VICTORIA
VICTORIA
As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is also the southernmost major city in western Canada. Settlement by the British beginning around 1843, makes it one of the oldest cities in all of the Pacific Northwest. Some claims to fame are that Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the 2nd oldest Chinatown in North America (San Francisco has the oldest in case you were wondering). Victoria also has no shortage of famous landmarks, two of which include the Legislative buildings as well as the Empress Hotel.
Victoria BC is called The Garden City and enjoys the status of being on the top 20 list of world cities for quality of life. A temperate and virtually snow-free year round climate, makes Victoria a popular tourist and retirement destination.
Victoria Sub-Area Attraction Pages:
Victoria Gymnastics
Looking to develop an athlete in you or your child? Visit Victoria Gymnastics, located just a couple of kilometers north of downtown Victoria at 2051 Store Street. They deliver quality gymnastics instruction, with maximum activity level, in a well-structured, fun, and safe environment. Their objective is to provide students with a foundation in gymnastics that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
Attractions Near Victoria Gymnastics
Victoria Gymnastics is located within just a few minutes’ walk to other popular destinations, such as:
- Vancouver Island Brewery – to enjoy a glass of freshly brewed beer while waiting for your kid;
- Crystal Pool & Fitness – to go for a refreshing swim and keep your body fit;
- Mayfair Shopping Complex – to check what is going on with fashion trends.
About Victoria Gymnastics
Victoria Gymnastics is a family-oriented business with a mission to provide students with a foundation in gymnastics. Unlike other gymnastic centers, Victoria Gymnastics’ priority is to provide non-competitive gymnastics in which all students are treated equally and fairly. Some features of the gymnastics program at Victoria Gymnastics include:
- Boys and girls, from age 2 to adult, beginner to advanced;
- Morning, afternoon, and evening classes seven days a week;
- Start any time;
- Monthly payments with no further obligation – cancel any time;
- Trial classes available;
- Make-ups for missed classes.
Victoria Gymnastics boasts great instructors who pay attention to every student’s needs on the tracks. Victoria Gymnastics has great programs for children, and every Saturday, there’s an hour-long guided session where children rotate through three different circuits of activities and equipment. They focus on learning body control, balance, and some stamina. Programs at Victoria Gymnastics include:
- Fall, Winter & Spring
- Summer Classes & Camps
- Other Programs
Starting at 20 months old, toddlers are welcome with parents at Victoria Gymnastics! The earlier you start, the more results you will get.
Victoria Gymnastics Birthday Party!
At a maximum of 18 children, you can have an action-packed birthday party for your child. All you have to do is pay $135 for up to 10 children and $10 for each additional child. The plan for the day is 1 hour of gymnastics with the children, followed by 45 minutes in the party room for a fun-filled birthday celebration for your child. Be assured of their safety as there are always two NCCP-certified staff around during the party. Organizing a party at Victoria Gymnastics, you can expect:
- Use of 7,200 square foot gym;
- Invitations (with a map to our location);
- Hats;
- Napkins;
- Table cover;
- Streamers;
- Balloons;
- 2 certified instructors;
- Free T-Shirt;
- 40′ Long Trampoline;
- Foam Pit.
Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?! Have fun!
History of Victoria Gymnastics
Victoria Gymnastics has moved from three locations in Victoria, BC. In 1980, the gymnastics was located at 912 Vancouver Street, right behind Christ Church Cathedral. However, due to growth, they relocated to another facility on 2829 Quesnel Street in 1992. Thereafter, they moved to a purpose-built state-of-the-art facility on 2051 Store Street, which is their present location. In the summer of 2016, Victoria Gymnastics opened a second location within the Greater Victoria Area in Colwood. The facility boasts of having over 35,000 children that have taken part in various programs.
Traveling to Victoria Gymnastics
If you would like to drive to Victoria Gymnastics, free 1-2 hours parking is available on surrounding streets Pembroke Street, Store Street, and Discovery Street.
If you prefer to use the bus, please check the BC Transit schedule here.
Downtown Location
2051 Store Street
Victoria, BC V8T 5L9
Phone: 250-380-2442
Fax: 250-380-2449
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday: 8:15 am – 1:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Colwood Location
520 Mt View Avenue
Victoria, BC V9B 2C2
Phone: 778-265-6414
Victoria Conference Centre
The Victoria Conference Centre: An Exceptional Venue for Business Meetings and Events
Did you know that the Victoria Conference Centre, the second largest conference center in British Columbia, is located in the heart of Victoria? This exceptional venue is perfect for hosting business meetings, exhibitions, and various events. It is not only a great choice for locals, but also for delegates, top-notch event planners, and organizers. The center is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, creating a vibrant professional community.
Attractions near the Victoria Conference Centre
Located in the epicenter of all the activities, the Victoria Conference Centre is just a few steps away from other destinations and attractions, such as:
- Empress Hotel – located just at the back of the building, where one can visit for a famous afternoon Victorian tea
- Inner Harbour – across the road with blooming flowers, palms, and trees alongside gorgeous boats and yachts, makes the walk on the harbor an unforgettable experience
- BC Parliament Building – steeped in all its history and beautiful architecture is a must-see
- Miniature World – located in the building of Empress Hotel and provides a unique opportunity to experience the world from a tiny perspective
- Victoria Bug Zoo – to enjoy the astonishing world of insects, arachnids, and other many-legged creatures
- Beacon Hill Park – go for a picnic and/or simply explore a mix of urban and rural nature
- The Bay Shopping Centre – will bring you back to the modern day with a full suite of shops to explore
About the Victoria Conference Centre
The Victoria Conference Centre welcomes visitors with lots of natural light that motivates learning and discussions. When you enter the center, you will plunge into a blend of traditional West Coast culture, modern sophistication, and fine art environment, created as a meeting space. It is also home to City Art Collections that includes the Haida Clan’s Pole, a simply beautiful totem carved by Don Yoemans. To view the art only is worth a visit!
In 2009, the Victoria Conference Centre became the 2nd largest conference center in BC, when the historic Crystal Gardens facility across the road from the center was added to the Victoria Conference Centre facilities. Both facilities have gone through a lot of transformations, rehabilitations, and updates over the years to preserve their history, making them a city landmark as they stand today.
The Victoria Conference Centre provides the appropriate space for meetings of various sizes, from small to large, with the ability to handle conferences for up to 2,500 attendees. The center is equipped with advanced technologies and provides:
- Over 40,000 square feet of meeting spaces
- 19 individual multi-purpose meeting rooms, including video conference suites
- Huge exhibit hall
- 400-seat lecture theatre
This conference center provides all the support needed to work while away from the office, including internet. The facility has all the equipment that could be needed during a conference, which will be provided upon special request, such as:
- Signage
- Storage
- Furnishings
- Special needs
- Registration
If needed, the Victoria Conference Centre can arrange a number of event-related services or refer to a service provider that is needed, such as:
- Audiovisual
- Concierge Services
- Decor/Theme
- Events/Entertainment
- Food and Beverage
- Electrical Services
- Exhibit & Display Services
- Registration Services
- Rigging
- Security
- Shipping and Handling
- Specialty Lighting
- Telecommunications
The Victoria Conference Centre, being a business center, can also be used for:
- Gala Dinners
- Weddings
- Graduations
- Personal events
The welcoming staff and eco-friendly building are always there to assist with various languages to ensure your satisfaction, which include:
- English
- German
- French
- Polish
Traveling to the Victoria Conference Centre
If you would like to drive to the Victoria Conference Centre, there is a two-level underground paid parking garage available. If you prefer to use the bus, please check the BC Transit schedule here.
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.
Visit the Victoria Conference Centre and experience the perfect blend of traditional West Coast culture, modern sophistication, and fine art environment, created as a meeting space.
Vancouver Island Brewery
Located on 2330 Government Street, Victoria, BC, Vancouver Island Brewery is one of the oldest and most popular craft breweries in British Columbia. With over 30 years of experience in the beer industry, Vancouver Island Brewery offers visitors a unique opportunity to tour the brewery and taste some of their finest beers.
Attractions near Vancouver Island Brewery
Vancouver Island Brewery is located just a couple of kilometers away from downtown Victoria, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Other popular attractions near the brewery include:
- Victoria Gymnastics – a great place for fitness enthusiasts and kids to have some fun.
- Crystal Pool & Fitness – for those who want to take a refreshing swim and keep their body fit.
- Mayfair Shopping Complex – a perfect place to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
Tour Information
If you’re wondering how beer is made, Vancouver Island Brewery offers a tour that is both informative and fun. The tour is available on Fridays and Saturdays at 4:00 pm and costs $7.00 per person or $10.00 per person with a Vancouver Island Brewery pint glass. The tour lasts for approximately one hour and is conducted by friendly guides who provide useful information.
Vancouver Island Brewery Beers
Vancouver Island Brewery is famous for its variety of beers, which include:
- Signature Series – available all year round, made with high-quality ingredients and a focus on freshness.
- Seasonal Series – available only during particular seasons and brewed in limited quantities.
- 650ml Series – also known as “bombers,” these bottles are available in limited quantities.
Over the years, Vancouver Island Brewery has won numerous international awards and is now one of BC’s largest independent microbreweries. Some of the awards won in 2015 include:
- Black Betty Blackberry Saison – Silver Medal
- Sabotage Indian Session Ale – Gold Medal
- Sea Dog Amber Ale – Gold Medal
- Pipers Pale Ale – Silver Medal
- Hermann’s Dark Lager – Gold Medal
- Islander Lager – Gold Medal
Where to Find Vancouver Island Brewery Beers
Apart from the brewery, Vancouver Island Brewery beers are also available in BC Liquor Stores, Cold Beer & Wine Stores, and in restaurants and pubs on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. You can also order items by contacting Vancouver Island Brewery directly at 250.361.0005.
History of Vancouver Island Brewery
Founded in 1984 by a group of beer enthusiasts, Vancouver Island Brewery has come a long way since its inception. Here are some of the significant historical highlights:
1984: Island Pacific Brewery is founded.
1992: Island Pacific Brewing changes its name to Vancouver Island Brewery.
1995: Present-day brewery on Government St is commissioned.
2004: New Krones bottle filler from Germany is commissioned.
2006: Vancouver Islander Lager is first crafted.
2010: Sea Dog Amber Ale is launched in partnership with the Canadian Navy’s 100th Anniversary.
2012: Iron Plow Harvest Märzen is released in a 650ml bottle in September.
2013: Absolute Darkness 650ml is brewed in partnership with Horne Lake Caves.
2014: Sabotage Indian Session Ale 650ml launches.
2014: Black Betty launches for Spring/Summer season in cans.
Getting to Vancouver Island Brewery
If you’re driving to Vancouver Island Brewery, free parking is available onsite. Alternatively, you can use the bus, and check the BC Transit schedule here.
Visit Vancouver Island Brewery today and learn about the art of brewing while enjoying some of the best beers in British Columbia!
The Royal Theatre
If you’re an opera or concert lover, you won’t want to miss Victoria’s Royal Theatre, a local opera house and concert hall. With excellent acoustics and stunning architecture, art aficionados will appreciate the intimate ambiance of this venue, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Victoria at 805 Broughton Street.
Attractions Near the Royal Theatre
While you’re in the area, don’t miss these other popular attractions:
- Victoria Public Library: A peaceful oasis for book lovers, just steps away from the theatre.
- Fairmont Empress Hotel: Indulge in an afternoon tea or book a room at this iconic hotel.
- Inner Harbour: Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and take in the beautiful boats, flowers, and palm trees.
- The Bay Shopping Centre: Find modern shops and amenities at this nearby mall.
- Victoria Bug Zoo: Get up close and personal with a variety of fascinating insects and arachnids.
- Miniature World: Experience the world from a tiny perspective at this unique attraction.
- Christ Church Cathedral: Admire the stunning Catholic-style architecture and spend some quiet time in reflection.
The Royal Theatre Today
You can’t miss the Royal Theatre’s large brick-faced building in the urban center of downtown Victoria, with its Rococo/Renaissance revival style decor. With a small but traditional stage and a seating capacity of 1400, the theatre exudes an old-world luxury that’s sure to impress.
Today, the Royal Theatre is a premiere attraction for tourists and home to the Victoria Symphony and Pacific Opera Victoria. It’s the perfect place for a cultural evening or a romantic date, with wheelchair seating available upon request.
The Significance of the Royal Theatre
Built in 1912 by the Victoria Opera House Company and designed by architects William D’Oyly Hamilton Rochfort and Eben W. Sankey, the Royal Theatre has functioned as a cinema, an opera house, and a concert venue over the past century. It has hosted numerous famous performers, including Sarah Bernhardt, Carlos Montoya, Luciano Pavarotti, the National Ballet of Canada, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Tony Bennett, and Nelly Furtado.
The Royal Theatre was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1987, and has undergone various renovations and upgrades over the years, including technical upgrades, restoration work, and refurbishment of the dressing rooms.
Getting to the Royal Theatre
If you’re driving, the underground City of Victoria parkade located beneath the library offers two entrances on Broughton Street and Courtney Street. The first hour of parking is free, and Sundays and statutory holidays are also free. On-street pay parking is also available on surrounding streets.
If you prefer public transit, check out the BC Transit schedule for convenient bus options. Don’t miss your chance to experience the Royal Theatre and all that Victoria has to offer!
The Inner Harbour
Victoria’s Inner Harbour is not only the birthplace of Victoria City but also one of the most stunning harbours globally, situated at the heart of Downtown Victoria, running parallel to Wharf street between Laurel Point and Songhees Point in Victoria West.
The Inner Harbour is abundant and magnificent in nature, with blooming flowers, palm trees, and other greenery alongside gorgeous boats and yachts, making the walk on the harbor an unforgettable experience.
Attractions around the Inner Harbour include
- Empress Hotel – where one can visit for an afternoon tea
- BC Museum – will allow you to plunge yourself into local history
- The Bay Shopping Centre – will bring you back to modern-day with a full suite of shops to explore
- BC Parliament Building – steeped in all its history and beautiful architecture is a must-see.
Simply walking along the Inner Harbour, time passes by with loads of places to explore, including:
- Hotels
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Shops
- Carriage Rides with knowledgeable and experienced drivers, allowing you to enjoy the tour in a gorgeous horse-drawn carriage
- Whale Watching with local certified naturalists, immersing you into the marine world of whales, sea lions, porpoises, seals, and other adorable marine animals and birds
- Street Musicians and Local Artists.
During the summer season, the Inner Harbour is the focus of special activities:
- Buskers
- Festivals
- Variety of shows
- Live music performances.
Water Tours from Inner Harbour
Being home to the local seaplane airport provides a unique opportunity to take an air tour to explore Greater Victoria – from Sidney to the strait of Juan de Fuca. Then you can land back in the Inner Harbour or decide to take a flight straight to the famous Butchart Gardens. Whether you’re looking to fly up island to see Nanaimo or Comox, or you’re just in a hurry to get to Whistler or Vancouver for a business trip, the Victoria seaplane airport is a great departure point.
These pretty little taxi boats with their knowledgeable guides will offer visitors a quick introduction to:
- Gorge Waterway
- Upper, Inner, Middle and Outer Harbour
- Shore of the James Bay
- Esquimalt
- Victoria West
The Harbour also serves as an international ferry terminal with connections to Port Angeles, Bellingham, and Seattle and has a border agency office.
Brief History of Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Unbelievable as it may sound, it wasn’t that many years ago when no dock actually existed in this area. The Harbor was originally the area of the Lekwungen First Nations who plied its protected waters and fished using their own handmade canoes. James Douglas arrived in 1843 and decided to choose this site for a new Hudson’s Bay Company, eventually calling it Fort Victoria. Its wooden walls stood along the rocky shore overlooking the beautiful site.
Traveling to Inner Harbour
If you want to explore Inner Harbour, the closest parking is the City of Victoria parking lot just near the harbor waterfront off Wharf Street – $3 an hour maximum 90 minutes (1.5 hours).
The most convenient long-term parking is in the City of Victoria located in the parkade at 820 Courtney (under the library):
- First hour is free
- Parking is $2 an hour thereafter (billed in 15 minute increments)
- Evening parking is free Monday to Saturday, from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Parking is free all day on Sundays and holidays.
Taking a bus to Inner Harbour:
- Langford – #50
- Colwood – #52 & #59 then transfer to #50 at Western Exchange Bay 1
- Sooke – #61
- Oak Bay – #2 or #7
- Saanich – #30, 31
- Sidney/Schwartz Bay/Airport – #72 or 70
Make sure you’ve got some cash with you to pay for the bus:
- $2.50 / fare
- $5.00 / day pass
- Kids under 5 years old – free
- Multiple tickets and monthly passes available through BC Transit vendors.
Plan your visit to Victoria’s Inner Harbour today and experience its beauty and rich history.