Explore Vancouver Island’s must-visit historic destinations

Delve into the heart of British Columbia's democracy! Free guided tours of the Parliament Buildings are available year-round, with more frequent options during the summer months. Weekdays offer regular tours, allowing you to explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the building. Learn how laws are made and get a firsthand look at the Legislative Assembly in action.

Step back in time and become a guest at Craigdarroch, a magnificent Victorian mansion completed in 1890. Built by Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, the wealthiest couple in British Columbia at the time, Craigdarroch boasts a grand exterior that earns its "castle" nickname. Inside, meticulously restored rooms transport you to the 1890s. Explore exquisite woodwork, marvel at unique Victorian artifacts, and admire the stunning collection of original stained glass. All this awaits you within easy walking distance of downtown Victoria.

Unforgettable moments deserve extraordinary settings: Overlooking Victoria’s sparkling Inner Harbour, Canada’s Castle on the Coast sits proudly at the centre of culture and history. A National Historic Site dating to 1908, recognized as one of Top 21 Iconic Hotels in the World by National Geographic Traveler magazine, honoured with Travel + Leisure Magazine’s World’s Best Award for Top 3 City Hotels in Canada and regarded as a Condé Nast Readers’ Choice and Gold List Hotel, Fairmont Empress is where modern meets iconic.

A seaside garden in Qualicum Beach on the east coast of Vancouver Island, BC - 28 hectares of unspoiled natural beauty perched on the edge of an oceanside bluff overlooking the Strait of Georgia and one of best attractions in Parksville Qualicum Beach.

Our Edwardian estate is located on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Enjoy our fascinating history, diversity, and our 565 oceanfront acres with an amazing view of the majestic Olympic Mountains in the USA.

This beautifully restored provincial and national historic site was the birthplace and childhood home of famed writer and artist, Emily Carr. Visit Carr House to learn about Emily Carr and her legacy of inspiration. Carr House is open Friday and Saturday, 10am-3pm. Visitors are welcome to explore the house, take a tour, or visit the gift shop during these times.

Journey back in time to witness British Columbia's forestry heritage at McLean Mill National Historic Site. Built in 1925 by the McLean family, this sawmill operated for four decades, leaving behind a treasure trove of history. Designated a national treasure in 1989, the site boasts well-preserved buildings and equipment, offering a glimpse into the logging and lumber industry's past. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a scenic escape, McLean Mill promises a captivating experience. Explore the grounds at your own pace, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Pack a picnic and make a day of it with your family or furry friend! While the mill and steam donkey are currently not operational, self-guided tour maps are available at the Mill Store to guide you through the site. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted to support the preservation of this remarkable piece of Canadian history.

Fresh water adventure seekers will not want to miss a visit to Sproat Lake Park in the Alberni Valley on central Vancouver Island. Located 15 minutes west of Port Alberni, Sproat Lake is a favoured location for swimming, fishing, waterskiing and, when the wind is up, windsurfing. A variety of short access trails lead visitors around this park, including a trail to the eastern end of Sproat Lake, which is home to one of the finest panels of prehistoric petroglyphs in British Columbia.

Helmcken House was built by Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken, a surgeon with the Hudson’s Bay Company. It is one of the oldest houses in British Columbia still on its original site. Dr. Helmcken set up house in Victoria when he married the daughter of Governor James Douglas in 1852. He went on to become a statesman and helped negotiate the entry of British Columbia into Canada, as a province. The good doctor’s original 19th century medical kit is among the interesting items on display.

Tranquility reigns at the Chinese Cemetery in Oak Bay, where gentle breezes carry the scent of incense. Here, on a grassy field overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, lies a community – marked by simple stones etched with Chinese characters. The white towers of the grand, twin-tiered altar rise above the field, a silent testament to generations who have paid respects here. Visitors following the path can't help but be drawn to the serene beauty of the site, the distant mountains mirrored in the blue waters beyond.

The Malahat Building/Old Victoria Custom House is a three-storey, mansard-roofed, brick building, built in 1874-5. It is located on a waterfront site, overlooking the harbour of the city of Victoria, British Columbia. The formal recognition consists of the building on its legal property at the time of designation.

Coal Creek was a Community, Local and State government funded project to preserve the cultural history of the area and was opened to the public in 1974. The first building relocated on site was the Korumburra Courthouse, followed by Kowera Church, Jeetho School House and the Mine Manager’s Cottage. These now form the heart of our of 53 building heritage village. As Gippsland’s largest open air heritage village, our vast collection of original buildings and objects tell the story of the coal mining, agricultural, transportation and social history of the southern Gippsland region. The park is nestled in 27 hectares of undulating landscape which was planted with 40,ooo seedlings by the community, to create a flora and fauna sanctuary for you to enjoy.