"Canada Day Fireworks Every year on Canada Day the Victoria Harbour turns into a all-night party complete with fireworks and a beautiful ocean view. By Lori-Lee Emshey"

"Bizarrely Compelling Tiny Dioramas Yes, my five-year-old was probably the target demographic for this place, but there were plenty of people without kids here, too. Because where else are you going to see an entire working sawmill built in miniature? Where else are you going to find a dollhouse version of the Tara mansion from Gone With the Wind with toilets that actually flush? The Canadian history might be a bit romanticized, but they don't shy away from the realities of history—not really what I was expecting. For the kids, the best part is all the buttons you can push to make the trains go, to lift the car hoods, even to turn on the tv in a dollhouse. A satisfying hour or so that will leave you wondering, who the did all this stuff? And why? And why did I have so much fun?"

"Nearly a century ago, Jennie Butchart, wife of cement manufacturer Robert Butchart, transformed a depleted limestone quarry into these stunning, world-renowned show gardens. Allow ample time to enjoy the 22 hectares (55 acres) of floral displays, a sunken garden, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an Italian garden, the Show Greenhouse and Star Pond. The gardens are a designated National Historic Site of Canada and attract over a million visitors a year. (There are also restaurants, shops and services on-site.) By Arnette RTW"

"An Enlightening Lighthouse For great views of boats and seaplanes and water and mountains this is the spot. The kids will like the chance to pilot a virtual boat, and the grownups can check out the vintage lighthouse-keeper supplies: French toothpaste and pickup sticks. When we visited, some folks were re-enacting 13th-century England in the surrounding park. When it started to drizzle they scrambled under their tent to keep their armor from rusting."

"Unstuffy High Tea At The Fairmont Empress Every book will tell you to have high tea at the Empress in Victoria, and you should. They welcomed our three-generation group, including 2 kids under 6, and had hot chocolate for those who didn't want tea. They also had a full gluten-free option, which was a very welcome surprise. I recommend the Empress blend tea with milk and sugar, and the peppermint also got the stamp of approval from our group. The tri-level tray of treats is the fun part: chicken curry finger sandwiches and cake wrapped in marzipan were the faves. It's actually fun and not stuffy at all, which was my fear."

"The Freshest French Meal in Victoria For the freshest farm-to-table and boat-to-bistro dining experience, come to Cafe Brio. Specializing in French cuisine created from regional Canadian ingredients, their simple sauces and delicate preparation let the natural flavors come through in all their dishes. Owners Silvia Marcolini and Greg Hays have created a unique place with friendly charm and often greet you themselves. With the mountains and ocean so close to Victoria, they don't have to go far for the best locally farmed produce or freshly caught fish. For a memorable French dinner in Victoria, this rustic restaurant is the place!"

"Books Books Books Like the rest of Victoria, Munro's is one of a kind. Founded by Jim and Alice Munro (the famous author), it is one of the few independent bookstores left in the city. Relocated to the neo-classical Royal Bank of Canada building, the generous staff of 30 can help you find whatever you're looking for under the store's 24-foot coffered ceiling. By Lori-Lee Emshey"

"Victoria's Oldest Gastro Pub Spinnakers has been quenching thirst since 1984 with their unique beverages. While they brew the expected craft beers on site, they also make their own sodas, ciders, and other creations. In addition the food and setting are worth sticking around for."

"Perfect for a Drink on a Sunny Afternoon The Local Kitchen sits at the foot of a pedestrian-only street, right along the main drag by the harbor in Victoria. Our seat on the patio put us in the front row for a busking band. We ate a delicious meal while watching the activity of the harbor and people pass by. I enjoyed the edamame and the poutine. The sangria looked better than it tasted so next time I'll get one of the local beers they had on tap."

"An afternoon meandering through the narrow stores of Chinatown feels like a trip back in time. This is the oldest Chinese district in Canada and it's full of historic nooks and crannies to explore. Formerly a derelict gambling district, it has undergone a transformation and is now filled with lovely shops, cafes, and art galleries. By Lori-Lee Emshey"