
Victoria, BC, is famous for its postcard-perfect Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, and historic sites like the Parliament Buildings. But if you've already checked off the top tourist attractions—or simply want to experience the city like a local—there’s plenty more to explore beyond the usual sights.
Whether you're a visitor looking for hidden gems or a local seeking new adventures, here are some off-the-beaten-path activities to enjoy in Victoria.
1. Discover the Local Café Scene
Skip the crowded tourist cafés and explore some of Victoria’s best-kept coffee secrets. Local favorites include:
- Hey Happy – A trendy café on Lower Johnson Street known for its high-quality beans and creative drinks.
- Hide + Seek Coffee – Tucked away in Oak Bay, this cozy spot serves up expertly crafted coffee in a laid-back atmosphere.
- 2% Jazz Coffee – A longtime local favorite with a strong focus on ethically sourced beans and bold flavors.
For a truly local experience, grab a coffee and wander through one of Victoria’s charming neighborhoods.
2. Explore the Side Streets of Chinatown
Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada, but many visitors only stop by for the famous Gate of Harmonious Interest and Fan Tan Alley. Instead of just passing through, take time to explore its hidden gems:
- Visit Victoria Chinese Public School, an impressive structure built to educate Chinese youth during a time of intense discrimination.
- Stop by Union Pacific Coffee for a quiet escape with excellent baked goods.
- Wander Dragon Alley, a lesser-known but equally charming pedestrian street with cool local shops.
3. Stroll Through a Quiet Park
While Beacon Hill Park is a must-visit, there are plenty of quieter green spaces where you can enjoy nature without the crowds:
- Summit Park – A hidden oasis with stunning Garry oak meadows and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Abkhazi Garden – A serene, lesser-known garden with a fascinating history and beautiful landscaping.
- Walbran Park – A small, peaceful park in the Oak Bay area, perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic.
- Gonzales Observatory – Located near Walbran Park, this historic site offers a quiet spot to enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and city.
- Outerbridge Park – A tiny but lush wetland sanctuary in the city’s Gordon Head neighborhood.
4. Check Out Victoria’s Underground Music and Comedy Scene
Victoria has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene beyond the big-name venues. For a truly local night out, check out:
- The Mint – A unique underground venue offering live music and stand-up comedy nights.
- Find more options at Gigtoria, Resonance Collective, and Near Dark Shows.
5. Take a Self-Guided Mural Tour
Victoria has an incredible street art scene, especially in neighborhoods like Rock Bay and the LoJo district (Lower Johnson). Grab a coffee and wander the city streets to spot colorful murals by local and international artists. The area around Store Street and Bridge Street is a great starting point.
6. Visit a Speakeasy-Style Bar
Skip the typical touristy pubs and discover some of Victoria’s hidden drinking spots:
- Clive’s Classic Lounge – A local go-to for craft cocktails and an old-school atmosphere.
- Citrus & Cane – A tropical-themed bar with fun and creative drinks, perfect for a relaxed evening.
7. Go on a Vintage & Thrift Shopping Adventure
Victoria is a treasure trove for vintage lovers, with plenty of second-hand and consignment shops to explore:
-
Upcycle Clothing Collective Consignment - A curated consignment and quality goods shop specializing in consignment pieces, slow fashion production, and environmentally and socially sustainable quality goods.
- The Patch – A massive vintage clothing store with everything from retro band tees to funky jackets.
- Flavour Upstairs – A carefully curated thrift store with great finds at reasonable prices.
- The Good Planet Company – Not a thrift shop, but a fantastic place to find sustainable and locally made goods.
8. Hike Somewhere That’s Not the Typical Tourist Trail
Victoria is known for its stunning outdoor scenery, but some of the best hikes remain relatively undiscovered by visitors:
- Mount Work – A peaceful and scenic hike with rewarding views at the top.
- Kinsol Trestle – A scenic walk leading to one of the tallest wooden trestle bridges in the world.
- Jocelyn Hill - This pleasant mountain trail offers gradual elevation gain with many viewpoints throughout.
9. Experience Victoria’s Local Brewery & Distillery Scene
Instead of the usual pub crawl, why not explore Victoria’s craft beer and spirits scene? Some of the best local spots include:
- Île Sauvage Brewing – Known for its funky, sour, and experimental beers.
- Whistle Buoy Brewing – A small but mighty brewery in Market Square with creative small-batch brews.
- Victoria Distillers – Makers of Empress Gin, this waterfront distillery in Sidney offers tastings and cocktails with a view.
10. Relax Like a Local at a Hidden Beach
Tourists tend to flock to Willows Beach, but there are plenty of quiet coastal spots where you can soak up the sun or watch the sunset:
- Gonzales Beach – A small sandy beach that’s a favorite among locals.
- Spiral Beach – A hidden rocky beach near Clover Point with stunning ocean views.
- Arbutus Cove – A quiet, tree-lined beach that feels like a secret getaway.
11. Explore Local Neighborhoods
- Fernwood: This artsy, bohemian neighborhood is filled with colorful murals, quirky shops, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the Fernwood Square, where locals gather for coffee or a bite at the Fernwood Inn.
- Oak Bay: A quaint, upscale area with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and a relaxed vibe. Walk along Oak Bay Avenue and stop by a local bakery or tea shop.
- Esquimalt: A quieter, residential area with a charming waterfront and parks like Esquimalt Gorge Park, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
12. Visit Local Markets
- Victoria Public Market at the Hudson: Located in the historic Hudson Building, this market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee or a meal from one of the food stalls.
- Moss Street Market: A seasonal farmers' market that runs from April to October, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. It’s a favorite among locals.
13. Take a Class or Workshop
- Cooking Classes: Places like The London Chef offer hands-on cooking classes where you can learn to prepare local dishes.
- Art Workshops: Check out local studios like the Victoria Arts Council or the Community Arts Hub for workshops in painting, pottery, or other crafts.
14. Visit Local Libraries and Bookstores
- Greater Victoria Public Library (Central Branch): A beautiful space with a great selection of books and often hosting community events.
- Munro’s Books: A beloved local bookstore housed in a stunning heritage building. It’s a great place to browse and pick up a new read.
15. Join a Sports League or Fitness Class
- Victoria Ultimate Players Society: Join a local ultimate frisbee league for some fun and exercise.
- Yoga or Fitness Classes: Many local studios, like Mosaic Yoga or Oak Bay Recreation Centre, offer drop-in classes.
16. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Islands
- Pender Island: A short ferry ride away, Pender Island offers quiet beaches, hiking trails, and a slower pace of life.
- Saturna Island: Known for its wineries and stunning landscapes, it’s a peaceful escape from the city.
17. Volunteer or Join a Community Group
- Volunteer Opportunities: Organizations like the Victoria Food Bank or local community gardens often welcome volunteers.
- Meetup Groups: Join a local Meetup group based on your interests, whether it’s hiking, photography, or language exchange.
18. Enjoy Local Parks and Gardens
- Beacon Hill Park: While it’s a popular spot, it’s large enough to find quiet corners. Locals love it for its walking paths, ponds, and peacocks.
- Abkhazi Garden: A lesser-known but stunning garden with a fascinating history. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.
19. Take a Scenic Drive
- Dallas Road: A picturesque drive along the coastline with stunning views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains. It’s a favorite route for locals.
- Saanich Peninsula: Explore the rolling farmland, wineries, and small towns north of Victoria.
Final Thoughts
Victoria has so much more to offer than its most famous landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a taste of local culture, or a unique adventure, these non-touristy activities will help you experience the city in a whole new way.