The best day trips from Victoria
Overview
Victoria, the largest city and the capital of British Columbia, boasts fascinating natural surroundings that are worth visiting. If you are traveling to Victoria and looking for fun things to do – be sure to check out our top 5 day trip ideas for an unforgettable weekend getaway!
#1: The Butchart Gardens
Breathtaking 55 acres of gardens and a buffet of fragrances: the Butchart Gardens is the experience you don’t want to miss if you are traveling around Victoria. The Butchart Gardens is the place that you can visit all the year round. In summer, you will enjoy colorful florals, live entertainment, and night illumination while in winter the indoor gardens come to life. Prices depend on the time of the year, ranging from $19.35 in January to $34.80 from June 15 through September 30.
#2: Goldstream Provincial Park
Located about a 15-minute drive from Victoria, Goldstream Provincial Park is home to majestic waterfalls, riverside trails, and salmon-spawning streams. There are fun things to do for adults and kids of all ages, from wildlife viewing and cycling to camping sites and wheelchair-accessible hiking trails. Goldstream Provincial Park has its own Niagara Falls waterfall: although not as famous as its namesake south of Toronto, the waterfall is still a spectacular sight worth of stopping for anyone traveling to the park.
#3: Scenic Marine Route
Scenic Marine Route, a panoramic oceanfront drive around the coast, is a perfect way to see Victoria and the area around it. Grab a cappuccino or stop for lunch in a pub on your way. Scenic Marine Route has some fascinating beaches along the way for you and your kids to stretch the legs before you continue. If you love bird watching, be sure to take a pair of binoculars – you surely won’t regret it!
#4: Salt Spring Island
Located a 90 minute drive from Victoria, Salt Spring Island is the most accessible of the Gulf Islands. You will find here something for everyone: culinary excellence, live shows, golf retreats, and engaging workshops. A real gem of Salt Spring Island is nature: local residents and travelers have outstanding options for outdoor activities that fit all ages and fitness levels!
#5: Cowichan Valley
From the green forests and pristine nature to the world’s best vineyards and miles of hiking trails, there is always something exciting in Cowichan Valley to quench your thirst for outdoor adventures. Cowichan is home to an impressive number of wineries, cheese makers, cideries, bakeries, and other food and drink producers. So if you are a foodie, Cowichan is your perfect destination!