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14 Kid Friendly Things to do in Victoria BC

Are you looking for a fun and memorable family vacation with plenty of kid friendly things to do? Look no further than Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia.

Victoria is a gorgeous city that offers plenty of nature, culture and history for families to enjoy. Whether you want to marvel at the scenic harbour, discover the amazing museums, or relax in the charming gardens, you will find something for everyone in Victoria. Here are 14 kid friendly things to do that will make your Victoria trip unforgettable.

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1. See Harbour Seals at Oak Bay Marina

If you love animals, you will love Oak Bay Marina. This is where you can meet the adorable harbour seals that hang out around the docks. They are always happy to see visitors and get some fish from them. You can buy fish from the marina store and feed them by hand, or just watch them from a safe distance. They are very cute and playful and will make you smile. The marina also has boat rentals and fishing charters.

2. Ride a Ferry at the Inner Harbour

Harbour ferry at Victoria's Inner Harbour

Victoria Harbour is the heart of the city, where you can admire the historic buildings, watch the boats and seaplanes, and enjoy the waterfront activities. One of the best ways to experience the harbour is by taking a ferry ride. You can hop on one of the colourful water taxis that shuttle between different points of interest, or join a guided tour that will show you the sights and tell you stories about Victoria's history and culture. You will feel like you are on a mini cruise as you glide on the water.

3. Snack with a View at Fisherman's Wharf Park

Fisherman's Wharf Park is a lively and colourful place where you can find food stalls, souvenir shops, live music and entertainment. You can sample some of the local delicacies, such as fish and chips, seafood chowder or ice cream, while enjoying the view of the floating homes and boats. You can also rent a kayak or paddle board and explore the water. This is a great place to have some fun and relax with your family.

4. Watch IMAX Movies at the Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is one of the most impressive museums in Canada, where you can learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia. You can see exhibits on dinosaurs, wildlife, First Nations cultures, and modern society. The museum also has an IMAX theatre that shows stunning documentaries and films on a giant screen. You can watch movies about nature, science, adventure and more. This is one of those kid friendly things to do that the whole family is guaranteed to enjoy!

5. Feel like a Giant at Miniature World

Miniature World is a fun and fascinating place where you can see hundreds of miniature scenes and models that depict different themes and eras. You can see fairy tales, castles, trains, space stations, circuses and more. You can also interact with some of the displays by pressing buttons and turning knobs. Miniature World is located next to the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel, where you can have a traditional afternoon tea if you like. This is a place where you can let your imagination run wild.

6. Watch Model Boats at Harrison Yacht Pond

Harrison Yacht Pond is a small pond in Beacon Hill Park that is used by model boat enthusiasts to sail their remote-controlled vessels. You can watch them glide on the water or join them if you have your own model boat. The pond is surrounded by a lovely garden with flowers and trees, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

7. Explore Bastion Square

Bastion Square is a historic pedestrian mall in downtown Victoria that was once the site of Fort Victoria, the original settlement of the city. Find the historic plaque beside the door to the Irish Times Pub and see the names of people who helped build the fort engraved in the bricks on the sidewalk. Today, it is a vibrant place where you can find restaurants, pubs, shops and galleries. You can also see street performers, artists and musicians who entertain the crowds. Bastion Square hosts various events throughout the year, such as markets, festivals and concerts.

8. Visit Victoria Bug Zoo

Victoria Bug Zoo is a two-room mini zoo that is home to more than 50 species of insects and arachnids from around the world. You can see tarantulas, scorpions, ants, beetles and more. You can also touch some of them with the help of a guide who will tell you interesting facts and stories about these amazing creatures. This is a place where you can overcome your fears and learn to appreciate the diversity of life.

9. Enjoy Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a large and beautiful park in Victoria that offers numerous kid friendly things to do. You can walk or bike along the trails, play on the playgrounds, picnic on the grass or visit the petting zoo where you can see goats, pigs, chickens and other animals. You can also see a totem pole carved by a local artist, free-roaming peacocks and a statue of Queen Victoria. Many people opt to enjoy the park with a horse-drawn carriage ride. Get your tickets early as they do sell out on busy summer months. It truly is a park for everyone.

10. Visit the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia is the seat of the provincial government, where you can see the elegant architecture and learn about the political history and process. You can join a free guided tour that will take you inside the building and show you the chambers, the library, the stained glass windows and the artworks. You can also see the ceremonial mace, the coat of arms and the portraits of past premiers. When you're finished the tour, enjoy lunch in the Legislative Dining Room on the lower level. Get information about hours of operation here.

11. Experience Scenic Marine Route

Cattle Point along the scenic marine route in Victoria BC

The Scenic Marine Route is a scenic drive that follows the coastline of Victoria and offers stunning views of the ocean, the islands and the mountains. You can stop at various points of interest along the way, such as beaches, parks, lighthouses and historic sites. You may also see wildlife such as seals, eagles and whales. The route is about 40 km long and extends from the Inner Harbour to Butchart Gardens and takes about an hour to drive.

This route is not to be confused with the Pacific Marine Circle Route which is a full day sightseeing driving tour from Victoria to Sooke, to Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan and back to Victoria. This drive would take a full day, including stops for lunch and sightseeing.

12. Enjoy Oak Bay Tea Party

The Oak Bay Tea Party is an annual community event that celebrates the heritage and culture of Oak Bay, a charming neighbourhood in Victoria. The event features carnival rides, games, food stalls, live music and entertainment. You can also watch a parade, a bathtub race, a dog show and a fireworks display. The Oak Bay Tea Party is held on the first weekend of June at Willows Beach.

13. Explore Government House

Government House is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, who represents the King in the province. You can visit the house and see its elegant rooms, such as the ballroom, the dining room, the drawing room and the library. You can also explore the beautiful gardens that surround the house, where you can see roses, rhododendrons, herbs and vegetables.

14. Adventure at Malahat Skywalk

The Malahat Skywalk is one of Vancouver Island's newest attractions, located about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria near the summit of Malahat Mountain. It is an elevated walkway that takes you through the treetops and offers panoramic views of Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula and Mount Baker. You can also experience a thrilling spiral slide that takes you down from 40 metres high to ground level. Get shuttle and tickets to the Skywalk here.