Mikayla-Patricia & Pedro
Be Our Guest (in Victoria!)
Murchie's Fine Tea & Coffee - Victoria
If there’s one place in Victoria that feels especially ours, it’s Murchie’s. Founded in 1894 by John Murchie—who once blended teas for Queen Victoria herself—this café and tea shop has been a gathering place for generations. For us, it’s more than a historic landmark: it’s our favourite place in the city to slow down, share a coffee, and split a pastry (or two). Whether it’s a casual weekday date or a cozy catch-up after a walk downtown, Murchie’s has been a sweet constant in our story together.
Butchart Gardens
Over a century ago, Jennie Butchart transformed an abandoned limestone quarry into what is now one of the world’s most celebrated gardens. Today, Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site of Canada, visited by over a million people each year and even honored with a floral display inspired by it at EPCOT in Walt Disney World. With 55 acres of blooms, from the dramatic Sunken Garden to the dreamy Rose Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden, it feels like stepping into a living fairytale. Whether by day among the flowers or in summer evenings under twinkling lights, it’s a must-see piece of Victoria’s history and beauty.
Dominion Astrophysical Observatory "The Centre of the Universe"
When it opened in 1918, the Plaskett Telescope was the largest in the world, placing Victoria on the global map of astronomy. Perched high on Observatory Hill, the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory has welcomed scientists and dreamers alike for over a century. Today, the Centre of the Universe offers exhibits, galleries, and public “star parties,” where visitors can peer through telescopes and marvel at the same skies astronomers have studied for generations. For us, this spot feels extra special—we both love stargazing, and with it being so close to Mikayla’s home, she’s spent many nights here looking up at the stars. Now, it’s become one of our favourite places to share a quiet, wonder-filled evening together.
Fairmont Empress
Opened in 1908, The Empress is the jewel of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Designed by Francis Rattenbury, the same architect behind the BC Legislature, this ivy-draped, turreted hotel looks straight out of a fairytale castle. Over the years it has hosted kings, queens, and movie stars, but today it welcomes anyone who wants to step into Edwardian elegance. Its most magical tradition is Afternoon Tea, a ritual that has charmed guests for more than 115 years—think fine china, warm scones, and harbour views that sparkle like a Disney ballroom scene. Even if you don’t stay overnight, stop in for Afternoon Tea or a cocktail in the lounge—walking through its grand halls feels like being whisked into another world.
Beacon Hill Children's Farm
If you (or your guests) are longing for some whimsical interaction with animals, this little farm tucked inside Beacon Hill Park is a gem. Think goats, ducks, pigs, chickens, maybe some mini-donkeys — all easy to reach, hands-on, and heartwarming. Plus the surroundings are lush gardens, ocean views, peacocks wandering, and plenty of space to roam
Craigdarroch Castle
Imagine stepping into a Victorian fairytale: this grand mansion was built by Robert Dunsmuir between 1887–1890, meant to show off his success, and sits perched on a hill overlooking Victoria. You’ll wander through rooms filled with rich woodwork, beautiful stained glass, and elegant period furnishings — all restored so the past glimmers alive
Hatley Castle
If Hatley Castle looks familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen it on screen—it’s been a filming location for countless movies and shows, most famously serving as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men films. But beyond Hollywood magic, this castle has its own rich history. Built in 1908 by coal baron James Dunsmuir (yes, the same family behind Craigdarroch Castle), it was once a grand private residence before becoming a military college and, today, part of Royal Roads University. With its ivy-covered stone walls, sweeping gardens, and ocean views, Hatley feels like the perfect mix of real-life fairytale and superhero hideout. It’s one of our favourite spots to wander, especially knowing it ties together our love of history and our nerdy side.
