Beacon Hill Park

With its sporting facilities, playgrounds, petting zoo and walking trails spread over more than 200 acres (81 hectares) Beacon Hill Park scores high marks for fun. Take part in a variety of activities or simply relax amid the beautiful surroundings.

A great way to view the park is with a walk along the many paths that pass by well-kept lawns and manicured flowerbeds. Wander through Garry oak meadows filled with large grasslands and native wildflowers. If you are feeling active increase your pace with a jog and use some of the sporting facilities. There are two sports fields, tennis courts, a baseball field and a cricket pitch.

Perfect your golfing skills on the putting green and try your hand at lawn bowling. During the summer cool off with a soaking under the park's two giant watering cans.

Visit the Beacon Hill Children's Farm, a petting zoo that's home to goats, llamas, chickens and rabbits among other animals.

Watch ducks glide across the pond and see if there is a show on at the Cameron Bandshell, also known as the Stage in the Park. The shell-covered stage is closed during winter but in summer there are lots of free events including choral recitals, dance performances and band concerts. Watch from one of the benches or roll out your rug on the surrounding grassy areas and picnic while you're being entertained.

Get around to some of the park's other attractions including the rose garden and the Beacon Hill Story Pole. This 128-feet (39-meter) totem pole is one of the tallest in the world.

Located in downtown Victoria, Beacon Hill Park is easy to get to by public transportation, car and on foot. The green expanse is a short walk from Victoria’s Inner Harbor and the Museum of Natural History. If you’re driving, there are spaces in nearby streets where you can park for a fee .

Beacon Hill Park is open daily but some attractions such as the zoo are seasonal. Go to the park’s official website for more information.