bc leg tours

THE PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS

Along with the Empress Hotel, the Parliament Buildings dominate the scenery in downtown Victoria.

Victoria is the capital of the Province of British Columbia and is home to the Legislative

Legislative Chamber

Assembly of British Columbia.

The Neo-baroque buildings face north on Belleville street facing the Inner Harbour and diagonally across from The Empress Hotel. A statue of Queen Victoria stands on the front lawn as well a statue of a soldier to commemorate the province’s World War I, World War II and Korean War dead. Atop the central dome is a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver.

This 12 ½ acre property has served as a site of government in British Columbia since 1864. The original structures, known as the Birdcages, were built to house the elected assembly for the Colony of Vancouver Island and continued to be used by the Legislative Assembly after British Columbia became a Province of Canada in 1871. The current Parliament Buildings were officially opened on February 10, 1898.

The Rotunda

The grand scale of its 500-ft (152-m) long andesite façade, central dome and two end pavilions, the richness of its white marble, and combination of Baroque rigorous symmetry, use of domes and sculptural massing with the rusticated surfaces of the currently popular Romanesque Revival style contributed to its being an innovative and impressive monument for the young province.

Its success garnered Rattenbury many more commissions in Victoria and other parts of the province, including the Legislative Library (constructed between 1913-1915 and the cornerstone of which was laid by Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught), the design of the Empress Hotel, the Crystal Gardens indoor swimming pool nearby, and the Vancouver Court House (now the Vancouver Art Gallery).

Free guided tours are available throughout the year. Come to ??discover the history of the province, the architectural splendor of our cherished heritage building and learn about British Columbia’s parliamentary process.

Tour Information:

Hours of operation:.

Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, for guided and self-guided tours.

Closed on weekends and holidays.

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR UP-DATED INFO!

Please contact the Parliamentary Tour Office at 250-387-3046 or [email protected]? closer to the date of your visit for up-to-date schedule information.

Tour Length

Tours last approximately 30 – 45 minutes?

All tours are free of charge.

Group Bookings

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Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

Parliamentary Play and Tour

Looking for a new and exciting way to connect kids with Parliament? Sign your class up for  The Parliamentary Play and Tour for Schools , an interactive new program that includes a guided tour of the parliament buildings and a travelling historical play on the grounds. 

The program runs from May 22 to the end of June, 2023.

Program Information:

The Parliamentary Play and Tour for Schools  begins at the rear library steps. From there, the group will join a performance of  My Place in Politics.  This interactive, child-friendly travelling play that whisks audiences back in time, to 1947. They will meet suffragists, students, and the participants of the Chocolate Bar strike, who will teach them about different ways that Canadians have advocated for change in the past. Then, the group will enter the buildings for a guided tour that focuses on how change is made at the Parliament Buildings today. 

While  The Parliamentary Play and Tour for Schools  is fun for all grades, it has been designed with the Grade 5 and 6 social studies curricula in mind. The play focuses on participation and representation in Canada's systems of government and how groups developed a plan of action to address issues like discrimination, inequality, and the fight for human rights. It can also be modified to fit the Grade 10 Social Studies Curriculum.

Guided Tours

Bring your class for a free guided tour of the B.C. Parliament Buildings. Guided tours provide an overview of the history of the Parliament Buildings and the role of the Legislative Assembly. 

Virtual Classroom

The new  Virtual Classroom  program provides students with an opportunity to learn about the Legislative Assembly in a fun and engaging way from the comfort of their home computers or classroom. ​The interactive presentation is hosted by one of our Legislative Guides and includes lots of fun stories and many interesting photos of the Parliament Buildings from the time of its construction up to today. Students will learn about the key people who work in the Legislative Assembly, how a bill becomes a law, and the important symbols of the Legislative Assembly.​ 

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Public tours at the BC Legislature: guided or craft your own

A tourist-style experience for everyone's bucket list! | Thanks to tour guide Lucesta on August 1 for this tour experience!

Friday August 4, 2023 | VICTORIA, BC [Updated 2:35 pm]

by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends

The guided tours are free , and for history buffs the information is fascinating on public tours of the BC Parliament Buildings.

The acoustics to hear the tour guide are a bit rough in the echo-chamber of the main floor and second floor open areas of the historic building. But it works.

History about the architecture, items on display and who has visited in these hallowed spaces is interesting. The information is text-book classic which probably suits a very broad audience of whoever just happens to show up for each of the tours that run daily, Monday-Friday, during the summer.

Tours start every 30 minutes but last about 40 minutes, so there is overlap. Just arriving at the front door of the main building is all you need to do, as well as go through a security check walk-through (much like at the airport).

The BC Parliament Buildings guided tour schedule is posted online.

There are also self-guided tours of this building which is the seat of democracy in British Columbia. The self-guided format gives a bit more flexibility to see more of the building. The guided tours do not go further than the main entry areas (and floor above that). The tour does not include the hallways of working offices, the press gallery area or press theatre, dining room, or venture out to the rose garden.

People in attendance at one of the morning guided public tours on August 1 were of all ages — from infants in strollers to young adults to older folks. Sometimes they had questions — most of them at the doors to the Legislative Assembly (where the acoustics were better) — most primarily it was an opportunity to absorb the ambiance of the spaces and take in information from static and text-oriented displays.

There is one slide-show on repeat about King Charles III’s visits to Victoria and BC, and mention of how Queen Elizabeth II “stood right here” at the window installed in honour of Golden Jubilee in 2002.

Legislative Assembly:

During tours, the public gets to peer into the BC Legislative Assembly chamber, which is located on the second floor of the building.

The seating in the chamber has recently been revised in preparation for more MLAs in 2024 — from 87 up to 93 (the October 2024 election will have six more ridings as the BC population grows and more constituencies are carved out).

It was explained how in the third-floor gallery the public may visit quietly in seats provided there (following a security check). The press gallery is also on the third level above and behind the speaker’s chair.

Tour guides are hired for the summer and get a bit of training before and through the summer, picking up more information as they go. There’s a lot to know and explain when folks on the tour have questions!

Guided tours:

Public tour times are determined based on school and group bookings, as well as events taking place inside the Parliament Buildings.

About 11 to 14 guided tours are conducted daily, generally starting every half-hour between 9 am and 4:30 pm.

Tours are delivered in English but also available in French and Mandarin (dates and times for those are posted on the Public Tours Page ).

Outside the building as a pre-entry greeting station there is a government staffer and at least one tour guide, at a little booth with awning for the sun. There is construction on the building grounds this year, so there is some directional signage for where the tours start.

BC Day long weekend:

This BC Day long weekend only (Saturday through Monday, August 5 through 7, 2023) there are guided tours only. 

Visitors must join a free guided tour to enter the Parliament Buildings on weekends and holidays. Free tickets are distributed on the driveway on a first-come, first-served basis. Tours are offered frequently throughout the day. 

Self-Guided Tours:

Self-guided tour books are available in a variety of languages at the Tour Desk or can be downloaded below:

• Interior  (Available in  a variety of languages ) 
• Exterior  (Available in   English  and  French)

Stairs or elevator:

The tours take place over two floors. Folks who don’t wish to take the stairs may use the elevators.

Photo-taking allowed:

The BC Parliament Buildings are a public space. Photo-taking is allowed on tours. Many folks were taking selfies, or closeups of things they wanted to re-explore later.

Dining room and gift shop:

The  Parliamentary Dining Room  is open from Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch. Reservations are recommended: 250-387-3959. 

​Located next to the exit on the first floor, the  Parliamentary Gift Shop  offers a variety of gifts that are custom made for the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.

On everyone’s bucket list:

Whether you’ve lived in Victoria all your life or you’re new to this south Vancouver Island region — or it’s just been a while since you’ve been there — these public tours are something for everyone’s bucket list — BC citizens and tourists alike.

A lot of the info seen or heard on the tour can be found on the BC Legislative Assembly website , but as with many things in life that’s never quite the same as being there in person.

===== RELATED:

• Two new MLAs sworn in at BC Legislature (July 28, 2023)
• Press gallery renovation in summer 2023 (May 11, 2023)
• Three provincial electoral areas for west shore and six new MLA seats for 2024 election (April 17, 2023)
• Stay-the-course BC Throne Speech delivered with Premier Eby away in Ottawa (Feb 6, 2023)

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The Free Walking Tour of Victoria

Overview of the tour in Victoria

This 2.5-hour Victoria Free Walking Tour will connect you to the city through the eyes of a local guide. Together we will walk through the city, experiencing the stories that connect Victoria to the province, and the country of Canada. We will meet local legends and discover the many notable establishments along the way. The tour is filled with recommendations & tips to ensure you get the most out of your trip to the city! Your Free Walking Tour of Victoria starts in the Inner Harbor, outside the BC Legislature Building next to the Victoria Cenotaph. The tour ends roughly 1km walk from the start location, at the popular event space in Centennial Square. Navigating through the downtown core of Victoria is done at a leisurely pace, and many notable sites will be introduced. Toonie Tours Victoria is excited and humbled to lead the way and connect you to the past, present and future in an authentic and engaging way.

This activity includes:

• Rogers' Chocolates
• Dragon Alley
• Centennial Square
• Fan Tan Alley

Victoria Cenotaph

• Waddington Alley
• Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
• Hotel Fairmont Empress
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Statue
• Victoria’s Chinatown
• Bastion Square
• Inner Harbour Centre
• English-speaking guide

Meeting point

MEETING POINT: at the Victoria Cenotaph - outside the BC Legislature Building on the corner of Belleville and Government St. Please find your guide with the RED UMBRELLA that reads TOONIE TOURS. Please introduce yourself upon arrival so that the guide has you accounted for.

Things to note

The Free Tour is a tips-based tour that allows our customers to experience one of the greatest values we share as Canadians, freedom. Customers have the freedom to determine the price of the tour based on their experience and budget.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Victoria Free Walking Tour

The best introduction to victoria for any budget.

Gratuity-based 

Tour Capacity

Tour Details

3 km / 1.5 mile walk

Meeting Location

Victoria Cenotaph by the B.C Parliament Buildings. Your guide will be holding a red umbrella

Important Notes

• Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, and if nature calls, head below the Visitor’s Centre, past the Prince of Whales sales desk for restrooms
• Our tour is wheelchair-friendly, but be ready for some alternative routes
• The tour is best enjoyed by those who are comfortable with extended periods of walking and standing.
• We love to welcome walk-ins if we have space, so feel free to drop by! But for a guaranteed spot and smoother planning, we recommend booking online.  Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate school groups or large parties on this tour, but we’d love to arrange a private tour just for you.
• Instant Confirmation
• Email & Mobile Tickets Accepted
• Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Inner Harbor!
• Marvel at the magnificent BC Legislature Building
• Take in the timeless beauty of the elegant Empress Hotel
• Uncover the hidden gems of Bastion Square, the heart of Boomtown
• Discover the magic of Fan Tan and Dragon Alley in the oldest Chinatown in Canada

What’s Included

• A friendly, local English-speaking guide brimming with passion for Victoria’s rich history.
• A once-in-a-lifetime experience with your awesome fellow guests—something you’ll cherish forever.
• Personal recommendations for the best food, entertainment, and nightlife.
• Exclusive discounts on must-do experiences!

What to Bring

• Cash or credit card to tip your guide ($30/person tells your guide you had an excellent experience!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Secured camera
• Appropriate clothing/umbrella for the always-changing weather
• Your sense of adventure!

Important...

While we do accept walk-up participants, our tours regularly sell out. To get your preferred tour and to avoid missing out, we highly recommend booking as soon as possible.

Victoria Free Walking Tour - Overview

Embark on a genuine exploration of Victoria with Toonie Tours, where our Free Walking Tour isn’t your typical sightseeing venture—it’s an immersive invitation into the heart of the city. From stunning scenic views to captivating history and vibrant culture, we capture all that makes Victoria special. As you stroll through the city with your friendly, local guide, you’re not just an observer; you’re part of Victoria’s ongoing story!

Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family on vacation, or a local rediscovering your city’s charm, Toonie Tours promises a Victoria experience like no other. With resonant stories, captivating moments, and a personal touch, this journey is one you’ll remember.

Come join us, and let the streets of Victoria unveil their tales, one step at a time, and always in good company.

Get the Lay of the Land

Welcome to the city! Our tour is the ideal way to kick off your first day, helping you get acquainted with must-see neighborhoods and points of interest. Let’s make sure you start your exploration on the perfect note.

Explore with Good Company

We believe that meeting new people is one of the most exciting aspects of travel. Our tour brings together a wonderfully diverse group—from locals to travelers, those with different budgets, and people from all corners of the world. Join us and become a part of this vibrant tapestry of diversity and fun!

Friendly, Passionate, Award-Winning Guides

We know that we have the best of the best taking you out on tour. Our tips-based model rewards and retains the best performing guides in the industry. Come see for yourself!

Personalized Recommendations & Travel Tips

Our friendly, local guides are bursting with awesome suggestions to amp up your trip, and they’re excited to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to pick their brains and let the adventure begin!

Affordable On Any Budget

Guess what? You’re in control! With our tips-based tour, you get to decide the price for your awesome experience. Whether you’re on a budget or throwing around bills like confetti, we appreciate your gratuities, big or small.

Pressed for Time? We’ve Got You Covered

Dive right into the ultimate city experience with our 2.5 hour tour—jam-packed with all the highlights to give you the most bang for your buck. Let’s make the most of your time and create some fantastic memories together.

Why Toonie Tours

Unbeatable value, always..

Your time and money are valuable, especially while traveling. We totally get that. That's why we're your go-to choice for tours. Join our risk-free, Free Walking Tour where you get to decide the price for your awesome experience that’s jam-packed with captivating information, beautiful sights, and local tips delivered by one of our top-notch guides. They're real pros, perfecting their craft daily, fueled by real feedback from awesome folks like you who appreciate the value of tips-based experiences.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Julia, Tripadvisor

“We had a great tour experience with our tour guide Forrest! He gave us history, facts, photos, sites, and scary stories that my husband still talks about to this day. The walk was easy and went by super quickly! Thank you Forrest and Toonie Tours!”

Laura, Google

“We had an AWESOME tour of Victoria today with our guide Sarah! She was funny, knowledgeable and fantastically friendly. We learnt a tonne of info we would've completely missed otherwise, and she was completely open to all questions. We had a blast, and will definitely look out for more of these tours as we travel to more cities. Thank you for a brilliant experience!”

Safaria, Tripadvisor

“Stephen was brimming with knowledge and enthusiasm about beautiful historic Victoria. He made everyone on our tour - there were nine of us -- feel welcome and special. We made at least thirteen stops to everything from hidden gems to grand architecture to charming alleys, and throughout he built up a nail-biting story from Victoria's past (complete with photo aids) revealing it all once we arrived at the gorgeous market square. The tour was so well -organized and planned. I'd do it again!”

Angiel, Tripadvisor

“Great walking tour of Victoria with Nathan. Made extra effort to get the group to make friends. The tour was relaxed and informative and gave us a good orientation of the city. Thank you for introducing us to the city.”

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Toured Over 35,000 World-Wide Friends Since 2018

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Frequently Asked Questions

Look for the red umbrella around the tour start location. If you don’t see it from there, unfortunately we’re not able to connect you with your guide once the tour has departed.

Yes! We accept cash, credit cards, and all foreign currencies. Alternatively, you may send a paypal or e-transfer to [email protected] with a note for which guide it’s for. Thank you!

Yes! However, please note that there will be sections where stairs are required.

Parking can be found at Beacon Hill Park for free! Please note it is a 10-15 min walk to the start location.

Yes! There are ATMs at our midway stop and final stop.

Gratuity-based (recommended tip is $30/person)

Make it Private!

• Private Tour for up to 32 people/guide
• Starting at US$219

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US$94 - US$99

US$89 - $US99

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Victoria Private City Tour

1 - 8 Hours

1 - 32 per guide

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