The James Bay neighborhood is the oldest in British Columbia’s capital city of Victoria. A visit to James Bay should include a scenic stroll along Dallas Road which goes through parks and natural spaces along the ocean, past stately homes, a cruise ship dock and more.

Notice the Mile Zero Monument that marks where the Trans-Canada Highway begins its cross-country path to the Atlantic Ocean. The monument is in Beacon Hill Park, which is partially located in James Bay. Gaze up at a very tall freestanding totem pole, Beacon Hill Park Story Pole, also in the park. Made from a single cedar tree, the pole is over 127 feet (39 meters) tall. Note that native tradition requires totem poles to eventually be returned to the earth.

At the other end of the road, Fisherman’s Wharf has the appearance of a floating village. The picturesque area is a combination of floating homes, boats and businesses. Look for visiting seals and food establishments serving fish and chips.

Adjoining Fisherman’s Wharf Park provides an example of how water runoff can be cleaned before it enters the ocean. Learn how plants filter out undesirable components from water in the 3,789-square-foot (352-square-meter) rain garden.

For an excellent panoramic view of downtown, stroll along the shores of Victoria Harbour using the David Foster Harbour Pathway. The trail is named after a Canadian musician raised in the province. Continue along the harborfront to arrive at the Robert Bateman Centre’s Foundation Gallery of Nature. The art gallery features the works of renowned Canadian painter and naturalist Robert Bateman.

While in James Bay, visit British Columbia Parliament Buildings and take a free guided tour. Close to the Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum has exhibits about the province’s natural and human histories. Attend a show in the museum’s IMAX theater.

Travel to Victoria via the ferry, arriving at the Inner Harbour. Walk west of the ferry port to be in James Bay.