Victoria, BC is one of the most beautiful and well known cities in Canada. While there are no end of options to spend a lot of money, you do not have break your piggy bank to enjoy all Victoria has to offer. There is an abundance of free and cheap things to do in Victoria for kids (and adults).
Victoria was the playground and back drop of my childhood. These are my top list of places I return to again and again, with my kids, family and friends.
Looking for things to do in Victoria, BC that won’t break your budget? Read on for outdoor, and rainy day activities you can do with your family, all year round.
Cheap & Free Things To Do In Victoria
35 Fun & Cheap Family Things To Do in Victoria:
- Pretend you are a pirate on the salty seas at the Royal British Columbia Museum
- Wander the Totem Poles at Thunderbird Park
- Walk along Inner Harbour Causeway & be entertained by performers
- Run with the goats at Beacon Hill Children’s Farm.
- Grab a bite to eat to go at Fisherman’s Wharf and have a picnic at the Park across the road
- Stroll the Breakwater at Ogden Point
- Collect beach treasures along Dallas Road
- Fly a kite at Clover Point
- Discover the city’s secrets in a Guided Walking Tour
- Wind your way down the narrowest street in Canada, Fan Tan Alley
- Peruse locally made and grown products at Public Markets
- Kick it old school. Play video games at Qazar’s Arcade
- Play board games at Interactivity Board Game Cafe
- Bike or walk along the Galloping Goose Trail
- Ride a wave and the waterslide at Commonwealth Pool
- Cool off at a Water / Splash Park, bring a picnic to make a day of it.
- Paddle or walk around Elk / Beaver Lake
- Hike to the top of Mount Doug for views of the city
- Watch the sunset at Mount Tolmie
- Identify native plants and wildlife at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary
- Take a guided hike or program through the CRD Regional Parks Program
- Travel the wheelchair accessible interpretive trail at Francis/King Regional Park
- Touch a sea anemone or starfish in the tidal pool at Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea aquarium
- Explore the old fort and lighthouse at Fort Rodd Hill
- Imagine yourself a superhero at Hatley Castle
- Listen to Live Music at Market Square
- Tour the Parliament Buildings
- Hold some cool bugs at the Victoria Bug Zoo
- Hop a Victoria Harbor Ferry Ride
- Wander the 200 species of Rhododendrons in Finnerty Gardens
- Watch the salmon run & visit Niagara Falls at Goldstream Provincial Park
- Discover Victoria’s history at Government House
- Get your art fix at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
- Climb the Giant Octopus at Gyro Park / Beach
- Play at the Esquimalt Adventure Park
This list is just the tip of the ice berg, or in this case the bloom before the flower of free and cheap activities available in each destination. Check out each place below for more ideas to explore the beauty and wonders of Victoria. Then grab some ideas for the perfect 3 Day itinerary to Victoria BC with kids.
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25 CHEAP & FREE THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA, BC
British Columbia is one of the best places to visit in the world, as well as in Canada, but I may just be biased as I am from Victoria. From mountains to oceans, and desert like climates to west coast island vibes. It’s an outdoor adventurers dream.
Many people take the ferry from Seattle or Vancouver here. As there’s ample family friendly activities to keep you busy and entertained for a long weekend, a week or more.
Especially if you are looking to road trip up the island to stay in the lovely seaside town of Parksville, BC or want to check off your Vancouver Island bucket list.
That’s why we’ve highlighted some of the best cheap family things to do in Victoria and close by.
THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA, BC DOWNTOWN
1. Explore The Royal BC Museum
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life
Royal BC Museum is one of the best family acitivities in Victoria, BC, for those rainy Victoria days, and trust me they happen frequently especially in the Winter and Spring.
The human history section takes you through 10, 000 years of history of First Nation, Euro-American, European and Asian cultures in what is now known as British Columbia.
The Royal BC Museum is always some place I bring my kids to again and again. It really is one of the best cheap things to do in Victoria this weekend, or week, or anytime really.
The Royal BC Museum sits on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen (Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations).
Location: 675 Belleville Street
Hours: Open 10am – 5pm daily.
Cost: Museum Free under 5, $11 Youth 6-18yrs, $18 adults
2. View Gallery of Totem Polls at Thunderbird Park
Thunderbird Park is home to an outdoor gallery of totem poles and a traditional Kwakwaka‘wakw “big house”. It is located next door to the Royal BC Museum where you can often watch cool demos done by local artists.
If you are interested in learning more about the history of the totem poles and their restoration efforts check out the Royal BC Museum website.
Location: 675 Belleville St (corner of Belleville and Douglas Street)
Cost: Free
⭐️ Fun Day Trip Ideas from Victoria the whole family will love.
3. Stroll The Inner Harbour Causeway
Visit the epicentre of downtown Victoria, and wander the causeway in front of the Legislative buildings and the Empress Hotel. During the summer months especially, this area is full of street performers, artisans, First Nations artists, food vendors and people.
The Inner Harbour is an amazing spot to people watch and catch a performance from May to September. Don’t forget your camera!
It’s also where the seaplane tours and some of the whale watching tours leave from, which are fun to watch (or try).
PRO TIP: Learn Victoria’s interesting history (and scandals) with this inexpensive & fun historical walking tour of dowtown Victoria, that starts at Inner Harbour.
Location: The Causeway runs along Belleville and Government Street in Downtown Victoria
Cost: Free thing to do in Victoria, BC
Photo: ‘lembibuchanon / istock.com”
4. Visit The Petting Zoo at Beacon Hill Park
The Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, locally known as the Petting Zoo, brings farm animals to us city folk. This has been an iconic spot to visit for generations.
Wander around this urban mini farm featuring miniature horses, peacocks, alpacas, rabbits, chickens, and our favourite, the pot bellied pigs.
The highlight for kids and adults alike are the adorable baby goats to pet, brush and have climb on your back. Watch out for dangling bits of cloth and hair, these kids love to nibble.
Location: Circle Drive, Beacon Hill Park
Hours: 10am – 5pm seasonally. Goat Stampede 10:10am & 5:10pm
Cost: By donation
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life
LOCAL TIP: GO FOR THE GOAT STAMPEDE!!! Held daily at 10:10am and 5:10pm. Think running of the bulls for kids! The petting zoo is open seasonally so check out their website for opening times and hours, and latest updates.
5. Fisherman’s Wharf & Park: Free Things To Do In Victoria
Photo: ‘photoservice / istock.com”
Wander the docks at Fisherman’s Wharf, an eclectic village of food kiosks, shops and colorful house boats located in downtown Victoria. One of the more colorful free things to do in Victoria.
Enjoy views of Vic West across the harbour, and the occasional seal looking for food. Ponder what it is like to live on a house boat (some houseboats are rented out as a fun place to stay ).
Grab some lunch and head across the parking lot to the Fisherman’s Wharf Park for a picnic. Here you will find picnic benches, a nautical themed play/climb area, and large grassy knolls. Plenty of room for the kids to run their energy out.
The Fisherman’s Wharf sits on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen.
Location: 12 Erie St.
Cost: Free to wander around.
👉 Check out our favourite parks & Playgrounds in Victoria, BC
6. Walk The Breakwater at Ogden Point
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life
Taking a stroll along the Breakwater pathway is a popular local’s weekend activity and a fun family friendly thing to do in Victoria, BC Canada.
Jutting out from Dallas Road towards the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the breakwater ends at a small lighthouse. This cement structure is 1.6km roundtrip and takes about 30 minutes to walk.
Look out for the Na’Tsa’ Maht – The Unity Wall, painted on the side of the breakwater, which depicts the history of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations. This is a prime spot to view cruise ships, seagulls, people fishing off the rocks and the sunset.
This stroll is one of our favorite free things to do in Victoria, BC, and something we regularly do each time we visit.
Location: Ogden Point on Dallas Road
Cost: Free
7. Bike, Stroller, Walk The Dallas Road Waterfront Pathway
Photo: “AutumnSky Photography / istock.com”
The Dallas Road Waterfront Pathway runs 4km from Holland Point Park to Hollywood Crescent. You will pass the Mile Zero monument, Beacon Hill Park, Spiral Beach and Clover Point.
This dedicated off road path is the perfect jumping off point for many small beaches. Collect beach glass, rocks and and enjoy the sunshine. Any of these small beaches along the way top the list of fun free things to do in Victoria. Also be on the lookout for the lighthouse.
This path is also suitable for strollers, joggers, and walkers, both of the dog and human variety.
Location: Dallas Road
Cost: Free
8. Fly A Kite At Clover Point
Clover Point is a popular spot to park, watch the ocean waves and walk along the waterfront pathway. Kids will love flying kites at this windy point. You can also watch paragliders coast along the bluff’s edge and windsurfers and kiteboarders below. If you are brave you can even try that out yourself.
Location: 1250 Dallas Road
Cost: Free
👉 Grab more ideas with this Vancouver Island Bucket List
9. Guided Walking Tours
Explore the mysteries of haunted Victoria, learn the secret stories of criminals or glimpse what Victoria was like during the Gold rush. Or learn more about the history of Victoria’s Chinatown.
A guided walking tour is an interesting way to experience Victoria:
- Historical Walking Tour – Explore dowtown Victoria, starting at Inner Harbour, to learn about the interesting history (and scandals) of Victoria.
- Ghostly Walking Tour – Explore some of Victoria’s most haunted sites at night on a guided ghost tour.
- Chinatown Walking Tour – Delve into the exciting past of Canada’s oldest Chinatown, in Victoria, British Columbia
Location: Downtown Victoria
Cost: $21 / per adult, less for kids
10. Wind Your Way Through Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley
photo credit: “istock/Leamus”
Wind your way through Chinatown. Stop first at the Gates of Harmonious Interest and then enter Fan Tan Alley, “the narrowest street in the country.”
Here you will find locally owned shops offering clothing, jewellry, decor, natural body products, ice cream, and more. Perfect for an hour of window shopping.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Victoria Chinatown is the second oldest in North America, after San Fansisco, and the oldest Chinatown in Canada. Learn more about the history of Chinatown.
Location: 500 Fisgard St.
Cost: Free
More Things to Do With Kids in Victoria, BC
11. Browse Local Goods At Public Markets
Local Farmers Markets are a good way to support local growers, artisans, artists, musicians and food vendors. They also make for an entertaining afternoon with the kids.
The Moss Street Market and the Victoria Public Market (located in the historic Hudson building downtown) are open year round. Others are more seasonal.
Some of my favourite are the outdoor markets which typically run May to October:
- James Bay Market ( Corner of Menzies Street & Superior Street) – Saturdays May to September from 9am – 3pm
- Moss Street Market (1350 Fairfield Rd) – Saturdays May to October 10am – 2pm and November to March 10am – 1pm
- Oaklands Sunset Market (2827 Belmont Ave) – Wednesdays June 30 – September 1 4:30-8:30pm
🚗 Grab more Victoria itinerary ideas with these day trips to make from Victoria, Canada
12. Play Video Games at Qazar’s Arcade
Introduce your children to the games of your childhood at Qazar’s Arcade. Quazar’s is an all ages 80’s inspired arcade, with a large selection of vintage and new pinball machines they rotate.
Location: 1215 Government Street
Hours: Monday to Thursday 12pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 11pm & Sunday 10am-10pm
Cost: 1 token is $0.50. Most games cost 1 token, most pinball machines cost 2 tokens.
13. Board Games at Interactivity Board Game Cafe
Playing a board game at Victoria’s first board game cafe, the Interactivity Board Game Cafe would be an awesome family activity in Victoria. They have over 800 games to choose from and over 30+ flavours of milkshakes.
Or shop at their retail store, with Victoria’s largest selection of board games to buy.
Location: 723 Yates Street
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m. – 11pm and Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. – Midnight
Cost: $6 / per person ($3 under 12) to stay and play. Choose the Family Friendly side with the kids, or the separate 19+licensed section for just the adults.
👉 You may also like our ultimate list of Kid Friendly Trip Snacks
14. Walk or Bike Along the Galloping Goose Trail
Photo: “Gene_L / istock.com”
Head out on the Galloping Goose, a multi-use 55 km trail. Enjoy a bike ride or a walk through farmland, wilderness, and urban landscapes. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it all!
The trail begins at the south end of Selkirk Trestle at the foot of Alston Street in Vic West. Download one of their maps onto your phone.
You can rent bikes at a few places downtown, including Victoria Bike Rentals.
LOCAL TIP: Our favourite snack stop for a delicious croissant and coffee along the way is at Fol Epi organic bakery and Caffe Fantastico, an organic fair trade coffee/deli shop. Both are located at 398 Harbour Rd in Dockside Green, just over the bridge from downtown Victoria.
FREE THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA (OR VERY CHEAP)
There’s much more to see and do outside of downtown Victoria, its a good idea to carve out some time for exploration further afield. Not only can you find endless kid-friendly free things to do in Victoria and nearby, there are also alot of inexpensive family activities in Victoria that won’t break the bank.
Check out our 3 Day Victoria, BC Canada Itinerary to make planning your Victoria trip easy.
15. Cheap Things To Do In Victoria, BC: Swim At The Commonwealth Pool
Kids will love spending a day in this mini waterpark like setting.
The Commonwealth Pool has something for all age groups. There is a shallow tot pool, a wave pool with shipwreck, a waterslide, diving boards, steam room, hot tub and sauna. Plus the water isn’t ice cold, and it can be a nice break. Add this to your rainy day list of things to with kids in Victoria, BC.
Location: 4636 Elk Lake Dr.
16. Cool Off At A Water / Splash Park in Victoria
Cool off at one of 9 Victoria Water Parks. Kids love water. Waterparks are a great way to spend a sunny day, when you don’t want to be emptying sand from your shoes for the next two weeks.
- Watering Can at Beacon Hill Park – off Douglas Street (Victoria)
- Rotary Water Park – Carnarvon Park, Henderson Road (Oak Bay)
- Beckwith Water Park – Beckwith Avenue & Quadra Street (Saanich)
- Fraser Street Adventure Park – 535 Fraser Street, (Esquimalt)
- Splash Park at City Centre Park – 1089 Langford Parkway (Langford)
- Glen Lake Beach Park – Shoreview Drive (Langford)
- Spray Park in Centennial Park – Carlow Road (Langford)
- Langford Lake – Leigh Road (Langford)
- Iroquois Park – Fifth Street & Ocean Avenue (Sidney)
17. Canoe, Swim, Hike at Elk / Beaver Lake
The ocean water temperature around Victoria is COLD, so if you want to go swimming, head to a local lake. Elk / Beaver Lake has something for everyone. You can swim, canoe, hike, fish, picnic, and even ride horses on the equestrian trails.
If your family is up for a 2 hour hike, try the easy 10km loop around Elk & Beaver Lake. It’s a fairly flat, well marked path with some exposed rocks and roots.
Location: 5267 Patricia Bay Highway.
Elk Lake Entrance: Brookleigh Road
Beaver Lake Entrance: Elk Lake Drive
Cost: Free
18. Climb Mount Douglas
Photo by Packed for Life
Drive, or hike to the top of this urban forest park. You’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city, as well as views of Saanich Inlet and the Straights of Georgia and Haro.
Mount Doug has 21 km of well marked trails for all different fitness levels, beach access and washroom facilities.
This was one of my favourite places to hike with friends, when my daughter was a baby in her Ergo carrier. It also has dog friendly trails to take your favourite furry friend. We love these trails, especially on hot days as a top free thing to do in Victoria.
Location: Summit – Churchill Road off Cedar Hill Road
Cost: Free
LOCAL TIP: Drive to the top of Mount Doug from the entrance off Cedar Hill Road, if you don’t have time to walk up, or need accessible access
19. View The City From Mount Tolmie
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life
Mount Tolmie, located near Uvic offers a spectacular 360 degree view of the city. On a clear day you can also see Mount Baker, the Olympic Mountains, and the San Juan Islands in the distance.
The summit is accessible by car, or by hiking some of the 1.5km of trails through garry oak forest. This is one of the best free things to do in Victoria, BC.
Location: Mayfair Drive
Cost: Free
LOCAL TIP: Visit Mount Tolmie at sunrise. The summit will be far quieter than at sunset, the most popular time of day.
20. Walk The Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary
The Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is a lesser known gem in Victoria. You can enjoy a walk through the marshland of Swan Lake or the rockier Garry oak meadow on Christmas Hill.
The Swan Lake loop is an easy 2.5km which makes it a great thing to do with kids in Victoria. The marshland is home to many bird species, wildlife and native flora and fauna, perfect for the budding naturalist and bird watcher.
The Christmas Hill trail is a bit more challenging, with the summit at 109 metres above sea level. Visit in Spring for the carpet of wildflowers that bloom across the meadow.
Be sure to stop in at the Nature House and browse their library of natural history books, and visit their bee hive.
Location: 3873 Swan Lake Road
Cost: Free
LOCAL TIP: Pick up some duck food in the gift shop at the Nature House before you start your walk. The ducks and your kids will greatly appreciate it.
21. Take A Guided Hike Or Program
Nature lovers unite! The CRD Regional Parks Program offers guided walks hikes and programs for free. Most are drop-in, unless otherwise noted, and run 1.5 – 2 hours rain or shine. Their events page lists all upcoming programs.
Location: Across the Capital Regional District
Cost: Free
LOCAL TIP: Book ahead, as the programs fill up quickly.
22. Free Activities Victoria – Francis/King Regional Park
Francis / King Regional Park offers eleven kilometres of gentle woodland trails from the accessible Elsie King trail, to the moderate level Centennial Trail.
The Elsie King Trail, is an accessible 800 metre interpretive trail on cedar boardwalk. This forest loop has rest areas with benches, a shelter and an accessible toilet and water fountain.
Experience 500 year old Douglas Fir trees in Heritage Grove, some of the tallest in the region.
Any of the regional parks are great free places to visit in Victoria with family.
Location: Munn Road (20 minutes from downtown Victoria)
23. Learn About Sea Creatures At Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea
Photo by Packed for Life
The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is a new addition to our family favourites. This aquarium is located on the Sidney waterfront, on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich) people.
The aquarium is home to over 3,500 animals from the Salish Sea. Kid favourites are watching the floating jelly fish, the orca skeleton and the hands-on-experiences in the touch tidal pools. Beautiful Coast Salish art is found throughout.
- If you are visiting Sidney from June to August, make sure to check out the Sidney Street Market, on Sundays from 10am to 2pm and Thursday evenings from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. See the Sidney Markets website for all the latest info.
Location: 9811 Seaport Place, Sidney (30 minutes from downtown Victoria)
Hours: Every day but Wednesday 10am to 5pm (must enter by 4:30pm)
Cost: Annual family membership costs $86.50. Daily passes vary.
LOCAL TIP: Passes are good for the day. Take a wander around Sidney, have a picnic by the water, then return to the aquarium for another look.
24. Cheap Things to do In Victoria: Explore Fort Rodd Hill Historic Site
Photo: “jenifoto / istock.com”
Fort Rodd Hill is a fun destination for a half or full day excursion by the sea not far from downtown Victoria.
Explore secret bunkers, meander through garry oak meadows and take a 10 minute stroll to Canada’s oldest West Coast Lighthouse, the Fisgard Lighthouse.
If you are looking for a fun family activity in Victoria or nearby you can’t go wrong with this historic site. I haven’t been in years, but have fond memories of exploring this site as a child, many times.
Plus it definitely a cheap things to do in Victoria, especially with kids you need to run around to get their energy out. Everyone 17 and under has free admission.
Location: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd (20 minute drive from downtown Victoria)
Hours: May 1 – October 15 from 10am to 5pm every day. October 16 – April 30 from 10am to 4pm Buildings open Saturday & Sunday only
Cost: $8.50 per adult, but youth 17 and under are free.
25. Hatley Castle & Witty’s Lagoon
Photo: “dbstockphoto / istock.com
Location: 2005 Sooke Rd, Royal Roads University
Cost: Free to walk the Hatley Park gardens, trails and grounds. Guided Tours (May to Sept.): Family Pass $68, Adults $22.50, Youth (6-17) $14.
Superhero fans might recognize Hatley Castle as the setting for Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngesters, from the recent X-Men & Deadpool films.
On a more mundane note, Hatley Castle is now home of Royal Roads University and is a National Historic Site. You can explore the beautiful gardens, and trails through their 560 acres of old growth forest. The view facing Esquimalt Lagoon is spectacular.
Witty’s Lagoon
If you are already out that way anyway, why not make a day of it with a trip to Witty’s Lagoon. Which is about a 15 minute drive away from the castle in Metchosin.
On of the best free family activities Victoria, and nearby.
This regional park has trails to the Sitting Lady Falls, a Lagoon and Salt Marsh plus a great kid-friendly beach to hang out on for the day. From the main park entrance, a 1.2 km moderate forest trail takes you to the sandy beach.
LOCAL TIP: Stop in at My Chosen Cafe for a tasty meal, after your busy day.
26. Listen to Live Music at Market Square
Market Square in downtown Victoria is a fun place to window shop and listen to live music.
Located in Lo-Jo (as Lower Johnson is known as), there are unique shops and heritage buidlings to admire.
Location: 560 Johnson St.
Cost: Free
27. Tour the Parliament Buildings
Victoria’s most visited attraction, the iconic blue-green domed Parliament Buildings offers free, interesting guided tours.
Learn all about the historic building, and the legislative assembly.
Hours: Winter Hours: Mon to Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm. Summer Hours open on weekends too.
Cost: Free
28. Cool bugs at the Victoria Bug Zoo
Cool, interesting insects, and arachnids, and many legged creatures to keep the littles entertained. When they get tired of touring. It’s a gem for younger kids.
Location: 631 Courtnery Street
Hours: Mon to Fri 11am – 4pm, and Sat / Sun 10am – 4pm
Cost: Adults $18, Youth (5-17) $8 and 4 under free
29. Hop a Victoria Harbour Ferry
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life
Hop a Victoria Harbour Ferry for a fun taxi ride across the Inner Harbour, and see epic views of the Parliament Buildings, the Empress and a waterway.
They also offer different tour options; the historic Gorge Waterway Cruise, and a Pickle Pub Crawl (4 ferry rides to different brew pubs).
Location: Dock in front of the Empress Hotel and various parts of Inner Harbour
Cost: Depends on tour / taxi
30. Wander Finnerty Gardens
Victoria is known for its gardens.
If you are planning on walking around the University of Victoria (UVIC), don’t miss Finnerty Gardens.
This secluded sanctuary, is full of blooms, rhododendrons, trees, and shrubs (over 4000).
Wanting to see the iconic west coast rhodos? They have over 200 species in a vibrant array of colors.
Location: University Dr (Uvic)
Hours: Daily 8am to 11pm
Cost: Free
31. Hike at Goldstream Provincial Park
Goldstream Park is on our list of the best parks in Victoria. For it’s extensive trail system, Niagara Falls (not those NIagara Falls), and the salmon run in fall.
Fall is the best time to see bald eagles in the park as they come to feed on the spawning salmon.
Walk the trails in this old growth temperate rainforest. Home to 600 year old Douglas fir trees.
There’s picnic areas, camping, day use areas, and spectacular scenery.
Location: Trans Canada Hwy (Hwy #1)
Open: Year Round
32. Discover Victoria’s history at Government House
Government House is where the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia resides. While the indoors isn’t often open, the pretty and expansive gardens are free to stroll.
Different lush areas you can explore include the herb garden, the English Country Garden, a sunken rose garden, and of course a Rhododendron garden.
Location: 1401 Rockland Ave
Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Cost: Free
33. Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Appreciate some west coast, Canadian and global art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.
Its 20,000 works of art is the largest public collection in BC.
Visit the Asian Garden which has the only authentic Japanese Shinto Shrine in North America.
Location: 1040 Moss Street
Hours: Tues / Wed / Thurs / Fri 10am – 5pm. Thurs. 1pm to 9pm.
Cost: Admission by donation first Tuesday of every month & every Thursday from 5-9pm. Or regular costs apply
34. Climb the Giant Octopus at Gyro Park / Beach
Gyro Park is iconic for it’s larger than life sea animals to climb. It’s also another of our top picks for the best parks and playgrounds in Victoria.
Right next to the beach, it makes for a fun place to picnic, and play.
Location: 2645 Sinclair Road (Close to Uvic & Cadboro Bay Village)
Cost: Free
35. Play at the Esquimalt Adventure Park
Esquimalt Adventure Park is known for it’s plentiful play stuctures and waterpark features.
There’s even a fitness circuit, toilets and change rooms, and a picnic area. Great for a relaxed afternoon.
Location: 527 Fraser Street, beside the Esquimalt Recreation Centre
Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Splash Pad: Daily 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m May to Sept.
LOCAL TIP: If you’re in Esquimalt also check out Fry’s Read Wheat Bread Bakery. As well as Fol Epi & Cafe Fantastico in Dockside Green for delicious coffee and pastries.
Plus wander the Galloping Goose Trail for a bit, along the waterway.
Final Thoughts: Things To Do With Kids in Victoria
I always feel grateful for the beauty and abundance of Victoria. This city holds a special place in my heart, no matter where I roam.
There are so many amazing free and cheap things to do in Victoria, BC that both kids and adults love. This list is just the starting point. Once you start exploring, you might never want to stop. Cheap family things to do in Victoria definitely don;t have to be boring!
Leave us a comment below if we’ve missed your favourite free things to do in Victoria, BC or cheap kid-friendly things to do in Victoria.
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So many fun things to do! I’d love to visit Canada.
Canada is a wonderful place to visit. If you ever need any suggestions, let me know.
Great advice to book mark for future reference! Thanks!
You are most welcome.
Love this! I am going to pin this for later for when the borders open up!
I too am pinning all my travel inspirations for later. My list is getting quite long.
So many great options, it would be hard to choose which ones to do.
I would love to visit Victoria some day! Thanks for sharing that it’s so kid friendly; my kiddos would love pretending they were a pirate as well as visiting the splash parks!
Victoria really is a great place to visit with kids. There are also many parks, beaches and kid friendly nature trails to check out as well.
My kid is 22, but I still want to do all of these. I’ve heard nothing but great things about Victoria…would love to visit.
I love this … this community has so much to offer families!
So much to do!
What a great list! I’ve never had the chance to visit Victoria, but now I know that it’s a fun place!
Wow, there is a lot to do in Victoria. Next time we go to Vancouver, I want to make a trip here. It looks beautiful.
The ferry ride between Vancouver and Victoria is my favourite. I have even seen orca whales a few times.
I would love to spend a few days doing all of these fun activities!
I have never been to Canada, but this is a great list if you have kids. It would be fun to be a pirate, but I would also check out Chinatown!
The west coast of Canada is stunningly beautiful (I am biased though) and I highly recommend it as a vacation destination, with or without kids.
I really like all the outdoor activities you highlighted in this post. Seems there is so much to explore and B.C. looks so vibrant.
That is a lot of activities! I would like to pretend I am a pirate. 🙂
The ship At the Royal BC Museum has been my favourite since I was a little girl. Many a trip has been had pretending we were pirates, sea captains. The area even has a salty sea smell.
Everyone loves tips for where to find free adventure! Great post!
Victoria has so many great places to visit for free, especially if you love parks, beaches and the outdoors. This is just a few of the many fun options.
Wow – what a great list. I can’t wait to visit someday and check out some of these sites.
I am somewhat biased as I grew up in Victoria, but it is a wonderful and beautiful place to visit. One of my favourite places.
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I love this post! These are always the kinds of pages I look for when traveling!
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