It’s back and it’s better than ever!
In the wake of Victoria’s recent Winter storm, we’re looking forward to Spring and brighter days ahead. This time of year also means one of the city’s most acclaimed events is on the horizon – and it’s promised to be the best one yet!
Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown is kicking off this weekend, the first event running from February 22 to February 24. If you can’t partake in February, don’t fret – they’re also running a secondary installment from March 1 to March 3, sure to start your Spring off with a bang!
This popular event has been around for a long time, and for good reason. From discounts on the hottest local spots to an extensive list of free offers, now is a better time than ever to take advantage of all of the perks of being a tourist – without breaking the bank!
Without further ado, here are 7 reasons why Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown should be on your radar this year:
1. You can rediscover the city you know and love
Have you lived in Victoria for quite some time, yet have never had the chance to experience all of the things our city is infamous for? Now’s your chance! With heavily discounted and even some free experiences, you can live it up like a tourist without having to spend money like one.
2. You can snag VIP cards for a killer deal
The Be a Tourist VIP card is your all-access pass that provides you with many free or discounted offers around the city for a great deal of attractions. Some apply for all 6 days, others are limited to select days within the event period.
VIP cards are only $15 and available for purchase at all 7 Save On Foods locations, the Bay Centre or Destination Victoria. Also, right now when you buy 4 VIP cards, you can get one free!
3. Taking in the attractions could be the perfect day-date
You could start off with kayaking for two with Pacifica Paddling, grab a free cup of tea at Urban Bee Honey Farm, and even pop in for brunch at Browns! There are tastings at Off The Eaten Track to try, you could soak in some culture at the Robert Bateman Centre, and finish the evening off with a romantic carriage ride care of Tally Ho. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll be sure to wow your other half!
4. Free! How can you beat free?
The list of free attractions this event is offering is extensive, and if you’ve been on the fence before, now is the time to dive right in! If you purchase the VIP Card (for only $15!), you won’t have to spend anymore than that with all of the free offers it includes!
Free wine-tasting at Deep Cove Winery, free admission to popular attractions like The Butchart Gardens and Miniature World, as well free tours of the Legislative Assembly of BC are just to name a few.
3. Did someone say brewery/distillery tours?
All the rage these days, you could create your own tour customized to your liking! With an impressive list including places like Victoria Distilleries, Deep Cove Winery, Sea Cider, Caledonia Brewery and Distillery, and Vancouver Island Brewery, there’s something for everyone.
6. There’s even something for the kids
Be a Tourist is the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to all of the family-friendly things in Victoria you’ve always wanted to try, but never had the chance to! Whether it’s Beaver Tails before checking out all of the cool creatures at the Bug Zoo or joining the Lego scavenger hunt at the Sidney Museum, this event makes planning a day full of family and fun a piece of cake.
7. Indulge in the ultimate ‘stay-cation’ without leaving the city
Let’s face it, planning a vacation away from home is a lot of work – not to mention expensive! With Be a Tourist, you can stay close to home and indulge in a luxurious hotel stay as well get outside for some serious adventure. All five of Victoria’s whale watching companies and Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours are opening up just for this event and offering killer deals! Also, after a day full of exhilarating fun, what better way to reward yourself than with a night at one of the city’s best hotels? Hotel Grand Pacific is offering 25% rooms specifically for the Be a Tourist event!
Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown
- When: February 22 to 24, and March 1 to 3
- Where: All around Victoria!
- Tickets: VIP cards are only $15 and available for purchase online and at all 7 Victoria Save On Foods locations, the Bay Centre or Destination Greater Victoria
