We’ve always found British Columbia to be an alluring destination: The beautiful province is conveniently close to Seattle and offers an opportunity to use our passports when we’re feeling the itch. Perhaps most importantly, Canada happens to be home to some of the nicest people on the planet. (And right now, for obvious reasons, many of us feel an urge to migrate north more than ever before.)

Victoria is so much more than the last time you visited as a kid. Now, there’s gourmet food and desserts to taste, festivals and museums to enjoy, and an abundance of outdoor activities to explore. Our hotel, Magnolia Hotel & Spa, suggested Olo and we weren’t disappointed. Olo is doing things right and was a delightful dining experience. Executive Chef & Co-Owner Brad Holmes buys farm-fresh ingredients from producers on Vancouver Island. He understands the importance of sourcing locally and pushes the envelope by bringing seasonal and regional ingredients to Olo’s menu.

Victoria is lovely year round. When I visited last December, I enjoyed all the holiday festivities, but I wondered what it would be like when the weather was nicer. It was a bit too soggy and grey to explore as much as I would have liked. Summer though? Wow. I returned this past weekend and I’m in love. We biked, we strolled, we browsed, and we ate. It was the perfect weekend getaway. 

If you’re thinking about visiting Victoria this summer, now is the time! Here are some fun events and activities for the rest of summer! The flowers are in full bloom and the streets are filled with people from all around the world. My favorite way to get there is via the Victoria Clipper, boarding from Pier 69 near Olympic Sculpture Park. Park at the Bell Street Garage for $10/day and walk onto the passenger-only ship for a scenic 2 hour and 45 minute ride. You can make it a day, overnight, or weekend trip. 

5 fun things to do while visiting Victoria this winter.

Victoria, BC is known for being a popular summer destination and it’s positively wonderful and festive during the winter months too. The holiday cheer is abound. We rode the Victoria Clipper, the most luxurious ferry we’ve ever been on with comfy reclining seats, tasty snacks, and alcohol. Upon arriving two hours and 45-minutes later, we experienced a lovely weekend of relaxation and escape from the big city.

Scroll down to the bottom for your chance to win a pair of round trip tickets on the Victoria Clipper. Winner will be announced on Monday, December 28! 

A delightful winter tradition in Victoria, BC.

Riding the Victoria Clipper to Victoria for day and weekend trips during the spring and summer is always a popular and fun activity. As the weather cools down and the season changes, it’s also the perfect trip during the holiday season for families or a romantic getaway. Bundle up and ride the Clipper to check out Victoria’s holiday festivities, including our feature: The Butchart Gardens Holiday Lights Tour. The tour starts December 1st and runs through January 6th.