Victoria Historic Sites & Interpretive Centres

Once Victoria's tallest masonry building, this former French-Canadian convent and school (1871-1973), set in six park-like acres, now housing modern offices, contains a magnficiently restored 1858 chapel and some restored interiors. Open 10 am to 4 pm daily in summer, call for winter hours.

Located northwest of the city in the Victoria highlands, this historic site features three heritage designated buildings, including the original 1883 homestead of colonist Caleb Pike. Interpretive programs and venue rental solutions are offered.

Built in the late 1890s, this coast artillery fort defended Victoria, BC and the Esquimalt Naval Base. It was part of the larger defence strategy of the British Empire and Canada, from 1878 to 1956. Today, Fort Rodd Hill offers visitors the opportunity to explore gun batteries, underground magazines, command posts, guardhouses, barracks and searchlight emplacements. Interpretive signs and audio-visual stations are set-up in the sites.

Travellers will enjoy the amazing sea and mountain views, which makes this an ideal place for family outings and picnics. Twelve picnic tables are located near the parking lot or visitors may also enjoy picnicking inside the sites, under the trees or on any of their three beaches. Special events are held here throughout the year, including the historic Military Encampment, Canada Day Celebrations and an old English Car Show. The sites on Fort Rodd Hill are open daily, all year round except for Christmas Day.

This interpretive centre, located in Goldstream Provincial Park, is an excellent place to learn about the natural habitat of the surrounding area. Come during the 'Eagle Extravaganza' of January and December to learn about birds of prey.

This historic house, located beside Victoria's Upper Harbour amongst beautifully restored 19th century gardens, contains all of its original furnishings. A small tearoom is also located on site.

The golden lions perched atop this impressive gate mark the entrance to Canada's oldest Chinatown. The gate was built as a gift from Suzhou, Victoria's sister city in China.

The oldest house in British Columbia, Helmcken House offers the chance to see what life was like in the mid-19th century. Standing on its original site, the house was built in 1852 by Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken who eventually became a statesman and helped to negotiate the entry of British Columbia as a province of Canada.

Immerse yourself in the Shakepearean lifestyle when you visit the full size replica home of the birthplace of William Shakespeare's wife. Authentically furnished with 16th and 17th century oak furnishings.

Constructed in 1909, this historic Chinese school still offers classes in Chinese languages, history and culture.