Top 5 Things to Do In Victoria’s Summer

Summers in the Garden City are sunny and warm, ideal for days spent outside wandering the city streets or suntanning on one of our many beaches. Here’s a list of the top 5 things to do in Victoria on a sizzling summer day.

1. Visit Butchart Gardens

Okay, so this could probably be on the list for any time of a year as a must-see in Victoria… but really, Butchart Gardens in the summer absolutely cannot be missed. Wander through a stunning display of brilliant foliage and make sure you check out the award-winning rose gardens. You can also take an electric boat tour of the surrounding waterfront or, if you come on a Saturday night, you’ll be able to witness a breathtaking firework show!

2. Shop Lower Johnson

Fondly nicknamed “Lo-Jo” by local residents, lower Johnson Street has an array of both pricey boutiques and eclectic knick-knack shops. Take advantage of the air-conditioning and spend an afternoon meandering through Victoria’s downtown core and checking out some of its most famous shops, from Flavour Upstairs for thrifty finds to Little Gold for something sparkly.

3. Pickle Pub Crawl

Get out on the water — and have a pint while you’re at it! One of the most famous adult activities in Victoria is the Pickle Pub Crawl. Hop on a small “pickle boat”, or green harbour ferry, and let its captain be your designated driver as you are shipped between some of Victoria’s most delicious watering holes. Each tour includes 4 stops of your choosing, from famous Swan’s Hotel to Belleville’s Diner. Your captain will be happy to give you some background on Victoria’s history between destinations!

4. Bike the Galloping Goose

What better way to catch a breeze on a hot summer day than on a bike? Victoria offers several bike rental facilities, where you can take to two wheels and explore one of the city’s best-kept secrets — the Galloping Goose trail. Stretching for over 60 kilometres end-to-end, the Goose begins in Vic West just across the Johnson Street Bridge and ends all the way in Sooke, BC. Your ride will take you winding through green forests and past beautiful lakes.

5. Hit the Beach

We couldn’t have a list of things to do on an island without including checking out one of Victoria’s many beaches! Pack a picnic with the family (don’t forget sunscreen!) and make your way down to the water to catch some rays. Some of Victoria’s most popular beaches include Willows Beach in Oak Bay, Gonzales Beach near Fairfield, and Dallas Road Beach in James Bay. Admire the beautiful view and let your worries wash away in the waves!

What’s your favourite thing to do in the summer in Victoria? Let us know!