Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
floor natural-history gallery with its beady-eyed woolly mammoth and realistic diora-
mas (the shady forest of elk and grizzlies peeking from behind trees is highly evocat-
ive). Then peruse the First Peoples culture showcase, which includes a fascinating
mask gallery. Don't miss the walk-through colonial street, complete with detailed store-
fronts and a chatty Chinatown .
The museum also has an IMAX theater and, especially in summer, there's usually a
blockbuster visiting exhibition to add to the city's appeal.
PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS
HISTORICAL BUILDING
(
www.leg.bc.ca
;
501 Belleville St; tours 9am-5pm daily mid-May-Aug, to 5pm Mon-Fri Sep-mid-
May)
F
Across from the Royal BC Museum, this handsome confection of turrets,
domes and stained glass is the province's working legislature, but it's also open to
history-loving visitors. Peek behind the facade on a colorful 30-minute tour led by cos-
tumed Victorians, then stop for lunch at the 'secret' politicians' restaurant (photo ID re-
quired). Check out the building's attractive nighttime exterior; it's lit like a Christmas
tree. This is one of Victoria's most-photographed landmarks, so keep your camera
handy.
CRAIGDARROCH CASTLE
MUSEUM
(
www.thecastle.ca
;
1050 Joan Cres; adult/youth/child $13.75/8.75/5; 9am-7pm mid-Jun-Aug,
10am-4:30pm Sep-mid-Jun)
A grand Victorian folly, this elegant turreted mansion a short
bus hop from downtown is not to be missed. The handsome 39-room landmark was
built by a 19th-century coal baron who had money to burn; unfortunately he died be-
fore it was completed. It's dripping with period features and antique-packed rooms.
Climb the tower's 87 steps (perusing the stained-glass windows en route) for snow-
capped mountain views.
If you're here in December, you'll find many of the rooms beautifully decorated for
Christmas.
ART GALLERY OF GREATER VICTORIA
GALLERY
(
www.aggv.bc.ca
;
1040 Moss St; adult/child $13/2.50; 10am-5pm Mon-Wed, Fri & Sat, to 9pm
Thu, noon-5pm Sun, closed Mon off-season)
Hop a bus downtown via Fort St and follow the
gallery signs to find one of Canada's best collections of works by Emily Carr, one of
