Exploring Downtown Victoria BC!

downtown Victoria BC looking over the Inner Harbour toward the Empress, Wharf and Government Street

Perched on the edge of the ocean at the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is surrounded by the sparkling sea, rolling hills and majestic forests. For years, Victoria has been one of the top rated cities in the world to visit, not only because it has the mildest climate in all of Canada, but because this stunning city is the perfect balance of forward-thinking urban spaces, graceful heritage buildings and breathtaking natural beauty. Plus, from as early as February and as late as October the city is filled with blooming flowers, trees and every public and private garden is alive with colour – it’s no wonder Victoria is known as The Garden City. Downtown Victoria BC also has more restaurants per-capita than any other Canadian city, an incredible shopping district filled with unique, high-end, local and sustainable items, stunning heritage sites, and urban trails that meander along the coastline. One of the best parts about Victoria is that as a relatively small city, the downtown core is completely accessible on foot and each area of downtown is as beautiful as the next! So when you’re planning your next holiday, choose one of the incredible EMR Vacation Rentals downtown Victoria and explore everything the Garden City has to offer! 

Victoria’s History

While Vancouver Island was first explored by European settlers in the late 1770s, it wasn’t until the early 1800s that the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the southern tip of Vancouver Island, where the city of Victoria is now located, was discovered by Europeans. For thousands of years before that time, the area now called Victoria was home to the Coast Salish First Nations who lived in harmony with the environment. The ocean provided plentiful fishing, the forests, ample hunting and the natural resources such as cedar bark were used to build canoes, weave baskets, hats and so much more. When James Douglas came to the area in 1841, it was to establish a fur trading post that would coincide with the 1846 signing of the Oregon Treaty. This post became such a profitable trading centre that it officially became the capital of a newly-founded British crown colony that would later officially become a part of Canada as the province of British Columbia. During the gold rush of 1858, Fort Victoria, as it was called, grew into an established city that drew people from all over Canada and the world to seek their fortune in the west. By the early 1900s, Victoria was home to the stunning Empress Hotel and Parliament Buildings, and many wealthy Canadians called this city home creating vast wealth from the Island’s natural resources and building stately private residences around the city – which you can go visit today! 

Victoria Heritage Sites

While there are certainly many incredible heritage sites to see all over Greater Victoria, the ones downtown are some of the most impressive and important! For more heritage tourist attractions outside the downtown core to check out including the world famous Butchart Gardens click here!  

The Fairmont Empress Hotel

721 Government St, Victoria

Built in 1908 by Sir Francis Rattenbury, The Empress Hotel is a stunning piece of Victorian architectural history. When you visit the Inner Harbour you cannot help but marvel and the Empress’ soaring spires and majestic chateau-style architecture that overlooks the water and encompasses an entire city block. 

The Parliament Buildings

501 Belleville St, Victoria

Built by the same architect as the Empress, Sir Francis Rattenbury, this stately, turquoise-domed building, also known as the BC Legislature located in the Victoria Inner Harbour, has been one of Victoria’s landmarks since 1897 when it was completed for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Take a free guided tour to marvel at the structure, learn about the building, see historical pictures and artifacts and you can even watch when the Legislative Assembly is in session! At night, thousands of lights strung all over the exterior light up creating an air of whimsy and majesty to the Inner Harbour. 

Helmcken House

638 Douglas St, Victoria

Right outside the doors of the Royal BC museum, in Thunderbird Park sits the small, unassuming, Helmcken House. While it may not look like much, this structure was the home of Dr. John Helmcken, an incredibly important figure in Canadian history, and is officially the oldest house still standing in Victoria! It has been preserved in its entirety and stands on the site that it was originally built. As a visitor, you can tour the house and see how people in 1920 Victoria lived as well as getting a glimpse into the medical bag of a 19th century doctor! 

Book your stay at the Landmark Executive Sub Penthouse to be right near these stunning sites and the Inner Harbour! 

Chinatown

500 Fisgard St, Victoria

Victoria’s Chinatown, which initially was just a collection of crude wooden huts at the edge of a trading post-turned-burgeoning city during the gold rush of the mid 1800s, soon evolved into an area that was densely populated with thriving businesses, theatres, schools, temples and a hospital. You can still find North America’s second oldest Chinatown at the north end of Government Street, downtown Victoria but unlike 1911, today’s Chinatown only occupies the 500 to 600 block of Fisgard St. Both locals and visitors love visiting this National Historic Site famed for the incredible history, food, shopping and beautiful Gate of Harmonious Interest. 

Looking for a rental near Chinatown? Book your stay in Victoria at The Corazon and be right near all the action! 

Emily Carr House

207 Government St, Victoria

Right in the heart of the beautiful downtown neighbourhood of James Bay, sits the childhood home of the famous Canadian painter and author, Emily Carr. Known best for her abstract painting of the wilderness and First Nations totems and villages of BC, Emily Carr provides an invaluable voice to an era of Canadian history. While there is seemingly no end to the Emily Carr paintings at galleries and museums in BC, the Carr house provides something different – an intimate, interpretive look at the life, work, passions and legacy of this beloved artist. 

Have a look at these James Bay properties to find your perfect rental! 

Coffee in Victoria

If you’re wandering around Victoria downtown, you’ll quickly see how important great coffee is to this little capital city. With tons of locally owned and operated coffee shops, and incredible, locally roasted coffee you’re spoiled for choice when looking for great coffee in the city! Here are a few of our favourites that’ll get you feeling ready for a day out downtown Victoria!

Habit Coffee

552 Pandora Ave & 808 Yates St, Victoria

For years, Habit Coffee has been a local favourite coffee spot. With gorgeous, flavourful coffee and a dedicated carbon neutral business model, Habit is a must when you’re visiting downtown Victoria. 

Union Pacific

537 Herald St, Victoria

This warm, friendly coffee shop in a gorgeously refurbished heritage warehouse offers incredible coffee as well as a large breakfast and lunch menu, plus freshly baked, local goodies, yum!

Hey Happy

560 Johnson St #122, Victoria

This funky coffee shop right in the heart of the shopping district is a relatively new coffee shop but already has a dedicated following! With great coffee and scrumptious, healthy snacks and small bites, Hey Happy is a great place to check out! 

Farmhouse

10 Bastion Square, Victoria

Located right in Bastion Square, Farmhouse is the place locals go to get big cappuccinos and even bigger burgers! The perfect place to enjoy the sun and your coffee in Bastion Square and people watch! 

Discovery Coffee

1001 Blanshard St & 281 Menzies St, Victoria

For decades, Discovery Coffee has been serving incredible, ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee! If you’re looking for a reliable and well established local coffee place, this is it! 

Restaurants in Victoria

Finding incredible food in Victoria couldn’t be easier! Choosing which restaurant you want to go to – now that can be a challenge! We’ve rounded up our favourite downtown Victoria spots to make your decision a little easier! 

Nubo Kitchen and Bar

490 Pandora Ave, Victoria 

Located in a renovated heritage building on the edge of the water, Nubo offers guests elegant cocktails and stunning dishes inspired by global cooking techniques and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. 

Pagliacci’s

1011 Broad St, Victoria

For years, Pagliacci’s has been a local staple for incredible, filling Italian food and friendly, European style service.

Il Terrazzo

555 Johnson St, Victoria, BC

For over 30 years, this lovely, fine-dining Italian restaurant has been the place to go for a delicious, upscale meal with an impeccable atmosphere, right in the heart of Old Town. 

Ferris’

536 Yates St, Victoria, BC V8W 1K8

While Ferris’ has been around for ages and delighting locals and visitors with scrumptious and healthy burgers, salads, soups and more, today, there’s so much more to Ferris’. Ferris’ Grill & Garden Patio is perfect when you’re in the mood for casual dining or a fun happy hour spot, there’s Ferris’ Upstairs Seafood & Oyster Bar for upscale and intimate dining and Perro Negro for a dash of Spain in the hear of Victoria! 

Breweries in Victoria 

If there’s one thing that Victorians love almost as much as food and coffee, it’s beer. For years, Victoria has had a passion for the microbreweries in the city, flocking to breweries to try a flight and buying locally made and produced beer to take home. If you’re in the city and want to go on your own walking tour to see what all the fuss is about, these are the breweries to check out downtown!

Whistle Buoy Brewing

Market Square, Lower Courtyard, #63, 560 Johnson St, Victoria, BC 

This tiny brewery has only 600sqft of space to create their beers, brews only 800L batches at a time! Because of their small capacity, their focus is on brewing incredible, small batch experimental beers with the highest quality ingredients. 

Drake Eatery

517 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC

Known as Victoria’s craft beer parlour, this is the ultimate place to find an incredible selection of local and imported craft beer sourced solely from independently owned breweries.

Swan’s Pub

1601 Store St, Victoria, BC

As one of the most well-established breweries and one of the most beloved pubs in Victoria, Swan’s has a spot in every local’s heart. 

Herald St. Brew Works

506 Herald St, Victoria, BC

This brewery is the newest on the Victoria beer scene and while they had som stiff competition in town, they’ve quickly become a local favourite and a must-visit for visiting beer lovers!

Phillips Tasting Room

2000 Government St, Victoria, BC

With a scrappy history, a lot of dedication, passion and time, Phillips has become one of the most well-known and beloved beers in Victoria.

Have Fun in Victoria! 

Shopping

When you’re travelling, doing a little shopping is a must! Whether you’re looking for gifts to bring back with you or you’re ready to splurge on yourself, downtown Victoria has incredible shopping! Check out Government Street for boutiques and some of the oldest stores in the city, head to Pacific Centre for a classic mall experience and if you’re looking for more unique items, go straight to Lower Johnson – or LoJo as locals call it – where you’ll find high-end boutiques, curated vintage, unique housewares, children’s toys and so much more! 

Water Taxis

These tiny little boats skim across the ocean taking passengers all over the Inner and Upper Harbour in Victoria. If you’re looking for a fun way to explore more of Victoria’s downtown without breaking a sweat, this is a great way to do it! 

Walking in Victoria

One of the best ways to explore this incredible city is by walking! Victoria is an incredibly walkable city and has gorgeous urban hiking trails all over the city! Here are our top walking trails in downtown Victoria:

  • Dallas Road: Starting at Fisherman’s Wharf just past the Inner Harbour, you can walk along the seaside looping around the neighbourhood of James Bay. On this walk, you’ll see where the cruise ships come in at Ogden Point, have spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains across the Salish Sea/Strait of Juan de Fuca and can go all the way to Beacon Hill Park! 
  • Songhees Walkway: Starting at the Johnson Street bridge at the bottom of Johnson Street, you can cross using the pedestrian pathway and continue walking along the oceanside path all the way to the West Bay Marina. This walk gives you unique and stunning views of the Inner harbour and downtown Victoria.
  • Beacon Hill Park: While this park isn’t technically in the downtown core, it’s a must-see when you’re in Victoria, especially if you’re looking for a beautiful place to stretch your legs. Here you can find cultivated and wild natural spaces, gnarly Garry oaks, graceful bridges and waterways and the second tallest totem pole in the world! 

Get Out on the Water around Victoria! 

If there’s one thing that you have to do when you’re visiting Victoria is take advantage of the incredible ocean access all around the downtown area! You can whale watch or kayak and get up close and personal with the abundant marine life just off the shore of the capital city! Whether you want to catch a glimpse of the orcas, grey and humpback whales that pass through these waters on their migratory journey or if you’re happy to see some harbour seals, cormorants and starfish, it couldn’t be easier to get out there from downtown Victoria! 

Whale Watching Tours:

Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours – 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria (Fisherman’s Wharf)

Orca Spirit Adventures – 950 Wharf St, Victoria (near Harbour Air Seaplane office)

Springtide Whale Watching – 1119 Wharf St, Victoria

BC Whale Tours – 1234 Wharf St, Victoria

Kayaking:

Kelp Reef Adventures – 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria (Fisherman’s Wharf)

Victoria Kayak Tours & Rentals – 1006 Wharf St, Victoria

Ocean River – 450 Swift St, Victoria

Book a Victoria Rental Today!

Things to do in Nanaimo

There’s no doubt that Vancouver Island, British Columbia is one of the most stunning places to visit in Canada. Surrounded by the ocean and easily accessible by air or sea, Vancouver Island is filled with quaint towns and vibrant city centres surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

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How to Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving on Vancouver Island

various pumpkins near bail of hay - thanksgiving - fall

When you think of Thanksgiving in North America, most people think of pilgrim outfits, pumpkin pie, the Mayflower and feast re-enactments between pilgrims and American Indians – typical images from many Hollywood movies and American TV shows.

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The Best Sushi Restaurants in Victoria!

sushi roll on plate - sushi in Victoria

It’s no secret that Victoria, British Columbia is one of the top places in Canada for dining. With a vibrant, multicultural population, access to fresh, local products and one of the mildest climates in the country, it’s easy to see why there are more restaurants per capita in Victoria BC than any other Canadian city.

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Best Spas on Vancouver Island

woman relaxing in spa room with candles

There’s no doubt that British Columbia is one of the most peaceful places in Canada – which is why it is consistently one of the top destinations in the world! With ocean views of the beautiful Salish Sea and Pacific Ocean, dense forests, majestic mountains and charming towns and cities, Vancouver Island is a tranquil destination.

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The Only Vancouver Island Packing List You Need

Vancouver Island, located in British Columbia, just across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver itself, is a dream destination for many in Canada and the nearby Pacific Northwest region of the U.S.A.
With an endless amount of outdoor activities to be enjoyed and plenty of in-town amenities like restaurants, bars, and cafes in Victoria, you won’t lack for things to keep you and your fellow travelers entertained.

While there’s a real variety in activities, just like much of North America, there’s also a big variety in weather based on the season you decide to visit. Lucky for you, and a surprise to many, the winters on Vancouver Island aren’t nearly as snowy and cold as they are on mainland B.C. You’ll still want to bring a warm coat and plenty of cozy clothes but it won’t be quite the tundra you might be expecting. On the same note, you can expect warm summer weather but given the sea breeze, the temperatures aren’t as balmy as they are inland.

With that in mind, we’ll break up our packing list into 4 separate seasonal lists and 1 checklist for things you’ll need year-round, regardless of the season.

Photo Credit Shyntartanya/Shutterstock.com

Year-Round Packing List for Vancouver Island

Whether you plan your trip to Vancouver Island in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, there are a few things you won’t want to come here without. In winter and spring when rainy days are more likely, you’ll want to pack extra comfy clothes for lounging around your vacation rental home. It’s also a good idea to pack some games and extra things to do for nights in.

Depending on how you’re arriving in town might affect how much or how little you plan to pack. If you’re flying onto Vancouver Island, I suggest going light and packing in a carry on. This will not only save you time at the airport but it also makes it easier to get from point A to point B. If you’re driving to town and will cross over via ferry, your only limitations to packing really depends on the size of your car.

Regardless, using packing cubes will not only save you space but it’ll also help keep your belongings organized once you arrive and begin to unpack.

Luckily, if you’re staying at one of our well-stocked vacation rental homes, you won’t need to worry about packing beach towels, kitchen supplies, or bonus day to day items. Instead, you’ll only need to pack the items you’ll personally use on your Canadian vacation.

These items you’ll want to pack anytime of the year include:

  • Hiking Boots
  • Comfortable pair of everyday shoes
  • Jeans
  • Sweatshirt
  • Athletic clothing
  • Loungewear
  • Pajamas
  • Toiletries
  • Camera
  • Phone
  • Laptop (although we highly recommend you use this trip to unplug!)
  • Kindle or book
  • Chargers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Daypack or tote bag

Winter Packing List for Vancouver Island

As said before, winter weather is a bit different than mainland Canada, so instead of piles and piles of snow, it’s our rainy season. While some of that will turn to snow, it doesn’t stick around for too long.

Given that it’s the rainy season, it’s also the low season. That means a more peaceful vacation, away from the crowds that storm the island in the summer. If you’re up for some wet weather, winter is a great time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and delights of Vancouver Island with hardly anyone else around.

While it’s not as cold as you might be expecting if you’re traveling to the island from mainland B.C., you’ll still want to wear ample layers. A water-resistant outer layer is definitely the most important as the rain can come and go quite unexpectedly but underneath that you’ll want some comfy layers.

To make your winter trip as comfortable as possible, here’s what you should pack:

  • A few extra pairs of pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof shoes or rain boots
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Hoodie
  • Leggings (or other athletic clothing for hikes)
  • Beanie
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • Wool socks

Spring Packing List for Vancouver Island

All of those rainy winter days really pay off in the spring when the island turns lush and green. Victoria is known as the “Garden City” and particularly in spring it’s easy to know why. Although you can still expect some rainy days in the spring, the weather starts to warm and the sun starts to last for longer periods of time during this season.

Because of this wide range of weather, you’ll want to come prepared for it all in spring. In general, if you’re visiting in March, expect more winter-like weather, whereas in May, you’ll enjoy weather more similar to summer. April is really a mixed bag where one day could be chilly and rainy and the other warm and sunny.

To fully take advantage of your spring trip to Vancouver Island, you should pack:

  • Extra pants
  • Dresses, skirts, and/or shorts (if visiting in late spring)
  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Rain jacket
  • Light Sweater
  • Scarf
  • Sunscreen

Summer Packing List for Vancouver Island

The summer season is by far the most popular time to visit Vancouver Island. It’s no surprise either, given the exceptional weather that the island enjoys during these months. These months are the sunniest that British Columbia sees all year round and given the nice sea breeze, the temperatures tend to stay lower than on the mainland.

This time of year is ideal for those looking to maximize their time outside. From a plethora of hiking trails and great beaches to patio dining and breweries with outdoor gardens, you’ll have no lack of ways to spend your time. Just know that plenty of others have the same idea as you to spend the long summer days on the island.

Your bag should be significantly lighter in the summer with this Vancouver Island packing list:

  • Shorts
  • Dresses and/or skirts
  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Short sleeve tops
  • Cardigan or light sweater
  • Swimsuit
  • Flip flops
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray

Fall Packing List for Vancouver Island

Last but certainly not least, here are our packing tips for a fall trip to Vancouver Island. Just like the other seasons of the year, fall is notably less extreme than its mainland counterparts. While you’ll still be rewarded with cool days and fall colors, the weather isn’t usually noticeably cold until the end of the season.

During the fall months (September thru November), you can expect to be able to spend much of your time outside enjoying a hike, hanging out in Victoria, or witnessing the salmon run. There’s a small chance you’ll get your fair share of rain on your trip but these storms are less likely in the fall than they are in the winter and spring.

Get ready for a full fall adventure when you pack:

  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Sweaters
  • Dresses and/or skirts
  • Raincoat
  • Extra pair of jeans
  • Scarf and/or beanie

With these travel tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation to Vancouver Island no matter the season you choose to visit. Better yet, aim to spend a few days on the island in each season so then you can really see the magic of the island and everything it has to offer.

Isn’t it Romantic? 10 Romantic Date Ideas in Victoria

It may not be known as the City of Love and you might not be able to watch lights twinkle on the Eiffel Tower every night but for many years, Victoria has taken the top spot as Canada’s most romantic city – for good reason! With incredible heritage and modern architecture and breathtaking natural beauty the little capital city on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island is an incredibly romantic city with lots of activities for couples to enjoy. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing but culturally, Victoria is a vibrant place where you can find incredible art, food, music, shopping and so much more. Whether you’re looking to challenge each other, relax together or simply enjoy the peace of one another’s company, you can find all that and more in Victoria! 

Kayaking & Dinner

If you both love nature and being active this is a great date night option – especially if you’re staying downtown Victoria! Fisherman’s Wharf is the colourful houseboat community on the edge of James Bay where you can find casual to-go food, friendly harbour seals, and even friendlier neighbours! From here, you can rent a kayak for the day, paddle around the Inner Harbour, Upper Harbour, explore the Gorge Waterway or follow the shore parallel to the Dallas Road walking trail and get a view of this popular path from a different perspective! When you’re all done exploring the waters around the city, you can have an incredible dinner at one of the best oceanfront restaurants in the city: Aura. Here, you’ll find incredible cocktails, exquisite dishes and one of the best patios to watch a summer sunset.

Escape Room & Dinner at Little Jumbo

If you’re the kind of couple that likes to think outside of the box when it comes to date nights, this is the one for you! If you’ve never done an escape room before, you’ll get to jump into the deep end with Horror Escape downtown Victoria! As the highest rated escape room experience in Victoria, this is sure to get the blood pumping and make you work as a team to solve all the puzzles and be released before the time runs out! To celebrate your escape, head over to Little Jumbo – a cool speakeasy in Old Town Victoria with a unique vibe and incredible cocktails! The best part of this whole evening? It’s totally walkable from any EMR property downtown Victoria!

Hike, Picnic and a View

If you’re a couple with an active lifestyle who loves spending time together outdoors, this is a great romantic date option. If you’re looking for a challenge, Mount Douglas and Mount Tolmie are both easy to moderate hikes that take you to the summit where you can enjoy spectacular views of Victoria and the surrounding area. If you’re up for a drive, Gowlland Todd Provincial Park in Saanich is an incredible place to hike through meandering forest paths and if you want to search for waterfalls, Goldstream Provincial Park is a popular place to hike and stay nice a cool in the trees even at the peak of summer. No matter where you go for a hike, be sure to check out one of the incredible local businesses that provide delicious picnic supplies so you can take the guesswork out of picnic planning! Head to the Very Good Butchers for mouth watering, plant based charcuterie ‘meats’, The Farmer’s Daughter picnic boxes are ideal for no-fuss, high quality charcuterie on-the-go and Fol Epi has some truly European-style charcuterie boxes with an incredible selection of meats, cheeses, pickles and organic bread to enjoy with your special someone. wn Victoria!

Shop at a Farm Market and Cook Dinner Together 

In the summer, Victoria farmers markets are filled with fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, preserves and more. Not only can you find great food but the lively energy of a farm market is so much fun – a great way to spend a sunny summer day with that special someone. If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of the farm markets in and around Victoria, you can check out our blog post about all our favourites here! When you get home with all your goodies, what better way to end the day than with a chilled bottle of wine and making a meal together with your haul? If you’re not sure what to make, you can check out Taste Magazine online for great recipe ideas, perfect wine pairings and inventive cocktails. If you’re really into upping your date game, book an online cooking class from The London Chef – you can show off your skills and learn new ones!

Visit Sea Cider Farmhouse & Alfresco Drinks

Known for its beautiful countryside and rich agricultural land, the Saanich Peninsula just north of Victoria is where you’ll find many local farms that supply the restaurants in Victoria and beyond with incredible quality produce, meats, cheese, honey and more. Arguably one of the most beautiful places on the Peninsula, Sea Cider Farmhouse is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, a coveted venue for weddings and special events and where some of the most spectacular cider is made. Taking an afternoon to browse the orchard, sample the ciders, and have a romantic lunch at their beautiful restaurant might be one of the best ways to spend a summer day. If you’re staying at one of the many EMR properties with beautiful outdoor spaces, you can extend your romantic day by purchasing your favourite ciders to sip while you watch the sunset from the patio.

Chase the Sunset on Dallas Road

Dallas Road is famous in Victoria. Known for the pristine 7.5 kilometre seaside walking trail, Dallas Road is a popular spot for locals to enjoy all year ‘round. One of the best features of this path is that in Victoria, this is where you find unparalleled sunsets – and what could be more romantic than walking along the edge of the sea while the sun sets behind the waves? Ideal for anyone staying in Victoria this is a great way to spend the last hours of a summer day and if you’re looking for a casual bite to eat or a place to sit and watch the sun disappear, the Breakwater Bistro near Ogden Point has a fabulous patio right on the ocean. 

Brunch and a Spa

If there’s one thing that Victoria has in abundance, it’s restaurants and if there’s one thing that Victorians love, it’s brunch – so finding wonderful brunch places is pretty easy in this city! No matter what kind of brunch you’re looking for, Victoria has it! Looking for a healthy option that will feed your body and soul? Try Nourish Kitchen & Cafe! Want something hearty and filling? Jam Cafe has southern inspired dishes that will make your tastebuds sing! The Blue Fox is known for their eggs benny and Hey Happy has light, healthy breakfasts and lunches for the casual brunch go-er. When it comes to spas, Victoria has those in spades too! From upscale facilities at Willow Stream Spa, Boathouse Spa and Amatista Spa to holistic experiences at Sapphire Day Spa and casual organic services at Silk Road, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for!

Road Trip to a Winery

An easy half-hour drive north of Victoria you can get to the Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island’s very own wine country. The Cowichan Valley has a unique Mediterranean-like microclimate that makes it perfect for growing and producing incredible wines. On a sunny summer day, you can take a short road trip and visit one or more of these stunning vineyards, sample some wine and stop for lunch at one of the lovely restaurants attached. For more information you can read all about our favourite wineries here!

Late Night Stroll & Ice Cream

If you haven’t been to Victoria, you may not know that day or night, Victoria is a beautiful place! At night, the city lights up with heritage lamps, fairy lights, strings of bulbs over the narrow alleys and warm lights coming from the patios and windows of the restaurants. On a warm summer evening, there is almost nothing better than heading out after dinner, as the sun starts to set, grabbing some ice cream and simply walking around the city, hand in hand. Stop at Oh Gelato or Victoria Ice Cream & Fudge Factory and walk with your tasty treats to the Inner Harbour to watch the buskers perform, the sun go down and watch the lights come on the Parliament Buildings. Check out the long-time local favourite Beacon Drive In where you can get a classic soft serve and take it with you to stroll along Dallas Road and Jackson’s Ice Cream Float right on Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to get some icy treats to-go and walk through James Bay or just enjoy people watching on the wharf!   

Go dancing! 

These days, it seems like no matter where you travel to, the only places to go dancing are nightclubs filled with obnoxiously loud music, sticky floors and 20 somethings vying for each other’s attention. In Victoria though, there is a place to go dancing with your special someone that has great live music, friendly staff and lively, age-appropriate patrons: Hermann’s Jazz Club! For 40 years, Hermann’s has been the place to go for great live jazz and funky bands perfect for cutting a rug to, every night of the week! Plus, you can find a great cocktail list and excellent food menu so you can really make a night of it!

Book with EMR Today!

What’s Happening Around Victoria in August

August in Victoria is one of the hottest months of the entire year. With long days and warm nights, local organizations and businesses make it a priority to fill this month with incredible activities both in and outside, day and night! Here are some of the most highly anticipated events around the city for you to enjoy! 

Winemaker’s Dinner Series

Where: Oak Bay Beach Hotel 

When: August 11th & 25th

Join the Oak Bay Beach hotel in welcoming Hester Creek and Phantom Creek Winery for their August sessions of the Winemaker’s Dinner Series! During these incredible nights, guests will be invited to experience Executive Chef Kreg Graham’s incredible dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients perfectly paired with wines from these incredible vineyards. Whether you’re staying nearby in Victoria or if you’re travelling from Sidney, this dinner series is worth it! Book your tickets today to get your seat!

Music in the Park 

Where: Various Locations

When: August 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th

Every Friday evening for the summer of 2022 in various parks around Colwood, you can find lively music, great food and an incredible crowd of neighbours all getting together to enjoy the summer evenings! Perfect for families enjoying a stay in Langford, Colwood or Metchosin with kids this summer! 

Water Ballet 

Where: Inner Harbour

When: Every Saturday and Sunday 10:45am 

When water taxis first came to Victoria the operators were impressed with the extreme manoeuvrability of the little crafts and realized that they could twirl and ‘dance’ on the water. Creating synchronized boat dances quickly became a seasonal tradition in Victoria and this year, it’s back every weekend! Take the short walk to the Inner Harbour from one of the beautiful Downtown Victoria EMR rentals one morning to catch a performance!

Maud Lewis

Where: The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

When: until October 16th 

Maud Lewis is one of Canada’s most beloved and inventive folk artists whose works show a mastery of colour, vibrant composition variations and communicate cheerful life in Atlantic Canada. Join the AGGV to celebrate this retrospective that showcases 130 works from an illustrious career. When you’re staying at an EMR Victoria rental you won’t want to miss this incredible exhibit! 

Parksville Beach Festival 

Where: Parksville Community Beach and Park

When: until August 21st

Known to locals as Beachfest, this five and half week-long competition and festival is the highlight of the summer in Parksville and nearby Qualicum Beach. With sand sculpting, live music, food and events for the entire family, this festival is a must – especially if you’re renting one of the beautiful EMR Parksville properties nearby! 

Implosion / Explosion

Where: Phillips Backyard – 2010 Government St. 

When: Aug 13th & 14th

It’s been three years since Phillips has hosted one of its Backyard events so this year, they’re going all out! In August, Implosion / Explosion will feature St. Paul and the Broken Bones and Charlotte Day Wilson with exciting musical guests plus incredible food and experiences all weekend. If you’re staying in Victoria, you won’t want to miss out on the party of the summer!  

Salsa in Season  

Where: Victoria Community Food Hub

When: August 18th

No matter what the season, salsa is always delicious. If you want to up your salsa making game, join chef Karina Gomez to learn how to create a perfectly balanced salsa made with local ingredients grown right here on the Saanich Peninsula. You’ll be able to try your salsa with some rice and bean tostadas and a salad made from local ingredients while you hear about the farmers and farms where all the ingredients came from. 

Music by the Sea

Where: Victoria International Marina

When: until August 5th

If you are looking for an upscale way to spend a summer evening, Music by the Sea at the Victoria International Marina is a great option! With a unique mix of classical and jazz chamber music played by a resident company, you can’t go wrong spending a warm summer evening here! Take the opportunity to have a relaxing evening walk through downtown to the Marina when you’re staying at a rental right downtown Victoria!

Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival 

Where: Ship Point – 800 Wharf St. Victoria

When: August 25th – 28th

If you’re looking for a foot-stomping good time over this late August weekend, you won’t want to miss the Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival right on Wharf St. downtown Victoria. This weekend festival features local, regional and international jazz and blues musicians who are going to light the stage up with incredible performances. With both free and ticketed performances to attend, check the line up to plan your weekend!  

Arts & Music in the Gardens

Where: The Gardens at HPC 

When: August 6th & 7th

For over 25 years, the Gardens at HPC has been the venue for this lovely, summer arts and music festival. With nine acres of demonstration gardens all immaculately tended, the HPC gardens are an idyllic place to host this festival and an easy drive from Sidney and Victoria properties. This year, there are over 50 artists whose works will be displayed and three stages where you can enjoy the talents of our local musicians with the backdrop of a truly stunning garden space. 

Victoria Fringe Festival

Where: various locations

When: August 24th – Sept 3rd

For more than three decades, the Fringe Festival has been delighting the public with an eclectic mix of live performances. Over the week of the festival you can find spoken word, drama, musicals, comedy, theatre for kids of all ages and more! With incredible venues across the city, and lively local performers, when you’re staying downtown Victoria the Fringe is a summertime must!