Victoria's Guide to Shopping Locally
Any time is a good time to support local businesses, and Victoria makes it easy with an abundance of choice. There are so many shops and markets to explore — from the sensual delights of Chinatown to the charming independent boutiques of Lower Johnson Street.
Lower Johnson Street (LoJo)
LoJo is the place to go for trendy boutique shopping in a picture-perfect setting. Also known as the epicentre of fashion, LoJo is lined with independent fashion and accessory shops. One which can't be missed is ANIÁN, a circular fashion company that gives new life to salvaged textiles in the form of hip west-coast chic fashion.
ANIÁN
Market Square
Market Square itself dates from the 1880s and was built while Victoria was a raucous boom town. The square once housed the hotels, saloons and shops where sailors, miners and Chinese merchants worked and played. Market Square is still full of action but is now home to tamer affairs — including several major events each year. While you're there, be sure to stop by Whistle Buoy Brewing and enjoy a pint of some of the Island's finest craft beer. Whistle Buoy's great selection of ever rotating craft brews and, of course, great selection of brewery swag make for great gifts for the beer lover on your list.
Government Street
Running along the Inner Harbour and straight through the core of downtown Victoria, Government Street is a fantastic place to enjoy shopping and while taking in some of Victoria’s iconic architecture.
You’re sure to find the perfect souvenir (and something for yourself) at Artina’s Jewellery, which offers the world’s largest selection of Canadian hand-crafted jewellery. Keep an eye out for nearby Merchant Quarters General Store which features a curated selection of goods from over 200 renowned brands. Then make your way to Puzzle Lab, whose one-of-a-kind, locally crafted puzzles are sure to bring the family together for hours of entertainment.
In need of a little energy boost? Treat yourself to a stop at Rogers’ Chocolates for a delightful treat that treats your sweet tooth just right! Looking for a little more pep in your step? Pop by Murchie's Tea & Coffee for a warm drink and snack, then peruse their gift shop for an assortment of tea, coffee, and accessories.
Fort Street
Fabulous Fort Street runs through the heart of downtown and is home to all kinds of shops and eateries. Once known for its auction houses and antiques, it’s now abuzz with independent cafés, delis, bookstores, art galleries, bakeries, tech hubs and yoga studios.
Fuel up for your shopping day by at the Fort Properties block where you’ll find trendy restaurants like Be Love, whose healthy, organic cuisine nourishes the mind, body & soul.
Pick up a sweet treat at the Dutch Bakery & Diner, then be sure to leave yourself ample time to wander through Russell Books, a book-lovers paradise, where you will find shelves stocked from floor to ceiling.
Victoria Public Market
If you’re looking for a unique handcrafted good, be sure to head to the Victoria Public Market at the Hudson. Once home to an iconic department store, now you can enjoy an industrial market feel while shopping a diverse range of handcrafted goods and farm-fresh locally sourced artisan foods.
Local Tip: Visit Wednesday-Sunday to find day vendors offering everything from locally made clothing to fresh vegetables.
Chinatown
Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada and boasts a seriously intriguing past: from the rough and tumble days of the gold rush to whispers of ghosts and gamblers. These days, Fisgard Street is lined with fruit and produce vendors, restaurants and trendy galleries. A popular lunch spot, arrive early to browse the shops before picking up your dim sum order at Don Mee Seafood Restaurant.
Stop by Silk Road Tea for a full tea experience, explore the selection of hand-blended teas at their unique tasting bar before picking out a favourite. Local Tip: You can never go wrong with bestsellers Angelwater (a blend of peppermint and rose petals) or Sour Cherry Green Tea.
No visit to Chinatown is complete without a stroll down Fan Tan Alley. The country’s narrowest street once was home to getaway passes and opium dens. A tad tamer today, you’ll find more than a dozen curiousity shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques.
Shopping Centres
If you’re after a one-stop-shop, head to one of Victoria’s many shopping centres. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, The Bay Centre offers a large variety of clothing and jewellery stores, as well as a large food court.
Located just outside of the downtown core but easily accessible are Mayfair Shopping Centre featuring a number of fashion and unique retailers, and Uptown Centre an outdoor plaza with a mix of international brands and local boutiques.
Whether you're a casual window browser or a seasoned shopaholic, in Victoria you can find antiques, locally-crafted artisan wares, boutique designs and gifts for all your friends and family back home.
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