Centennial Square (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Centennial Square?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Children may splash in fountain jets, join free concerts or skate seasonal rinks, but there is no playground, traffic borders the plaza, and toilets lack kid-height sinks or changers.
Positives:
- Free Admission: Entry to Centennial Square and most events cost nothing, so you can spend on treats and activities.
- Easy Access: The flat, paved plaza is stroller-friendly and located near public transit and paid parking.
Challenges:
- No Playground Equipment: There are no slides or climbing structures; young kids may get restless without play features.
- Slippery Surfaces: Wet stones around the fountain can be slick; supervise kids and use water shoes.
What is Centennial Square?
- A public plaza in downtown Victoria anchored by a central ornamental fountain and paved terraces
- Framed by heritage civic buildings such as the Second Empire–style Victoria City Hall and the historic McPherson Playhouse
- Commissioned in the early 1960s to commemorate the city’s centennial, featuring modernist concrete sculptures and movable seating within a formal, symmetrical layout
What is so special about Centennial Square for with kids?
- Splash fountain jets under supervision.
- Enjoy free weekday summer concerts.
- Snack on rotating food trucks.
- Team up for a Let’s Roam scavenger hunt.
- Flat, stroller-friendly layout.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets your family splash, eat, and explore without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Centennial Square
Fountain Play:
Let kids splash in the central fountain jets.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes and water shoes; watch for slippery stones.
Summer Concerts:
Dance and clap at free family-friendly concerts on summer weekdays.
Tip: Arrive early for good seats and shade.
Food Truck Snacks:
Grab kid-friendly treats from rotating food trucks during events.
Tip: Keep small change handy and try mini hot dogs or ice-cream.
Family Scavenger Hunt:
Complete a photo-based quest in and around the Square with the Let’s Roam app.
Tip: Book tickets online in advance and pack a phone charger.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Centennial Square
- Use Parkade Parking: Park at the Centennial Square Parkade for C$2.50/hour and avoid street meter hunting.
- Pack Snacks: Bring water and small snacks to tide kids over between food truck visits.
- Arrive Early: Get to concerts or events at least 15 minutes early to claim shaded seating.
Reviews of Centennial Square
S A
Great view of Christmas lights! Creative , captivating and beautiful to see it at the evenings! On the regular days, this is a great place with good architecture and gives a vibe!
Chad Dickie
On a bright beautiful sunny Easter Sunday few people at #YYJ_Centennial Square: wafting of marijuana, competing loud bluetooth rap/70s rock... guy searching the ground for his hit, crack pipe-smoking ... Certainly not what it use to be. It would be nice to have diverse community-oriented events that are inclusive for the whole family. Alas, not anytime soon. Tourists and visitors: avoid this are...
Jacqueline Ross
The Centennial Square Christmas lights display in Victoria, BC, is a dazzling spectacle that adds a vibrant glow to the heart of the city during the holiday season 🎄 The square transforms into a festive wonderland with an array of brilliantly illuminated decorations, creating a festive ambiance for residents and visitors alike. The carefully arranged lights, from twinkling trees to captivating ...
土萠ほたる
In general, it has been a challenge to keep this area safe but the city is at least trying harder lately for certain outdoor events. If you're in the area during December evenings, the place is a marvel with wonderful light displays and music bringing the holiday cheer.
Gurv
Went by to see the lights that were put up for Christmas, and was somewhat underwhelmed. While there are some gorgeous displays, I think the display could have been choreographed much better. There was no flow to these decorations. Next year they should higher an artist to plan it for them.
When is the best time to visit Centennial Square (Victoria, Canada)?
In summer, enjoy free weekday concerts June–August; in winter, look for the seasonal ice rink and Ferris wheel – bring warm layers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking (Centennial Square Parkade, 2 hrs) | CAD 5 |
| Food truck snacks for family | CAD 20 |
| Scavenger hunt tickets (4 × CAD 12.99) | CAD 52 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 77 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Centennial Square
Address: 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1P5, Canada
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About Centennial Square
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+1 250-385-571110 BEST nearby Activities
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