Victoria,BC gardens to visit with kids
Bonus, these gardens also perfect for family photos!
We may live in Canada’s Garden City but when’s the last time you took your kids to enjoy one Victoria’s lush garden spaces? Don’t let the manicured lawns and delicate plants intimidate you. Kids love to play on the grass, explore the winding trails and admire the blossoms. I’ve spent a lot of time in gardens with my kids and here are a few of my faves.
The Gardens at HCP
The Horticulture Centre of the Pacific is home to the Pacific Horticulture College and presents a year-round garden that everyone can enjoy. Upon admittance, visitors can take part in a guided tour or explore the grounds on their own. The centre offers a variety of children’s programs. Last summer my kids took part in story time, which included a tour the the garden, gathering petals, and making pot pourri.
The centre includes over nine acres of gardens on a 103 acre site. My kids especially loved the Japanese garden and watching water snakes skate skate across the pond. A cozy cafe on site is a great spot to wrap up the visit!
Beacon Hill Park
A vast city park, with so much to offer, Beacon Hill Park is always a popular attraction for families. The first destination within the park is obviously Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, with its adorable ensemble of animals, including miniature goats. The farm is open in spring, summer and fall to visit by donation. In addition to farm animals, the park abounds with wildlife. “Peacock park!” my kids call it. It’s true, as you explore the park you’ll likely hear peacocks screeching. If you’re lucky, you may just see one strutting along the pathways, like a royal surveying its realm.
Kids also love Beacon Hill Park for its playground with zip line. Parents like its proximity to Cook St. Village coffee shops.
Government House Gardens
Open every day from dawn to dusk, and free to visit, the gardens at Government House are worth checking out. With 36 acres of manicured gardens, native woodlands and heritage buildings, there’s plenty to explore. At the Victorian rose garden, kids can channel their inner prince or princess, then have fun exploring the pathways, and climbing on the rocks in front of the Lieutenant Governor’s residence. Visit in the spring and enjoy fresh ducklings learning to swim and follow their mama.
Interested in a garden photoshoot? I would love to collaborate with you!