<\/p>\n
FRIDAY – Day 1<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n7:30 a.m. \u2013 FRS Clipper Terminal<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nClimb aboard the high-speed Victoria Clipper fast ferry<\/a> for a relaxing 2-hour and 45-minute jaunt across the water from Seattle. It’s the perfect start to any family vacation.<\/p>\n![\"\"]()
Jen Dotson, from Thrifty NW Mom<\/a>, says \u201cYou might want to consider spending a little extra on an upgrade to Vista or Comfort Class<\/a> to be seated on the top floor. Kids will love the better views from\u00a0the\u00a0top deck and the Vista Class seating even has some tables so you can all sit together facing each other. (Insider tip: it\u2019s also perfect for playing card games.)\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nGaze out the window or wander out to the upper, outside deck to soak in the incredible scenery. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stunning shorelines, there\u2019s nothing more breathtaking. Kick back in your comfortable seats and enjoy some downtime with your family.<\/p>\n
![\"\"]()
Kim Tate of Stuffed Suitcase<\/a> suggests, \u201cA special new book or interactive craft toy is always a good idea, since the kids will be excited to play something new. You can also download audiobooks or get a coloring book that is about the ocean or Pacific Northwest.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\nBefore you know it, you\u2019ll be arriving in Victoria, through customs, and on the street in the heart of downtown ready to explore.<\/p>\n
10:30 a.m. \u2013 Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nMake the quick 10-minute walk along the waterfront to your home-base for the weekend, the recently renovated Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/a>. Little ones love ordering from the hotel\u2019s special kids\u2019 menu, as well as spotting exciting city sights outside, such as Victoria\u2019s famous horse-drawn carriages.<\/p>\n![\"Stay]()
Delight in spacious rooms and stunning vistas in your suite! Credit: Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPLUS the property has an indoor pool where they can splash and play while you kick back and relax in the Jacuzzi. You\u2019ll enjoy the extra space to spread out in their airy deluxe suites and walk-out balconies for outstanding views of the Olympic Mountains, Inner Harbour, and surrounding city. We think it’s one of the best options for overnights on a family vacation in Victoria.<\/p>\n![\"Beat]()
Beat the summer heat with a relaxing dip in the pool. Credit: Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWant a date night? Just ask your friendly concierge for babysitting referrals. Then pop up to the hotel\u2019s rooftop restaurant, Vista 18<\/a>, for West Coast fare, live music, and more next-level views. Or head down to Clive\u2019s Classic Lounge<\/a> to tantalize your taste buds with craft cocktails mixed from a selection of more than 300 rare and hard to find spirits. Book this hotel with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"Drink]()
Drink in fabulous views and pours at Vista 18.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n12:00 p.m. – Red Fish Blue Fish<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nFor finger-licking good eats, make your way to the cargo container-turned-eatery,\u00a0Red Fish Blue Fish<\/a>. An absolute must on any Victoria family vacation, tykes will gobble up crispy tempura-battered fish paired with their popular Kennebec chips. Fresh seafood with a view of the Inner Harbour? What\u2019s not to love?<\/p>\n![\"One]()
Nosh on delicious eats while enjoying harbor views at Red Fish Blue Fish. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n1:45 p.m. \u2013 AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nHave adventurous little ones? Catch a shuttle and journey northwest of downtown Victoria for a heart-thumping AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tour, a must for a family vacation. After arriving at the coastal town of Sooke, transfer to an all-terrain MOG truck and head up through the forest to the top of the zipline course.<\/p>\n![\"Explore]()
Explore Sooke’s rainforest on an array of ziplines and suspension bridges. Credit: AdrenaLINE Zipline Tours<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWhisk high above the trees and valleys of the region\u2019s temperate rainforest on the eight ziplines that crisscross park. Ranging from 150-1,000 feet long and up to 150 feet high, the ziplines will not only give you and the kids an adrenaline rush, but also provide a new perspective on Vancouver Island with a bird\u2019s-eye view of the forest canopy and surrounding mountains. Don\u2019t miss the park\u2019s two suspension bridges, which are perfect spots for a family photo op.\u00a0Book this tour with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n6:45 p.m.<\/em><\/strong> –<\/span> Big Wheel Burger<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nAfter working up an appetite outdoors, nothing is better than biting into a thick, juicy grass-fed beef hamburger at the bright\u00a0Big Wheel Burger<\/a>. With a menu boasting a \u201cLittle Wheel Meal Deal\u201d for kids of all ages, this local favorite is sure to please the entire family.\u00a0There are plenty of goodies for adults too!\u00a0 Slurp up a rich, creamy shake or nosh on a variety of gourmet fries. Ranging from garlic parm fries to Canada\u2019s unofficial national treat, poutine, they will make your mouth melt.<\/p>\n8:00 p.m. – Harbour Ferry Ride<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nVictoria\u2019s bright yellow water taxis<\/a> are one of the most fun ways to get around the city on your family vacation. Hop aboard one of the vibrant vessels and cruise from the waterfront.<\/p>\n![\"Hop]()
Hop on one of Victoria\u2019s cute Harbour Ferries and zip across the Inner Harbour. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWatch the comings and goings in the harbor and soak in excellent views of downtown sights such as the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress. (Inside Tip: Stop by every Sunday from May to September or all weekend in July and August, when the boats put on a display of beautifully choreographed sequences and movements).<\/em><\/p>\n8:30 p.m. \u2013 Marble Slab Creamery<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nGive in to your inner sweet tooth and cap the day by cooling down with a\u00a0frozen treat. Offering the best darn handmade ice cream on the island, Marble Slab Creamery<\/a> is worth the visit. Indulge in a classic banana split or get your chocolate filling with a fudge brownie delight. De-lici-ous<\/em>.<\/p>\nSATURDAY – Day 2<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n9:00 a.m. \u2013 Jam Caf\u00e9<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nA hip little spot, Jam Caf\u00e9<\/a> is a great way to start the second day of your family vacation. With bananas and Nutella sandwiched between brioche French toast, the Cracker Jack is a must-try. Or sample the delicious, kid-sized silver dollar pancakes off the kid\u2019s menu for a little slice of hotcake heaven.<\/p>\n![\"The]()
The cozy Jam Cafe features plenty of memorabilia from years past. Credit: Nick Bentley<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n![\"\"]()
D<\/strong><\/em>otson states, \u201cThe Cafe can have longer waits (go early), but the food is absolutely worth it, with large portions to keep everyone happy and stuffed! We loved all the different waffle variations with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. The milkshakes were huge and so tasty. It’s a vibrant restaurant with eclectic decor to enjoy while eating!\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n10:00 a.m. \u2013 Eagle Wing Whale Watching<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nIf your kiddos have a soft spot for the enchanting creatures of the sea, you\u2019ve come to the right place. Embark on a whale of an adventure with Eagle Wing Tours<\/a>\u00a0on an expedition catamaran.<\/p>\n![\"Spotting]()
Transient orcas swim in unison through the waters. Credit: Gary Sutton<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTake in awe-inspiring views as you cruise through the waters in search of the region\u2019s showstoppers: orcas, porpoises, sea lions, and even humpback whales! The best part? You\u2019ll also pick up fascinating facts about these magnificent animals from the talented naturalists onboard. Book this tour with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n2:00 p.m. \u2013 Flying<\/em><\/strong> Otter Grill<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nIf it\u2019s a one-of-a-kind dockside dining experience you\u2019re after, look no further than just down the harbor. Tate says, \u201cOne of my must-visit recommendations is the Flying Otter Grill<\/a>. It\u2019s located right on the harbor next to the dock for Harbor Air Seaplanes.\u201d<\/p>\nTucked away on a floating dock the edge of the harbor, the spot boasts phenomenal water vistas. It’s one of the city\u2019s best-kept secrets! Dig into the seafood paella while the kids nosh on melty grilled cheese sandwiches paired with fries. Just be sure to save room for the deep fried cheesecake tossed in cinnamon sugar!<\/p>\n
3:00 p.m. \u2013 Fisherman\u2019s Wharf<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nFor more seaside goodness, a short jaunt will bring you to Fisherman\u2019s Wharf<\/a>. \u00a0Wander the docks and check out the dozens of charming houseboats as they bob with the waves. Painted in all the colors of the rainbow, these charming homes offer another opportunity to snap an awe-inspiring shot.<\/p>\n![\"Wander]()
Wander through a colorful collection of floating houseboats along Fisherman\u2019s Wharf. Credit: Erik Lawrenz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n![\"\"]()
Dotson adds, \u201cWith a variety of restaurants with outdoor dining, the area is another favorite for kids and teens. We love to dine on fish and chips & look for the friendly seals who frequent the wharf area, keeping kids, young and old, entertained and laughing at their antics.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\nWhile you\u2019re there, don\u2019t miss Jackson\u2019s Ice Cream<\/a>. This seasonal venue opens every year in March, offering a lineup of 16 delicious flavors. Or, if you’re looking for an alternative, consider an old-fashioned float, swirly soft serve or creamy gelato. This is hands-down one of the best spots in the city for frozen treats. Yum!<\/p>\n3:50 p.m. \u2013 Parliament Buildings<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nIf anything epitomizes Victoria, it\u2019s the Parliament Buildings<\/a>. Stop by the iconic landmark and spend some time exploring the nearly block-long property. Uncover details in the intricate architecture that you would\u2019ve missed from the street.<\/p>\n![\"Check]()
Check out the impressive architecture on Victoria’s 19th Century Parliament Buildings. Credit: Destination BC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nDuck inside and take one of the guided tours. Available year-round, it’s one of the top free things to do in Victoria<\/a>. The expert staff will fill you in on BC\u2019s history, the legislative process and everything you want to know about this centuries-old building! Have antsy kiddos? The short express tours will allow you to check out the building in a mere 20 minutes. Or you can explore on your own by picking up a map for a self-guided tour.<\/p>\n5:00 p.m. \u2013 Miniature World<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nJust a few blocks from the pale blue domes of the Parliament Buildings, Miniature World<\/a> offers visitors of all ages a bite-sized glimpse of Victoria\u2019s past, present, and future. Experience the Great Canadian Railway, wander the Enchanted Valley of Castles, and pay a visit to Olde London Towne circa 1670. Fair warning, after you return from your family vacation, the kids might start begging to upgrade any dollhouses you might have at home.<\/p>\n![\"\"]()
Centuries of history get shrunk down to teeny tiny proportions at Victoria’s Miniature World. Credit: Flickr user Markni123<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n6:30 \u2013 Pagliacci’s<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nA hidden gem off Broad Street, Pagliacci\u2019s<\/a> is a Victoria institution, and for good reason. Every morsel of the restaurant\u2019s authentic Italian fare is made on the spot and the walls of the small, intimate space are plastered with photos and art from the early 1900s, transporting you back to another era. Everything on the menu is excellent, so your only challenge will be deciding between grilled steak, fresh caught fish or a massive bowl of pasta. You really can\u2019t go wrong!<\/p>\n![\"\"]()
Dotson mentions, \u201cIf your kids love Italian, Pagliacci’s is a\u00a0quaint, charming restaurant with\u00a0amazing food. Kids will love the warm, focaccia bread while you wait, and the portions are large and plentiful. It’s a lively and friendly restaurant, so a perfect place to bring the kids!\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
7:00 p.m. \u2013 Evening Illuminations and Fireworks at The Butchart Gardens<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nGet your flower fix with a painter\u2019s palette of colorful blooms by heading to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens<\/a> in the evening. In the summer, there will be thousands of plants bursting into bloom. You can even put your kids’ sleuthing skills to the test to make it more entertaining for the younger ones in the family. Ask them to see how many different plants (and animals) they can find scattered across the grounds.<\/p>\nThere are so many different blooms to discover, from fragrant roses to rare Tibetan blue poppies and vibrant lilies. Bonus points for stopping by the Rose Carousel (the only merry-go-round on the island). Pick your ride from one of the 30 hand-carved wooden animals and chariots and go for a whirl!<\/p>\n![\"A]()
A carousel filled with a menagerie of basswood animals was current owner, Robin-Lee Clarke\u2019s contribution to The Gardens. Credit: The Butchart Gardens<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nCome nightfall another side of Butchart emerges. There are 3,000 glittering lights that transform the sprawling grounds into an enchanting fairyland during The Gardens\u2019 Night Illumination<\/a> installation. The dramatic displays use light and shadow on plants and flowers, highlighting their beauty.<\/p>\nWant to give your family a real treat? Visit on a Saturday night in July or August to catch one of The Gardens\u2019 10 world-class fireworks shows<\/a>. With the pyrotechnic display choreographed to a musical score, it’s incredibly breathtaking.<\/p>\n![\"Vibrant]()
Vibrant fireworks displays soar high above The Gardens, lighting up the grounds. Credit: the Butchart Gardens<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nSUNDAY – Day 3<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n9:00 a.m. – The Ruby<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\nFollow the sweet smell of waffles and good old-fashioned soul food to The Ruby<\/a> on Johnson for the most important meal of the day, breakfast! Innovative home-style fare combined with plenty of crayons and paper to entertain your little Picassos or Monets is sure to earn the restaurant a slot in your brunch spot repertoire.<\/p>\n![\"Spice]()
Spice up your morning with breakfast tacos. Credit: Katie Boothman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n![\"\"]()
<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Dotson explains, \u201cComplete with quirky and fun art and decor, this upscale diner-style restaurant serves large portions and delicious brunch options sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/h3>\n10:00 a.m. \u2013 Running of the Goats & Beacon Hill Park<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nBurn off breakfast and stroll over to the 75-acre Beacon Hill Park<\/a>, just south of Victoria\u2019s core. Time your visit with the \u201cRunning of the Goats\u201d<\/a> at 10:10 a.m. (it also happens at 5:10 p.m. in case you miss it) at the Beacon Hill Children\u2019s Farm<\/a>. This favorite event is sure to light up your little tykes\u2019 faces with glee as the entire African Pygmy goat herd gallops past in a furry stampede on tiny hooves.<\/p>\n
Climb aboard the high-speed Victoria Clipper fast ferry<\/a> for a relaxing 2-hour and 45-minute jaunt across the water from Seattle. It’s the perfect start to any family vacation.<\/p>\n Gaze out the window or wander out to the upper, outside deck to soak in the incredible scenery. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stunning shorelines, there\u2019s nothing more breathtaking. Kick back in your comfortable seats and enjoy some downtime with your family.<\/p>\n Before you know it, you\u2019ll be arriving in Victoria, through customs, and on the street in the heart of downtown ready to explore.<\/p>\n Make the quick 10-minute walk along the waterfront to your home-base for the weekend, the recently renovated Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/a>. Little ones love ordering from the hotel\u2019s special kids\u2019 menu, as well as spotting exciting city sights outside, such as Victoria\u2019s famous horse-drawn carriages.<\/p>\n PLUS the property has an indoor pool where they can splash and play while you kick back and relax in the Jacuzzi. You\u2019ll enjoy the extra space to spread out in their airy deluxe suites and walk-out balconies for outstanding views of the Olympic Mountains, Inner Harbour, and surrounding city. We think it’s one of the best options for overnights on a family vacation in Victoria.<\/p>\n Want a date night? Just ask your friendly concierge for babysitting referrals. Then pop up to the hotel\u2019s rooftop restaurant, Vista 18<\/a>, for West Coast fare, live music, and more next-level views. Or head down to Clive\u2019s Classic Lounge<\/a> to tantalize your taste buds with craft cocktails mixed from a selection of more than 300 rare and hard to find spirits. Book this hotel with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n For finger-licking good eats, make your way to the cargo container-turned-eatery,\u00a0Red Fish Blue Fish<\/a>. An absolute must on any Victoria family vacation, tykes will gobble up crispy tempura-battered fish paired with their popular Kennebec chips. Fresh seafood with a view of the Inner Harbour? What\u2019s not to love?<\/p>\n Have adventurous little ones? Catch a shuttle and journey northwest of downtown Victoria for a heart-thumping AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tour, a must for a family vacation. After arriving at the coastal town of Sooke, transfer to an all-terrain MOG truck and head up through the forest to the top of the zipline course.<\/p>\n Whisk high above the trees and valleys of the region\u2019s temperate rainforest on the eight ziplines that crisscross park. Ranging from 150-1,000 feet long and up to 150 feet high, the ziplines will not only give you and the kids an adrenaline rush, but also provide a new perspective on Vancouver Island with a bird\u2019s-eye view of the forest canopy and surrounding mountains. Don\u2019t miss the park\u2019s two suspension bridges, which are perfect spots for a family photo op.\u00a0Book this tour with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n After working up an appetite outdoors, nothing is better than biting into a thick, juicy grass-fed beef hamburger at the bright\u00a0Big Wheel Burger<\/a>. With a menu boasting a \u201cLittle Wheel Meal Deal\u201d for kids of all ages, this local favorite is sure to please the entire family.\u00a0There are plenty of goodies for adults too!\u00a0 Slurp up a rich, creamy shake or nosh on a variety of gourmet fries. Ranging from garlic parm fries to Canada\u2019s unofficial national treat, poutine, they will make your mouth melt.<\/p>\n Victoria\u2019s bright yellow water taxis<\/a> are one of the most fun ways to get around the city on your family vacation. Hop aboard one of the vibrant vessels and cruise from the waterfront.<\/p>\n Watch the comings and goings in the harbor and soak in excellent views of downtown sights such as the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress. (Inside Tip: Stop by every Sunday from May to September or all weekend in July and August, when the boats put on a display of beautifully choreographed sequences and movements).<\/em><\/p>\n Give in to your inner sweet tooth and cap the day by cooling down with a\u00a0frozen treat. Offering the best darn handmade ice cream on the island, Marble Slab Creamery<\/a> is worth the visit. Indulge in a classic banana split or get your chocolate filling with a fudge brownie delight. De-lici-ous<\/em>.<\/p>\n A hip little spot, Jam Caf\u00e9<\/a> is a great way to start the second day of your family vacation. With bananas and Nutella sandwiched between brioche French toast, the Cracker Jack is a must-try. Or sample the delicious, kid-sized silver dollar pancakes off the kid\u2019s menu for a little slice of hotcake heaven.<\/p>\n If your kiddos have a soft spot for the enchanting creatures of the sea, you\u2019ve come to the right place. Embark on a whale of an adventure with Eagle Wing Tours<\/a>\u00a0on an expedition catamaran.<\/p>\n Take in awe-inspiring views as you cruise through the waters in search of the region\u2019s showstoppers: orcas, porpoises, sea lions, and even humpback whales! The best part? You\u2019ll also pick up fascinating facts about these magnificent animals from the talented naturalists onboard. Book this tour with FRS Clipper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n If it\u2019s a one-of-a-kind dockside dining experience you\u2019re after, look no further than just down the harbor. Tate says, \u201cOne of my must-visit recommendations is the Flying Otter Grill<\/a>. It\u2019s located right on the harbor next to the dock for Harbor Air Seaplanes.\u201d<\/p>\n Tucked away on a floating dock the edge of the harbor, the spot boasts phenomenal water vistas. It’s one of the city\u2019s best-kept secrets! Dig into the seafood paella while the kids nosh on melty grilled cheese sandwiches paired with fries. Just be sure to save room for the deep fried cheesecake tossed in cinnamon sugar!<\/p>\n For more seaside goodness, a short jaunt will bring you to Fisherman\u2019s Wharf<\/a>. \u00a0Wander the docks and check out the dozens of charming houseboats as they bob with the waves. Painted in all the colors of the rainbow, these charming homes offer another opportunity to snap an awe-inspiring shot.<\/p>\n While you\u2019re there, don\u2019t miss Jackson\u2019s Ice Cream<\/a>. This seasonal venue opens every year in March, offering a lineup of 16 delicious flavors. Or, if you’re looking for an alternative, consider an old-fashioned float, swirly soft serve or creamy gelato. This is hands-down one of the best spots in the city for frozen treats. Yum!<\/p>\n If anything epitomizes Victoria, it\u2019s the Parliament Buildings<\/a>. Stop by the iconic landmark and spend some time exploring the nearly block-long property. Uncover details in the intricate architecture that you would\u2019ve missed from the street.<\/p>\n Duck inside and take one of the guided tours. Available year-round, it’s one of the top free things to do in Victoria<\/a>. The expert staff will fill you in on BC\u2019s history, the legislative process and everything you want to know about this centuries-old building! Have antsy kiddos? The short express tours will allow you to check out the building in a mere 20 minutes. Or you can explore on your own by picking up a map for a self-guided tour.<\/p>\n Just a few blocks from the pale blue domes of the Parliament Buildings, Miniature World<\/a> offers visitors of all ages a bite-sized glimpse of Victoria\u2019s past, present, and future. Experience the Great Canadian Railway, wander the Enchanted Valley of Castles, and pay a visit to Olde London Towne circa 1670. Fair warning, after you return from your family vacation, the kids might start begging to upgrade any dollhouses you might have at home.<\/p>\n A hidden gem off Broad Street, Pagliacci\u2019s<\/a> is a Victoria institution, and for good reason. Every morsel of the restaurant\u2019s authentic Italian fare is made on the spot and the walls of the small, intimate space are plastered with photos and art from the early 1900s, transporting you back to another era. Everything on the menu is excellent, so your only challenge will be deciding between grilled steak, fresh caught fish or a massive bowl of pasta. You really can\u2019t go wrong!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Get your flower fix with a painter\u2019s palette of colorful blooms by heading to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens<\/a> in the evening. In the summer, there will be thousands of plants bursting into bloom. You can even put your kids’ sleuthing skills to the test to make it more entertaining for the younger ones in the family. Ask them to see how many different plants (and animals) they can find scattered across the grounds.<\/p>\n There are so many different blooms to discover, from fragrant roses to rare Tibetan blue poppies and vibrant lilies. Bonus points for stopping by the Rose Carousel (the only merry-go-round on the island). Pick your ride from one of the 30 hand-carved wooden animals and chariots and go for a whirl!<\/p>\n Come nightfall another side of Butchart emerges. There are 3,000 glittering lights that transform the sprawling grounds into an enchanting fairyland during The Gardens\u2019 Night Illumination<\/a> installation. The dramatic displays use light and shadow on plants and flowers, highlighting their beauty.<\/p>\n Want to give your family a real treat? Visit on a Saturday night in July or August to catch one of The Gardens\u2019 10 world-class fireworks shows<\/a>. With the pyrotechnic display choreographed to a musical score, it’s incredibly breathtaking.<\/p>\n Follow the sweet smell of waffles and good old-fashioned soul food to The Ruby<\/a> on Johnson for the most important meal of the day, breakfast! Innovative home-style fare combined with plenty of crayons and paper to entertain your little Picassos or Monets is sure to earn the restaurant a slot in your brunch spot repertoire.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dotson explains, \u201cComplete with quirky and fun art and decor, this upscale diner-style restaurant serves large portions and delicious brunch options sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n Burn off breakfast and stroll over to the 75-acre Beacon Hill Park<\/a>, just south of Victoria\u2019s core. Time your visit with the \u201cRunning of the Goats\u201d<\/a> at 10:10 a.m. (it also happens at 5:10 p.m. in case you miss it) at the Beacon Hill Children\u2019s Farm<\/a>. This favorite event is sure to light up your little tykes\u2019 faces with glee as the entire African Pygmy goat herd gallops past in a furry stampede on tiny hooves.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/Jen_crop.jpg\")
Jen Dotson, from Thrifty NW Mom<\/a>, says \u201cYou might want to consider spending a little extra on an upgrade to Vista or Comfort Class<\/a> to be seated on the top floor. Kids will love the better views from\u00a0the\u00a0top deck and the Vista Class seating even has some tables so you can all sit together facing each other. (Insider tip: it\u2019s also perfect for playing card games.)\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/kim_mag.jpg\")
Kim Tate of Stuffed Suitcase<\/a> suggests, \u201cA special new book or interactive craft toy is always a good idea, since the kids will be excited to play something new. You can also download audiobooks or get a coloring book that is about the ocean or Pacific Northwest.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n10:30 a.m. \u2013 Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Stay](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/EXPH8_mag1.jpg\")
![\"Beat](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/Renovated-Pool-Sized-for-Web-mag1.jpg\")
![\"Drink](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2017\/01\/vista-18-drinks-date-night-victoria-1024x1024.jpg\")
12:00 p.m. – Red Fish Blue Fish<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"One](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/Fish-and-Chips-and-Fish-Tacos_mag.jpg\")
1:45 p.m. \u2013 AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Explore](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/kid_bridge_mag1.jpg\")
6:45 p.m.<\/em><\/strong> –<\/span> Big Wheel Burger<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
8:00 p.m. – Harbour Ferry Ride<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Hop](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/harbour_ferry_mag1.jpg\")
8:30 p.m. \u2013 Marble Slab Creamery<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
SATURDAY – Day 2<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
9:00 a.m. \u2013 Jam Caf\u00e9<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/brunch1_mag.jpg\")
D<\/strong><\/em>otson states, \u201cThe Cafe can have longer waits (go early), but the food is absolutely worth it, with large portions to keep everyone happy and stuffed! We loved all the different waffle variations with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. The milkshakes were huge and so tasty. It’s a vibrant restaurant with eclectic decor to enjoy while eating!\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n10:00 a.m. \u2013 Eagle Wing Whale Watching<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Spotting](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/T65A2_T65A3_mag1.jpg\")
2:00 p.m. \u2013 Flying<\/em><\/strong> Otter Grill<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
3:00 p.m. \u2013 Fisherman\u2019s Wharf<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Wander](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/Erik_Lawrenz_16_mag.jpg\")
Dotson adds, \u201cWith a variety of restaurants with outdoor dining, the area is another favorite for kids and teens. We love to dine on fish and chips & look for the friendly seals who frequent the wharf area, keeping kids, young and old, entertained and laughing at their antics.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n3:50 p.m. \u2013 Parliament Buildings<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Check](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/Destination-BC_mag.jpg\")
5:00 p.m. \u2013 Miniature World<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/markni123_2-1024x682.jpg\")
6:30 \u2013 Pagliacci’s<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Dotson mentions, \u201cIf your kids love Italian, Pagliacci’s is a\u00a0quaint, charming restaurant with\u00a0amazing food. Kids will love the warm, focaccia bread while you wait, and the portions are large and plentiful. It’s a lively and friendly restaurant, so a perfect place to bring the kids!\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n7:00 p.m. \u2013 Evening Illuminations and Fireworks at The Butchart Gardens<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/05\/carousel_mag1.jpg\")
![\"Vibrant](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/fireworks_21.jpg\")
SUNDAY – Day 3<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
9:00 a.m. – The Ruby<\/span> <\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Spice](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/07\/The-Ruby_BreakfastTacos_mag1.jpg\")
<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/h3>\n
10:00 a.m. \u2013 Running of the Goats & Beacon Hill Park<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n