Victoria, BC has many free activities for visitors and locals alike. Here are 10 of our favourite free things to do in Victoria:
1. Explore Inner Harbour: Stroll through Victoria’s Inner Harbour, a picturesque area with historic buildings including the Parliament Buildings, the Fairmont Empress and the Royal BC Museum. Plus you might also see street performers, art vendors, our little harbour ferries zooming across the harbour and of course beautiful views.
2. Visit Beacon Hill Park: Enjoy the natural beauty of Beacon Hill Park. This is Victoria’s largest and well-maintained public park. You can stroll through the gardens, relax by the ponds, or listen to live music at the Cameron Bandshell (mostly during the summer months)
3. Walk along Dallas Road: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along Dallas Road. This stretch of land, approx. 4 miles, looks south to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great spot for enjoying the sea breeze and watching the sunset.
4. Ogden Point Breakwater: A 1.6km (round-trip) walk taking about 20 mins to complete with a beautiful ocean view. While strolling along Ogden Point, you’ll see many different kinds of large vessels such as cruise ships, coast guard vessels and fiber-optic cable repair ships.
5. Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour to get the best introduction to Victoria. Most of these organizations have tour guides that will teach you about the city’s architecture, history, culture, and share local stories.
6. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria: While there may be an admission fee for certain exhibitions, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria offers free entry on the first Tuesday of each month from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
7. Fisherman’s Wharf: Visit Fisherman’s Wharf, a unique marine destination offering food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in a working harbour setting. You can also watch Victoria’s famed little harbour boats zooming back and forth throughout the harbour.
8. Hike at PKOLS/Mount Douglas: As the highest mountain in Victoria with a 360 degree view of the city and the ocean, PKOLS or Mount Douglas is the most beautiful for nature enthusiasts. PKOLS (Mount Douglas) offers various hiking trails with a difficulty rating system from beginner to experienced hikers as well as multiple picnic tables, and a park so you can enjoy a whole afternoon there.
9. Explore Chinatown: Wander through Canada’s oldest Chinatown, as you walk through the historic Gate of Harmonious Interest you’ll get to see and enjoy the lovely hanging lanterns and many different shops that line the street. You’ll also find various plaques that tell you about the history of Victoria’s Chinatown.
10.Attend Outdoor Events: Keep a lookout out for free outdoor events happening in the city, especially during the summer months. Events like concerts, festivals, and parades often take place in public spaces and offer a chance to experience local culture.
