While Downtown Victoria is the heart of the capital of Canada’s westernmost province, it has the intimacy of a smaller town. The Strait of Georgia serves as a physical barrier to the rest of the continent, helping to preserve Victoria’s heritage. Visit Downtown Victoria to see many Victorian-style buildings. The British Columbia Parliament Buildings, overlooking Victoria Harbor since 1898, are examples of this architecture.

Across the street, the Fairmont Empress hotel offers views of the harbor and the fleet of yachts and small craft. Enjoy the daily full tea service in the hotel’s stately interior. A tourist bureau nearby has staff and brochures with information on events and attractions. Consider a harbor tour on one of the many commercial craft.

Learn more about the region’s maritime history and ocean sciences by visiting The Maritime Museum of British Columbia. Buy a souvenir in the nautical-themed thrift shop. The Royal BC Museum has exhibition areas on ancient and modern history, First Nations history and natural history.

Miniature World is a family attraction calling itself the Greatest Little Show on Earth. Inside sections feature circuses, castles, fantasyland and more.

Walk farther into downtown to enter Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Look for the colorful Gate of Harmonious Interest spanning a main street. Visit the area’s interesting spots including Fan Tan Alley, one of the narrowest roads on the continent.

Victoria has excellent walking paths and parks along the waterfront including downtown’s pedestrian and bike-friendly Wharf Street area. While strolling, notice the older Victorian buildings in Downtown Victoria’s cityscape. Seaplanes land and take off, serving as a reminder of the interconnectivity of coastal communities. Stop at a seafood restaurant where fresh fish is abundant, often harvested from sustainable sources.

One of the best ways to reach Downtown Victoria is over the water. Travel from Seattle via the ferry in about 3.5 hours, arriving at the Inner Harbour. Drive from Vancouver in 3 hours using a car ferry service.