Victoria, BC: 10 Fun Facts of Canada’s Garden City

Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria, BC is a city brimming with natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant culture. Known as Canada’s Garden City, Victoria has plenty to offer for visitors and residents alike.

1. The City of Gardens: Victoria earned its nickname, the “City of Gardens,” for a good reason. It boasts an impressive number of green spaces and floral displays. Butchart Gardens, one of the city’s most iconic attractions, showcases over 900 varieties of plants spread across 55 acres of stunning landscapes. From vibrant tulips to fragrant roses, exploring the gardens is like stepping into a botanical wonderland.
2. Royal Connections: Did you know that Victoria is named after Queen Victoria of England? The city was established in 1843 and named in honour of the reigning monarch at the time. Victoria maintains its royal connections to this day, with beautiful landmarks like the Fairmont Empress Hotel, a grand and iconic building that has welcomed dignitaries and guests from around the world.
3. Chinatown: Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America, following San Francisco’s. This historic district is a vibrant hub of cultural heritage, filled with traditional Chinese architecture, unique shops, and mouth-watering cuisine. Strolling through the colorful streets of Chinatown is like stepping into a different world. Fan Tan Alley is the narrowest street in Canada.
4. The “Mile 0” Landmark: If you embark on a road trip across Canada, your journey would typically begin or end in Victoria. The city is the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway, and a prominent landmark called “Mile 0” marks the spot. It’s a popular spot for photos and a symbolic reminder of the vastness and diversity of Canada.
5. Classic Double-Decker Buses: One of the most charming features of Victoria is its fleet of classic double-decker buses. These iconic red buses, reminiscent of London’s famous transportation, roam the city streets and offer a unique way to explore Victoria’s attractions. Hop on one of these vintage beauties for a nostalgic ride around town.
6. Thunderbird Park and Totem Poles: Located adjacent to the Royal British Columbia Museum, Thunderbird Park is home to a captivating collection of indigenous totem poles. These intricate carvings tell stories and represent the rich cultural heritage of the local First Nations people. Exploring Thunderbird Park provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in indigenous art and traditions. You will find the world’s tallest free standing totem pole in Beacon Park.
7. GreatWhite Fence: One fun historical fact about the international line in Victoria, BC is that it used to be marked by a row of painted poles known as the “Great White Fence.” This fence was painted entirely white and stretched across the city, separating the Canadian and American sides. It served as a visual reminder of the international boundary between the two countries. Visitors and locals alike would often walk along the fence or take pictures to capture the unique experience of straddling the line between Canada and the United States.
8. Friendliest City: Victoria has been named one of the top 10 Friendliest Cities in the World by Condé Nast.
9.  Best Cold-Water Diving: National Geographic recognizes Vancouver Island as one of the best cold-water diving destinations on earth and the renowned Jacques Cousteau Society rates the area second only to the Red Sea for diversity of marine life and water clarity.
10. Asian Art Collections: The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has one of the most important, and second largest, Asian art collections in Canada.

Victoria, BC is a city that effortlessly combines natural beauty, history, and a vibrant cultural scene. From its breathtaking gardens to its royal connections and fascinating landmarks, there’s always something new to discover in this charming Canadian destination. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Chinatown or marveling at the beauty of Butchart Gardens, Victoria promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of Victoria, BC – the City of Gardens.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our private tours in Victoria, BC, where we you can explore the rich tapestry of history and culture in Chinatown, the vibrancy of Downtown or the beauty of the magnificent gardens that Victoria and Vancouver Island has to offer. Immerse yourself in the vibrant stories of this enchanting city as our knowledgeable guides lead you through hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and curated activities, tailored just for you! Click here if you want to know more about our Tours.