Victoria’s Inner Harbour (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Victoria’s Inner Harbour?
What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Kids can ride tiny ferries, tour hands-on Royal BC Museum and feed seals, yet parents must closely supervise near unfenced docks and busy floatplane traffic.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Wide, level promenades link the Empress to Fisherman’s Wharf with benches along the way.
- Frequent Photo Moments: Floatplanes, historic buildings, and street performers create fun spots for family photos.
Challenges:
- Crowded Docks: Fisherman’s Wharf can get busy, making stroller navigation and seal-feeding spots tight.
- Weather Variability: Harbour ferry schedules and street performances may change in rain or strong winds.
What is Victoria’s Inner Harbour?
- A natural, sheltered inlet forming the central waterfront of Victoria, British Columbia
- A waterfront district anchored by Edwardian landmarks such as the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel
- A functional seaport accommodating commercial ferry docks, a seaplane terminal and government wharves
What is so special about Victoria’s Inner Harbour for with kids?
- Ferry rides around the Inner Harbour engage kids with water views.
- Miniature World dioramas spark imagination for ages 3–12.
- Interactive exhibits at the Royal BC Museum teach BC history hands-on.
- Street performers in Bastion Square add free family entertainment.
- Seal-feeding at Fisherman’s Wharf lets kids feed wildlife safely.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5-3 hours
Why 1.5-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a ferry ride, Miniature World, and street performances without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Miniature World:
Explore over 80 detailed dioramas of castles, trains, and fairy tales inside the Empress Hotel.
Tip: Visit when it opens to beat the midday crowd and let kids use the activity sheet at the entrance.
Harbour Ferry “Harbour Tour”:
Ride small electric ferries around the Inner Harbour.
Tip: Buy round-trip tickets at the dock kiosk to save time and choose a seat on the upper deck for best views.
Royal BC Museum:
Hands-on galleries on First Peoples and coastal wildlife next to the Empress.
Tip: Enter early to catch the living-history demos and use the family-friendly stalls on each floor.
Bastion Square Public Market:
Watch musicians and magicians perform on summer weekends.
Tip: Arrive before noon to find seating near the performers and grab snacks from nearby stalls.
Fisherman’s Wharf Seal-Feeding:
Feed harbour seals at the floating village.
Tip: Buy a small bucket of fish from vendor stalls and stand at the end of the dock for best seal views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Victoria’s Inner Harbour
- Online Ferry Booking: Reserve ferry tickets on the official Victoria Harbour Ferry site to skip lines at the dock.
- Early Arrival: Start at Miniature World when it opens, then work your way around the harbour before lunch.
- Refillable Water Bottles: Bring a refillable bottle to fill at public fountains and avoid extra snack stops.
Reviews of Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Colin Jones
Took a water taxi across to Fishermans Wharf. Lovely are for great food and drinks.
When is the best time to visit Victoria’s Inner Harbour (Victoria, Canada)?
Summer weekends feature extra street performers in Bastion Square. Fall brings crisp air and fewer crowds on the promenade. Winter evenings light up the Empress Hotel façade for festive photos.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Miniature World admission | CAD 47 |
| Harbour Tour ferry tickets | CAD 120 |
| Royal BC Museum admission | CAD 59.95 |
| Ice cream or snack | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 246.95 |
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 Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Address: Victoria, BC V8W 2Y9, Canada
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