Visitors to Victoria have been wowed by these famous gardens since 1904. At Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, there is a 55-acre display garden known as The Butchart Gardens that has been there for 118 years. The Gardens, which were built by Jennie Butchart and are still privately owned and run by the family, turned 100 years old in 2004 and were honored by being named a National Historic Site of Canada. Currently, more than 1 million visitors a year stop by to stroll along the property's flower-lined walks, which have more than 900 different varieties of flowers. Come in the summer to hear live music while taking in the colorful lighting that illuminates the grounds. Follow the advice of the garden staff and visit before 10:30 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. if you're planning a summer visit and want to avoid the crowds.

You should bring a camera, according to travelers who describe the gardens as breathtakingly gorgeous with breathtaking views. In order to get the most out of the experience, they also suggested blocking off several hours. One of the three on-site restaurants is a great place to take a break. On-site attractions include a boat excursion and a carousel.

Every day at 8:45 or 9 a.m., the Butchart Gardens open, and depending on the season, they close at various times. Adult admission varies depending on the season from CA$18.75 (about $14.50) to CA$33.80 (around $26). Bus route number 75 provides transportation to the garden if you don't have a car (though a car or taxi will cut your travel time in half).

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay BC V8M 1J8
Phone: +1 250-652-4422
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 11456 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.butchartgardens.com/

The Royal British Columbia Museum gives visitors a thorough overview of the history and culture of the area. First Nations tribal relics, natural history displays, and even recreations of colonial villages are all included in the exhibitions. Moreover, the museum has an IMAX cinema and changing special exhibits.

The Royal British Columbia Museum, according to recent visitors, is a must-see while in Victoria because it provides a comprehensive look at the region's geography and indigenous people. The historical arrangement of the museum's layout received accolades from reviewers as well. Several critics even referred to it as "the best museum" they had ever been to. Also, if you're hungry, don't miss the museum's annual food truck festival, which is held in the structure's courtyard at the back.

From mid-May to early October, the museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. For those who are 19 years of age and above, admission is CA$26.95 ($21); for children ages 6 to 18, it is CA$16.95 ($13). Seniors, students, and children under the age of 18 are all eligible for discounts. Recall that there is an additional fee to enter the IMAX. On Belleville Street, which separates James Bay from downtown Victoria, is where the museum is situated. There are various bus stops close to the museum if you're traveling there by bus.

Address: 675 Belleville St, Victoria BC V8W 1A1

Phone: +1 250-356-7226

Opening hours: 10 am - 5 pm

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 7124 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

Victoria's main tourism area is the Inner Harbour. Wide pedestrian streets that are frequently frequented by street merchants and buskers surround the harbor, which is home to a variety of fishing boats and colorful floating residences. The walkways are lined with numerous cafés and eateries, making them the ideal place to have an afternoon tea while keeping an eye out for whales playing in the open water. Several of Victoria's most well-known attractions, such as the Parliament Buildings and Royal British Columbia Museum, are also located on the Inner Harbour. Here is probably where your excursion will begin if you're taking a boat or ferry tour.

There is always something interesting to see and do at the Inner Harbour, thus some tourists advised dedicating at least half a day to it even if the bulk of recent visitors suggested spending a few hours there for the view. Return in the evening to see the Parliament Buildings lit up for an even more lovely scene.

The Inner Harbour, located in the center of Victoria, is open to visitors every day of the year. It is free to wander, but you should have some cash on hand in case your stomach growls or you see something you want to buy as a souvenir. The Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress are both across the street from the Inner Harbour.

Address: 720 Government St, Victoria BC V8V 1A1
Phone: +1 250-953-2033
Opening hours: 6:30 am - midday
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 5344 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.tourismvictoria.com/see-do/activities-attractions/statues-landmarks/inner-harbour

Visit Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Monument, about a mile east of the Inner Harbour to experience the Victorian high life. The late 1800s saw the construction of this spectacular house for coal tycoon Robert Dunsmuir. It has 39 rooms, each of which is furnished with items from the turn of the 20th century, despite being more of a home than a castle. The more than 30 exquisite stained glass windows, the most of which feature floral themes, are another highlight. It is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Even if you aren't particularly interested in history, many past tourists suggest coming into Craigdarroch Castle for a look of how the affluent formerly lived, as well as for the breathtaking vistas of downtown Victoria. The mansion has no elevators or ramps, which makes it challenging for tourists with mobility challenges to tour the top three stories of the castle, according to critics.

Every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Craigdarroch Castle is open, with extended hours from June to early September. For adults, admission is CA$14.25 (about $11), while for children aged 6 to 12, it costs CA$5 (about $4). An audio guide is provided with admission even though there are no guided tours. Also, there are staff members and volunteers posted in all of the rooms who are prepared to respond to your inquiries. The castle is located about two miles east of Victoria's city center. Take the bus instead of riding your bike if you don't feel like it.

Address: 1050 Joan Cres, Victoria BC V8S 3L5

Phone: +1 250-592-5323

Opening hours: 10 am - 4:30 pm

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 3324 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://thecastle.ca/

With its many miniature worlds, Miniature World never ceases to enthrall children and adults alike. This interactive museum contains dozens of miniature exhibits and dioramas and is located within a short stroll from the Inner Harbour. Spend some time at the big top in the "Circus World" display or follow the model Canadian railway as it goes throughout the nation. While time travel enthusiasts should check out the "Space 2201 A.D." display, literature enthusiasts will enjoy getting a peep inside Dickens' universe.

Several visitors commended the fine intricacies of the models and advised taking their time to appreciate them all. According to reviews, this was a great way to pass some time on a wet day and was really entertaining for kids. All who journey farther into Frontier Land, Fantasy Land, The Great Canadian Railway, The Fields of Glory, Space 2201, Circus World, The Enchanting Valley of Castles, Old London Town of 1670, and The World of Dollhouses will find new adventures, tiny treasures, and small pleasures there. This little spectacle is made with the addition of special lighting, music, and animation effects, thrilling and delighting both young and old audiences alike!

This odd attraction is located in Victoria's downtown, close to the Fairmont Empress and the Inner Harbour. Daily hours at Miniature World vary depending on the season. The attraction is often open from 9 am to 5 or 9 pm. For adults, admission costs CA$16 (about $12), while it ranges from CA$8 to CA$10 for children.

Address: 649 Humboldt St, Victoria BC V8W 1A6
Phone: +1 250-385-9731
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1129 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://miniatureworld.com/

Although you wouldn't typically associate Canada with the rainforest, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens are a haven for tropical wetlands. This indoor facility, which spans 12,000 square feet, is home to thousands of butterflies, as its name would imply. The gardens are home to a variety of birds and fish, including flamingos and koi fish, so these aren't the only animals there. All of these species coexist with the vegetation, resulting in a lively, colorful environment. Moreover, the gardens have an insectarium featuring a variety of worldwide insects and invertebrates.

The Victoria Butterfly Gardens have a terrific service and are fun for families, according to recent visitors. Critics also noted that there are other animals, such as frogs, flamingos, and bugs, in addition to butterflies, to be seen. A few passengers complained about how humid the gardens were and suggested that future visitors dress in layers.

The Victoria Butterfly Gardens are located in Brentwood Bay, some 12 miles north of the Inner Harbour, close to the Victoria International Airport. It's a little over a mile east of Butchart Gardens, so you might want to visit both gardens on the same day. The best method to get there is by automobile, but you may also use the No. 75 bus to get from the Inner Harbour to Brentwood Bay. The garden opens every day at 10 a.m. (9:30 a.m. in the summer), though seasonally specific closing times apply. For adults, admission is CA$16.50 (about $13), while for children aged 5 to 12, it costs CA$6 (about $5).

Address: 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay BC V8M 1R3
Phone: +1 250-652-3822
Opening hours: 10 am - 3 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1087 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://butterflygardens.com/

A visit to the Victoria Bug Zoo is highly recommended if you're traveling to Victoria with children (or even without). This relatively tiny facility, which is a few blocks north of the Inner Harbour, is home to a lot of creepy crawlies. When it first opened its doors in 1997, the Victoria Bug Zoo has been showcasing the amazing bugs to tourists in downtown Victoria. You will encounter enormous walking sticks, fluffy tarantulas, and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions here.

Get out about 50 amazing species, such as the largest ant colony in Canada, stunning praying mantises, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and huge walking sticks. The zoo's staff members are eager to answer any inquiries you may have regarding their six- and eight-legged buddies, according to recent visitors who have praised them. Experienced tour guides will provide you a lot of information about the species on show as well as an introduction to the fascinating world of bugs. There is no need to be afraid because none of the animals will harm you. Don't forget to take pictures to remember this extraordinary event! Additionally, some of the insects are even touchable, which is a significant selling feature for reviewers.

During weekdays, the Victoria Bug Zoo is open until 4 p.m., and on weekends, it stays open until 5 p.m. Adult admission is CA$12 (about $9), while children between the ages of 5 and 17 must pay CA$8 (about $6). Children under age four can enter for free.

Address: 631 Courtney St, Victoria BC V8W 1B8

Phone: +1 250-384-2847

Opening hours: 10 am - 4 pm

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 896 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://www.victoriabugzoo.ca/

The most southern point of Australian mainland is Wilsons Promontory National Park. Swim at pristine beaches with granite tors in the background and explore lonely coastal wilderness trails. With the chance to come up close to a variety of natural Australian plants and animals, including kangaroos, emus, wombats, echidnas, and beautiful birds, Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area is a favorite among both locals and visitors. It is known as "the Prom." These animals are highly accustomed to people because the Prom is so well-known for tourists, and if you have some food to offer them, they will be very friendly to you. The Prom is a terrific place for lounging on the beach, and the walking trails there are lovely.

You're guaranteed to locate lodging that meets your preferences because it's a well-liked spot for camping as well as romantic getaways. Swim at Norman Beach or a more isolated beach on The Prom. For a special underwater view of Wilsons Promontory National Park, try snorkeling. For panoramic vistas, climb Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon's granite summits. You can also go on an overnight trip. While the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove are located in the south, there is a vast and rough environment to explore in the north. This is considered as one of the Best Places To Visit In Victoria.

Address: Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria 3960

Phone: 13 1963

Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 755 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

On its almost 1,000 acres, Goldstream Provincial Park, which is about 11 miles northwest of the Inner Harbour, is home to an amazing variety of flora and great natural beauty. But the underlying justification for going to this public wildlife area is suspicious: From late fall to early January, spend some time by the Goldstream River and you're sure to see the annual salmon migration. Chum, coho, and chinook salmon can be observed rushing upstream to their historical breeding grounds between October and December. The park's trails closely follow the river, giving you a good view of the watery thoroughfare.

Goldstream Provincial Park can be seen as one of the Best Places To Visit In Victoria. Consider making a pit break at the Goldstream Nature House first before heading straight towards the river. Together with other displays and activities, the center provides educational sessions on the annual migration of salmon. And even if you're not thinking of visiting Vancouver Island in the winter, recent visitors say the park is worth visiting year-round due to its enormous cedar trees, abandoned gold mine, and gushing waterfalls. Critics added that in order to thoroughly explore the park, you should prepare to wear adequate trekking gear (and make your way up to the highest point in Greater Victoria – Mount Finlayson). Take a break by stopping for a picnic.

Every day of the week, Goldstream Provincial Park is open from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. The cost of admission is nothing unless you intend to camp. The Trans-Canada Highway No. 1 and Finlayson Arm Road intersection is where the day-use area's entrance is located.

Address: 2930 Trans-Canada Highway, Victoria
Phone: +1 250-474-1336
Opening hours: 9 a.m - 4:30 p.m
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 412 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://www.goldstreampark.com/

The Buchan Caves are in East Gippsland, 45 minutes' beautiful drive from Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance (another two amazing best places to visit in Victoria). Parks Victoria oversees the Buchan Caves property, which offers camping and barbecue facilities for visitors and daytrippers to East Gippsland. For a single night or a longer stay, you can pitch a tent, bring a van, or stay in opulent glamping accommodations at Buchan Caves.

The Park is well known for the underground caves that may be explored. Early in the 19th century, The Fairy Cave and The Royal Cave were unintentionally found. The Royal Cave is not advised for anyone with mobility concerns because it is 500 meters long and has 150 steps within. You are astounded by the beauty of everything as you walk the tunnels and observe beautiful formations and underground ponds. During millions of years, when this area lay beneath the ocean, elaborate stalactites and stalagmites have been growing. Even one incredible petrified fish is available for viewing. Spend a night at Buchan Caves and extend your visit to the weekend. Stargaze at one of our powered or unpowered campsites, or spread out in the self-contained Caves House, which has space for two families.

Many hiking routes and local wildlife can be found in Buchan Caves. The Buchan Caves Reserve, which has walking trails and animals, is an excellent place to have a picnic. Kangaroos can frequently be seen hopping about, while possums are a nighttime sight if you camp. A freshwater lake near the caves gets its water directly from a cave and fills up. Because it's so chilly, Victoria's pool is frequently referred to as being the coldest. One of the best places to visit in Victoria is Buchan.

Address: 98 Caves Rd, Buchan, Victoria 3885

Phone: 13 1963

Opening hours: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 420 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/buchan-caves-reserve

A interesting look into Victoria's past may be found in Bendigo. Bendigo, which can be reached by train and is less than two hours' drive from Melbourne, experienced a gold rush boom during the Victorian era. Bendigo is well-known for both its heritage buildings and gold rush history due to the abundance of well-preserved Victorian architecture in the area. At one point, Victoria's goldmines produced more gold than any other place in the world besides California, with almost 1 million kilograms of gold having been extracted in Bendigo alone since mining started in the 1850s.

The Discovery of Gold Monument, the Bendigo Tramways Museum, the Golden Dragon Museum, which honors the Chinese population that grew during the gold rush and reached a peak of 20% of the town's population in the 1860s, and several structures that are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, including the Bendigo Town Hall (built in 1859), the Old Courthouse, and the Joss House Temple, are some of the most well-liked attractions for heritage and cultural tourists to visit in this now-thriving modern (1921).

Beyond heritage and cultural tourism, Bendigo city has a lot to offer, including attractive national parks, a science museum, the top-notch Bendigo Art Museum, and the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, which look out over the stunning Lake Weeroona. The Central Deborah Goldmine is the best option for a thoroughly educational taste of the history of the gold rush; this underground tour of a real historical mine shaft is an unforgettable experience (although perhaps not ideal for the claustrophobic). At the conclusion of your trip, you can even pan for gold!

Address: 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo Victoria 3550
Phone: +61 1800 813 153
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 316 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo

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It believes that South Gippsland's Tarra Bulga National Park, just over 2.5 hours from Melbourne, is one of Victoria's top tourist destinations despite being less well-known. This national park is among one of the Best Places To Visit In Victoria. The Strzelecki Mountains' National Park is one of Victoria's only four cold temperate rainforests (including the Otways, Central Highlands, East Gippsland and South Gippsland). A cool temperate rainforest has a lot of ferns and moss and is cool, moist, and dark. Gippsland National Park is home to lush rainforests with enormous Mountain Ash trees, lovely fern gullies, breathtaking views, lovely treks, and a fantastic suspension bridge.

There are several short walks that can be taken from the tourist center; the majority of them are connected, so you can extend them by combining a few of them. These strolls lead you through and beneath the canopy of the rain forest. It's a must-do to stroll across the Corrigan Suspension Bridge, one of the most well-liked routes. The bridge spans a rainforest and offers stunning views of the most verdant, luxuriant fern gully. There are plenty of locations for a picnic lunch as well.

Several picnic places are located among the tall trees and tree ferns, while the visitor center offers picnic tables, barbecues, a shelter, and restrooms. There are caravan parks and other lodging choices in the Tarra Valley and the surrounding areas, however camping is not allowed inside the Tarra Bulga National Park. During one of your walks, be sure to keep a look out for a Lyrebird as well.

Address: Traralgon-Balook Road, Balook, Victoria 3971
Phone: 13 1963
Opening hours: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 121 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/tarra-bulga-national-park

The opulent Fairmont Empress hotel challenges the Parliament Buildings from the opposite side of the Inner Harbour. One of the area's first hotels, the Empress was constructed in the early 20th century. Yet, the main reason to visit this enormous hotel (if you aren't staying there) is for the tea, even though the interior design is worth a shot or two. When the Empress first opened her doors, it has continued to uphold this revered Victorian custom, and current guests and industry insiders agree that teatime is still a lavish occasion here. The tea offered at the Empress is a proprietary brand created by the hotel.

Although the cost of high tea at the Empress (about CA$78 or $61 per person), which deters most tourists from Victoria, is expensive, some tourists claim that the experience is worthwhile. Consider staying at the Fairmont Empress while in Victoria if you want to experience more than just its renowned tea service; guests like it for its Old World atmosphere.

There are 437 spacious, air-conditioned guest rooms and suites at Fairmont Empress. The harbor, city, and gardens can all be seen magnificently from several of our elegantly decorated guest rooms. The Fairmont Empress is certain to make your stay in Victoria unforgettable with its assortment of distinctive hotel suites that combine vintage accents with contemporary features.

Address: 721 Government Street, VICTORIA BC V8W 1W5
Phone: +1 250-384-8111
Opening hours: 11 am - 6 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 5157 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/empress-victoria/

One of the most well-known ski areas in the area is the Mount Washington Alpine Resort, which is located on the eastern border of Strathcona Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. And the reason is clear: The resort features 1,657 feet of vertical drop and 81 alpine runs. It, along with an average yearly snowfall of 38 feet, makes for a powder hound's nirvana. Recent visitors who came during ski season described the resort as a "jewel," saying that it is modest yet well-kept and welcoming to families.

If you happen to miss ski season, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a year-round resort where you can still enjoy the numerous gondola rides, hiking and bike trails, and other amenities. The Resort is home to a growing group of Team Canada and Winter Olympic athletes, making it anything but ordinary. Disc golf, miniature golf, boardwalk chess and checkers, shopping, restaurants, a new 2.3-kilometer ZipTour, lift-accessed mountain biking, a quad bungee trampoline, scenic chairlift excursions, and more are all available during the summer.

Depending on the weather, the ski season often lasts from November to March. Adult daily lift tickets cost CA$95 (about $74) and are good from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Summer chairlift rides cost CA$21 (about $16) per person. The resort is located near Courtenay, British Columbia, roughly 150 miles northwest of the Inner Harbour.

Address: 1 Strathcona Crt, Campbell River BC V9H1W3

Phone: +1 250-338-1386

Opening hours: unknown

Rating: 4.0/5.0, 251 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://www.mountwashington.ca/