to get pertinent information from knowledgeable, period-dressed guides.

Learned about rationing, explored the batteries, got help with a sewing emergency too!! Saw otters, enjoyed the hands-on exhibits in the lighthouse.

A terrific place to visit to learn about our rich Naval heritage. Make a donation at the door, or not, it's worth a visit for anyone even if you've not typically been interested in this subject matter. It has a video commentary running in rooms where you might otherwise find the amount of reading daunting. I'm sure you'll leave at the end of your visit as we did, discussing the fortitude of the young men and women whose stories are represented.

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites offer visitors a captivating journey through Canada's rich maritime history. Nestled on the picturesque coastline of Vancouver Island, this site is a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a glimpse into the past.

Fort Rodd Hill, a coastal artillery fort, was built in the late 19th century to defend the naval base at Esquimalt Harbour. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved fortifications, barracks, and gun batteries, gaining insight into Canada's military heritage and the strategic importance of the area.

Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the west coast of Canada, stands majestically at the entrance to Esquimalt Harbour. Built in the mid-19th century, the lighthouse served as a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean. Its iconic red and white tower remains a symbol of safety and guidance to this day.

People flock to Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse to immerse themselves in the stories of the past, explore the historic structures, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Whether it's learning about military history, marveling at the engineering of the lighthouse, or simply taking in the panoramic views of the ocean, this National Historic Site offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

A visit to Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse is not just a trip back in time—it's a chance to connect with Canada's maritime heritage, appreciate the beauty of the Pacific coast, and create lasting memories in a truly special place.

If you are someone who is into some quick history fun facts, this would be a short and cheap stop! I would bring food and make it a picnic too - picnic tables available.
Light house and everything were clean and well kept! It's definitely a scenic area.
But otherwise, there's not much to do around here.

Outside of the palace, looked a little smaller than expected, but architecture was very different and very Victorian. Inside looked really big 7 floors, lot of rooms and a lot of Victorian style furniture, room decorations, living styles..etc etc. 7 foors have two parts..you enter from one side and then come down from the other side. For kids, they give a treasure hunt style playback and that kept my kids engaged throughout..this is more useful for younger kids as they may not be in the right age to associate with history...something very unique that I have never found in other old architectures or buildings.

We did not go into the castle but if we make it to the area again we will do the tour. If you are driving be aware that the roads around the castle are two way but only wide enough for one vehicle when their are cars parked along to road. You may have to back up a ways to let someone past. Not complaining just a heads up for those that it would be an issue for or those with a large vehicle (we were in our subarue ascent) the castle is beautiful and so are the grounds.

It was a nice garden to visit! It takes 40-45kin to walk all.

Free parking, self-guided tour with lots of information. They did great on the maps, easy to navigate and get around. LOTS OF stairs, not for those with mobility issues. Tour is available on weekends for additional charges.

Charm in the air!

Generally I don’t take photos at Galleries as art is best in person. This Shinto shrine, however, is a rarity in Canada and feels alive.

Depending on when one goes there are plenty of experiences to be had as exhibitions from throughout the country come to this charming destination.

Mile 0 Monument in Victoria, BC, is a must-see landmark marking the start of the Trans-Canada Highway. The monument is beautifully situated in a scenic park, offering a great spot for photos and a moment of reflection on the historic significance of this highway. It's a perfect place to begin a cross-country journey or just to appreciate a piece of Canadian history. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Victoria!

I would count this as a must-see on a trip to Victoria. Great signs throughout with lots of information. They are doing a wonderful job restoring the building. There are a LOT of stairs, so it's not great for those with mobility issues, but my mother took it slowly and was able to accomplish it. The staff were very helpful making sure she was okay and directing her to chairs, so she could have a break. I highly recommend a stop here while you are visiting the island!

A nice art gallery away from the centre with some great pieces. It's pretty small and one of the rooms was being turned over but the tickets were appropriately discounted.

We took the ferry from Port Angeles to visit Victoria. We bought our tickets for the castle and the bus (that takes you a block from the castle) at the visitor info center. Easy to get to and the busses run frequently. The self guided tour was awesome, had many staff in different areas to expand on the history and answer questions. Cool new experience and glimpse into the past!

I was captivated by the rich history and intricate displays. From original antiques to crafted models. As a fan of the Canadian Navy, I was drawn to this place. I also say some deer. Very nice place

Five stars for this beautifully preserved crucial part of British Columbia history.
Listen to the audio tour if it’s available. Great spot for a picnic.

We have heard so many stories about him, but when we first came to his start line, Istill a little excited.

We visited as the rhodos and magnolias were beginning to fade and the peonies had yet to burst open, and yet there was still much to see.
There were more varieties of rhododendruns here than I have seen elsewhere.
The paths here are wide, level and smooth, so accessible. Its a small and tranquil garden with some well-placed benches. We easily passed a pleasant hour here and will come again.

Amazing gardens and free to visit. So many gorgeous trees and flowering shrubs among the winding pathways.

One of those spots to say "Been there"!
And I'm so glad I did! It was a nice little spot, but the view... my goodness, the view was amazing!

## Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS: History, Nature, and Stunning Views (with a Few Catches)

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site offer a unique blend of history, nature, and scenic beauty. Here's a breakdown of the good and the not-so-good:

**Positives:**

* **Fascinating History:** Explore the well-preserved Fort Rodd Hill, a 19th-century coastal artillery fort. Learn about its role in defending Victoria and see the impressive gun emplacements. The Fisgard Lighthouse, Canada's first on the west coast, offers a glimpse into early lighthouse technology.
* **Breathtaking Views:** The location boasts stunning panoramic vistas of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. It's a photographer's paradise! Keep an eye out for whales and sea lions during migration seasons.
* **Nature Connection:** Enjoy a walk along the Fisgard Lighthouse Trail, a scenic loop with native plants and a chance to spot local wildlife. The nearby beach is a great place to relax and listen to the waves.
* **Family-Friendly Activities:** The interactive exhibits at Fisgard Lighthouse are a hit with kids, particularly the chance to sound the foghorn. The open spaces at Fort Rodd Hill are perfect for running around and exploring.

**Negatives:**

* **Limited Accessibility:** While the main areas are accessible, some of the fort buildings have stairs and uneven terrain. The walk down to the lighthouse can be a bit steep, so keep that in mind if you have mobility limitations. The entry fee of 9$ is bit extensive for the place.
* **Potential Crowds:** The sites can get busy, especially during peak season and on sunny weekends. Parking can be a challenge, so be prepared to walk a bit from the parking lot.
* **Varying Hours:** The fort and lighthouse have slightly different operating hours, so be sure to check the official website before you go to avoid disappointment. Some exhibits might also have limited hours.
* **Wildlife Encounter (of the Messy Kind):** Be warned, there can be a significant amount of goose droppings around the fort, particularly in grassy areas.

**Overall:**

Despite a few drawbacks, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS are a worthwhile destination, especially for history buffs and nature lovers. Just be prepared for crowds and potential goose encounters! If you're looking for a historical and scenic escape near Victoria, this is a great option.

Very cool historical spot. Nice to wander and explore the fort and lighthouse. It was an offseason weekday so none of the buildings were open but still fun.

Loved our stop here on the way to the ferry. Lots of birds to see and hear. Bonus... dogs are permitted on a leash.

Absolutely stunning building.

There's a pretty unique water park thing right next to this monument, along with a huge gravel field and a wonderful 152 acre park with lots of water features and a playground! Also a fantastic view of the water and Port Angeles

Thank you to all that serve our country.

The Commissionaires service on site was amazing. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

Beautiful museum and it's available to the public.

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a wonderful art gallery. It is housed in two spaces; a more modern gallery and the first floor of the Spencer Mansion.

The galleries are thoughtfully put together and arranged. The addition of some of the artists personal experiences, beliefs, and life story’s in the exhibits is a great inclusion. Within each themed gallery is there is an array or art, ranging from more modern/contemporary art, to some art from the 1700s. The art pieces are woven together in a very thoughtful manner.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and look forward to returning.

It’s a nice small museum that tells you about HCMS navy. The mannequin is kind of scary for younger children.

Also, don’t rely on Google map as it will alway bring you to the wrong gate. You should get it through gate downhill

Lovely fountain commemorating British Columbia joining Confederation in 187.1. Very popular with kids on a hot day, even if they couldn't actually get wet!

Beautiful gardens to stroll through. I imagine it's even better when everything's in full bloom. It was quiet, serene and you could even bring a small picnic if you wanted to. Enjoy!

This place is great with the Terry Fox Statue as well; also can see the big ocean.

Along the shoreline, can have relax breeze of winds, that makes so much relaxing and comfortable!

The Mile Zero is the west of Canada starting point of Terry Fox Marathon!

It is so memorable which we can take pictures in front of the "MILE ZERO" sign and the statue of Terry Fox here!

when you come to Victoria, this is one of the places to visit!

Quiet little place right beside the legislative bldgs. The fountain has colours and is beautiful to look at, especially when it is dark. Christmas season its red and green waters

Nice fountain in the confederation garden.

The rhodendrons in early May are spectacular. A nice wooded walk with many paths to draw your attention to another hidden bouquet. It's free other than the parking which is on university property. We spent an hour there, but you could easily spend two enjoying the garden.

I really did enjoy this museum. Some good Canadian history of our Navy. I liked the models as you can see. There was a fair fee of them showing off our ships, there was some nice displays of what it would be like in the ships and the history of some of the battles and a kids area for younger ones to play in. This style of museum is tough to do properly as these guys did a pretty good job. There is also s book on display that has all of our ships in it. Pretty interesting to take the time and go through.

The museum had all works of fun things for us and the kids. It is a bit of an odd drive to access the building but the road is well marked. Just a note to ensure that all adults had valid ID as the museum is on base.

Neat fountain in commemoration of the confederation of Canada, located right by the statues and time capsule. Could use a little bit of upkeep or revamp, but generally a very nice area.

Interesting place to visit. Right in front of the fountain you can see an inscription of the time capsule to be open in 2067.

The gardens are surprisingly large - and the best price of all - free!!
The large variety of rhododendrons and azaleas were very good. It's too bad that most of the grassy openings were closed for the public.

Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Very friendly and narrow stroll.

We visited in late May, there are many large azalea bushes. I wonder if there are more variety of blooms(?)

Overall, we appreciate how well maintained the place is. The kids seemed to enjoy it - especially in the open area.

Paid parking on site.

Casa mais antiga da cidade, ponto de referência . Vale visitar !

It's a gorgeous building, but I'm reviewing it so Google will stop asking me to review it. This thing really needs an obvious "don't ask me to review this, people I know work here" button.

Thought it was fascinating when I was little and the marks in the rocks caused by glaciers. Now it's nice but needs more light at night. It's gone a bit tired since 1967

It was fun visiting. There were a few plaques which explained some of the history of the monument. Nearby there was also a Terry Fox monument with an explanation of what he did. Near the coast there is a nice beach. I was able to walk along the beach while climbing rocks, and eventually there was a path leading upward. You must be relatively fit in order to explore the entire beach, as the beach consists of "sandy" areas, with frequent stretches of huge rocky (almost mountain like) terrain. There is also a more conventional paved path above the beach. I didn't walk too far along this path but you'll find more people and benches overlooking the beach.

This was an amazing fountain. The coat of arms for each province was something I have never seen before including the coat of arms for the country. If you do go to Victoria this is a nice place to stop by the Legislature building.

Lovely fountain with colourful plaques showing coats of arms for each Canadian Province. The central waterfall has a display showing the links to United Kingdom it’s unfortunate the Union Flag is shown back to front.

This little museum is definitely worth a visit. It covers the history and heritage of the naval presence on Canada's West Coast and of the military on Southern Vancouver Island. The museum traces the ups – and downs – of the Canadian Navy with a series of exhibits, from the Navy's formation in 1910, through the turbulence of two World Wars, the conflict in Korea, and beyond. The museum itself is housed in a heritage building at the Naden Naval Base in Esquimalt and a visit also gives you a chance to see some of this historic Royal Canadian Naval Base up close.