Not feeling super outdoorsy today? You have an excuse!
With this Thursday, May 18th being International Museum Day, now would be a great time to highlight some of the many amazing exhibits in our great city.
Lucky for you, Victoria has an extensive list of options – might as well try to hit as many as possible!
There are around 18 different museums, but we’ve compiled a highlight list of 9 for you to try—you’ll see some classics, but maybe some you didn’t know about too!
Here are 9 museums to check out in and around Greater Victoria:
Royal BC Museum
Spend your afternoon perusing multiple floors in the Royal BC Museum – including the current exhibition, Dinosaurs of BC (rawr).
- Where: 675 Belleville Street
- When: Open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Emily Carr House
Step back in time as you enter this beloved Canadian artist’s house. Emily Carr is known for her vibrant portrayals of wildlife and nature.
- Where: 207 Government Street
- When: Open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Chinese Canadian Museum
This museum highlights the triumphs and struggles for Chinese Canadians starting their new journey in Victoria.
- Where: 10 – 14 Fan Tan Alley
- When: Open Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) Regimental Museum
Located in the Bay Street Armory, you can check out artifacts and snippets of history from the Canadian Scottish Regiment.
- Where: 311 – 715 Bay Street (public access via Field Street)
- When: Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum
Check out this military and naval museum! It’s located on the Canadian Forces Base in Esquimalt and is home to a large collection of archived and preserved materials.
- Where: Naden Street
- When: Open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Dino Lab Inc.
Everyone loves dinosaurs! If one visit isn’t enough, explore their programs for the opportunity to work with these ancient bones – there’s even a junior program for the youngins!
- Where: 491 Dupplin Road #2
- When:
- Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Craigdarroch Castle
Talk about a serious time warp! This castle is the epitome of late-1800s wealth and has served many purposes over the years. Take a tour!
- Where: 1050 Joan Crescent
- When: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wentworth Villa – Architectural Heritage Museum
Described as a hidden attraction, this architectural museum is a direct glimpse into the mid-late 1800s in Victoria – all bundled up in a unique heritage home.
- Where: 1156 Fort Street
- When: Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS
Walk around this 19th-century artillery fortress and visit the west coast’s oldest lighthouse! This open-air museum contains stories of soldiers and lighthouse keepers alike.
- Where: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd
- When: Open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Did we miss your favorite? Tell us what it is in the comment section below!
