Victoria Lodging- Ten Must-Do Activities in Victoria

Can't quite decide how to spend your B.C. summer holiday? Hop on the ferry and check out Victoria; British Columbia's beautiful capital city! Known for its stunning gardens and parliament history, Victoria is bursting with activities both you and your family will enjoy. Find out here about the top ten things to do and see while visiting and learn why Victoria is B.C.'s hidden metropolitan treasure.

1. Parliament Buildings of BC
   Discover a piece of British Columbian history and explore Victoria's parliament buildings. Situated right near the sailboats and yachts of inner harbour, the parliament buildings are just moments from the waterfront walkway where both locals and visitors stroll beside the marina and admire street entertainers, local artistry and craftwork. The buildings were erected in 1893 and known to be some of the oldest edifices in B.C. Come during the evening and watch as the building brighten the sky with over 3,300 bulbs casting an enchantment of light. Visitor tours run daily and are free of charge.
2. Afternoon Tea
   Take on a true Victorian custom and spend the afternoon in one of the city's various tea houses. Pamper yourself to delicious bite-sized pastries, desserts, sandwiches and scones and sip on a steaming hot cup of tea. If you're looking for elegance and true Victorian style, try the esteemed Empress hotel on Government Street. For those seeking a scenic stroll after their meal, the Abkhazi Gardens offer an artistic garden walkway. Finally, those looking for affordability should try the White Tea House for an unforgettable tea experience at a penny pinching price!
3. Butchart Gardens
   As one of the world's foremost floral exhibitions, the Butchart Gardens are a must-see Victoria attraction. Jennie Butchart began developing this blossoming panorama in 1904 and has since crafted a number of different gardens to create a range of artistic experiences. Thanks to succeeding generations of the Butchart family, the garden has preserved an immense amount of its original pattern and continues with the Victorian tradition of seasonal changes to the display. Come see the gardens during the summer when the exhibit is at peak bloom!
4. Whale Watching Safari
   Embark on a thrilling adventure at sea and look out for one of B.C.'s most prominent undersea creatures. Picture a 9-metre long Orca whale flip from the water right before your very eyes! Summer is the perfect time of year to spot B.C. killer whales, not only are they abundant in the Canadian west coast, but the boat ride to sea will also be much more pleasant with the warm weather and bright sun. Tours also examine other marine life such as sea lions, seals, birds and porpoise and include information on marine ecology.
5. Royal B.C. Museum
   Find out about B.C.'s first indigenous peoples and natural history at the Royal B.C. Museum. Authentic specimens and artefacts are placed in realistic exhibit settings; visitors will get the feeling that they have warped back in time and to a different place. The museum also includes temporary displays from other countries and cultures as well as a National Geographic IMAX theatre that will uncover secrets of the world you wouldn't believe!
6. Olympic View Golf Course
   Show off your swing at one of Victoria's stunning golf courses. The breath-taking scene of majestic Olympic Mountains, roaring waterfalls and serene lakes offer an extraordinary golf experience. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria, this 18-hole, par 72 course is ideal for players of all calibre. Take advantage of summer sunshine and play a round at Olympic View Golf Course!
7. Abkhazi Gardens
   Take a break from the hustle bustle of everyday life and stroll through the gorgeous Abkhazi Gardens. The charm and beauty of this heritage garden will have you in a state of serenity. Created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi, the flora still outlines the primary image of the garden; however it also includes charming new additions to enhance the original design. Bring the family and have lunch or a cup of tea at the elegant Abkhazi estate.
8. Sailing
   Admire the magnificence of Victoria from sea! Glide down the striking Juan de Fuca, renowned for its sea lions, killer whales and bald eagles. Expeditions also consist of stunning Olympic Mountain views and a gorgeous Victoria skyline. There is no minimum amount of passengers required, bring a pal and a picnic and enjoy the ride!
9. Pacific Undersea Gardens
   Victoria's reputation as they 'City of Gardens' is not limited to what's above the ground. The exquisite Undersea Gardens allows visitors to drop deep beneath the seashore of Victoria's inner harbour and discover a variety of fish, wolf eels, anemones and even the largest species of octopus! View a live Dive Show in a unique underwater theatre, shows run throughout the day and contain tons of clever special effects and nifty surprises.
10. Royal London Wax Museum
    You may not be able to see your favourite celebrity up close and personal, but you can see their identical wax replica at the Royal London Wax Museum. Come see over 300 well-known personalities in one of the first wax museums in North America! From prominent writers of the past to celebrity idols and royalty; you will be astounded by the exact artistic detailing applied to each wax figure. When you're done, satisfy your sweet tooth at the Penny Lane Sweet Shop!

About the Author:

Devon O'Malley is a staff writer for AlluraDirect, a vacation">http://www.alluradirect.com'">vacation rentals website featuring Victoria">http://www.alluradirect.com/Victoria'">Victoria lodging. Don't miss out on amazing summer activities in Victoria, book your accommodation today!