Cheap Family Things To Do In Victoria

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Looking for cheap family things to do in Victoria? You’re in luck! This coastal city is full of fun activities that won’t break the bank. Whether you want to explore local parks, visit museums, or take a tour, there’s something for everyone in Victoria.

One of the best things about Victoria is its natural beauty. With numerous parks and gardens throughout the city, you can enjoy nature without spending a dime. Take a stroll through Beacon Hill Park and admire the peacocks and colorful flowers. Or head over to Thetis Lake Regional Park for a picnic by the water.

No matter where you go, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So pack a lunch and spend the day exploring all that Victoria has to offer!

Explore Local Parks

Discover the natural beauty of Victoria by exploring its many breathtaking parks. With over 70 parks to choose from, you and your family can spend an entire day enjoying the great outdoors.

You can pack a picnic lunch and head to Beacon Hill Park, where you’ll find lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and even peacocks roaming around. Take a stroll along the waterfront at Dallas Road Beach or let your kids run wild at the playground in Topaz Park.

Not only is visiting local parks a cheap way to entertain your family, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature. Spend time spotting wildlife like otters, deer or even bald eagles soaring overhead.

So grab your walking shoes and get ready for an adventure! And if you’re looking for more indoor activities after spending time outside, why not visit one of Victoria’s many museums?

Visit Museums

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend the day with your family, why not visit some of Victoria’s museums?

The Royal BC Museum is a must-see destination, featuring exhibits on natural history, First Nations culture, and British Columbia’s modern history.

Meanwhile, the Maritime Museum of British Columbia offers fascinating insights into the province’s seafaring heritage.

And, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria showcases beautiful works from local artists as well as internationally-renowned collections.

So, make a day of it and explore the rich cultural offerings of Victoria’s museums!

Royal BC Museum

You’ll love exploring the fascinating exhibits at the Royal BC Museum! This museum is a perfect place to visit with your family, especially if you want to learn more about British Columbia’s history and culture.

With over seven million objects in its collection, the museum offers an interactive experience that will surely captivate both kids and adults alike.

As you wander through the different galleries, make sure to check out the First Peoples exhibit which showcases artifacts from various indigenous cultures in British Columbia.

The Natural History exhibit is also a must-see as it features life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures such as woolly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers.

And if you’re interested in learning about British Columbia during colonial times, head to the Modern History exhibit where you can explore everything from early settlement to modern-day issues facing the province.

Don’t forget to take advantage of their special events throughout the year, including lectures and workshops on topics ranging from marine biology to cultural heritage.

Now that you’ve explored all that the Royal BC Museum has to offer, it’s time to head over to the Maritime Museum of British Columbia! Here you’ll discover fascinating stories about ships, sailors, and sea monsters that have shaped Victoria’s maritime history.

Maritime Museum of British Columbia

Hop on over to the Maritime Museum of British Columbia and delve into the deep and diverse history of Victoria’s maritime past!

Located in the heart of downtown, this museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits that showcase the city’s rich nautical heritage. From ancient canoes to modern-day ships, you’ll get to explore everything from shipbuilding techniques to naval warfare.

One of the highlights of this museum is its collection of artifacts from the early days of European exploration in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll see original maps, navigation tools, and even 16th-century Spanish armor!

There are also interactive exhibits that let you experience life at sea firsthand. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover Victoria’s seafaring roots and gain a deeper appreciation for its role as a major port city.

And speaking of culture, why not head over to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria next?

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a must-visit destination for art lovers. You can immerse yourself in stunning works of art from both local and international artists. The gallery boasts an extensive collection of more than 20,000 pieces, including contemporary and historical paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts.

As you walk through the spacious galleries, you’ll be captivated by the diverse range of styles and themes on display. From Emily Carr’s iconic landscapes to contemporary pieces exploring identity and culture, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination.

Don’t forget to check out the outdoor sculpture garden or grab a bite at the onsite café before continuing your exploration of Victoria’s cultural scene. And if you’re looking for an insider’s perspective on the collection, why not take a tour? You’ll gain unique insights into the artists’ techniques and inspirations as well as learn about the history behind some of the most celebrated pieces in the gallery’s collection.

Take a Tour

If exploring the city with a knowledgeable guide sounds like your cup of tea, then touring Victoria might be just what you’re looking for. There are many tour options to choose from, whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or even ghost stories.

Take a stroll through Old Town with a guide dressed in Victorian attire and learn about the city’s past while admiring the charming buildings. Or hop on a bike and explore the scenic routes along the waterfront with a local who knows all the hidden gems.

Not only will you get to see some of Victoria’s top attractions, but taking a tour also allows you to gain insight into the culture and community of the city. You’ll have opportunities to interact with locals and ask questions that you may not have thought of on your own. Plus, it takes away any stress or confusion that may come with navigating an unfamiliar place.

After your tour, head over to one of Victoria’s beautiful beaches and soak up some sun or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Enjoy the Beach

You’ll love spending time at the beach in Victoria, taking in the beautiful scenery and basking in the warm sun.

There are many beaches to choose from, whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or a spot with lots of activities. One popular option is Willows Beach, which has a playground and plenty of space for picnics. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the coastline.

Victoria’s beaches are also great places to watch wildlife. You might see seals playing in the water or bald eagles soaring overhead. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during low tide, you can explore the tide pools and discover all sorts of creatures like starfish and crabs.

After a day at the beach, head over to one of Victoria’s many festivals for more fun!

Attend Festivals

Now that you’ve had a chance to soak up some sun at the beach, it’s time to explore the vibrant festival scene in Victoria. This city has a calendar full of events that cater to all ages and interests, making it easy for families on a budget to find something fun and affordable.

From music and food festivals to cultural celebrations and outdoor markets, there’s always something happening in Victoria. One popular event is the Victoria Fringe Festival, which takes place every August. This 11-day festival showcases local and international artists performing everything from theatre and dance to comedy and spoken word. With over 50 shows each year, there’s sure to be something for every member of your family.

Another great option is the Victoria International Buskers Festival, which runs for 10 days in July. You’ll be amazed by the incredible talent of street performers from around the world as they juggle fire, perform acrobatics, play music, and make you laugh out loud.

As you immerse yourself in these exciting festivals, don’t forget about another great way to experience Victoria on a budget: visiting its many markets.

Visit Markets

If you’re looking for a unique and affordable activity to do with your family in Victoria, visiting one of the city’s markets is a great option.

The Victoria Public Market offers a diverse selection of locally sourced foods and artisanal products, while the Moss Street Market boasts an impressive array of fresh produce and handmade crafts.

And don’t forget about Bastion Square Public Market, which features live music and a bustling atmosphere perfect for people-watching while browsing through its many stalls.

So why not take advantage of these vibrant marketplaces and experience all that Victoria has to offer?

Victoria Public Market

Explore the Victoria Public Market for a unique and exciting experience that’ll give you a taste of local culture. This indoor market is located in downtown Victoria, making it easily accessible for families looking for a fun and affordable activity.

With over 40 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal products, and delicious food options, there’s something for everyone at the Victoria Public Market.

Here are three things to do when visiting the Victoria Public Market:

1. Try a variety of local foods: From freshly baked bread to handmade chocolates, there’s no shortage of delicious treats at this market.

2. Meet local artisans: Take some time to chat with the vendors and learn about their craft. You might even find the perfect souvenir to take home!

3. Attend an event or workshop: The Victoria Public Market offers a range of events and workshops throughout the year, including cooking classes and live music performances.

As you leave the market inspired by all its offerings, continue your adventure by heading over to Moss Street Market where you can discover even more local delights without breaking the bank.

Moss Street Market

Check out the Moss Street Market for a vibrant and eclectic array of local products and artisanal crafts, perfect for immersing yourself in Victoria’s unique culture.

Every Saturday from April to October, this open-air market boasts over 90 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. Take your time browsing through the stalls, chatting with friendly locals and artisans, and sampling delicious treats.

In addition to shopping, the Moss Street Market also offers live music and entertainment, making it a fun outing for the whole family. Kids will enjoy exploring the Children’s Tent where they can participate in interactive activities like face painting and storytelling.

Don’t miss out on this lively community hub that truly captures the essence of Victoria’s diverse culture. And as you leave Moss Street Market behind, get ready to explore another one-of-a-kind market experience at Bastion Square Public Market.

Bastion Square Public Market

You’ll love browsing through the Bastion Square Public Market, which features over 50 local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food.

Did you know that this market has been a Victoria tradition for over 20 years?

As you walk between the stalls, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere of creativity and community.

Here are four reasons why visiting the Bastion Square Public Market should be on your list of cheap family things to do in Victoria:

1. You can sample some of the best local snacks and treats.
2. You can find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts for yourself or loved ones.
3. You can support small businesses and local artisans.
4. You can experience the vibrant energy that comes with being part of a thriving market.

After spending some time exploring the market, why not stretch your legs and go on a hike?

The natural beauty of Victoria is just waiting to be discovered!

Go on a Hike

So you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors? Well, Victoria has some amazing hiking trails that you won’t want to miss.

Mount Douglas Park offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its summit, while East Sooke Regional Park takes you on a seaside adventure with rugged cliffs and secluded coves.

And if waterfalls, giant trees and salmon spawning are more your style, then Goldstream Provincial Park is definitely worth checking out.

Lace up your boots and hit the trail – these hikes won’t disappoint!

Mount Douglas Park

Explore Mount Douglas Park for breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature’s beauty. As one of Victoria’s largest urban parks, it offers miles of hiking trails that are perfect for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

With over 21 kilometers of well-maintained pathways, you can choose from various routes depending on your fitness level. The park’s summit provides visitors with panoramic views of Victoria, the Olympic Mountains, and Haro Strait.

It’s also an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts as Mount Douglas Park is home to over 40 different species such as eagles and woodpeckers. Don’t forget to bring along your camera as you’ll want to capture memories of this unforgettable experience!

Now let’s move on to our next adventure at East Sooke Regional Park!

East Sooke Regional Park

Let’s head to East Sooke Regional Park, where stunning coastal views and rugged wilderness await. This park is a great place for hiking, with over 50 kilometers of trails ranging from easy to challenging. You can choose to follow the coast or venture into the forested areas for a more secluded experience.

One of the highlights of East Sooke is the Coast Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Olympic Mountains. The trail can be challenging at times, but it’s worth it for the scenery alone. Along the way, keep an eye out for sea lions basking on rocks and eagles soaring above.

With so much natural beauty around you, it’s easy to feel free and alive in this park. As you leave East Sooke Regional Park behind, make your way over to Goldstream Provincial Park where even more adventure awaits.

Goldstream Provincial Park

You probably think you’ve seen all the fall foliage Victoria has to offer, but wait until you witness the fiery reds and oranges of Goldstream Provincial Park’s leaves.

This park is a perfect getaway for families looking to spend some quality time together while enjoying nature. The park offers various trails ranging from easy to challenging hikes, so there’s something for everyone.

One of the most famous attractions in this park is the annual salmon run that takes place every fall. Visitors can watch as thousands of salmon swim upstream to spawn in the river. It’s truly a sight to behold!

If you’re lucky, you might even see some bears fishing for their next meal. So pack a picnic and enjoy the stunning scenery of Goldstream Provincial Park before heading over to visit the Victoria Butterfly Gardens.

Visit the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by thousands of fluttering butterflies from around the world.

Take a stroll through the indoor tropical rainforest where you’ll encounter exotic birds, frogs, and even tortoises. Butterflies aren’t the only attraction here.

You can also explore outdoor gardens filled with fragrant flowers and tranquil water features. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some hummingbirds zipping around.

After your visit to the butterfly gardens, head over to take a whale watching tour and see these gentle giants up close in their natural habitat!

Take a Whale Watching Tour

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, hop on a whale watching tour in Victoria and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these gentle giants as they breach and play in the water. One lucky group even got to see a pod of orcas hunting!

The knowledgeable guides will provide you with interesting facts about the whales and their behaviors, making this experience both educational and exciting. As you sail through the Salish Sea, take in the stunning views of Vancouver Island’s rugged coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for other marine life such as seals, sea lions, and porpoises.

This is truly an experience that will leave you feeling free and connected to nature. And when your tour is over, head over to explore historic Chinatown – a vibrant neighborhood full of culture and history.

Explore Historic Chinatown

Let’s delve into the rich history and culture of Victoria’s vibrant Chinatown, a neighborhood full of colorful buildings, bustling streets, and delicious food. As one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America, this neighborhood has seen its fair share of ups and downs but has emerged as a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Victoria.

Here are four things you can do to make the most out of your visit:

1. Visit the Gate of Harmonious Interest: This stunning red gate is the entrance to Chinatown and leads visitors into a world full of unique shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences.

2. Explore Fan Tan Alley: This narrow alleyway is home to some of the best shops in Chinatown with everything from vintage clothing stores to artisanal tea shops.

3. Check out the Chinese Public School Museum: This small museum gives visitors an insight into what it was like to attend school in Chinatown during the early 1900s.

4. Indulge in some dim sum: No trip to Chinatown would be complete without trying some delicious dim sum. There are plenty of great restaurants around that offer a wide variety of dishes.

As you wander through this vibrant neighborhood, take time to appreciate all that it has to offer. From its rich history to its unique architecture and mouth-watering cuisine, there’s something for everyone here in Victoria’s historic Chinatown. So why not escape for a few hours and immerse yourself in this fascinating part of town? You won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times of year to visit Victoria for cheap family activities?

Ah, dear traveler. You’re looking for the best times to visit Victoria for cheap family activities? How quaint. I’ll indulge your desires and provide some insight.

The truth is, any time of year can be budget-friendly if you know where to look. But if you insist on specifics, then let me suggest the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the crowds are thinning and the prices are dropping.

Plus, the weather is still mild enough for outdoor adventures without breaking a sweat or freezing your buns off. So go forth and explore this charming city with your loved ones while keeping some coin in your pocket.

After all, isn’t that what freedom truly means?

Are there any free activities to do in Victoria for families?

Looking for free family activities to do in Victoria? You’re in luck! There are plenty of options to choose from.

Take a stroll through the picturesque Beacon Hill Park, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and even spot some peacocks.

Head over to the Royal BC Museum on Tuesdays after 5 pm for free admission.

If you’re looking for a beach day, check out Thetis Lake Regional Park or Willows Beach.

And don’t forget about the many festivals and events that happen throughout the year, such as Canada Day celebrations or Symphony Splash.

With so many options available, you’ll be able to keep your family entertained without spending a dime!

Are there any kid-friendly restaurants or cafes in Victoria?

Looking for kid-friendly restaurants or cafes in Victoria? You’re in luck!

Did you know that there are over 50 family-friendly dining options in the city? From cozy cafes with play areas to themed restaurants with interactive menus, Victoria has something for every taste and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, these eateries cater to families with young children by offering high chairs, booster seats, and even special kids’ menus.

So why not take a break from your busy day of exploring and treat your little ones to a fun-filled meal at one of Victoria’s many kid-approved restaurants or cafes?

What are some indoor activities to do in case of bad weather?

When the weather in Victoria turns sour, there’s no need to fret. There are plenty of indoor activities that both you and your family can enjoy.

Take a trip to the Royal BC Museum, where history comes alive with interactive exhibits and thrilling displays. Or, head over to Craigdarroch Castle for a taste of Victorian-era elegance and architecture.

Want something more active? Try out Boulders Climbing Gym or the Victoria Bug Zoo. Whatever your interests may be, there’s always something fun and exciting waiting for you indoors in Victoria!

Are there any discounts or coupons available for the activities listed in the article?

Looking for discounts or coupons to make your family outings more affordable? You’re in luck! Many of the activities listed in the article offer promotions and deals throughout the year.

Whether it’s a discount on admission, a buy-one-get-one-free deal, or a special coupon code, there are plenty of ways to save money while still having fun with your loved ones.

So don’t hesitate to do some research and see what kind of bargains you can find. After all, a penny saved is a penny earned!

Conclusion

You’ve now got a list of cheap family activities to do in Victoria, BC. You can start by exploring the local parks like Beacon Hill and Goldstream Provincial Park. These parks offer great outdoor activities that your whole family will surely enjoy.

If you’re more into history and culture, you can visit museums like the Royal BC Museum or the Maritime Museum of British Columbia. Take a tour around these places and learn about the rich history of Victoria.

Did you know that there are over 2,000 species of butterflies at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens? Yes, that’s right! It’s an amazing sight to see as they flutter around their tropical paradise.

Overall, there is no shortage of things to do in Victoria on a budget. In fact, according to Numbeo.com, Victoria has one of the lowest costs of living in Canada compared to other major cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. That means you can enjoy all these activities without breaking the bank!

So go ahead and plan your next family adventure in this beautiful city!

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