Folk festivals, jazz festivals and outdoor symphonies are also popular attractions, as well as numerous concerts by well known artists from across the musical spectrum. A small but lively club scene exists for those who enjoy dancing and late nights, and the animated, ever-expanding caf scene is a favourite among students. Social involvement beyond the University is also a part of the lives of many students. Many environmental organizations are located in Victoria, as well as a variety of other activist and community groups. British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest Regular ferry service connects Vancouver Island to both mainland British Columbia and the United States.
Many students take the occasional weekend jaunt to Vancouver.
By Pacific Coach Lines bus service, travel time from downtown Victoria to downtown Vancouver is approximately three and a half hours. The ferry to Seattle is seasonal, and operates once a day in each direction with a travel time of approximately four and a half hours. It is designed to draw tourists to Victoria, so the schedule is convenient only for longer trips. A passenger-only ferry between Seattle and Victoria operates year round, with a travel time of two and a half hours. British Columbia Ferries Recreation Vancouver Island is known for its varied geography and dramatic natural beauty.