2015 victoria & vancouver island visitors' guide
DESCRIPTION
Things to see and do in Victoria and Vancouver Island.TRANSCRIPT
OPEN DAILY, 649 Humboldt St.,
Victoria, BC Canada, V8W 1A7
Ph: (250) 385-9731 • Fax: (250) 385-2835
Voted Gem Attraction by “AAA” • Certificate of Excellence by TRIP ADVISOR
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.miniatureworld.com
The Greatest Little Show on Earth! TM
A People Attraction – Extraordinaire!Nothing Short of...MINIATURETASTIC!
Located in the EMPRESS HOTEL
Our Latest and Greatest addition
Space 2201NobHill
Dollhouse
BattleofBritain
The Enchanted Valley of Castles
Circus World Parade
Camelot Castle
A Classic Car Rally
Death of King ArthurKnights of the Round Table
Great Canadian Railway,Calgary 1885
MAPPAGE 111
T R A V E L I E X P L O R E I D I S C O V E R
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Contents / Visitor Information
3 Welcome to Victoria & Vancouver Island
4-8 BC Gardens Tour
9 Vancouver Island Map
10 Victoria and Saanich Peninsula Map
11 Downtown Victoria Map
12 The Essential Victoria
13 Top 6 Tours
14 Top 5 Reasons to Get Outdoors
15 Victoria Shopping & Galleries
16 Victoria Dining & Nightlife
17 Explore the Saanich Peninsula
18 Sidney Map
19 Visit Beautiful Sidney
TOURIST INFORMATION
Destination British Columbia HelloBC.com
Victoria British Columbia TourismVictoria.com
Vancouver Island VancouverIsland.travel
Sidney DistinctlySidney.ca
Canada Border Service Agency cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
U.S. Consulate (Vancouver) vancouver.usconsulate.gov
FishingTidal and fresh water sport fi shing licenses are required and must be carried on your person while fi shing. Full regulations and licenses can be obtained from most sporting goods stores and fi shing outfi tters.
Border Crossing InformationU.S. residents need a passport to cross into Canada and return to the U.S.
American Custom RegulationsAfter 48 hours stay in Canada, Americans are allowed $400 duty-free merchandise once every 31 days for personal use. Less than 48 hours stay, the allowance is $200 of merchandise.
Canada Border ServicesFor detailed information, call (800) 461-9999 (while in Canada) or (204) 983-3500 (from the U.S.).
VICTORIA & PENINSULA TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
Bus Lines
Wilson’s Transportation – Gray Line SightseeingVictoria.com
BC Transit Bus Information BCTransit.com
Airport Shuttle WilsonsTransportation.com
Ferry Services
BC Ferries BCFerries.com
Victoria Clipper Ferry Service ClipperVacations.com
Black Ball Ferry Line (MV Coho) CohoFerry.com
Washington State Ferries wsdot.wa.gov/ferries
EMERGENCY SERVICES 911
BC Auto Association 800.222.4357
HOSPITALS
Royal Jubilee Hospital 250.370.8000
Victoria General Hospital 250.727.4212
Saanich Peninsula Hospital 250.544.7676
FEARN’S 2015-2016 VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDEPUBLISHER: Certifi ed Folder Display Service Canada, Inc.
VICTORIA OFFICE: 225 Russell Street, Victoria, BC, Canada V9A 3X1phone: 250.382.4207 fax: 250.382.4264 certifi edfolder.com
Neither Certifi ed Folder Display Service Canada, Inc. or the Victoria & Vancouver Island Visitors’ Guide make any representation expressly or implied as to the performance of the advertisers herein, or the accuracy of the facts herein. Certifi ed Folder Display Service Canada, Inc. and the Victoria & Vancouver Island Visitors’ Guide jointly and severally disclaim any responsibility for acts or omissions of these advertisers. Copyright 2015 by Certifi ed Folder Display Service Canada, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this Visitors’ Guide may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. VVG5/15.
2 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
VICTORIA
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
LA
ND
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
LA
ND
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
L AN
D
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 3
Welcome toVICTORIA &VANCOUVER ISLANDThe historic seaport city of Victoria surrounds its Inner Harbour on the southeastern shores of Vancouver Island. As a provincial capital of more than 80,000, the city is one of Canada’s most vibrant. Its temperateclimate and world-class attractions make Victoria a favorite of visitors year round, from families and friends making memories, to couples seeking romantic getaways, to solo explorers looking for adventure.
Besides major airlines that fl y in and out of Victoria International Airport (YYJ), the city is easily accessible by seaplane and ferry, making the journey there an exciting part of the entire
Victoria experience.
Vancouver Island, at nearly 300 miles long and 80 miles wide at its broadest point, is Victoria’s vast back yard. The south island – the areas immediately bordering Victoria – offer plenty of at-tractions and outdoor recre-ation. These include: Saanich Peninsula, stretching north from Victoria; and Sooke, a scenic town west of Victoria.
These areas are easy to get to and, with some of the island’s best attractions, are perfect for day-trip activities or a longer getaway.
Traveling farther afi eld from Victoria, other island regions include the rich agricultural valley of Cowichan, the West Coast’s rugged Pacifi c Rim, the island’s central core with small coastal cities and interior mountains, and the north island with rugged coastlines and small fi shing villages.
WHALE WATCHING TOURS 950 WHARF ST. 250 386 2277 ORCASPIRIT.COM
FREE SHUTTLEBUS PICK-UP
MENTION THIS AD AND RECIEVE A $10 DISCOUNT ON YOUR TOUR!
MORE INFOTourismVictoria.com
VancouverIsland.travel
MAPPAGE 112
From the delicate cherry blossoms and daff odils of early spring to the magnifi cent rhododendrons in April and May, vibrant summer perennials to the rich colours of autumn, and the tropical wonders of indoor gardens to enjoy year-round, British Columbia is an incomparable destination for garden lovers. Even the winter months hold a special magic as evergreen shrubs
and trees take centre stage, making the region a horticultural paradise. With a wide range of garden experiences including botanical gardens, a butterfl y and tropical wildlife sanctuary, cultural gardens and a National Historic Site of Canada, the gardens featured in this guide range in size from perfect gems of less than an acre to grand estates and everything in between.
VancouverIsland UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA
TOFINO
WHISTLER
COURTENAY
PARKSVILLENANAIMO
VICTORIA
VANCOUVERVANCOUVER
SEATTLE
VancouverIsland
QueenCharlotte
Islands
UNITED STATESOF AMERICA
BRITISHCOLUMBIA
BRITISHCOLUMBIA
ALASKAUSA
PACIFICOCEAN
Rocky Mountains
YUKON TERRITORYNWT
ALBERTA
Dease LakeFort
Nelson
Fort StJohn
SmithersTerrace
PrinceGeorge
Bella Bella Bella Coola
PortHardy
Tofino
PowellRiver Whistler
Courtenay
ParksvilleNanaimo
Kamloops
Revelstoke Golden
Victoria
Kelowna
Penticton NelsonCranbrook
Sidney
Seattle
PrinceRupert
Vancouver
TrailGardentheFollow
The Butchart GardensThe Butchart Gardens, National Historic Site of Canada is a 55 acre privately owned display garden. Open every day of the year.Spectacular Spring bursts forth with over 300,000 fl owering bulbs and countless shrubs. The Rose Garden graces the summer while the perennial borders start their stunning show in late summer. Japanese maples turn to russet, gold, and red in the fall.
Highlights in July and August include evening entertainment, night illuminations, and Saturday fi reworks. The Magic of Christmas features carolers, a festive brass band and an outdoor ice skating rink. Spring Prelude marks the beautiful transition from winter to spring.
The Rose Carousel with 30 hand carved animals is sure to delight adults and children alike.
800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay, BCToll Free 1 (866) 652-4422 | Phone (250) 652-5256butchartgardens.comOpen daily, including holidays
Victoria Butterfl y GardensWelcome to the Jungle!Victoria Butterfl y Gardens off ers you an opportunity to experience a tropical jungle without going to the tropics. Caribbean fl amingos walk through the streams and ponds among the beautifully coloured koi, goldfi sh, Australian whistling tree ducks and red-eared slider turtles.
In our climate controlled environment, (26 Celsius and 80% humidity), wander through lush jungles of plants native to tropical rainforest environments and see poison dart frogs, geckos, tortoises, over 30 diff erent varieties of tropical birds and thousands upon thousands of free fl ying tropical butterfl ies.
We are located just 5 minutes from the ‘world famous’ Butchart Gardens.
1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay, BCToll Free 1 (877) 722-0272 | Phone (250) 652-3822butterfl ygardens.comSee website for daily hours of operation.
LIMITED
Tofi no Botanical GardenCanada’s westernmost, wettest and wildest garden!A sign at the entrance informs visitors that the gardens are regularly visited by bears,
wolves and cougars. Humans are also welcome, so be brave and come for a visit.
The gardens are described as whimsical, magical and inspiring. There are kitchen gardens,
chicken pens, forest boardwalks and amazing views out to Clayoquot Sound. An amazing
collection of sculpture, regular music programs and activities for children and learners of
all ages. TBG is everything a garden should be. Truly a place to set your heart free.
1084 Pacifi c Rim Hwy, Tofi no, BCPhone (250) 725-1220tbgf.org | Open daily from 9am till dusk
Milner Gardens & WoodlandVancouver Island University’s Milner Gardens & Woodland is a magical seaside retreat once reserved for royalty.Surrounded by old-growth forest and the Georgia Strait, this one-of-a kind woodland
estate rejuvenates the soul with its gardens and magnificent coastal views.
Enjoy the charming Camellia Tea Room after strolling the grounds and contemplate the
history of the Gardens or fantasize about having them all to yourself.
2179 West Island Highway, Qualicum Beach, BCPhone (250) 752-6153viu.ca/milnergardensSee website for season hours.
The Gardens at HCPOne of Canada’s top garden treasures.With nine acres of demonstration gardens to enjoy, you’ll find plenty of inspiration
and examples for your own garden. A further 100 acres of conservation park is home to
endangered plant species and a host of native bird species. HCP is also home to Pacific Horticulture College, founded in 1987 to provide professional education. Ongoing weekly
programs provide community education on a wide range of gardening related topics.
The new Couvelier Pavilion provides a gorgeous setting for small weddings and other
events – the perfect place to share and mingle with friends, family or colleagues.
505 Quayle Rd, Victoria, BCPhone (250) 479-6162hcp.ca | Open 9-5 daily
LIMITED
LIMITED
Vancouver Island Gardens
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese GardenNamed world’s top city garden by National Geographic.Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a picturesque and popular attraction on
Vancouver’s must-visit places list. Built in 1986, to increase understanding and bridge the
cultural gap between Chinese and Western cultures, it is the first Classical Chinese garden
built outside of China. Imported limestone rocks, lush vegetation, water features and
striking architecture make this a peaceful and tranquil setting in busy downtown.
578 Carrall Street, Vancouver, BCPhone (604) 662-3207vancouverchinesegarden.com
VanDusen Botanical Garden& Bloedel ConservatoryTravel the botanical world in the heart of Vancouver!Experience thousands of native and exotic plant species at the VanDusen Botanical Garden
in one of Canada’s largest botanical gardens. Plus, less than 1km away, you can enter
the tropics at the Bloedel Conservatory, which features 500 tropical plant species and
200 free flying exotic birds. See website for seasonal hours.
VanDusen Garden 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver, BCBloedel Conservatory Cambie Street and 33rd AvenuePhone (604) 257-8335www.vandusengarden.org
Centennial Rose Garden CoquitlamRecognized as one of the top rose gardens in Canada.The Centennial Rose Garden in Coquitlam features 1,000 roses including climbers,
shrubs, floribunda, hybrid tea, miniature, old garden and rambling roses (including a
section dedicated to hybridized Canadian Rose varieties). The gardens are maintained by
members of the Fraser Pacific Rose Society affectionately known as the ‘Garden Gnomes’
who are always happy to offer advice to the many visitors who explore the gardens.
See website for seasonal hours.
624 Poirier Street, Coquitlam, BCPhone (604) 464-2754fprosesociety.org
UBC Botanical Garden & Nitobe Memorial GardenImmerse yourself in the world of wild-collected plants with over 8000 taxa to explore!Highlights include internationally recognized collections of magnolias and maples,
over 400 kinds of rhododendrons and the award winning Greenheart Canopy Walkway
eco-adventure. The Nitobe Memorial Garden is consistently ranked in the top 5 Japanese
Gardens in North America. See website for seasonal hours.
UBC Botanical 6804 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver, BCNitobe Memorial 1895 Lower Mall, Vancouver, BCUBC Botanical (604) 822-4208 | Nitobe (604) 822-6038botanicalgarden.ubc.ca
99
7A
7A
7
7
VANCOUVER
Nitobe Memorial Garden
VanDusen Botanical GardenBloedel Conservatory
Centennial Rose GardenUBC Botanical Garden
Dr Sun Yet-SunChinese Garden
NORTH VANCOUVER
BURNABY
NEWWESTMINSTER
COQUITLAM
Gardens British Columbia Directory
For more information on British Columbia’s Garden experiences visit
Communities in Bloom *Across British Columbia (604) 574-7772bccommunitiesinbloom.ca
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden *Vancouver (604) 662-3207vancouverchinesegarden.com
VanDusen Botanical Garden & Bloedel Conservatory *Vancouver (604) 257-8335www.vandusengarden.org
UBC Botanical Garden & Nitobe Memorial Garden *Vancouver (604) 822-4208botanicalgarden.ubc.ca
Queen Elizabeth Park & Quarry GardensVancouver (604) 873-7000
Park and Tilford GardensNorth Vancouver (604) 984-8200
Japanese Friendship Garden New Westminster (604) 521-3711
* Gardens British Columbia members
Centennial Rose Garden *Coquitlam (604) 464-2754fprosesociety.org
Riverview Horticultural Centre SocietyCoquitlam (604) 290-9910
Sunshine Coast Botanical Garden Society *Sechelt (604) 740-3969coastbotanicalgarden.org
Tulips of the ValleyAgassiz (604) 796-3496
Linden GardensKaleden (250) 497-6600
Summerland Ornamental Gardens Summerland (250) 494-6385
Okanagan Lavender Herb FarmKelowna (250) 764-7795
Cominco GardensKimberley 1-866-431-7669
Columbia Valley Botanical GardensInvermere (250) 342-0539
David Douglas Botanical Garden Prince George (250) 564-9235
The Butchart Gardens *Brentwood Bay (250) 652-4422butchartgardens.com
Victoria Butterfly Gardens *Brentwood Bay (250) 652-3822butterflygardens.com
Tofino Botanical Garden *Tofino (250) 725-1220tbgf.org
Milner Gardens & Woodland *Qualicum Beach (250) 752-6153viu.ca/milnergardens
The Gardens at HCP *Victoria (250) 479-6162hcp.ca
Abkhazi GardensVictoria (778) 265-6466
Beacon Hill ParkVictoria (250) 361-0600
Finnerty GardensVictoria (250) 721-7014
Government HouseVictoria (250) 387-2080
Hatley Park National Historic Site*Victoria (250) 391-2666hatleypark.ca
Point Ellice HouseVictoria (250) 380-6506
St Ann’s AcademyVictoria (250) 953-8828
Sooke HarbourHouse Sooke (250) 642.3421
Merridale CiderworksCobble Hill (250) 743-4293
Organic Fair Farm and GardenCobble Hill (250) 733-2035
Providence FarmDuncan (250) 746-4204
Mayo Creek GardensLake Cowichan (250) 749-6291
Cowichan Valley Lavender Labrynth*North Cowichan (250) 701-2885cowichanvalleylavender.com
Hazelwood Herb FarmLadysmith (250) 245-8007
Butterfly World and GardensCoombs (250) 248-7026
Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park Comox (250) 339-2715
Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens Courtenay (250) 338-6901
Native Plant Garden Museum Campbell River (250) 287-3133
Shephard’s GardenPort McNeill (250) 956-4709
British Columbia Mainland Gardens Vancouver Island Gardens
GardensBC.com
Lower Mainland Gardens
SookeBay Port A
ngeles, WA
Seattle, WA
Anacortes, WA
Tsawwassen, BC
BC Ferries
Tsawwassen, BCBC Ferries
Horseshoe Bay, BC
BC Ferries
PortSan Juan
NitinatLake
SproatLake
Great CentralLake
ComoxLake
ButtleLake
CampbellLake
NimpkishLake
BarkleySound
ClayoquotSound
NootkaSound
Nuchatlitz Inlet
Esperanza Inlet
HaroStraight
Straight ofGeorgia
NanooseHarbour
SaanichInlet
Prince Rupert, BC
BC Ferries
Powell River
, BC
BC Fe
rries
LADYSMITH
SAYWARD
VICTORIASOOKE
JORDAN RIVER
PORTRENFREW
BRENTWOODBAY
SIDNEY
SWARTZBAYMILL
BAYSHAWNIGANLAKE
DUNCAN
LAKECOWICHAN
CHEMAINUS
VANCOUVERISLAND
GOLD RIVER
TAHSIS
PORT McNEILL
PORT ALICE
BAMFIELD
QUALICUM BEACH
COURTENAY
CAMPBELL RIVER
PORT HARDY
PARKSVILLEPORT
ALBERNINANAIMO
© 2015 Certified Folder Display Service Canada, Inc.
TOFINO
UCLUELET
W E L C O M E T O VANCOUVER ISLAND
VICTORIA TO:
NANAIMO 111 km
1 km = .6 mi
PARKSVILLE 150 km
UCLUELET 292 km
TOFINO 316 km
QUALICUM BEACH 158 km
COURTENAY 220 km
CAMPBELL RIVER 265 km
PORT HARDY 497 km
DRIVING DISTANCES19
19
19
19
19
19
30
2828
4
4
419A
19A
Map Not To Scale
N
TofinoBotanicalGarden Milner Gardens
and Woodland
Vancouver Island, off the coast of British Columbia, is the largest Pacifi c island east of New Zealand. Rich with rainforests, rugged shorelines and beaches, mountains, fertile
agricultural valleys, working fi shing villages, dozens of provincial parks and B.C.’s capital city of Victoria,
the island ranks among North America’s most geographically diverse and scenic
destinations to visit.
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 9
Sooke Rd.
Craigflower Rd.
Rocky Poi n t
Happy Valley Rd.
Latoria Rd. Lago
on Rd
.
Metchosin Rd.
Jack
lin R
d.
Ocean Blvd.
Munns Rd.
Burns
ide Rd.
Helm
cken
Admirals Rd.
Wilk
inso
n Rd
.
Carey Rd.
Interurban Rd.
Burnside Rd.
Fras
ier
Lam
pson
St.
Beach Dr .
Rocklan
d Av
e.
Windsor Rd.
Oak Bay Ave. New
port
Be
ach D
r.
Cad
boro
Bay
Rd.
Henderson Rd.
Foul Bay Rd.
Lansdowne Rd.Finlayson St.
Cedar
Hill
Rd.
Shel
bour
ne S
t.
Richmond A
ve.
Cedar Hill Cross Rd.
McKenzie Ave.McKenzie Ave.
SinclairHob
bs
Arbutus Rd.
Tudor Ave.
Gor
don
Head
Rd.
Ferndale
Barrie Rd.Ash Rd.
Blenkinsop Rd.Quadra St.
Royal Oak Cordova Bay Rd.
Cordova Bay Rd.
Sayward
Prospect Lake Rd.
Oldfield Rd.
Old W
. Saanich
Island View
E. Saanich Rd.
Wallace Dr.
Stellys Cross Rd.
McTavish Rd.
Sp
artonWillis Point Rd.
Wallace Rd.
West Saan ich Rd.
D urrance Rd.
Benvenuto Ave. Keating Cross Rd.
Brookleigh Rd.
Millstream
Rd.
Highland Rd.
Mt. Newton Cross Rd.Lo
chsid
e
5th1st
Beacon Ave.
HarbourResthaven
Wain Rd.
McD
onald Park
Birch
Landsend Rd.West Saanich Rd.
Cano
ra R
d.
Trans-Canada H
ighway
G
ol d stream Ave.
Trans-Canada Highway
Gorge Rd.
Vernon Ave.
Patricia Bay Highw
ay
Patricia Bay Highway
Munro
Pandora Ave.
Governm
ent St.
Esquimalt Rd.
Mon
treal
Men
zies
Bay St.Bay St.
Quadra St.
Cook St.
Park
Wharf
Moss St.
Douglas St.
Trans-Canada H
ighway
Glanford A
ve.
West Saanich Rd.
Gillespie Rd. Esquimalt Rd. Johnson St.
Fort St.
Blanshard St.
Fairfield Rd.Belleville St.
Dallas Rd.
VictoriaInt’l Airport
CedarHillGolf
Course
East SookeRegional
Park
Fort Rod HillHistoric Park
Gorge ValeGolf Course
Royal ColwoodGolf Club
GoldstreamPark
Mount WorkRegional Park
BearHillPark
John DeanPark
Elk & Beaver LakeRegional Park
CommonwealthNature Park
ThetisLake Park
FrancisKing Park
ArdmoreGolf Course
Glen MeadowsGolf Course
Cordova BayGolf Course
VictoriaGolf Course
Swan LakePark
ProspectLakeGolfCourse
Mt. DouglasGolf Course
Mt. DouglasPark
Viewpoint
UplandsGolf
Course
UplandsPark
Beacon HillPark
17
17
17
17
14
14
17A
17A
17A
17A
17A
17A
Finlayson Arm
TodInlet
ColesBay
TsehumHarbour
BazanBay
CadboroBay
OakBay
PortageInlet
EsquimaltHarbour
RoyalRoads
PedderBayBecher
Bay
GlenLake
LangfordLake
FlorenceLake
ThetisLake
PikeLake
MaltbyLake
ProspectLake
ElkLake
PatriciaBay
DeepCove
SAANICHINLET
OAKOAKBAYBAYOAKBAY
GORDONHEAD
ESQUIMALTESQUIMALTESQUIMALT
VIEW ROYALVIEW ROYALVIEW ROYAL
BRENTWOODBRENTWOODBAYBAY
BRENTWOODBAY
BAMBERTONBAMBERTONBAMBERTON
MILLMILLBAYBAYMILLBAY
SWARTZSWARTZBAYBAY
SWARTZBAY
SIDNEYSIDNEYSIDNEY
SAANICHSAANICHSAANICH
VICTORIAVICTORIAVICTORIACOLWOOD
LANGFORDLANGFORDLANGFORD
GOLDSTREAM
MILNESMILNESLANDINGLANDINGMILNES
LANDINGMETCHOSINMETCHOSINMETCHOSIN
HowardJohnson
Western 66Motor Inn
Quality Inn
EconoLodge
VictoriaButterfly Gardens
ADVERTISER LOCATOR
INFORMATION CENTRES
PUBLIC PARKING
PARKS & GOLF COURSES
LOCHSIDE BICYCLE TRAIL
GALLOPING GOOSE BICYCLE TRAIL
WATERFRONT BICYCLE TRAIL
SCENIC DRIVE
LEGEND
#
SAANICH PENINSULA & SIDNEY M A P
© 2015 Certified Folder Display Service Canada, Inc.
Map Not To Scale
N
DOWNTOWNVICTORIA
INSET VIE
W T
HE
DO
WN
TOW
N V
ICTO
RIA
MA
P O
N P
AG
E 1
1
ButchartGardens
The Gardensat HCP
11
15
14
16
10
10 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
Publ
ic W
alkw
ay
HURON
SUPERIOR ST.
QUEBEC ST.
KINGSTON ST.
TORONTO ST.
MICHIGAN ST.
SUPERIOR ST.
ACADEMY
FAIRFIELD RD.
McCLURE ST.
BURDETT ST.HUMBOLDT ST.
WHARF ST.
COURTNEY ST.
BELLEVILLE ST.
BLAN
SHA
RD ST.
BLAN
SHA
RD ST.
DO
UG
LAS ST.
BROUGHTON ST.
FORT ST.
VIEW ST.
YATES ST.
JOHNSON ST.
PANDORA AVE.
SWIFT ST.
BAY
ST.
JOHNSON ST. BRIDGE
CORMORANT ST.FISGARD ST.
HERALD ST.
GO
RDO
N ST.
BROA
D ST.
LAN
GLEY ST.
GO
VERNM
ENT ST.
CA
THERIN
E ST.
GO
VERNM
ENT ST.
STORE ST.
QU
AD
RA ST.
VAN
CO
UVER ST.
CO
OK ST.
BROA
D ST.
WH
ARF ST.
COURTNEY ST.
BROUGHTON ST.
ROCKLAND AVE.
HUMBOLDT ST.
MICHIGAN ST.SIMCOE ST.NIAGARA ST.
ST. L
AWRE
NCEM
ONTR
EAL S
T.
OSW
EGO
ST.
MEN
ZIES
ST.
QUA
DRA
ST.
VAN
CO
UVE
R ST
.
CO
OK
ST.
DALLA
S RD.
SOUTHGATE ST.
ESQUIMALT RD.TYEE RD.
HARBOUR RD.
POIN
T ELLI
CE B
RIDG
E
KIMTA RD.
SONGHEES RD.
DO
UG
LAS ST.
KIMTA RD.
Beacon HillPark
ThunderbirdPark
Harris Green Park
Fisherman’sWharf Park
VictoriaWestPark
Park
Park
MacDonaldPark
Helijet(to Vancouver)
CruiseShipBerth
Walk toDowntown
Archives
Bus Depot
CourtHouse
RoyalTheatre
Library
WindsorCourt
Harbour Centre
BastionSquare
Trounce Alley
Fan TanAlley
China Town
McPhersonPlayhouse
City Hall
CentennialSquare
Capital 6Theatres
FortVictoria
1843
HelmckenHouse
ParliamentBuildings
VictoriaConference
CentreEmpressHotel
Liquor Store
17
17
Orca SpiritAdventures
Eagle WingTours Black Ball
Ferry Line
Prince ofWhales
Gray LineSightseeing
StrathconaHotel
MiniatureWorld
James Bay Inn
InnerHarbour
HuntingdonManor &Gatsby Mansion
VictoriaBug Zoo
© 2015 Certified Folder Display Service Canada, Inc.
Map Not To Scale
N
DOWNTOWN VICTORIA M A P
9 25
4
31
6
8
7
17
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 11
T R A V E L I E X P L O R E I D I S C O V E R
The Essential VICTORIAPart of the Victoria experience is discovery. While visitors often fi nd their own attractions that top their personal lists of must-see spots, most begin by visiting the headliners. Three of the top attractions immediately surround the Inner Harbour, which is the city’s heart and soul.
The venerable and historic Empress Hotel (today a Fairmont property) greets visitors who arrive at the Inner Harbour by ferry or seaplane. Whether staying at The Empress or not, many visitors enjoy exploring the elegant 1908 chateau-style structure with its ivy-clad façade, and taking traditional Afternoon Tea in its tea room. The Fairmont Empress is located at 721 Government Street.
On the Inner Harbour’s south side, the British Columbia Parliament Building is a late-19th-century neo-baroque architectural gem topped with 33 domes. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the history of the building and the workings of the British Columbia parlia-mentary government. The B.C. Parliament Building is located at 501 Belleville Street; for tour information, call 250-387-3046.
The Royal British Columbia Museum, also on the Inner Harbour, can easily occupy the greater part of a day. It houses one of the most signifi cant collections of First Nations artifacts in Canada, has natural and modern history exhibits, and is home to an IMAX Theatre. The museum is located at 675 Belleville Street.
Other main Victoria attractions include historic Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-era mansion open for tours at 1050 Joan Crescent, and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, the city’s public art museum at 1040 Moss Street.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
12 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
City Toursightseeingvictoria.com
250.385.6553
Vintage Double Decker
Kiosk in front of the Empress Hotel
Look for ourButchart Gardens
Xpress Shuttle!
Hop On, Hop Off!
MAPPAGE 113
MAPPAGE 114MORE INFO
Fairmont.com
leg.bc.ca
RoyalBCMuseum.bc.ca
TheCastle.ca
aggv.ca
TOP 6 TOURSAn excellent way to experience Victoria, whether exploring the city or its natural surroundings, is on a guided tour. Tour operators offer several options.
Victoria city tours typically take in city sights on a double-deck-er bus with an open second tier for best viewing. Narrators know the city well and, by the time the tour is over, guests will too. There are several opera-tors. Two of the most popular are: Gray Line Sightseeing and CVS Tours.
Visitors have a variety of two-wheel tour options with Cycle BC. This tour company rents motorcycles, scooters and bicycles and will help you decide where to explore.
A guided walking tour is a healthy and informative way to learn about Victoria. Discover the Past offers four walking tours including Chinatown Walks. In the evening, Ghostly Walks inspires chills as visitors hear tales of Victoria’s more sordid past and visit many of the city’s allegedly haunted places. To reserve a tour, visit DiscoverThePast.com.
Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley (just outside of Victoria) are wine regions
dotted with vineyards and several wineries. Luxury Wine Tours operates tours out of Victoria to wineries in both regions, including a gourmet picnic lunch.
Victoria Harbour Ferry & Water Taxi operates narrated tours on the Inner Harbour and The Gorge, Victoria’s inland water-way. One of their most popular tours is the Pickle Pub Crawl, which visits watering holes surrounding the Inner Harbour.
No visit to Victoria is complete without a whale watching tour. Visitors can venture out onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca to spot whales with any of several professional operators, such as Eagle Wing Tours, Orca Spirit, or Prince of Whales.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 13
MAPPAGE 115
MORE INFOSightseeingVictoria.com
CVSTours.com
Victoria.CycleBC.ca
DiscoverThePast.com
LuxuryWineTours.ca
VictoriaHarbourFerry.com
EagleWingTours.com
OrcaSpirit.com
PrinceofWhales.com
T R A V E L I E X P L O R E I D I S C O V E R
TOP 5 REASONSto GET OUTDOORSVictoria prides itself on its parks, gardens and recreational trails. A perfect way many visitors appreciate the city is to add an outdoor activity to the itinerary. The opportunities range from a quiet stroll in a scenic section of the city to adrenaline-charged thrills on a zip line.
Beacon Hill Park offers enough
acreage for some serious walk-
ing. This graceful park stretches
from the edge of downtown to
the Strait of Juan de Fuca for
spectacular views across to
Washington State.
Those who prefer to see the
world from sea level enjoy
kayaking in Victoria’s water-
ways. Kelp Reef Adventures,
located at Fisherman’s Wharf,
1 Dallas Road provides guided
kayaking and hiking tours.
Cyclists enjoy the 37-mile
Galloping Goose Trail
(or shorter portions of it), which
runs from Victoria to Sooke
through urban, rural and
wilderness settings.
For a wilder experience that
seems a world away from the
city, visitors can take a short
drive from downtown Victoria
and hit the trails at Goldstream
Provincial Park, the traditional
fi shing grounds of First Nations
people. There, old growth
forests and natural wild
habitats fl ank hiking trails
through two distinct
vegetation zones.
For people who prefer to soar,
Adrena LINE Zipline
Adventure Tours provides the
perfect canopy zipline experi-
ence in the forests of Sooke
near Victoria. Adrena LINE is
located at 5128C Sooke Rd.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
MORE INFOBeaconHillPark.ca
GallopingGooseTrail.com
AdrenalineZip.com
14 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
*Subject to change
Explore Greater Victoria for ONLY $5*
with your BC Transit DayPASS
Visit www.bctransit.comfor trip planner andschedule information
DayPASS DestinationsBC TRANSIT
www.bctransit.com 250∙382∙6161
Victoria Regional Transit Commission
5109
_2
*Subject to change
VICTORIA
The AmazingWorld of Insects,
Arachnids, and theirmany-legged friends!
victoriabugzoo.ca 250.384.2487
choose aManor or a Mansion
huntingdonmanor.com
Ideally located in the heart of Downtown Victoria overlooking
the Inner Harbour.
VICTORIASHOPPING & GALLERIESShopping (or simply window shopping) in Victoria is rich with boutiques, antiques and galleries. Several shopping districts, most centrally located, add variety to the experience.
Downtown’s Government Street runs north from the Inner Harbour, and is home to several retailers that are Victoria mainstays. Murchie’s Fine Tea and Roger’s Choco-lates are shops many visitors never miss.
Between Government Street and the waterfront, historic Bastion Square is the site of the original Fort Victoria. Today, shoppers there converge to browse goods made by local artisans during the spring and summer at the Public Market on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and on Sunday in summer for the Sunday Market.
Immediately to the east of Government Street, at 606 View Street, Madrona Gallery is one of Victoria’s best art galleries. Another downtown gallery worth visiting is Winchester Modern at 758 Humbolt Street.
Also downtown, The Bay Centre at 1150 Douglas Street is an indoor galleria-style mall
with a variety of shops and restaurants geared for a full day of serious retail therapy.
Market Square at 560 Johnson Street, Antique Row along Fort Street, Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley (Canada’s smallest street) are also fi lled with local shops.
East of downtown, the community of Oak Bay is like a separate village with a retail core fi lled with browsable boutiques and galleries. There, visitors will fi nd The Avenue Gallery at 2184 Oak Bay Avenue, Red Art Gallery at 2249 Oak Bay Avenue and Winchester Galleries at 2280 Oak Bay Avenue.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 15
MAPPAGE 116
MAPPAGE 117
MORE INFOMurchies.com
RogersChocolates.com
BastionSquare.ca
MadronaGallery.com
WinchesterGalleriesLtd.com
TheBayCentre.ca
TheAvenueGallery.com
RedArtGallery.ca
T R A V E L I E X P L O R E I D I S C O V E R
VICTORIADINING & NIGHTLIFEThe “locavore” movement is alive and well in Victoria’s restaurants as chefs embrace what’s fresh and in season. Island-grown foods easily fi nd their way to Victoria’s tables and, in the city’s dining establishments, diners can savor the true fl avor of the island. Where do chefs excel at crafting original dishes from this bounty?
At OLO, a casual, modern
restaurant, simple grains,
vegetables, seafood and meat
are artfully transformed into
delicious fare.
Catalano Restaurant & Cicchetti
Bar crafts hearty Mediterra-
nean-inspired dishes and small
plates from the local bounty.
Stage serves tapas-style small
plates featuring house-made
charcuterie and local ingredi-
ents to accompany their well-
curated wine list.
The popular Cafe Brio
celebrates local ingredients by
combining fi ne preparation and
artful presentation for delicious
end results.
For elevated pub fare and
hand-craft beers, Spinnaker’s
Brewpub, overlooking the Inner
Harbour, is a favorite of locals
and visitors.
Visitors in search of an
acclaimed cocktail bar should
look no further than Clive’s
Classic Lounge, recognized
for serving some of the best
cocktails on the planet.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/victoria
MORE INFOOloRestaurant.com
CatalanoRestaurant.com
StageWineBar.com
Cafe-Brio.com
Spinnakers.com
ClivesClassicLounge.com
16 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
CA
CA
RBON NEUTRA R
A
A
R
AA
BRROB NOO N
HA
BO
U R F E R RY TO
US!
TAKE THE
NEUEE
TUURTT
ARTR
AAR
RA
R
HHAA
BBOO
UU R F E R
TATT KE TH
VICTORIA’S BEST WHALE & WILDLIFE WATCHING
250 984 8177www.EAGLEWINGTOURS.ca
EasyBookOnline!
MAPPAGE 118
MAPPAGE 119
Get away without going far.
Three easy ways to book:· bcferries.com/vacations· 1-888-BC FERRY Ext. 3 · Visit us at 1010 Canada Place,
Vancouver, BC BC Reg. 48839.
Ask about our Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver packages including ferry travel, accommodation, tours and activities.
Explore theSAANICH PENINSULASaanich Peninsula is an ideal destination for a day trip from Victoria. Stretching north approximately 30 miles from the city, it is home to farms, wineries, cideries and some of the island’s most visited attractions.
The renowned Butchart Gardens are located at 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay. The gardens occupy a former family estate and abandoned limestone quarry and include a sunken garden, rose garden, concert lawn, Japanese garden, Mediter-ranean garden and Italian garden. Butchart Gardens has a Seed and Gift Store and several dining options, includ-ing fi ne dining in the former family residence. Visiting the gardens and staying for After-noon Tea (in spring or summer) or High Tea (in fall and winter) is a lovely way to experience Butchart Gardens.
At Victoria Butterfl y Gardens (near Butchart Gardens), visitors walk among more than 3,000 butterfl ies and several species of tropical birds in an environment of tropical vegeta-tion. The butterfl y gardens are located at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay.
Shuttles, tours and public transportation run from Victoria to both Butchart Gardens and Victoria Butterfl y Gardens. Gray Line Sightseeing and CVS Tours both operate tours to the gardens.
Another reason to visit Saanich Peninsula is to sample the ciders and spirits that are handcrafted there. Visitors fi nd award-winning ciders at the Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse tasting room, located at 2487 Mt. St. Michael Rd., Saanichton. At Victoria Spirits, visitors experience what made this distillery famous: gin made with wild-gathered, organic botanicals. Victoria Spirits is located at 6170 Old West Saanich Road, Victoria.
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/sidney
MORE INFOButchartGardens.com
Butterfl yGardens.com
SightseeingVictoria.com
CVSTours.com
SeaCider.ca
VictoriaSpirits.com
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 17
Make yourself at home in our warm
and inviting, English Tudor-style hotel,
conveniently located off Highway 17
just north of Victoria.
Free wireless internet.
SPEND SOMEQUALITY TIME
WADDLING DOGR E S E R V A T I O N S
1-800-567-8466www.qualityinnvictoria.com
MAPPAGE 1010 MAP
PAGE 1011
Sidney, BCAnacortes, WA
IroquoisPark
TulistaPark
PeterGrantPark
RotaryPark
BrethourPark
Beacon Ave.
Beacon Ave.
1st St.
Lochside Dr.
5th St.
Loch
side
Dr.
Resthaven Dr.
Calvin Ave.
Amelia Ave.
Amherst Ave.Malaview Ave.
Bradford Ave.
Mills Rd.
Melissa St.
Pleasant St.
Bowerbank Rd.
Lovell Ave.
5th St.
5th St.Henry Ave.
Henry Ave.
Mills Rd.
Galaran Rd.
3rd St.
3rd St.
7th St.
James White Blvd.
Baker Ave.
2nd St.
Bevan Ave.
Oakville Ave.
Orchard Ave.7th St.
6th St.
Canso Rd.
Ocean Ave.
Sterling Way
Canora Rd.
Saanich Rd. Canora Rd.
Willingdon Rd.
McTavish Rd.
Weiler Ave.
Weiler Ave.
Brethourpark Way
Epco Dr.
Ocean Ave.
Norseman
17
© 2015 Certified Folder Display Service Canada, Inc.
VictoriaInt’l Airport
SIDNEY
B.C. AviationMuseum
SidneyWhale Watching
ADVERTISER LOCATOR
INFORMATION CENTRES
PARKS
LEGEND
#
Map Not To Scale
N
12
13
Sidney offers the perfect get-away for a day, a week or longer. Enjoy delicious culinary offerings, unique accommodations, outdoor recreation, and a diverse shopping district with over 300 shops and services. As the gateway to Vancouver Island, Sidney is located only five minutes from the Victoria International Airport and the Washington State and BC Ferry
terminals. With something for everyone, Sidney is the ideal vacation destination!
A Vibrant Seaside Town
distinctlysidney.ca [email protected]
Only 5 Minutes from Victoria International Airport
18 I VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE
British Columbia Aviation MuseumBritish Columbia Aviation MuseumBritish Columbia British ColumbiaBritish Columbia Aviation MuseumAviation MuseumAviation Museum
Vintage Military, Commercial & Civilian Aircraft on Display
Open 7 days a weekOct 1 – April 30: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
May 1 – Sept 30: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1910 Norseman Road,Sidney, B.C. V8L 5V5
(Next to Victoria Int’l Airport)(250) 655-3300 • www.bcam.net
Coords: 48°38’ 26” N 123°25’ 13” W
Our Gift Shophas great gifts for aviation
enthusiasts of all ages!
MAPPAGE 1812
MAPPAGE 1813
Our full-service hotel features 100 luxuriously furnished guest rooms and suites offering superb amenities such as queen beds, soaker tubs, microwaves, fridges, and coffeemakers in all rooms.Heated seasonal outdoor pool, indoor hot tub, on-site restaurant,
WA State Ferries, and Victoria International Airport.
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 1.866.300.4656 HOWARD JOHNSON HOTEL & SUITES VICTORIA4670 Elk Lake Drive, Victoria, BC V8Z 5M2 250.704.4656 • www.hojovictoria.ca
Explore more at visitortips.com/can/bc/sidney
VICTORIA
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
LA
ND
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
LA
ND
VA
NC
OU
VE
R I S
L AN
D
SIDNEY
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND VISITORS’ GUIDE I 19
Visit Beautiful SIDNEYSidney-by-the-Sea is a charming town near the north end of Saanich Peninsula, about 26 miles from Victoria. The ferry to and from Anacortes, Washington, arrives in Sidney, making it the fi rst destination many Americans see when visiting Vancouver Island.
With whale watching and four key attractions to enjoy, some visitors make it no farther than Sidney. Sidney’s harbour is the place to depart for a whale watching adventure with Sidney Whale Watching. They also offer sea kayak tours and rentals.
Sidney Booktown is a district in downtown Sidney with a concentration of bookstores. For literary visitors and book collectors, this is a main attraction.
Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre is billed as the “Aquarium of the Salish Sea,” bringing visitors face to face with more than 150 species that live in the local waters. The centre is located at 9811 Seaport Place.
The Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk is a perfect place for a scenic stroll where visitors can appreciate its outdoor sculptures. The walk begins
in Beacon Park and continues along the seawall with the scenery of Mount Baker and the Salish Sea as a backdrop.
Sidney is also home to the British Columbia Aviation Museum, located at 1910 Norseman Road, next to the Victoria International Airport. Museum visitors will fi nd on display several historic aircraft and replicas, a variety of aircraft engines and a collection of aviation artifacts.
MAPPAGE 1014
MAPPAGE 1015
MAPPAGE 1016
MORE INFOSidneyWhalewatching.com
SidneyBooktown.ca
OceanDiscovery.ca
DistinctlySidney.ca
BCAM.net
DISCOVER FREEMAPS
visitortips.com/tig/victoriavancouverisland
Kayaking in British Columbia
Explore the
Section on Pages 4-8
MAPPAGE 1117