Are you looking for a list of things to do in Victoria with kids? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This picturesque island city is a treasure trove of activities perfect for young families and visitors from the Lower Mainland.
From outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, our guide to visiting Victoria with kids will help you make the most of your family time in this enchanting city.
The Best Things to Do in Victoria with Kids
Victoria is a quaint harbourside city known for its stunning scenery, colonial architecture, and family-friendly vibe. This makes it a fantastic destination for those with kids. Whether you’re a local family looking for new adventures or tourists from the Lower Mainland in search of a memorable family getaway, you’ll find plenty of options here.
This article will guide you through the best things to do with kids in Victoria, ensuring that your family’s visit is both enjoyable and memorable. So, let’s get moving!
Related: The 12 Best Things to Do in Victoria
Outdoor Activities for Those Visiting Victoria with Kids
Due to its island location, Victoria is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families who love the outdoors. Here are some of the best things to do in Victoria with kids who love the great outdoors:
Visit Beacon Hill Park
Victoria’s famous Beacon Hill Park is a fantastic place for families to have fun and make memories together. There’s so much to do and see; you won’t know where to start! For starters, the park is home to a beautiful petting zoo where your little ones can get up close and personal with cute and cuddly animals like goats, bunnies, and even peacocks!
If you’re looking for something more active, the park has tons of playgrounds and wide-open spaces perfect for a game of frisbee or soccer. You can even take part in a Victoria bike tour or take a family stroll along the scenic paths and gardens.
Looking for a family-friendly place to lay your head? Check out our list of the best hotels in Victoria.
Related: Victoria’s Best Parks & Gardens
Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Another great option for families is to embark on a Victoria whale-watching tour. You and your little ones can enjoy a unique and exciting experience by heading out into the open sea to catch a glimpse of whales, sea lions, and other marine life. There are several tour operators in the Inner Harbour and at Fisherman’s Wharf, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.
You can opt for a spine-tingling zodiac tour, take the more laid-back approach with a catamaran, or opt to check out a sunset tour during golden hour. The choice is entirely up to you and your family.
Check out Wildplay Elements Park
Looking for a unique and exciting way to bond with your family and friends while visiting Victoria with kids? Look no further than WildPlay Element Park! This West Shore adventure course offers the ultimate nature-immersed aerial adventures that’ll have you zipping through the trees like a pro.
Picture yourself balancing on wobbly bridges, soaring through the air on rope swings, and feeling the wind rush past you as you go on a zipline tour in Victoria’s beautiful treetops. It’s the perfect way for adults, teens, and kids to have fun together and make unforgettable memories.
Smell the Roses at Butchart Gardens
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in Victoria, you simply can’t miss Butchart Gardens. For starters, the gardens themselves are breathtaking. You and your family can wander through a dazzling array of flowers and plants, including roses, daffodils, and tulips. The colours and scents will leave you feeling like you’re in a fairy tale!
But that’s not all – Butchart Gardens also has a ton of family-friendly activities to keep your little ones entertained. You can take a spin on the rose carousel, grab some gelato, or even enjoy a live performance or concert. And during the holidays, the explosion of lights and colour at their Magic of Christmas event will dazzle the senses. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Victoria with kids, Butchart Gardens needs to be at the top of your list.
Related: The Top Butchart Gardens Tours from Vancouver
Climb the Malahat Skywalk
Looking for another exciting outdoor adventure with the fam? Then, head 40 minutes north of Victoria to the Malahat SkyWalk. This unique outdoor experience is unlike anything else you’ll find on Vancouver Island. I promise it’ll blow your mind!
First off, you gotta check out the 10-story spiral tower. It takes you up 250m above sea level, and let me tell you, the views are something else! You’ll be able to see for miles around; it’s simply breathtaking. And the favourite part for children? It’s undoubtedly the 20-metre super-speed spiral slide! Trust me, they’ll want to go more than once.
Related: The Best Day Trips from Victoria
Cultural Things to Do in Victoria with Kids
Victoria, BC, is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities for families to learn and explore. Here are some of the top historical and cultural activities for those who find themselves in Victoria with kids:
Visit the Royal BC Museum
The Royal BC Museum is a must-visit for families who want to learn about the history and culture of British Columbia. The museum has several exhibits that showcase the natural history, indigenous cultures, and the pioneer era of the province. And they even have a great café where you can grab some delicious food and drinks.
But that’s not all – they’ve got some seriously cool interactive exhibits, too. Your kids can experience what it was like to be a miner during the gold rush or even take a virtual tour of the local ecosystems. It’s like nothing else you’ve ever seen before!
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Explore the city’s rich history by taking a Victoria horse-drawn carriage tour. The tour takes you through the historic downtown area, where you can see beautiful architecture and learn about the city’s past. You’ll pass in front of the Parliament Buildings and throughout James Bay and the Inner Harbour.
First of all, it’s a totally different way to see the city. You get to sit back and relax while the horses take you through the streets. It’s like taking a step back in time! Plus, the carriage drivers are super friendly and knowledgeable about the city. And if you’ve got little ones in tow, they’ll love riding in a horse-drawn carriage.
Set Sail for Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf
Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf is truly unique and offers so much to visitors of all ages. For starters, there are tons of food kiosks and cool shops to check out. You can grab some lunch and then wander down to the docks to watch the boats and ships come in. And if you love seafood, you can even buy some fresh off the boat – yum!
To score some extra points, visit via the iconic ‘pickle boat’ Victoria Harbour Ferries. After all, what child doesn’t like a good boat ride? The area is also the departure point for Victoria Kayak Tours and other eco-adventures, so there is no shortage of activities for families.
Visit the Craigdarroch Castle
The Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful Victorian-era mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy in the 19th century. Families can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history and architecture. The castle itself is simply stunning, as it has been beautifully preserved and restored.
As you wander through the different rooms and staircases, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. But that’s not all – the attraction also offers plenty of activities for families. They’ve got an awesome scavenger hunt that’s perfect for kids. They’ll get to explore the castle while looking for clues and solving puzzles.
Check out the Hand of Man Natural History Museum
The Hand of Man Museum is a seriously amazing 15,000-square-foot museum of natural history located in Cowichan Bay, north of Victoria. As you walk down the grand hall, you’ll be blown away by all the amazing discoveries waiting for you. There are so many rooms to explore, each filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
One of the highlights is getting up close and personal with a 16-foot Woolly Mammoth. Can you believe it? It’s like stepping back in time and seeing one of these incredible creatures in person. And if your kids are into cultural arts, they’ll love the 1000+ authentic hand-crafted tribal artifacts from around the world.
Indoor Things to Do in Victoria with Kids
Victoria is also home to several indoor activities that are perfect for families, especially on rainy days. Here are some of the top things to do in Victoria with kids on a rainy day:
Take a Trip to the Tropics at Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Visiting the Victoria Butterfly Gardens offers an enchanting experience for families, making it undisputedly one of the top things to do in Victoria with kids. This lush, indoor tropical haven is home to thousands of vibrant butterflies, fluttering freely among an array of exotic plants and cascading waterfalls.
Beyond butterflies, the gardens also host a variety of other tropical wildlife, including flamingos, tortoises, and tropical birds, adding to the excitement. The environment is carefully controlled to replicate a rainforest, offering a unique opportunity to experience tropical ecosystems without leaving Victoria.
Bounce Around the Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park
Are you ready for some high-flying fun? Then you have to check out Flying Squirrel Victoria, the city’s premiere indoor Trampoline Adventure Park. No matter how old or young you are, there’s something for everyone at this spring-loaded urban playground.
Obviously, the facility has a ton of trampolines to jump on. But you’ll also have a chance to take part in other aerial activities like basketball and dodgeball. They also have a café where you can grab a snack or a drink if you don’t feel like jumping.
Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo
The Victoria Bug Zoo is a unique and fascinating attraction that will thrill kids and adults alike. The zoo features a collection of live insects and arachnids from around the world, and visitors can learn about their behaviour and habitats.
They’ve got live tropical bugs that’ll blow your mind, like giant walking sticks that are as big as your arm, scorpions that glow in the dark (yes, you read that right!), tarantulas that are fuzzy and fierce, and even Canada’s largest ant colony. And all right in the heart of the Inner Harbour!
Visit Miniature World
Miniature World is a fun and unique attraction that showcases intricate miniature displays of historical events and famous landmarks. Families can spend hours exploring the various exhibits and marvelling at the attention to detail.
With over 85 miniature dioramas and displays, you’ll feel that strong but satisfying pang of nostalgia as you browse through each theme. From moments in history to great landmarks, storybooks of fiction and fantasy, and so much more, Miniature World is a must for anyone visiting Victoria with kids.
Polish up your game at Interactivity
Hey, are you ready to bring out your strategic side? Then you’ve got to check out the Interactivity Board Game Café with your family! It’s a total blast, trust me. For only seven bucks, you get access to over 1000 different games – how cool is that?
And the best part? You can pair all that fun with some seriously delicious panini, famous house-made milkshakes, and even a beer or cocktail for the parents! Plus, they’ve got bowls of candy, chips, and popcorn to snack on while you play.
Enjoy Local Family Cuisine
No trip to Victoria, BC, is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, something on the go or dine-in, Victoria’s best restaurants have you covered. Are your kids true foodies? Then check out our article on the best Victoria food tours.
Here are some of my favourite Victoria family-friendly restaurants for those visiting Victoria with kids:
Red Fish Blue Fish
Cuisine: Fish and Chips | Location: 1006 Wharf St.
Red Fish Blue Fish is a popular seafood restaurant located right on Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Families can enjoy delicious fish and chips, seafood tacos, and other seafood dishes while taking in the beautiful views of the harbour.
Watch the Harbour Ferries and seaplanes go by, breathe in the oceanic air and enjoy the best fish and chips in town. Their lightly battered cod, halibut and salmon add a modern Westcoast twist to this most English of dishes.
John’s Place
Cuisine: Breakfast/Brunch | Location: 723 Pandora Ave.
John’s Place is a family-owned diner that serves up classic comfort food with a modern twist. Families can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or brunch made completely from scratch from 8 am to 3 pm, seven days a week. Hell, it’s even been featured on the Food Network.
The name of the game here is breakfast or brunch. You can choose from an endless variety of pancakes, egg bennies, omelettes and Tex-Mex favourites. If you can dream it up, it’s here! So even the pickiest eater is bound to be satisfied.
Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria
Cuisine: Italian | Location: 560 Johnson St. #128
At the end of the day, who doesn’t love pizza? Whether you’re a child or simply young at heart, this Italian-style pizzeria is bound to put a smile on your face. With its modern yet casual atmosphere, it’s absolutely perfect for young families.
But that’s not all! They have an absolutely amazing kids’ menu for children under 12. Your kids can choose from a variety of pizzas and pastas that come accompanied by a drink and a scoop of gelato for just $8-10! It’s easily one of the best deals in the city!
Beacon Drive-In
Cuisine: Fast Food | Location: 126 Douglas St.
Well, you know what they say: sometimes less is more! And boy, does that hold true for Beacon Drive-In‘s mouth-watering burgers and hotdogs – they’re a total hit with families! Plus, it’s a hoot ordering from that outdoor window, just like you’re at a classic drive-in!
Now, let me tell ya, one of the coolest things about this place is its amazing location right across from Beacon Hill Park. This makes it a great option after a day spent at Victoria’s top urban park.
Beaver Tails
Cuisine: Fast Food | Location: 602 Broughton St.
Want to become the coolest parent on the block and win your kids’ admiration? Head over to BeaverTails Victoria. They’ve got the most amazing Canadian treat that’ll have your little ones jumping for joy!
Picture this: flat, fried pastries that look just like a beaver’s tail, covered in scrumptious toppings that’ll make your taste buds dance with delight. You’ll also have the choice of ice cream and a host of other sweet and savoury snacks.
Things to Do in Victoria with Kids FAQs
What is the best time to visit Victoria, BC, for families?
Victoria, BC, is a year-round destination owing to its relatively mild climate. Nevertheless, the best time to visit with the family is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities available.
What are some of the top things to do in Victoria with kids?
If you’re looking for some of the top things to do in Victoria with kids, you’ll love exploring places like the Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park, Victoria Bug Zoo, and the Miniature World. Don’t forget the Petting Zoo in Beacon Hill Park!
Are there any free activities for families in Victoria, BC?
Yes, there are several free activities for families in Victoria, BC, including visiting Beacon Hill Park, exploring the Inner Harbour, walking around Fisherman’s Wharf and hiking in Goldstream Provincial Park. You can also check out Willows or Gonzales Bay Beach or visit the Victoria Public Market for some of the best things to do in Victoria with kids on a budget.
What is the best way to get to Victoria for families?
Being an island destination, the most popular way to get to Victoria is easily by ferry. From Vancouver, this involves taking the BC Ferry from Tsawwassen Terminal to Swartz Bay. Or, if you’re coming from Seattle, the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry offers seamless connectivity between the two cities.
Other alternatives for those coming from Vancouver include the Vancouver to Victoria bus, or the Cadillac option, the Victoria Seaplane. Either way, kids are bound to enjoy the journey almost as much as the destination. All options are virtually stress-free when compared to regular air travel.
How can we get around Victoria with kids?
Victoria is super walkable! But if you don’t have a vehicle, there are public buses, taxis, commuter ferries and bike rentals available. And thankfully, as of 2023, Victoria finally opened its arms to popular ride-share companies such as Uber and Lyft. So, getting around Victoria with kids just got a little easier!
Is Victoria, BC, safe for families?
Yes, Victoria, BC, is a safe destination for families. The city has a low crime rate and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. While some of the northern areas of downtown and into Burnside may be on the grittier side, by and large, the city is safer than most American cities of a similar size.
Figured out your favourite things to do in Victoria with kids?
As we conclude our guide on the best things to do in Victoria with kids, it’s clear that Victoria offers a plethora of activities perfect for families.
Whether you’re enjoying the great outdoors or immersing in the city’s rich culture, Victoria provides a backdrop for family fun that is both diverse and enriching.
So, why wait? Get ready to embark on your family adventure in Victoria and experience the joy and wonder this city has to offer visitors of all ages.
Leave a reply