Victoria destination known only to Winnipeg locals : Canada Trip

Victoria Trip

< Royal Theatre >

The Royal Theatre is a historic performing arts venue located in downtown Victoria, British Columbia. Here are some things to know about the Royal Theatre:

1. History: The Royal Theatre originally opened in 1913 as a vaudeville and silent movie house. It was renovated in the 1980s and reopened as a live performance venue in 1989. Today, the Royal Theatre is one of the premier performing arts venues on Vancouver Island.

2. Performances: The Royal Theatre hosts a wide variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, dance performances, concerts, and more. The theatre has hosted world-renowned performers and companies from around the world.

3. Seating: The Royal Theatre has a seating capacity of 1,416, making it one of the largest theatres in Victoria. The theatre has a sloping orchestra level and a balcony, providing excellent sightlines from every seat.

4. Amenities: The Royal Theatre offers a range of amenities for patrons, including a bar and concession stand, coat check, and wheelchair accessibility. The theatre is also equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system and lighting rig, ensuring that every performance looks and sounds its best.

5. Education: The Royal Theatre is committed to supporting arts education in the community. The theatre hosts workshops, master classes, and other educational programs for students of all ages, providing opportunities for young people to learn from professional performers and artists.

6. Tickets: Tickets for Royal Theatre performances can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at the theatre box office. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and groups, and season subscriptions are also available for those who want to see multiple shows throughout the year.

7. Location: The Royal Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Victoria, making it easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transit. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and other attractions nearby, making it a great destination for a night out on the town.

Victoria Travel

< Fan Tan Alley >

Fan Tan Alley is a narrow pedestrian alleyway located in the heart of Victoria's historic Chinatown district. Here are some things to know about Fan Tan Alley:

1. History: Fan Tan Alley was originally created in the late 19th century as a service alley for businesses in Chinatown. Over time, it became a bustling commercial area, with shops selling everything from Chinese groceries and herbs to opium and gambling supplies.

2. Today: Today, Fan Tan Alley is a popular tourist attraction and shopping destination. The alley is home to a variety of independent shops, including vintage clothing stores, art galleries, jewelry boutiques, and more. Many of the shops specialize in Asian-inspired goods, such as jade jewelry, Chinese teas, and traditional Chinese medicine.

3. Architecture: Fan Tan Alley is a unique example of Victoria's historic architecture. The alley is lined with small, narrow buildings that are typical of Chinatown architecture from the early 20th century. Many of the buildings feature decorative brickwork, ornate balconies, and other decorative elements.

4. Accessibility: Fan Tan Alley is a pedestrian-only area, so it is not accessible by car. However, the alley is easily accessible on foot from downtown Victoria. The alley is narrow and can be crowded at times, so visitors should be prepared to navigate through a bustling pedestrian area.

5. Cultural significance: Fan Tan Alley is an important part of Victoria's Chinatown district, which is one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns in North America. The district is home to a rich history of Chinese immigration and culture in Canada, and it has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

6. Events: Fan Tan Alley is often used as a venue for cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival, Chinese New Year celebrations, and more.

7. Sustainability: Fan Tan Alley is part of Victoria's Green Alley Program, which is a city-wide initiative to create more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban spaces. The program includes features such as permeable pavement, rain gardens, and LED lighting to reduce the environmental impact of urban infrastructure.

< Vancouver Island Brewing >

Vancouver Island Brewing is a craft brewery located in Victoria, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. Here are some things to know about Vancouver Island Brewing:

1. History: Vancouver Island Brewing was founded in 1984, making it one of the oldest craft breweries in British Columbia. The brewery was started by two friends, Vern Lambourne and Ralf Rosenke, who were passionate about beer and saw an opportunity to bring quality craft beer to Vancouver Island.

2. Beers: Vancouver Island Brewing produces a wide range of craft beers, including year-round offerings, seasonal releases, and special limited edition brews. Some of their most popular beers include the Juan de Fuca Cerveza, Piper's Pale Ale, and Hermann's Dark Lager.

3. Sustainability: Vancouver Island Brewing is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. For example, the brewery uses a closed-loop water system to conserve water and has installed energy-efficient lighting and equipment.

4. Tasting room: Vancouver Island Brewing has a tasting room located at the brewery where visitors can sample a variety of beers and purchase bottles, cans, and merchandise. The tasting room is open daily and also offers brewery tours.

5. Community involvement: Vancouver Island Brewing is involved in the local community and supports a number of charitable organizations and events. For example, the brewery hosts an annual charity fundraiser called the Island Beer Festival, which raises money for the BC Cancer Foundation.

6. Awards: Vancouver Island Brewing has won numerous awards for its craft beers, including multiple medals at the Canadian Brewing Awards and the World Beer Cup.

7. Expansion: In 2017, Vancouver Island Brewing underwent a major expansion and renovation, including the installation of a new brewhouse and canning line. The expansion has allowed the brewery to increase production and distribution of its craft beers throughout British Columbia and beyond.

< Hatley Park National Historic Site >

Hatley Park National Historic Site is a 565-acre estate located in Colwood, British Columbia, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Here are some things to know about Hatley Park:

1. History: Hatley Park was originally the home of James Dunsmuir, a wealthy industrialist and politician who served as Premier of British Columbia from 1900 to 1902. The estate was built between 1908 and 1912 and was designed in the Edwardian Baroque style.

2. Royal Roads Military College: In 1940, Hatley Park was purchased by the Canadian government and turned into a military college called Royal Roads Military College. The college operated until 1995, when it was closed due to government cutbacks.

3. Gardens: Hatley Park is home to a number of beautiful gardens, including the Italian Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden. The gardens feature a variety of plants, flowers, and sculptures and are open to the public for tours.

4. Mansion: The mansion at Hatley Park is a stunning example of Edwardian Baroque architecture. The interior features ornate woodwork, marble floors, and other decorative elements. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion to learn about its history and architecture.

5. Wildlife: Hatley Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and bald eagles. The estate is also located on the shore of Esquimalt Lagoon, which is a popular spot for birdwatching.

6. Filming location: Hatley Park has been used as a filming location for a number of movies and TV shows, including X-Men, Smallville, and Arrow.

7. National Historic Site: In 1995, Hatley Park was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in recognition of its importance as a cultural and architectural landmark. Today, the estate is managed by the Royal Roads University and is open to the public for tours and events.

< Westsong Walkway >

Westsong Walkway is a scenic waterfront pathway located in Victoria, British Columbia, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Here are some things to know about Westsong Walkway:

1. Location: Westsong Walkway is located along the waterfront in Victoria's Inner Harbour. The pathway extends from the Johnson Street Bridge to West Bay Marina, a distance of approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles).

2. Scenery: Westsong Walkway offers stunning views of the harbour, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Olympic Mountains in Washington State. The pathway passes by a number of attractions and landmarks, including the Parliament Buildings, the Empress Hotel, and Fisherman's Wharf.

3. Accessibility: Westsong Walkway is wheelchair accessible and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The pathway is flat and well-maintained, with benches and rest areas along the route.

4. Activities: Westsong Walkway is a popular spot for walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading. The pathway also provides access to a number of water-based activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

5. History: Westsong Walkway was built in the 1990s as part of a waterfront redevelopment project in Victoria. The pathway was designed to provide public access to the waterfront and to showcase the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

6. Amenities: Westsong Walkway is equipped with a number of amenities, including public washrooms, drinking fountains, and bike racks. The pathway also features a number of public art installations, including sculptures and murals.

7. Events: Westsong Walkway is a popular location for community events and festivals, such as the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival and the Victoria International Buskers Festival. The pathway is also a popular spot for watching fireworks displays during special events and holidays.

< Chinatown >

Chinatown is a historic district in downtown Victoria, British Columbia, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Here are some things to know about Chinatown:

1. History: Victoria's Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America after San Francisco's. The district was established in the mid-19th century, during the Gold Rush era, and was home to many Chinese immigrants who came to work in the mines and on the railroads.

2. Architecture: Chinatown features a unique mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The buildings in the district are characterized by their narrow facades, ornate balconies, and colorful murals and signage.

3. Fan Tan Alley: Fan Tan Alley is a narrow pedestrian alleyway that runs through the heart of Chinatown. The alley was once home to gambling dens, opium dens, and brothels, and is now lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries.

4. Restaurants: Chinatown is home to a variety of restaurants and food markets, offering a range of Chinese cuisine and other Asian specialties. Popular dishes include dim sum, noodle soup, and barbecue pork.

5. Shopping: Chinatown is a popular shopping destination, with a variety of stores offering everything from Asian groceries and herbal remedies to jewelry and souvenirs. Visitors can browse for unique gifts and souvenirs or sample exotic foods and teas.

6. Festivals: Chinatown is home to a number of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Chinese New Year Festival, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, and the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival. These events feature traditional music, dance, food, and other cultural activities.

7. Historical landmarks: Chinatown is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Chinese Public School, the Chinese Cemetery, and the Gate of Harmonious Interest. These landmarks offer insight into the history and culture of Victoria's Chinese community.