Many Seattleites consider themselves veritable connoisseurs of the PNW beer world. But this title cannot be truly claimed if you haven’t sipped your way across Victoria. Victoria’s breweries have made the BC capital a Canadian craft brew hub. There’s a whole lot of brew IQ packed into a walkable stretch of the downtown core. You’ll find even more just a short stroll away. That also removes the chore of drawing straws to appoint a designated driver!
It’s easy to map out your sampling session with Victoria’s breweries just a hop, skip, and jump from the Inner Harbour. And, with Clipper Vacation’s special packages that include the scenic ferry ride to Victoria and more, you can save while enjoying the experience!
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1. Spinnakers
Hop on a cheerful yellow Harbour Taxi and cruise over to Spinnakers. The unique perspective of the waterfront makes it all part of the fun! Once there, you can sip while unwinding on the patio overlooking the Inner Harbor. Or, head indoors, the beautifully appointed space includes a pool table. That means this local haunt a worthy destination, rain or shine.
Sip on a crisp Blue Bridge Double Pale Ale, (Inside tip: watch for the ale’s namesake bridge during your cruise over), or try out their clean, fresh Departure Pilsner, a perfect summer sipper. To round out your visit, check out the extensive, locally-sourced menu. It features many beer-infused items like the Beer & Cheese Pot or Halibut & Chips with wild Pacific halibut, Nut Brown Al, and a sparkling mineral water batter.
2. Swans Brewery, Pub & Hotel
Centrally located right downtown on the corner of Wharf St. and Pandora Ave., Swans has been a beloved local watering hole for over two decades. With its high ceilings, patio seating and old-school pub atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this brewery has survived the test of time. And let’s not forget about the beer! You’ll find a diverse tap list, including unique Pitch Black Chamomile Pilsner. It’s a surprisingly light, refreshing brew, despite the dark chocolate-y color.
3. CRAFT Beer Market
Just a couple blocks to the north lies a newfound favorite with a little something for everyone. 110 taps, a private surf lounge, covered patio, outdoor fireplaces, games, and incredible views of the Harbour? You’ll definitely want to add this one to your list of favorites. Soak up a warm spring afternoon at the recently opened CRAFT Beer Market. You can sip on a crisp Kolsch while picking the perfect appetizer to pair. There’s an extensive food menu with fresh and local ingredients to complement the impressive tap list. Kickback, relax and stay a while as you toast to good vibes and great company.
4. Phillips Brewing and Malting Co.
Head north toward Discovery Street to pay a visit to the Phillips Brewing and Malting Co. tasting room. As the only craft brewer to malt their own barley in-house, the folks at Phillips take their dedication to producing phenomenal brews to the next level. Sip on playfully-named beers like their Electric Unicorn White IPA or the Blue Buck Ale. Can’t pick a favorite? Grab one of their variety packs as a souvenir!
5. Vancouver Island Brewing
Pop down the street to Vancouver Island Brewing, which boasts a freshly remodeled tasting room and Canada’s only Gruber growler filler. Your souvenir beer will stay much fresher fmuch longer! Take a tour of their eco-friendly brewing facility or simply enjoy a frosty pint of the Victoria Lager.
6. Whistle Buoy Brewing Co
Whistle Buoy is a small craft brewery and taproom right in the heart of downtown. Nestled in Market Square, it’s just off Lower Johnson Street (LoJo), the popular local shopping street. It’s not only one of the most convenient of Victoria’s Breweries to visit, it offers a wide range of rotating brews, all made with high-quality ingredients. Most come from local producers and farmers. Sipping here is also a great way to get to know the city and its residents better. The brewery is very community oriented, hosting frequent events featuring local artists and collaborations with other small, local businesses.
7. Driftwood Brewing Company
About a 15-minute walk from the harbor is the tucked away tasting room at Driftwood Brewing. If you’ve read a taproom or restaurant draft beer menu in Victoria, chances are you’ve heard of Driftwood’s Fat Tug IPA. That makes it well worth the few extra steps! This hop-heavy local favorite is just one of Driftwood’s seven-year-round brews, which is supplemented with limited releases that focus on seasonality.
8. Hoyne Brewing Co.
Head to Bridge Street and you can pay a visit to Hoyne Brewing Co. You can help but miss it with the sign at the entrance marked “Fresh Beer Here.” It offers a diverse range of year-round brews, from the crisp Golden Lager to a rich Espresso Stout. There are rotating seasonal offerings too, such as the Summer Haze Honey Hefe. With so many great options, you’re bound to find a beer to please your palate. Swing by their cozy tasting room for a flight of tasters, then load up on bottles to go once you’ve narrowed down your favorites.
Whether you are visiting for the day, or taking an extended trip, one thing’s for sure, a getawy that includes Victoria’s breweries mean you certainly won’t leave thirsty. Cheers!
Featured photo: Matthew Henry