Words Kelly Finerty
Photos Finerty Family
It’s the thick of the Island summer, and perhaps planning outings for the family is feeling expensive. The kiddos seem squirrel-y, and with the cost of living these days, it’s uncomfortably typical to find nothing but stale popcorn in the couch cushions. Fortunately, we live in one of the most beautiful places in the world, evidenced by Victoria as a cruise ship port-of-call and the droves of tourists flocking to our piece of paradise to experience all we have.
As a 22-year local resident in a bit of investigative (albeit subjective) journalism, I took my family of four downtown one afternoon to experience some of the hottest tourist destinations, and kept track of spending. Could we have fun without shelling out a ton of cash?
First Stop – Beacon Hill Park
Known to have public performances in the bandshell and winding paths with beautifully manicured gardens, climbing trees, putting greens, playground, ponds, ducks and peacocks roaming free, Beacon Hill Park is a perfect place to start an afternoon with a young family. The water park along Douglas Street was cooling off a gaggle of toddlers as we walked along the chip trail toward Beacon Drive-In for ice cream and a bite to eat. The diner is accessible for wheels and walking, with ordering windows outside and inside for quaint convenience. Although furry friends must park themselves on the sidewalk, the patio is partially covered with nice shade to dine. We ordered burgers, drinks and their famous soft serve ice cream, spending a total of $50 for a family of four. Skip the burgers, and $20 should cover it.
The Beacon Hill Children’s Farm was our next stop; it’s entry by donation. The suggested amount for us was $26, but give what you can. This spot is most popular for their goats, with stampedes each morning and evening at specified times. The kids enjoyed brushing the goats, with many folks sitting on the ground with a goat in their lap! Chickens, turkeys, pigs, donkeys, alpacas, guinea pigs, birds and doves are also there to view.
Parking: 3.5 hours free; lot inside the park off Douglas Street.
Suggested Budget: $20 for family ice cream or Children’s Farm, or pack a picnic and enjoy the park for $0.
Next Stop – Mile Zero
Leave your car at Beacon Hill Park and head to Mile Zero at the intersection of Douglas Street and Dallas Road. A popular spot for tourist photos with the iconic sign marking the start of the Trans Canada Highway, and what would have been Terry Fox’s destination in his cross-Canada Marathon of Hope. Carry on across the street and meander the path along Dallas Road with expansive ocean views.
Suggested Budget: $0
Next Stop – Ogden Point Breakwater
This accessible walkway above the ocean is a beautiful, breezy stroll to the lighthouse. Just over 760 metres long, getting those steps in, along with the joggers who frequent the hotspot, is no problem. Beautiful Coast Salish artwork accents the concrete structure, small waves jump up each side, and brave fishing folks dot along the lower shelf for the catch of the day. Capture the moment with a beautiful photo from the walkway or the shore.
Parking: 3.5 hours free on Dallas Road.
Suggested Budget: $0
Final Stop – Fisherman’s Wharf & Inner Harbour
Vibrant coloured homes, restaurants and businesses draw the eye to Fisherman’s Wharf in James Bay off Dallas Road. A great place to refuel, the floating wharf boasts many foods and sweet treats, among storefronts offering adventure tours in whale watching and kayaking. Stroll the wharf to see the float homes bobbing in the water, and watch float planes land and take off. Wishing to sail? Board a water taxi and see some of the stops in the harbour for an additional cost. You’ll also find a small playground and fish market across the street, along with Dino Labs for those who love fossils!
Suggested Budget: $20
Parking: 90 minutes free on Dallas Road.
Subjective investigative conclusion: we had a great time, even on a budget!
