But don’t just give them a glance! You’d be missing half the grandeur of this pair of buildings without venturing inside. The best part? Admission is free! These 10 things to do at Victoria, BC\u2019s Parliament Buildings take you beyond admiring the magnificent architecture.<\/p>\n
1. Observe Debates from the Public Galleries <\/strong><\/h2>\nWant a peek at the day-to-day activities that take place in the Parliament Buildings? Check the calendar to find out when the Legislative Assembly is sitting<\/a>. You’ll be able to tuck behind the ornate ropes of the public galleries. This is a unique opportunity to witness all the action<\/a> that occurs. You’ll see the Lieutenant Governor and 85 elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) debate the pros and cons of each bill before deciding to support or reject the measure.<\/p>\nOr swing by during the \u201cQuestion Period. This is an intense, 30-minute rapid-fire question-and-answer session. However, with opposition members questioning the Premier and cabinet ministers about government plans, be aware that this is one of the most popular proceedings to watch. Be sure to arrive early to snag a seat to catch it in real time!<\/p>\n![\"Visiting](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/Scazon_mag1.jpg\")
The Legislative Chamber and its grand marble columns is one of the impressive sights in Victoria B.C.’s parliament buildings, photo credit: Scazon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n2. Soak in Stunning Stained Glass Windows<\/strong><\/h2>\nDecked out in an array of sparkling colors, more than 100 stained and leaded glass windows<\/a> can be found on the building’ interior walls. Highlights include the Diamond Jubilee Window in the Reception Hall. One of the largest and msot dazzling displays, it was created to celebrate\u00a0the 60th<\/sup> year of Queen Victoria\u2019s reign. Additionally, it features the province’s first coat of arms and flowers representing each country in the United Kingdom.<\/p>\nUp for an educational round of I-spy? Stop by the building\u2019s new addition, the Golden Jubilee Window. Created in honor of the 50th<\/sup> year of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II\u2019s reign, look for provincial symbols in the design. A Steller\u2019s jay, Western red cedar, Pacific salmon, and pieces of jade are all included.<\/p>\nNext, check out the staircases. You’ll see a collection of glass inscribed with quotes from famous writers and early philosophers like Aristotle and Plato.<\/p>\n![\"Queen](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/QV-Diamond-Jubilee-compressed_12.jpg\")
Discover the intricate design work used in the creation of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee window. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n3. Gaze Up at the Memorial Rotunda<\/strong><\/h2>\nOne step into the grand structure and it\u2019s hard to miss the lofty showstopper among Victoria, B.C.’s parliament buildings: the exquisite Memorial Rotunda<\/a>. With a soaring 100-foot ceiling, the octagonal renaissance-style dome distinguishes the structures from the many circular neoclassical domes used on American state and federal capital buildings.<\/p>\nAn open circle is adorned with marble, gilded walls and four paintings. They represent British Columbia\u2019s first industries (farming, fishing, mining and forestry) for an idyllic blend of historic dignity and Old-World glamour.<\/p>\n
(Insider tip: Don\u2019t miss <\/em>the two-meter tall statue of Captain George Vancouver. The explorer who is credited with first circumnavigating Vancouver Island is perched outside on the top of the dome. Made of beaten copper and plated with 14-carat gold, it’s stunning in the afternoon sunlight).<\/em><\/p>\n![\"Uniquely](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/Marion-Kenny-2_mag1.jpg\")
The four images painted on the ceiling of the rotunda by George Southwell in the 1940s to celebrate the four primary industries of the province at the time. Credit: Marion Kenny<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n4. Check Out the <\/strong>Shxwtitostel<\/strong><\/h2>\nPop down to the Lower Rotunda to admire the hand-crafted \u201cShxwtitostel.” This traditional inland river canoe was carved by The Honourable Steven Point, 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and Chief Tony Hunt, Hereditary Chief of the KwaGulth and master carver. Point was inspired after discovering the pre-carved red cedar log on Ross Bay Beach in Victoria. Furthermore, he crafted it to represent a bridge between the First Nation peoples and those whose ancestors arrived in Victoria later.<\/p>\n
Want to see the building\u2019s signature dome from a different perspective? Parliamentary Education Officer, David S. Nicholls, explains, \u201cKids always enjoy coming into the Lower Rotunda and looking up to the top of the 100-foot ceiling of the main dome of the Parliament Buildings.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"Shxwtitostel](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/LG-Canoe_VWP1577_mag1.jpg\")
In Halq\u2019em\u00e9ylem, this stunning canoe’s name, Shxwtitostel means, \u201ca safe place to cross the river.\u201d Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n5. Curl up with a Book in the Legislative Library <\/strong><\/h2>\nAre you a burgeoning bibliophile? Or maybe a history buff? Duck into the Legislative Library.<\/a> Getting lost in the stacks of historical books and best-selling novels that span the seven-floor library is sure to be an unforgettable experience. A reader’s paradise with an eye-catching domed entrance crafted out of white marble and framed by stately pillars and balconies, it’s worth visiting for the aesthetics alone. Plus, you can look for the mythical grotesques\u00a0 that peer down from the ring of the dome.<\/p>\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/Bills-and-Legislation-Library-4_mag1.jpg\")
Brush up on your BC history and legislature inside the Parliamentary Library. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n6. Let the Kiddos Meet Up with Notable Figures from BC\u2019s Past<\/strong><\/h2>\nTime your visit right, between Victoria Day in May to Labor Day in early September, and you can catch a Parliamentary Play.<\/a> Some of the province\u2019s famous citizens are brought back to life via period costumes and lively monologues for fun and educational entertainment. You might be greeted by Her Majesty Queen Victoria along the driveway, or enjoy the opportunity to chat with the buildin’gs famed architect, Francis Rattenbury. Don\u2019t be surprised if you also stumble upon BC’s first female MLA, Mary Ellen Smith, or a renowned BC gold miner like Nellie Cashman. You never know who you\u2019ll encounter!<\/p>\nLooking for kid-friendly fun? Equally important for all families, Nicholls says, \u201cKids can ask at the Tour Desk for a copy of our I-Spy activity sheet, which gives them certain items to look for as they explore the building.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/DSC_2357_mag1.jpg\")
Snap a selfie with a few of Victoria, BC’s historical figures. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n7. Count the Lights on the Parliament Buildings <\/strong><\/h2>\nThe Parliament Buildings are absolutely majestic during the day. But come nightfall, they take on a whole new look. More than 3,600 lightbulbs on their exterior illuminate the structure with a dramatic glow. It’s a tradition dating back to 1897, when 350 lights were placed on the building to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Originally only used for special occasions, they’ve been switched on nightly since 1965.<\/p>\n
(Psst \u2013 Swing by at Christmas time when red and green bulbs get added to the mix. Plus, the province\u2019s official Christmas tree – the giant, more than 100-foot-tall Sequoia on the front lawn – gets dressed with its own set of thousands of energy-efficient bulbs.)<\/em><\/p>\n![\"Victoria](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/ParlimentNight1_mag1.jpg\")
Thousands of lights illuminate the outside of the Parliament Buildings every evening. Credit: Nick Bentley<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n8. Explore the Back of the Property <\/strong><\/h2>\nIf you came for the grand scale and proportion of Victoria B.C.’s majestic Parliament Buildings, be sure to stay for the often over-looked treasures at the backside of the property<\/a>. In contrast, it’s a tranquil oasis with the bubbling sounds of the Centennial Fountain. Rimmed with a bronze gull, sea otter, eagle, raven, bear and wolf, the creatures are geographically symbolic of the colonies and territories that joined to form British Columbia.<\/p>\nStroll along the walls of the Legislative Library to discover the 14 tall statues guarding the exterior. Ranging from the founder of Fort Victoria, Sir James Douglas, to the first Chief Justice of British Columbia, Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie, each one is uniquely connected to BC\u2019s early history.<\/p>\n![\"Discover](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/back-fountain-dusk-stock-photo_mag1.jpg\")
Wander behind the Parliament Buildings to catch sight of the Centennial Fountain. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n9. Grab Breakfast or Lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room <\/strong><\/h2>\nWhen hunger pangs hit, head down to the Parliamentary Dining Room<\/a>. It offers tasty breakfasts and lunches prepared by an award-winning chef using fresh, local ingredients. Whether you nosh on weekly specials like the Schnitzel burger or an egg-centric breakfast concoction such as the Mexican breakfast bowl, you can\u2019t go wrong. Combined with friendly staff and the chatter of regulars, it makes for a relaxing dining experience.<\/p>\n![\"Enjoy](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/DR-front-entrance-right_mag.jpg\")
The Parliamentary Dining Room is a calm oasis for casual dining. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n10. Hop on a Guided Tour <\/strong><\/h2>\nWant to see every nook and cranny of the Parliament Buildings? Join one of the free, guided tours<\/a>. Expert staff will fill you in on everything from the ins and outs of British Columbia\u2019s parliamentary process to its history. If it\u2019s full-on immersion you\u2019re after, treat yourself to the popular Tea and Tour<\/a>. You’ll enjoy a white-cloth breakfast in the Parliamentary Dining Room before following a member of the Parliamentary Players Program for a guided tour.<\/p>\n![\"Have](\"http:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2019\/11\/TeaAndTour1_mag1.jpg\")
Cozy up for a steaming cuppa with some of VIctoria’s notable citizens from the past. Credit: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIf anything embodies Victoria, it is the historic Parliament Buildings. Drop in to watch a debate, wander through the Premier\u2019s sweetly-scented rose garden or\u00a0 explore the grounds on your own<\/a>. No matter how you visit, you\u2019ll leave feeling like a real Parliamentarian.<\/p>\n
Or swing by during the \u201cQuestion Period. This is an intense, 30-minute rapid-fire question-and-answer session. However, with opposition members questioning the Premier and cabinet ministers about government plans, be aware that this is one of the most popular proceedings to watch. Be sure to arrive early to snag a seat to catch it in real time!<\/p>\n Decked out in an array of sparkling colors, more than 100 stained and leaded glass windows<\/a> can be found on the building’ interior walls. Highlights include the Diamond Jubilee Window in the Reception Hall. One of the largest and msot dazzling displays, it was created to celebrate\u00a0the 60th<\/sup> year of Queen Victoria\u2019s reign. Additionally, it features the province’s first coat of arms and flowers representing each country in the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n Up for an educational round of I-spy? Stop by the building\u2019s new addition, the Golden Jubilee Window. Created in honor of the 50th<\/sup> year of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II\u2019s reign, look for provincial symbols in the design. A Steller\u2019s jay, Western red cedar, Pacific salmon, and pieces of jade are all included.<\/p>\n Next, check out the staircases. You’ll see a collection of glass inscribed with quotes from famous writers and early philosophers like Aristotle and Plato.<\/p>\n One step into the grand structure and it\u2019s hard to miss the lofty showstopper among Victoria, B.C.’s parliament buildings: the exquisite Memorial Rotunda<\/a>. With a soaring 100-foot ceiling, the octagonal renaissance-style dome distinguishes the structures from the many circular neoclassical domes used on American state and federal capital buildings.<\/p>\n An open circle is adorned with marble, gilded walls and four paintings. They represent British Columbia\u2019s first industries (farming, fishing, mining and forestry) for an idyllic blend of historic dignity and Old-World glamour.<\/p>\n (Insider tip: Don\u2019t miss <\/em>the two-meter tall statue of Captain George Vancouver. The explorer who is credited with first circumnavigating Vancouver Island is perched outside on the top of the dome. Made of beaten copper and plated with 14-carat gold, it’s stunning in the afternoon sunlight).<\/em><\/p>\n Pop down to the Lower Rotunda to admire the hand-crafted \u201cShxwtitostel.” This traditional inland river canoe was carved by The Honourable Steven Point, 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and Chief Tony Hunt, Hereditary Chief of the KwaGulth and master carver. Point was inspired after discovering the pre-carved red cedar log on Ross Bay Beach in Victoria. Furthermore, he crafted it to represent a bridge between the First Nation peoples and those whose ancestors arrived in Victoria later.<\/p>\n Want to see the building\u2019s signature dome from a different perspective? Parliamentary Education Officer, David S. Nicholls, explains, \u201cKids always enjoy coming into the Lower Rotunda and looking up to the top of the 100-foot ceiling of the main dome of the Parliament Buildings.\u201d<\/p>\n Are you a burgeoning bibliophile? Or maybe a history buff? Duck into the Legislative Library.<\/a> Getting lost in the stacks of historical books and best-selling novels that span the seven-floor library is sure to be an unforgettable experience. A reader’s paradise with an eye-catching domed entrance crafted out of white marble and framed by stately pillars and balconies, it’s worth visiting for the aesthetics alone. Plus, you can look for the mythical grotesques\u00a0 that peer down from the ring of the dome.<\/p>\n Time your visit right, between Victoria Day in May to Labor Day in early September, and you can catch a Parliamentary Play.<\/a> Some of the province\u2019s famous citizens are brought back to life via period costumes and lively monologues for fun and educational entertainment. You might be greeted by Her Majesty Queen Victoria along the driveway, or enjoy the opportunity to chat with the buildin’gs famed architect, Francis Rattenbury. Don\u2019t be surprised if you also stumble upon BC’s first female MLA, Mary Ellen Smith, or a renowned BC gold miner like Nellie Cashman. You never know who you\u2019ll encounter!<\/p>\n Looking for kid-friendly fun? Equally important for all families, Nicholls says, \u201cKids can ask at the Tour Desk for a copy of our I-Spy activity sheet, which gives them certain items to look for as they explore the building.\u201d<\/p>\n The Parliament Buildings are absolutely majestic during the day. But come nightfall, they take on a whole new look. More than 3,600 lightbulbs on their exterior illuminate the structure with a dramatic glow. It’s a tradition dating back to 1897, when 350 lights were placed on the building to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Originally only used for special occasions, they’ve been switched on nightly since 1965.<\/p>\n (Psst \u2013 Swing by at Christmas time when red and green bulbs get added to the mix. Plus, the province\u2019s official Christmas tree – the giant, more than 100-foot-tall Sequoia on the front lawn – gets dressed with its own set of thousands of energy-efficient bulbs.)<\/em><\/p>\n If you came for the grand scale and proportion of Victoria B.C.’s majestic Parliament Buildings, be sure to stay for the often over-looked treasures at the backside of the property<\/a>. In contrast, it’s a tranquil oasis with the bubbling sounds of the Centennial Fountain. Rimmed with a bronze gull, sea otter, eagle, raven, bear and wolf, the creatures are geographically symbolic of the colonies and territories that joined to form British Columbia.<\/p>\n Stroll along the walls of the Legislative Library to discover the 14 tall statues guarding the exterior. Ranging from the founder of Fort Victoria, Sir James Douglas, to the first Chief Justice of British Columbia, Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie, each one is uniquely connected to BC\u2019s early history.<\/p>\n When hunger pangs hit, head down to the Parliamentary Dining Room<\/a>. It offers tasty breakfasts and lunches prepared by an award-winning chef using fresh, local ingredients. Whether you nosh on weekly specials like the Schnitzel burger or an egg-centric breakfast concoction such as the Mexican breakfast bowl, you can\u2019t go wrong. Combined with friendly staff and the chatter of regulars, it makes for a relaxing dining experience.<\/p>\n Want to see every nook and cranny of the Parliament Buildings? Join one of the free, guided tours<\/a>. Expert staff will fill you in on everything from the ins and outs of British Columbia\u2019s parliamentary process to its history. If it\u2019s full-on immersion you\u2019re after, treat yourself to the popular Tea and Tour<\/a>. You’ll enjoy a white-cloth breakfast in the Parliamentary Dining Room before following a member of the Parliamentary Players Program for a guided tour.<\/p>\n If anything embodies Victoria, it is the historic Parliament Buildings. Drop in to watch a debate, wander through the Premier\u2019s sweetly-scented rose garden or\u00a0 explore the grounds on your own<\/a>. No matter how you visit, you\u2019ll leave feeling like a real Parliamentarian.<\/p>\n2. Soak in Stunning Stained Glass Windows<\/strong><\/h2>\n
3. Gaze Up at the Memorial Rotunda<\/strong><\/h2>\n
4. Check Out the <\/strong>Shxwtitostel<\/strong><\/h2>\n
5. Curl up with a Book in the Legislative Library <\/strong><\/h2>\n
6. Let the Kiddos Meet Up with Notable Figures from BC\u2019s Past<\/strong><\/h2>\n
7. Count the Lights on the Parliament Buildings <\/strong><\/h2>\n
8. Explore the Back of the Property <\/strong><\/h2>\n
9. Grab Breakfast or Lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room <\/strong><\/h2>\n
10. Hop on a Guided Tour <\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Book](\"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2017\/05\/magazinebutton_victoria.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n