WHAT AM I GOING TO SEE AND DO?
NOTE: We are in the process of organizing shore excursions at each of our ports-of-call. These will be exciting adventures that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty, culture and history of Alaska. These excursions will be private, consisting of you and your fellow boardgamers. We plan on announcing these soon.
So what are you planning on doing at our many exciting ports-of-call? Even if you are joining us for our small group excursions, you will likely have some additional free time to explore these fascinating locations.
If you are trying to decide what to do, this page is for you! You will find information about exciting and fun things to see and do at each port-of-call. History, culture, art, food ... whatever you are interested in, you will find details of attractions, activities and sights that will satisfy your interests and provide lifelong memories.
Check out the options below and get ready to enjoy the adventures that await!
SEATTLE - JUNEAU - SKAGWAY - VICTORIA
SEATTLE
Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest and one of the United States' premier cities. It is surrounded on one side by the expanse of the Pacific ocean, and on the other sides by towering mountains, including three National Parks and three National Forests. It has become a destination for tourists from not only the United States, but from around the world. Hiking, boating and outdoor sports enthusiasts flock to the area, and it has become a major port for the cruise industry.
Seattle was founded in 1851, but the area was inhabited by Native Americans for over 4000 years. The city was named in honor of Chief Seattle, a leader of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes. Logging was its original main enterprise, with shipping gaining prominence during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s. Today, the Emerald City is a tech mecca, with industry giants such as Microsoft and Amazon located there. It also has a lively music scene, having been the home to the grunge rock music in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
While the mountains and ocean may be calling, visitors will find much to see and do in the city. From visiting one of America's most vibrant and lively markets, where you can witness the famous flying fish, to exploring the depths of the underground city, to gawking at the otherworldly glass sculptures of master craftsman Dale Chihuly, you will be amazed at what Seattle has to offer.
Pike Place Market. When one thinks of a city market, one usually thinks of vendors offering fresh produce and homemade food items. Well, the Pike Place Market --one of the oldest in the United States--certainly offers an abundance of those items, but it also has so much more. Yes, you will find dozens of booths and shops selling fresh produce and homemade delicacies such as jams, jellies, honey and more. You can also find a myriad of crafts booths and shops, including everything from handmade works-of-art to cheap souvenirs.
You won't want to miss the vast and somewhat odiferous seafood market with vendors hawking the freshest seafood, some caught just off the connected pier from Puget Sound. Vendors delight the crowds by tossing the plump fish so they can be weighed and sold. Get your video camera ready!
If you aren't hungry, you will be. There are dozens of booths, cafés and restaurants offering everything from a beefy hot dog to fresh seafood. Many booths provide free samples just to entice you!
Coffee lovers may want to stop by the original Starbucks location. The mega coffee chain was founded in the city in 1971 and the original store moved to this location in 1976 when their original building was torn down. The store is located at 1912 Pike Place, just across from the market.
During summer months the area is filled with music and entertainment, as street musicians and performers entertain the crowds. Some venues also offer live music, particularly in the evenings.
And for those who enjoy a bit of quirky and perhaps disgust-inducing curiosities, stroll to nearby Post Alley to view one of the city's weirdest attractions: The Gum Wall. It is what the name implies: a 50 foot wall covered in chewed gum. The accumulation of gum is several inches thick (who measured this?). Local authorities claim that the wall is cleaned regularly, but I still wouldn't touch it.
Located on the adjacent Pier 57 are numerous attractions, including the Great Seattle Ferris Wheel. It is a wonderful way to enjoy incredible views over the city, Puget Sound, surrounding islands and distant mountains. The wheel is open from 11am - 9pm and costs $25 for adults. You can purchase tickets for the Great Wheel and the other attractions online or at the pier.
Opening times of the markets and shops vary, but many follow the time schedule below.
Fresh Produce & Seafood Market: 7am - 4pm
Farm Tables: 9am - 4pm
Crafts Market: 11am - 4pm
Merchant Buildings: 9am - 7pm
Restaurants: 7am - 2pm
Chihuly Garden and Glass. Dale Chihuly is perhaps the most talented and creative glass art sculptor alive today ... and perhaps of all time. His creations are simply incredible and have an otherworldly appearance. His fantastical sculptures have been exhibited around the world, but the premier place to see and admire them is at his home exhibition center in Seattle.
My wife is an artist so visiting art museums is mandatory during our travels. When we first visited Seattle over a decade ago, I made sure to add Chihuly Garden and Glass to our itinerary as I knew she would enjoy it. I thought I would just tolerate it. Frankly, I was blown away. His creations are amazing and left me constantly wondering, "How did he do that?"
The exhibition hall features numerous rooms filled with his colorful and often whimsical creations. In addition, there is an outdoor garden filled with his masterful glass art. While admiring the stunning art, you can stop by The Bar to enjoy a cocktail and a snack. You can also participate in other events on specific nights, including yoga, Pilate and even dancing!
The museum is conveniently located in the center of other major attractions, including the Museum of Pop Culture, the Pacific Science Center and the landmark Space Needle. There are numerous ticket packages available, several of which include entrance to one or more of these other attractions.
Open: 10am - 8pm
The Museum of Pop Culture. You are certain to be delightfully entertained in this quirky and lively museum that features dozens and dozens of exhibits highlighting pop culture. The colorful and sometimes noisy exhibits -- some of which are interactive -- feature just about everything that has captured the attention of Americans through the decades and helps define our culture. Video games, popular music, horror flicks, fantasy, science fiction, movie and TV stars, and so much more. Many of the exhibits will take you back to your childhood ... and help bring those times back to life.
Also featured is a vinyl-spinning bar where you can listen to the music and sip on a cocktail, as well as the Culture Kitchen, where the menu is designed around the music, film and stories that shaped American culture.
The museum does use dynamic pricing, so prices will fluctuate based on the time of year and demand. You can purchase tickets online, usually about three months prior to your visit.
Open: 10am - 5pm
Space Needle. Built in 1962 as part of the World's Fair, this iconic landmark has been attracting visitors for over 60 years. At 605 feet, the Needle offers outstanding 360 degree views over the city, Puget Sound, Pacific Ocean and distant mountains. Don't worry, though: you don't have to climb to the top. Rather, you can take a glass elevator, saving those leg muscles from the strain!
For the brave, there is a glass-bottomed viewing platform that may leave you a bit queasy if you look down.
The Needle is located in the entertainment complex that features Chihuly Glass and Garden, the Pop Culture Museum and the Pacific Science Center. It is also a 25-minute walk through downtown to Pike Place Market.
There are a variety of ticket packages available, several of which include the nearby attractions listed above. You can purchase these at the Needle or online.
Opening hours vary each day. You can view the schedule HERE.
Seattle Underground. Seattle is filled with quirky and unusual attractions, and Seattle Underground is one of those. On June 6, 1889, much of Seattle's Central Business District and waterfront was destroyed by a massive fire. Hoping to prevent future fires and improve drainage (it rains a lot in Seattle), new regulations were instituted, resulting in several neighborhoods being raised above the pre-fire levels. Some of these former areas, particularly in the Pioneer Square area, remain mostly intact, albeit below ground.
These areas can only be explored via a guided tour. Several companies offer informative, humorous and sometimes irreverent tours that guide you through the subterranean passageways and past former homes and storefronts. One of the city's oldest tour operator's is Bill Speidel's Underground Tour. The company office is just a 15 minute walk from Pike Place Market. Ticket prices are $30, with discounts for seniors, military personnel, students and youth.
Open: 10am - 6pm
JUNEAU, ALASKA
A bit of trivia: Juneau is the only state capital that cannot be reached by road. Boat and airplane are the main methods of transportation needed to visit our 49th state's capital.
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and icy waters, Juneau's downtown is a mixture of the old and new. A few areas, particularly South Franklin Street, harken back to its pioneer days, while others reflect a modern, vibrant city. Founded by settlers in 1880, the area had been long inhabited by native Americans, particularly the Tlingit people. The lure of riches -- gold -- enticed settlers from across America and other countries. Soon, Juneau was a small but prosperous town. Today, there is still gold in dem der hills, but mining has been joined by fishing and tourism as the city's main industries.
The city itself offers visitors fine museums, where they can learn about the native peoples, the goldrush, mining and local history. Most of the major attractions, as well as shops, restaurants and bars, are an easy walk from the cruise terminal. If you want to get out into the surrounding wilderness, however, your options include organized tours (see our shore excursions on our Merch page), shuttle bus or taxis.
We will be in port from 9am to 10pm, so you will have an afternoon and evening to explore the town and surrounding areas. Read on to discover some exciting options!
DOWNTOWN
Alaska State Libraries, Archives and Museums. This wonderful museum is one of Alaska's most important cultural sights. Visitors can learn about Alaska's history, including the indigenous peoples, through numerous exhibits, artifacts and historical photos and records. Special exhibits feature native American art, including works by contemporary artists.
The museum is just a short 15 minute walk from the cruise terminal, and is located in the downtown area near dozens of shops and restaurants.
Open: 9am - 4:30pm
Sealaska Heritage's Walter Soboleff Building. There is no better place to learn about and experience Juneau's native population than the Walter Soboleff Building. You will walk through an authentic clan house filled with artifacts from the native peoples. Through interactive exhibits you will listen to their stories and learn about their history.
In addition, native American art, sculptures and more are on display, including the largest glass screen in the world. There are always special exhibits, so be sure to check out their website for further details.
The admission price varies, but you can expect to pay about $10 per adult.
Open: 10am - 6pm
Seawalk and Totem Trail. This 3-mile waterfront path is wonderful for strolling and enjoying the lovely and sometimes breathtaking scenery. The pathway is easily accessible directly from the cruise terminal. Along the way, you will pass a half dozen beautifully carved native totems. You can download the Totem Trail map, which includes the history and meaning of each totem, HERE.
The southern section of the path connects the popular South Franklin Street (see below) and offers a quieter, less crowded walk. It also passes the popular and useful Juneau Visitor Center, which is a great place to stop to pick-up walking maps of the town. This walk along South Franklin Street and Marine Way concludes at Marine Park, a small coastal park that is scheduled to reopen in April 2027.
The northern section of the walk travels from Marine Park along Egan Drive and offers grand views of Gastineau Channel and Douglas Island. Along the way you can learn about the local history and wildlife thanks to informational signs. The conclusion of this section is Overstreet Park, home to the iconic whale sculpture, which is a popular photo location.
This is a comfortable, easy walk that offers plenty of opportunities to rest, visit shops and grab a beverage or bite to eat.
South Franklin Street. Tucked away and surrounded by modern buildings, South Franklin Street maintains some of the architecture and feel of the 1920s and 1930s. Many storefronts are now small craft and souvenir shops that cater to both locals and tourists. You can also satisfy that afternoon hunger by stopping in one of the local snack shops, including a salmon store.
If you are craving an adult beverage accompanied by local history, stop in at the Alaska Hotel and Bar, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. When the hotel opened in 1913, there were 30 saloons in Juneau. The hotel's bar gives a glimpse into the bygone era with rich Victorian-era furniture. Belly-up to the bar and enjoy one of their wide range of whiskey offerings. Other spirits are available.
If you are into Western lore, you may want to make a quick visit to the Red Dog Saloon to view Wyatt Earp's revolver that he carried in Nome. The saloon is also a neat place to grab a sandwich or snack.
Open: Most shops are open from 9am - 8pm, although some, particularly the bars and restaurants, remain open later.
THE SURROUNDING AREA
Mendenhall Glacier. Alaska's most visited glacier is truly an amazing sight. The 13-mile long glacier (although it is retreating) can be explored by strolling along several nature trails, which lead along Mendenhall Lake to Nugget Falls and into the surrounding mountains. Trails to various glacier overlooks vary in length from .3 miles to 3 miles. The trails begin at the Mendenhall Visitor Center, where you can obtain trail maps to help guide you.
A recommended viewing point is the elevated platform located about a half mile south of the Visitor Center along the Moraine Ecology Trail. The viewing platform allows visitors to look for spawning sockeye and salmon. Since salmon are an Alaskan bear's delicacy, you may even spot one or more of the native bears.
There are several companies that lead bus shuttles and tours from Juneau to the Visitor Center. One option is the Blue Bus offered by M&M Tours. The to-and-from shuttle, which does include some narration and information from the bus driver, costs $79 per person. The bus picks-up and drops-off at the cruise terminal. Tickets should be purchased in advance. Juneau Tours and Whale Watch offers a very similar service for $65.
Note that there is a public bus (Capital Transit Route 3 or 8) that takes you from Juneau to within 1.5 miles of the Mendenhall Visitor Center. From there, you will have about a 30 minute walk along a paved path. This option will save you money, as the ticket fare is about $3 each way. However, there will be no history narration or information. The hours of operation vary depending upon the time of year, so it is best to check the bus schedule HERE.
Open: Visitor Center - 9am - 6pm
Mt. Roberts Tramway. Soar 1800 feet up Mt. Roberts in six minutes aboard this safe, yet slightly unsettling tram. You will enjoy spectacular views from within the tram, as well as once you reach the top. Once you reach the destination, you can learn more about the history and culture of the local Tlingits people by viewing a short film, visit the nature center and even enjoy an alpine hike. And if you are hungry, there is a full-service restaurant - the Timberline Bar & Grill - where you can dine and enjoy the sensational views.
There are numerous alpine trails you can choose, from the easy and short half-mile Mt. Roberts Alpine Loop Trail to the longer and more challenging trails to Father Brown's Cross, which is about 2.5 miles each way. There are numerous other options, including guided hiking tours. Guided hiking tours are available through the Goldbelt Tram website or some other tour operators.
The Goldbelt Tram office and terminal is located at 490 S. Franklin Street, just a few steps from the cruise dock. Tickets range from $60 - $65 for adults and should be purchased in advance. Note that the tram system is currently undergoing maintenance, but is expected to open again soon.
Open: 8am - 6pm.
Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure. If you are a flora and/or gardening enthusiast -- or just enjoy strolling through a beautiful, peaceful garden setting -- then the Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure should be a priority in Juneau. Encompassing over 50-acres, the gardens feature a vast array of native flowers, plants and trees, as well as waterfalls, an atrium, hiking paths, ponds and more. The roots of upturned trees serve as pots for beautifully displayed plants and flowers. What a glorious place to enjoy nature's beauty!
A guided tour via golf carts takes you up the mountainsides and along four miles of pathways. Visitors are free to wander the lower gardens without a guide. Along the way, you will have wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and waters, including the Mendenhall wetlands wildlife refuge. And if you get hungry, there is a café on site.
Glacier Gardens is located about 7 miles from the cruise terminal. It is best reached by either taxi or public bus (Capital Transit Route 3 or 4). The bus can be boarded at the Juneau Bus Transit Center, which is less than a 10 minute walk from the port. The ride is about 20 - 30 minutes each way.
Tickets for the Garden admission, which includes the guided tour, are $37 for adults and can be purchased online HERE.
Open: 9am - 5pm
Gold Creek Salmon Bake. What could feel more Alaskan than sitting by a relaxing mountain stream, admiring the surrounding majestic mountains and dining on baked fresh-caught salmon? That is exactly the experience you will enjoy at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake. In addition, you can take a short hike to explore an old gold mine, pan for gold in the stream, and roast marshmallows over an open campfire.
The experience is offered through Alaska Travel adventures and includes transportation to and from the cruise dock. Tickets, which begin at $79 for adults, should be purchased in advance from the company's website.
Open: Since we do not dock until 1:00pm, the only available time slot will be 5pm.
AJ Mine Gastineau Mill Tour. The gold rush of the late 1800s is what truly opened the Alaskan frontier to settlers. An estimated 100,000 pioneers flooded the territory in search of gold and a better life. Entire towns were born as folks panned the rivers and tunneled underground in search of the precious metal. Virtually all of the gold mines from that era have long since ceased operations.
The Gold Creek mill was once the world's largest, and today is the only remaining gold mine where you can venture underground. Visitors must wear hard hats as they are led into a 360 foot long tunnel and learn about mining techniques, as well as the life of the men who toiled in this dark environment. After the tour, you can pan for your own gold. Who knows...you may strike it rich!
Tickets for the tour are $85 and should be purchased in advance at the company website. The ticket will include transportation to and from the mine. The office where you catch the bus is located at the Goldbelt Tramway Lot, which is just a few minutes walk from the cruise dock.
Open: 9am - 5pm
SKAGWAY
In spite of the abundance of cruise ships that visit the town during the season, Skagway maintains much of its gold-rush, frontier charm. Nearly all of the downtown district is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park. The small downtown shops have facades that continue to evoke the feel of this exciting, bygone era.
Skagway's beginnings can be traced back nearly 4000 years with early settlers crossing the Bering Strait and settling in remote areas of what ultimately became the state of Alaska. Modern settlement began when an 1887 boundary expedition mapped the area and William "Billy" Moore, one of the crew, opted to stay, suspecting that there may be gold in the vicinity. His assumption was correct, and soon thereafter the gold rush began. The town's population grew to over 10,000 and it was at one time Alaska's largest city. Its reputation for lawlessness and vice was well deserved, and whispers of that wild era can still be heard in the town's saloons and museums.
Today, Skagway is no longer populated by rough-and-rowdy prospectors, but rather tourists who come to view the area's beauty and get a taste of life on the Alaskan frontier. All of the downtown sights and attractions are just a short walk from the cruise terminal, and most can be visited in a short amount of time. The recommended excursions listed below that take you into the countryside (train ride, hiking) have their starting point downtown, so no transportation will be needed.
White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. Travel along the gold rush route and enjoy amazing views of the rugged Alaskan countryside aboard this historic narrow-gauge railroad. As you chug along the rails, you will enjoy historic and informative narrative, along with jaw-dropping views of soaring cliffs, craggy mountain peaks, lush forests, crashing waterfalls and much more.
The 40-mile White Pass Summit excursion lets you enjoy all of this breathtaking scenery in a 2.5 hour journey. Other, often lengthier options are also available. You can upgrade to a package that includes food and beverages.
The departure and return point is at the company's office located in downtown Skagway, just a 10 minute walk from the cruise terminal. Tickets are $155 ($77.50 for children) and should be purchased in advance on the company website.
Open: 7:15am - 5pm
Corrington's Museum of Alaskan History. This interesting historical museum, located in the beautiful Golden North Hotel building, tells the history of the native peoples, as well as the town itself. A truly fascinating highlight are the 40 exquisitely carved walrus tusks, decorated with an art known as scrimshaw. There are also many artifacts dating to pre-historic times.
The museum and attached buildings also offer for sale a variety of local arts and crafts. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged.
Open: 9am - 4pm
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Museum. The National Park system maintains over 20 historical buildings in Skagway, four of which are museums open to the public. All of them are worth a visit to learn more about that frenetic time period and the people who were key figures.
Admission to the museums is free, but some require a ticket as entrance is limited. Tickets can be obtained at the National Park Visitor Center, which is located at 520 Broadway in downtown Skagway.
Open: The Visitor Center and the four museums are open from 9am - 4:30pm.
Visitor Center Museum. Here you can smell, hear and feel your way through the gold rush days through a variety of informative and interactive exhibits. You can choose your route through the various gold fields and mines and learn whether your chosen path left you rich or a pauper.
Moore House Museum. Visit the tiny William Moore homestead, the first cabin constructed in Skagway in 1887. Next door is his larger home constructed shortly thereafter. There are exhibits featuring the family, frontier life in Skagway and more. There is a quiet outdoor area where you can sit and relax.
Jefferson Smith's Parlor Museum. Jefferson "Jeff" Smith was a prominent local figure who thrived as a conman and the leader of the town's loosely-organized network of criminals. His nefarious dealings and shenanigans live on in local lore. He met his fate at the end of a gun in a famous shootout with town hero Frank Reid.
This fun museum tells Smith's story, as well as Skagway's, through a variety of artifacts, exhibits, folk art, unusual taxidermy and animated mannequins. Tickets -- which are free -- are limited and available at the Park Headquarters.
Mascot Saloon Museum. Once the longest-running saloon in Skagway, the Mascot closed during prohibition in 1916. It has been lovingly restored and provides an authentic glimpse into one of the town's most prosperous and popular watering holes. Exhibits concentrate on the vices of the day and the scoundrels who participated.
Arctic Brotherhood Hall. The Arctic Brotherhood, a fraternal order of Alaska and Yukon pioneers, constructed this uniquely odd building with over 8,800 pieces of driftwood and flotsam scavenged from the local beaches. Built in 1899, the building now home to the Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau. It is worth stepping inside to grab maps and informational brochures for the town.
Open: 8am - 5pm
HIKING
There are dozens and dozens of trails that originate in or around Skagway. All offer the opportunity to get into the Alaskan countryside and enjoy its unparalleled scenery. You may even spot some wildlife. However, this is bear country, so please be aware of your surroundings and carry bear spray. Make sure you visit the Skagway Visitor Center to secure maps of the available hiking trails.
For a more informative and safer option, consider reserving a guided hiking tour through one of the outfitters. Packer Expeditions offer a variety of hiking options, including hikes to Laughton Glacier and others that include train and/or helicopter rides. You can learn more about their offerings at their website.
VICTORIA, BRITISH COLOMBIA
Canada was long under British dominion, and the empire's influence is still felt throughout much of the country. A shining city on the western coast, Victoria's British heritage is most visible in its stately architecture and numerous sculptured gardens. True Anglophiles will delight in the afternoon and high teas offered by dozens of cafés and restaurants. Make sure you raise a glass in Victoria's memory!
Like many of the cities along the western coast of North America, the Victoria area was once home to native peoples. British settlers began arriving in 1843, establishing the town of Victoria, which was named in honor of the famous British monarch. Fur trapping and trading was the initial lure, but later the city boomed when gold was discovered just over a decade later.
Today, Victoria is a mix of the modern and Victorian era, with fishing, boating, whale-watching and tourism some of the main attractions. The downtown is very walkable and has a thriving shopping and dining scene. You are never far away from the water, including the Salish Sea and nearby Pacific Ocean, where you can often see lazy sea lions and, if you are lucky, a leaping whale.
To learn more about what to see and do in Victoria, keep reading!
Craigdarroch Castle. Known boastfully as "Canada's Castle", Craigdarroch Castle certainly looks the part. Constructed between 1887 and 1890 by filthy-rich industrialist and Scottish immigrant Robert Dunsmuir. Dunsmuir wasn't timid, constructing his mansion high atop a hill so everyone could daily see his display of power and wealth.
The castle is stunning, with exquisitely carved woodwork, stunning stained glass, and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.
You can reach the castle via Bus Line 2, a direct route (no transfers) in 34 minutes or a 12 minute taxi ride.
The admission of $24.50 (Canadian dollars, with discounts for seniors and children) includes a 45-minute guided tour.
Open: 10am - 5:30pm
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Perhaps the most iconic landmark of Victoria is the stately Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, the site of the state government (parliament). The architecture is quintessential British; it appears to have been moved intact directly from London.
While many governmental buildings don't allow visitors, this one welcomes you with open arms (or doors). The public are free to take a self-guided tour, or join one of the many free guided tours offered daily. You will learn about the historic architecture and the parliamentary process. If the Legislative Assembly is in session, you can even sit and watch the politicians haggle and debate. You can also make reservations to dine in the Parliamentary Dining Room. Maybe you will even get to meet the Prime Minister!
Note that the times of the tours vary daily, so it is best to check the website for the tour times.
The Legislative Assembly is located in the same vicinity as several other Victoria attractions, including the Royal BC Museum.
You have numerous options to reach the Legislative Assembly from the cruise dock. Public Bus Line 2 takes about 20 minutes and costs only a few dollars. A taxi ride is quicker, but will set you back about $12 - $15 (Canadian). There is also a convenient shuttle that brings you from the dock to downtown. The cost is $15 for an all-day pass. Walking is always an option, and the scenic stroll will take about 26 minutes.
Open: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Chinatown. Immigrants from flooded to the west coast of North America largely during the 1840s and 1850s. Like nearly all other settlers, they were in search of wealth and riches, lured by the discovery of gold. Victoria was a major destination and boasts the second oldest Chinatown neighborhood along the entire west coast. Can you guess the oldest?
This vibrant neighborhood, established in the late 1800s, is awash in vibrant colors and filled with boutiques and stalls selling traditional Chinese silks and crafts. You will have a sensory overload from the aromas of the dozens of street food stalls, tempting you to try just one more delicacy. There is even a traditional Japanese garden.
There are several ways to reach the neighborhood from the cruise dock. It is a 20-minute ride on Public Bus Line 2, plus a few minutes walk from the Johnson Street stop. A taxi is quicker -- about 10 minutes -- but will cost you about $15 (Canadian). Of course, you can always walk, which will give you the opportunity to enjoy the harbor front and parts of the city. The walk will take about 40 minutes.
Open: Most shops are open 10am - 6pm, with restaurants remaining open until much later.
Royal BC Museum. One of the oldest museums in Canada, the Royal BC Museum tells the history of British Columbia and Canada from pre-history to modern times. Exhibits displaying hundreds of artifacts and life-size dioramas bring this rich history to life, educating and entertaining visitors. The exhibitions are truly fascinating, and include early pioneer house reconstructions, pre-historic animals, and native-carved totems. The museum also regularly features special exhibits, so make sure to check their website for the current exhibitions.
The museum is located about a 30-minute stroll from the cruise dock. Some of the path is along the harbor, so you will enjoy wonderful views. Alternatively, there is a downtown shuttle from the cruise dock that operates all day. Museum admission is $32 (Canadian dollars), but additional packages are available, including an IMAX package.
Open: 10am - 6pm
Miniature World. As a child, I was fascinated by dioramas that displayed in miniature scenes from around the world. I remember spending hours staring wide-eyed at a miniature recreation of the Battle of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Even today, I am drawn to these realistic recreations in miniature.
From the amount of money folks spend on games packed with fancy miniatures, I surmise that many board gamers share this same fascination. For those so enamored, a visit to Victoria's Miniature World will not disappoint. The museum, which is conveniently located just a few steps from the Empress Hotel and Butchart Gardens shuttle shelters, features over 85 highly detailed dioramas. Scenes include Camelot, the Great Canadian Railway, castles, Frontierland, the World of Dickens, Circus World and so many more.
Tickets are $22.50 (Canadian) and can be purchased at the door.
You can walk to Miniature World in about 30 minutes, part of which offers wonderful harbor views. Alternatively, there is a regular shuttle from the cruise port to downtown Victoria. The shuttle costs $13 (Canadian dollars) round-trip.
Open: 10am - 9pm
Butchart Gardens. Perhaps Victoria's premier sight-seeing attraction is the 120-year old Butchart Gardens. The elaborate floral gardens is one of the world's best, and features over 55 acres of manicured flowers, plants and trees. There are numerous themed garden areas, including traditional Japanese and Italian gardens, as well as a vast rose garden. All are accessible via pleasant paths that meander through the peaceful, countryside setting.
There are numerous food and snack options, including a coffee shop, a gelateria and two restaurants where you can take a break and satisfy your hunger cravings and/or sweet tooth.
The gardens are located a bit further afield, but can be reached via regular shuttles that depart from the Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria. Several companies offer this service (Click HERE) and the cost is around $45 round-trip. While enjoying the leisurely 25 minute ride, you will learn about Victoria, the countryside and the gardens from the informative guide.
You can walk to the Empress in about 30 minutes, part of which offers wonderful harbor views. Alternatively, there is a regular shuttle from the cruise port to downtown Victoria. The shuttle costs $13 (Canadian dollars) round-trip.
Admission to the gardens is $44.25 (Canadian dollars). You can purchase them directly from the Butchart Gardens website, or they are available from the shuttle service, sometimes at a slight discount.
Open: 9am - 6pm
