How to Keep the Kids Happy in Victoria This Summer

Whether you’re young or young at heart, here in Victoria we have plenty of fun things to see and do. From parks and museums to zoos and outdoor recreation, there’s something to keep kids of all ages happy!
 
The great outdoors are high on the agenda, of course: ocean waters, long sandy beaches, rainforests and wide open spaces are full of wonder for the kids. They can also get up close and personal with local marine life, bugs, butterflies and farm animals at Victoria's unique selection of gardens and zoos. And don’t forget the many museums that share the city’s incredibly diverse history with hands-on displays.
 
Here are three of our favourite activities for families visiting Victoria this summer…
 
1. Meet the Seals
Make your way to the Empress Dock and jump aboard a Harbour Ferry to go to Fisherman's Wharf to see the seals.  This 45-minute guided tour takes you past historic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings, First Nation sacred territories and the city’s famously colourful float homes. Just keep your eyes peeled for seals and otters. And if you have tips, hop off at Fisherman's Wharf and treat the kids to an ice cream.
 
2. Get Busy at Beacon Hill
Grab your comfy shoes and take a stroll through Beacon Hill Park. With over 200 acres of park land, this popular park is huge and includes everything from two water parks and a golf putting green to a baseball diamond and cricket pitch. And, of course, the park’s Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is always a big hit with the wee ones.
 
3. Meet the Creepy Crawlies
See all glow in the dark scorpions, alien-eyed praying mantids and hairy tarantulas at the Victoria Bug Zoo. You can even get to hold a tickling millipede that stretches the length of your forearm!
 
The Best Western PLUS Carlton Plaza is a great family accommodation option if you’re taking the kids away on a break this summer. The whole family will love it and it’s just a short walk down Government Street to all the attractions of the Inner Harbour and the Legislature Buildings.