Victoria, BC is known for its British charm, the Inner Harbour, and the world-famous Butchart Gardens. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find some seriously delightful oddities and facts about Victoria:
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Miniature World: Get lost in a world of meticulously crafted dioramas and displays, from historical scenes to castles and bustling cities.
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Fan Tan Alley: North America’s narrowest commercial street, once a hub of gambling dens and opium factories, now boasts quirky shops and hidden restaurants.
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Beacon Hill Park: Home to peacocks, a petting zoo, and the (supposedly) world’s tallest totem pole, this park’s full of surprises.
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Fisherman’s Wharf: Floating homes, colorful characters, and fresh seafood stalls make this a unique and vibrant waterfront destination.
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Craigdarroch Castle: This Victorian-era mansion boasts lavish interiors, stained glass, and even a spooky ghost story or two.
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Chinatown Gate: Explore North America’s oldest Chinatown with its ornate gate, historic shops, and delicious dim sum restaurants.
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Moss Lady: This eccentric garden shop showcases a woman literally covered in moss, becoming a living statue and beloved local oddity.
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Miniature Books & More: Book lovers will rejoice at this tiny shop dedicated to impossibly small books and delightful literary curios.
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Ghostly Tales abound: Historical Victoria is filled with haunted sites – take a spooky walking tour to delve into its darker past.
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Roger’s Chocolates: This iconic local chocolatier has been crafting sweet treats since 1885, their Victorian-themed shop is an institution.
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Double-Decker Bus Tours: Embrace the British vibes with a sightseeing tour aboard a quintessential red double-decker bus.
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Emily Carr House: Step inside the childhood home of famed Canadian artist Emily Carr and explore her formative years.
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Market Square Magic: This hidden courtyard behind historic buildings bustles with unique boutiques and charming cafes.
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Breakwater Barge Bistro: Dine on a floating restaurant docked at the Ogden Point Breakwater, with harbor views and quirky nautical charm.
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Quirky Coffee Culture: Victoria is filled with independent cafes where your flat white comes with a side of bohemian charm.
The Verdict
Victoria is a city where old-world elegance meets quirky charm. From miniature masterpieces to floating eateries, peacocks in the park to ghostly tales, there’s always a whimsical surprise awaiting around the next cobblestone corner.