Top Things to do in Vancouver Island
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The 10 Best Historic Sites in Vancouver Island, Canada
Discover the best top things to do in Vancouver Island, Canada including Coal Creek Historic Park, Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Craigdarroch Castle, Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada, McLean Mill Historic Park, Milner Gardens & Woodland, Carr House, Helmcken House, Hatley Park National Historic Site, Petroglyphs at Sproat Lake.
Restaurants in Vancouver Island
1. Coal Creek Historic Park
2. Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,095 reviews
Welcome to the Parliament Buildings. Home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, visitors are welcome for free guided tours year-round. Please note, the buildings are currently closed to the public due to the ongoing health crisis.
Reviewed By l0lee123 - Vancouver, Canada
Adrienne was a wonderful tour guide on our free one-hour tour. We went during the COVID-19 pandemic so the tour only covered the outside of the building. We were also lucky in that only the two of us signed up for that time so we basically had a private tour! Adrienne was bubbly, knowledgeable - and really loves the history of not just the Legislative Building, but also other areas of Victoria too. Her passion and enthusiasm rubs off and she's a wonderful storyteller. Highly recommend this free tour of the Legislative Building - it'll add some interesting facts, stories, and context to your visit.
3. Craigdarroch Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,294 reviews
Completed in 1890, Craigdarroch is a stately home built by the pioneering couple Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, who at the time of its construction were the wealthiest people in British Columbia. Called a 'castle' due to its imposing exterior, the luxurious interior has been restored to look as though the visitor is a guest of Mrs. Dunsmuir during the 1890s. It features beautiful woodwork, unique Victorian artifacts, and an impressive collection of original stained glass, all within a pleasant walk from downtown Victoria.
Reviewed By 970wandak - Kelowna, Canada
The history of this house is fascinating, full of luxury, opulence and wealth. The Dunsmuir family was very wealthy from coal finds in Nanaimo, and James Dunsmuir wanted to flaunt his wealth and importance to Victoria and the world, by building the most luxurious mansion on the highest point of the city. The family was full of relationship drama, Dad died before the house was finished and Mom moved in with her 5 daughters, one of the girls was issued a "Certificate of Lunancy", Alexander died of Alcoholism, son James who became lieutenant governor of BC was sued by Mom for money and left out of her will entirely. The mansion transformed itself into a military hospital, a college, a music conservatory, and school district office before finally being a historical treasure for all to enjoy. It is mostly restored but still a work in progress, Well worth a tour!
4. Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,276 reviews
Reviewed By BFRay - Bellows Falls, United States
If you want to put a real shine on your stay in Victoria, choose the Empress Hotel. It is pricey, but the accommodations are truly 5 star, world-class. From the exceptionally gracious and receptive front desk personnel to the bell captains to the doormen [no doorwomen in sight during our visit] to the entire staff we encountered, it felt warmly welcoming. Even Winston, the house dog, was friendly. We were a family of three generations, and felt like part of the family there. Look up at the 250,000 hand-cut Czech crystals, 4000 pound "cloud" chandelier for your first "Wow!" moment. The furniture and furnishings, the interior architecture, lighting, window treatments, etc. are all exquisite. High Tea is an absolute must, of course. We dressed for the occasion, but there is no formal dress code. My 9 year old grandson, himself a world traveler, was impressed and drank almost his entire pot of tea. The personal attention makes you feel like royalty for an hour or two. The Q, the Bengal Lounge are both excellent dining experiences. Be sure to try the PNW oysters and the signature Empress Blue Gin & Tonic. The Empress is on the harbor, and a 12 minute walk from the Victoria Clipper, our transportation from Seattle. It makes a great headquarters for all Victoria has to offer.
5. McLean Mill Historic Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 138 reviews
+++ Welcome to McLean Mill Historic Park! +++ We are working hard on how to keep you, our guests and our staff safe once we re-open and resume operations like tours, gift shop and cafe [tent. July 1st, 2020]. +++ We are currently open for exploring the site and the park on your own, please +++ Please respect physical distancing (6ft/2m) and be respectful to others keeping their distance. Pets are welcome, please keep them on lead and pick up after them. +++
6. Milner Gardens & Woodland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 242 reviews
Vancouver Island University's Milner Gardens & Woodland is a magical seaside retreat once reserved for royalty. Sheltered on three sides by old-growth forest, this one-of-a kind woodland estate rejuvenates the soul with its gardens and magnificent coastal views. Enjoy the charming Camellia Tea Room after strolling the grounds and contemplate the history of the Gardens or fantasize about having them all to yourself.
Reviewed By sunandroses - Nanaimo, Canada
Spring time is breath taken. The buzzing of the bees around the rhododendrons, the eagles rebuilding their nest, the seals fishing for Herron - mind blowing. Then you have the rhododendrons, the daffodils, the camellias. Such a welcoming of spring. The smell of homemade soup, scones and desserts will draw you into the house. Such a wonderful day!!
7. Carr House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 168 reviews
Under new management! A new era and a new approach. This family home and garden of internationally renowned painter and writer Emily Carr is both a National and Provincial Historic Site. During the summer season, until September, it is open for tours by booking on the events page at www.carrhouse.ca. During the rest of the year Carr house is the site of workshops and programming for the community in themes that celebrate Emily Carr's life; art and environmentalism, feminism, positive relations with Indigenous communities, mentorship of emerging artists and writers. Heritage preservation and gardening workshops are also offered. Offerings are listed at https://carrhouse.ca/events Carr House stands on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen speaking Peoples.
8. Helmcken House
9. Hatley Park National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 126 reviews
An 800-acre park full of gently rolling lawns and lots of trees.
Reviewed By G792HNdonnad - Victoria, Canada
Spend a few hours strolling the Japanese and Italian gardens. Over bridges and bogs. Fall colors were amazing.
