Just east of the Legislature is the Royal B.C. Museum, considered to be in the top 10 of the world's museums. Filled with artifacts, dioramas, displays and photographs the museum brings to life the people and the past of British Columbia. One of the must-see exhibits is the First People's Gallery and its incredible recreation of a Haida village. Next to the museum is Thunderbird Park and its 'forest' of totem poles. In the summer you can watch carvers create these masterpieces.
Admission is free.
Behind the Empress is the Crystal Garden and its thousands of exotic plants, birds and mammals. If you aren't into walking, a great way to see the harbor is on one of the many tour boats. Away from the water, Victoria's sightseeing possibilities are endless. The top draw is Butchart Gardens, a short drive out the Patricia Bay Highway. If you're in Victoria in July, the Butchart Gardens' rose garden is a sensory delight.