A football family itinerary for visiting Victoria, BC
While the excitement of football frenzy brings you to Vancouver or Seattle, make your family’s trip truly unforgettable with a four-day getaway to Victoria, BC. Swap the city hustle for hands-on encounters with bugs and dinosaurs, rainforest gardens, creative play, and harbourfront sunsets. Victoria’s charm is in its originality, offering unique parks, playful attractions, delicious eats, and moments of wonder you won’t find anywhere else. Lace up your shoes and bring the whole team, because Victoria is ready to turn your football journey into a family highlight you’ll cheer about long after the final whistle!
Hotel recommendations | Getting here | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
Hotel recommendations
Parkside Hotel & Spa
Step into comfort and adventure at the Parkside Hotel & Spa, the perfect home base for families looking to combine relaxation and play. Kids will love the bookable on-site theatre, perfect for movie nights or Switch gaming after a full day of adventure. Your rental includes a 2.5-hour private use of the theatre, two packages of Skippy’s KettleKorn, and four local soda pops. Don’t miss the rooftop, where evenings come alive with roasting s’mores under the open sky, sharing stories and “replays” from the day. With spacious suites, a sparkling pool, and a courtyard atrium, the Parkside is as much an experience as it is a stay, a real family score!
Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
Chateau Victoria puts your family right in the centre of the action, just steps from the Inner Harbour, museums, and Victoria’s most celebrated sights. Its unbeatable location means you’re always close to the next family “kickoff.” But the real hidden gem here? The detailed replica of the hotel constructed entirely from LEGO® in the lobby! Challenge your little ones to spot all the playful details, it's a fun, inspiring touch that makes checking in just the beginning of your adventure.
Getting here
From Vancouver: Harbour Air Seaplanes
Take to the skies on a thrilling seaplane journey that’s as scenic as a highlight-reel goal. Kids will be captivated as you swoop over sparkling water and islands, touchdown right in Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour, and start your family’s adventure before you even unpack your bags.
From Vancouver: BC Ferries
All aboard for a classic West Coast experience! BC Ferries departs from Tsawwassen, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, a kids’ play zone, and wildlife spotting along the way. Keep your eyes wide, whales, seals, and eagles might be part of your on-board entertainment. Treat the journey as halftime, snack up, stretch your legs, and get ready for the next half of fun!
From Seattle: FRS Clipper
Set sail on the speedy FRS Clipper catamaran and enjoy a relaxing cruise through Puget Sound. With reserved seating, friendly staff, and fun views, it’s a family-friendly way to move seamlessly from Seattle right to Victoria’s doorstep.
From Seattle: Kenmore Air
For a flight the whole family will remember, hop on a Kenmore Air seaplane. With departures from downtown Seattle, Tacoma, or Lake Union, you’ll fly over the Salish Sea, catching scenes of natural beauty from your window seat. Landing in Victoria’s Inner Harbour feels like a winning celebration, high fives all around for arriving in style.
Day 1: Welcome to the pitch
OEB Breakfast Co.
Start your day with a creative twist at OEB, where playful menu names and vibrant dishes get everyone excited for the morning. From fluffy French toast to egg-forward “breakfast poutines,” kids and parents can fuel up like champions in this bright, modern space. With fresh ingredients and plenty of options for every appetite, OEB turns breakfast into a team celebration.
Victoria Bug Zoo Inc.
Step into a world where “creepy crawly” becomes “totally cool” at the Victoria Bug Zoo! This interactive mini-zoo lets families get up close with fascinating insects and arachnids from around the world, kids can gently hold a giant stick bug or marvel at shimmering beetles. With lively guides ready to answer curious questions, the Bug Zoo is both educational and entertaining, making every visitor feel like a jungle explorer.
Explore Downtown
Downtown Victoria is teaming with must-see sites and hidden gems. From the BC Parliament Buildings overlooking the Inner Harbour, to Canada’s Narrowest Street (Fan Tan Alley) in Canada’s oldest Chinatown, vibrant public art (Can you find all 12 Hands of Time sculptures?), Canada’s largest independently owned bookstore, and much, much more, it’s easy to fill your day exploring Canada’s most walkable city.
Local tip: On a time crunch? Take human-powered guided tour of the city with Victoria Pedicab Co., who will show you the sites and dive into the city’s history.
Miniature World
Discover the magic of tiny worlds at Miniature World, home to one of the largest collections of dollhouses, model railways, and historic dioramas anywhere. Wander through intricately detailed displays that bring famous landscapes, fairy tales, and adventures to life on a pint-sized scale. Both kids and adults will be enchanted by this whimsical attraction, spotting hidden surprises at a delightful stop for explorers of all ages.
Victoria Harbour Ferry Company Ltd.
It wouldn’t be a visit to Vancouver Island without setting sail across our tranquil waters. Hop aboard a Victoria Harbour Ferry, locally known as “Pickle Boats” because of their unique shape, and explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour by sea. The friendly captains are your guides as you soak in the sights of one of Canada’s most iconic waterfronts. These quirky little boats are a distinctively Victoria way of getting from A to B, while enjoying the beauty of the harbour.
Red Fish Blue Fish
This iconic waterfront eatery serves up sustainable seafood right from a converted shipping container on the Inner Harbour. Picnic on the dock with legendary fish & chips or crispy Tacones as you watch ferries, seaplanes, and harbour seals in action. The casual, open-air setting invites kids to be themselves, and makes every meal feels like part of Victoria’s lively harbour show.
Local tip: Just steps from the Inner Harbour causeway, Red Fish Blue Fish is the perfect launchpad for a post-dinner sunset stroll.
Day 2: Fossils, forests, and feasts
Floyd’s Diner
Dig into retro fun and big flavours at Floyd’s Diner, where the playful atmosphere and hearty breakfasts earn rave reviews from families. Their massive portions, funky pink booths, and the chance to flip a coin for a free meal (if you’re brave enough to tackle “The Mahoney”) make every visit a memorable match. Kids can tuck into classic pancakes or signature hashes while soaking up the diner’s friendly, energetic vibe.
Malahat Sky Walk
Take adventure to new heights at the Malahat SkyWalk, just a short scenic drive from Victoria. Meander along an elevated boardwalk through lush coastal forest before spiraling up the iconic wooden tower to panoramic views that stretch from snow-capped mountains to sparkling ocean. The thrilling spiral slide back down adds a twist of excitement sure to leave kids and adults alike cheering for more.
Dino Lab Inc.
Take a trip back in time with a visit to Dino Lab Inc., a working fossil laboratory where real paleontologists prepare dinosaur bones right before your eyes. Get hands-on with ancient creatures, and let kids marvel at massive skeletons and touch genuine fossils millions of years old. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that combines the thrill of discovery with the wonder of history, making every visitor feel like a time-traveller.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
A fun, whimsical Italian eatery full of curiosities, twinkling lights, and cozy nooks. Hearty pastas, warm breads, and their famous ice cream make this spot a family favourite, especially after a big day of exploring. With its playful décor and welcoming team, dinner here wraps everyone in nostalgia and cheer.
Day 3: Critters and creativity
CORA Breakfast and Lunch
Cora’s is a vibrant, cheerful spot known for its artistic use of fruit and whimsical pancake stacks that are sure to delight young football stars. The colourful décor and extensive children’s menu make it a favourite for families who like to start their day with a smile, and maybe a raspberry or two. It’s the perfect spot to map out your day over fresh juice and a hearty, healthy breakfast.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Step inside a lush tropical paradise where hundreds of free-flying butterflies swirl overhead in a world of exotic plants, waterfalls, and tropical birds. The Victoria Butterfly Gardens invite all ages to slow down and marvel at nature’s most colourful “wings in play”. Spot rare species, learn about rainforest creatures, and see if a butterfly will land gently on your shoulder for a lucky match-winning moment.
Monkey C’s Artcade
Dive into Victoria’s most creative play zone at Monkey C’s Artcade, where art and imagination team up for the win! Kids can get hands-on with interactive exhibits and digital art experiences, all under one colourful, welcoming roof. It’s a space designed for artistic exploration and joyful self-expression
BeaverTails
Score a sweet victory with a stop at Beavertails, where Canada’s iconic pastry is served hot, crispy, and loaded with fun toppings. Kids and parents alike will delight in this playful, mouth-watering, hand-stretched treat. Choose from classic cinnamon sugar, decadent chocolate hazelnut, or go wild with a championship-worthy creation. Enjoy your Beavertail while exploring the Inner Harbour, turning every bite into a celebration of Canadian flavour and family fun.
Local tip: If you’re looking for a taste of Canada, make sure you try the mEhple BeaverTail, topped with real maple butter, maple sugar crunch, and a smooth chocolate drizzle.
Milestones Restaurant
Located right on the Inner Harbour, Milestones offers contemporary dining paired with scenic views just steps from all the downtown action. Their diverse menu has something for everyone, from classic burgers and pastas to fresh West Coast seafood, making it easy for families to celebrate a day of adventure together. Enjoy sunset over the water and watch the harbour life unfold as you share stories from the day and plan tomorrow’s victories.
Day 4: Parks, puzzles, and playtime
Belleville’s
Located right on the Inner Harbour, Belleville’s welcomes families with classic breakfast favourites, waterfront views, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to watch the city wake up, and cheer on the harbour ferries and seaplanes as they start their day. With a menu packed with local ingredients and friendly staff ready to fuel your family for a full morning of play, Belleville’s is always a winning kickoff.
WildPlay Elements Park
Let your children channel their inner monkeys at WildPlay Elements Park, where they can take to the treetops jumping, scrambling, swinging, their way through the Island’s rainforests. This aerial adventure park features obstacles, zip lines, and suspended games that weave from six feet to 60 feet high (don’t worry mom, they’ll be wearing a harness). As they explore the canopy, you’ll wiggle their way over wobbly bridges, traverse hanging nets like a spider, and swing through the trees like Tarzan. WilPlay is a heart-pounding way to connect with our distinctive west coast ecosystem that blends excitement and awe along the way.
Cherry Bomb Toys
Step into a world of wonder at Cherry Bomb Toys, an independent shop that’s as much a trip down memory lane for parents as it is a treasure hunt for kids. Shelves packed with classic action figures, games, plush toys, and unique collectibles ensure there’s something to spark joy for every age. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect souvenir or simply looking to cap off a great day with a fun discovery, Cherry Bomb Toys promises smiles, and maybe a new plush travel buddy for all your adventures!
Beacon Hill Park & Beacon Hill Children’s Farm
Victoria’s beloved Beacon Hill Park is a sprawling green playground filled with winding paths, vibrant gardens, and hidden playgrounds where little ones can freely run and play. Don’t miss the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm located within the park, where you can meet and pet friendly goats, tiny pigs, and fluffy chickens, showing that sometimes, the “G.O.A.T.s” of the day aren’t just on the footie pitch! Peacocks strutting through the gardens and spectacular views of the Salish Sea at Mile Zero round out this perfect outdoor family adventure.
Bin 4 Burger Lounge
A local favourite where gourmet burgers steal the show, Bin 4 offers creative toppings and house-made sauces sure to please young and seasoned palates alike. The casual setting makes it easy for families to unwind, and the kids’ menu delivers crowd-pleasing classics with a twist. Treat the crew to sweet potato fries and a glass of house made iced tea, everything tastes best when shared after a day of play!
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