British Columbia Parliament Building Tours and Activities

British Columbia Parliament Building showing night scenes, heritage architecture and an administrative building
British Columbia Parliament Building showing heritage architecture and night scenes
Photo provided by Patrick Antiphon
British Columbia Parliament Building featuring night scenes, an administrative building and a statue or sculpture
British Columbia Parliament Building featuring flowers, a park and an administrative building


Visit the legislative headquarters of British Columbia to admire neo-baroque architecture and murals depicting scenes from the province’s history.

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are arguably Victoria’s most well-known landmark. Admire 19th-century architecture, stroll around the premier’s rose garden and see sculptures of historical figures and murals portraying life in British Columbia. The grounds of the Parliament Building and Legislative Assembly are also the location for many free cultural events, such as live music performances and ceremonies. Pass by after dark when over 3,000 lights illuminate the building, a picturesque sight.

The English-born architect Francis Rattenbury designed Victoria’s new legislative building and it officially opened in 1898. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy taking photos of the building’s neo-baroque design, which includes 33 copper domes. 

Look up at the life-sized statue of Captain George Vancouver standing on top of the building’s main dome and pointing towards Vancouver, the city named after him. The building is adorned with other  sculptures, including one of chief Maquinna. He was the leader of the Nuu-chah-nulth indigenous tribe from Nootka Sound. 

In front of the building stands the statue of Queen Victoria. Walk past the fountain to climb the main stairs to the entrance. Inside, inspect the murals that decorate the rotunda to see scenes from British Columbia’s past. Peek into the legislative chamber to see where parliamentary decisions are made. A stained-glass window commemorates the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria. 

From the building’s front lawn you can sit and enjoy views of Victoria’s waterfront. The lawn is part of the Symphony Splash, a classical music concert that takes place on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour. 

Overlooking the Inner Harbour, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings are within easy walking distance of downtown Victoria. There are several pay-and-display parking lots nearby and public buses stop on the surrounding streets.

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are open Monday through Friday and on the weekend May through September. Free 45-minute guided tours take place at regular intervals throughout the day. Ask at the main entrance for a schedule or check out the schedule of events on the legislative ground’s official website.

Plan a trip to see British Columbia Parliament Building

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Best Lodging Options Near British Columbia Parliament Building

Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress

4.5 out of 5
721 Government St, Victoria, BC
Fairmont Empress
Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
740 Burdett Ave, Victoria, BC
Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites
Hotel Grand Pacific

Hotel Grand Pacific

4 out of 5
463 Belleville St, Victoria, BC
Hotel Grand Pacific
Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour

Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour

3 out of 5
427 Belleville St, Victoria, BC
Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour
Royal Scot Hotel & Suites

Royal Scot Hotel & Suites

3 out of 5
425 Quebec St, Victoria, BC
Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Huntingdon Hotel and Suites

Huntingdon Hotel and Suites

3 out of 5
330 Quebec Street, Victoria, BC
Huntingdon Hotel and Suites
Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA

Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA

4 out of 5
146 Kingston St, Victoria, BC
Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA
Embassy Inn

Embassy Inn

3 out of 5
520 Menzies St, Victoria, BC
Embassy Inn
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria

4 out of 5
777 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near British Columbia Parliament Building

Explore the vibrant area surrounding the British Columbia Parliament Building in Victoria, where you can enjoy walking along scenic paths, embark on thrilling whale-watching excursions, or take a picturesque ferry ride. Don't miss out on music concerts and guided tours tailored for groups, offering insights into the building's rich history and architecture. Experience the charm and culture of this iconic landmark during your visit.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the British Columbia Parliament Building, visit the Bay Centre, only 644m away, bustling with family-friendly vibes. Market Square, 805m away, offers a vibrant public market atmosphere, while the Victoria Public Market, 1.1km away, is perfect for local goods.

Recreation

Explore Royal Athletic Park for a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for a game or a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the scenic outdoors at Uplands Golf Club, offering a relaxing round of golf. For wellness, unwind at Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, featuring excellent facilities for fitness and relaxation.

Adventure

Embark on the West Coast Trail for a thrilling hike with breathtaking scenery, located 1.6km from the Parliament Building. Explore the Scenic Marine Route for stunning outdoor views, 3.2km away. For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping at WildPlay West Shore, situated 8.0km from the site.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife near the British Columbia Parliament Building! Visit Miniature World for family-friendly fun, or catch a show at the Victoria Royal Theatre for a romantic evening. For a unique experience, head to the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory and enjoy some stellar entertainment.

Find the best attractions near British Columbia Parliament Building

When visiting the British Columbia Parliament Building in Victoria, explore nearby urban parks, charming streets, and modern colleges. This area offers a mix of cultural experiences suitable for families and city lovers alike. Consider staying at one of the local hotels, such as those near the parliament house or the iconic parliament buildings, to fully enjoy your visit to this historic site.

  • Government Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Government Street, located 644m from the British Columbia Parliament Building. This bustling street is the heart of Victoria, featuring charming shops, cafes, and local artisans, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Royal BC Museum: Situated only 161m away, the Royal BC Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural history of British Columbia. With engaging exhibits and family-friendly activities, it’s an enriching experience for all ages.
  • Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre: Approximately 1.4km from the Parliament Building, this arena is a hub for entertainment and family events, hosting concerts, sporting events, and community gatherings, ensuring a lively experience.

Best time to go to British Columbia Parliament Building

The best time to visit British Columbia Parliament Building can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around British Columbia Parliament Building falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around British Columbia Parliament Building falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.6°F (14.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August63.5°F (17.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for British Columbia Parliament Building

To save money during your visit to the British Columbia Parliament Building in Victoria, consider exploring nearby free attractions such as Government Street and Fisherman's Wharf. The best times to visit for lower accommodation rates are from January to February and November. Booking your hotel a month in advance can help you secure better prices, especially if you choose to stay on a Tuesday. Utilize Expedia's search tools for budget options and consider package deals to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around British Columbia Parliament Building are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around British Columbia Parliament Building about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around British Columbia Parliament Building is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around British Columbia Parliament Building is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To uncover the most affordable prices and special offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at the British Columbia Parliament Buildings with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.