Victoria, B.C. What a Spot for a Quick Getaway!

One of the many benefits of living in the Seattle area is the incredible ease with which you can enjoy international getaways without the hassle of long flights or complicated travel plans. A prime example is Canada’s gem of the West coast, Victoria, British Columbia. This charming city offers an enchanting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect weekend escape—Susie and I recently did just that. Please take a look at the “highlight reel” we put together here.

Victoria is renowned for its British heritage, a reflection of its founding in 1843 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post. The city’s “British feel” is evident in its architecture, customs, and even the quaint shopping district where you can find everything from unique boutiques to traditional English tea shops (there’s tea EVERYWHERE). Walking through Victoria feels like stepping into a different world—one that’s rich with history and culture.

Staying at The Empress Hotel is a highlight of any visit. This iconic hotel, with its grand Edwardian architecture, has been a fixture of Victoria’s skyline since 1908. Designed by Francis Rattenbury, who also designed the Parliament Buildings, The Empress is a marvel of turn-of-the-century elegance. Susie and I partook in the famous High Tea at The Empress, where we indulged in an afternoon of refined leisure, a very unique tea menu, and surroundings that have hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for over a century.

The Parliament Buildings, another Rattenbury masterpiece, are equally impressive. Completed in 1898, these buildings feature a blend of Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles, topped with a grand central dome. At night, the buildings are illuminated by thousands of lights, creating a magical scene against the harbor.

Victoria’s public transportation makes it easy to explore the city’s many attractions. The cute little “pickle boats” that serve as inner harbor water taxis are not to be missed. These tiny green boats offer a fun and convenient way to get around, whether you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, exploring the Inner Harbour, or just taking in the views.

For a deeper connection with the region’s history, explore Victoria’s rich First Nations heritage. The Royal BC Museum is an excellent place to start, with exhibits that showcase the art, culture, and history of the Indigenous peoples of the area. The city itself is filled with reminders of this heritage, from totem poles to public art installations.

No trip to Victoria is complete without visiting Butchart Gardens, a short drive from downtown. These 55 acres of meticulously maintained gardens are a feast for the eyes, with vibrant displays that change with the seasons. Whether you're wandering through the tranquil Japanese Garden or admiring the floral splendor of the Sunken Garden, Butchart Gardens is a place where you can lose yourself in nature’s beauty. We ate dinner at the dining room there for Susie’s birthday—what a meal! Absolutely top notch.

Living in Seattle means having easy access to these kinds of international experiences. The Victoria Clipper ferry makes the journey simple and enjoyable, whisking you from downtown Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour in just a few hours. It’s a quick trip that transports you to a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, offering a perfect weekend getaway right at your doorstep. So why not take advantage of this unique benefit of living in the Pacific Northwest? If you aren’t here already, we’re waiting to welcome you with open arms and a warm cup of tea.