Within downtown Victoria, there are many distinct areas. Neighbouring businesses are known to collaborate, increasing visibility, vibrancy, and traffic. To support this, we offer District Grants for start-up, infrastructure, and marketing. To date, five groups of businesses have created districts through our program.

JOHNSON STREET

Johnson Street includes one of the highest concentrations of independent boutiques in Canada, several world-class hair salons, and specialty shops, all situated along the colourful façade of impeccably maintained heritage buildings.

The street’s history dates back to early Victoria, and includes Market Square, a unique open-air downtown shopping centre. Lower Johnson Street, also known as Lojo, extends west from Broad Street down to Wharf Street. It is the epicentre of Victoria’s fashion scene for all genders and is the place to go for unique and stunning styles.

Photo Credit: Colin Smith

FABULOUS FORT

Food, fashion, footwear, flowers, fun, and so much more….on Fabulous Fort. This once “Antique Row” has evolved into a hotbed of fantastic international eateries including Mexican, Japanese, Vietnamese, Italian—are you hungry yet?

Fort Street is the home to local independent gift, eco and book stores to gorgeous bakeries, chocolateries and professional services, and is also proud to be one of the focal points for tech in downtown Victoria. To find out more about Fabulous Fort, visit https://www.facebook.com/FabulousFort.

BASTION SQUARE

Bastion Square is a lively and historic gathering place overlooking the beautiful Inner Harbour. Populated by restaurants, cafes, pubs, and buskers, this square is a hub of activity year-round.

In the summer months, its many outdoor patios, a seasonal artisan market, and the public market make it ideal for taking in downtown Victoria’s social and energetic character. Find out more about Bastion Square at www.BastionSquare.ca.

Photo Credit: Colin Smith

GOVERNMENT STREET

The Heart and Soul of Victoria

Government Street is the most recognizable street in Victoria, and certainly one of the most charming. The historical architecture, tree-lined sidewalks, and world-renowned jewelry, clothing, chocolates, gelato, souvenir shops bring visitors from all over the world.

Whether you seek a beautiful book at Munroe’s, or a pint at a Scottish or Irish pub, local indigenous art, a trendy cafe, perhaps a cigar, Government Street’s got you covered.

FOOD-ECO DISTRICT

The Food Eco District (FED) is both a district and an organization that celebrate local food and sustainability. Found in the heart of downtown Victoria, FED is located within the borders of Johnson and Broughton, between Quadra and Douglas streets. It is the go-to destination for sustainable food, full of diverse eateries, and a growing number of edible gardens.

Through its certification program, FED helps restaurants reduce their environmental footprint. Founded by a group of local restauranteurs in 2013, FED now includes 15 sustainable dining destinations in Victoria. Participating restaurants within our Downtown Victoria core are:

  • Agrius
  • Dak
  • Dutch Bakery
  • Fishook
  • Foo Asian Street Food
  • Habit Coffee
  • Tacofino
  • The Livet
  • The Very Good Butchers
  • Yalla
  • Zambri’s

FED is all about planting food, eating local, and growing a movement.

To find out more visit: www.get-fed.ca

SECRETS OF THE CITY

Want to discover the mysterious secrets that are part of the city’s hidden history?
Check out these self-guided historic tour maps of the downtown districts.

DVBA

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest events and more!

  200-764 Yates Street, Victoria BC

  250-386-2238

  info@downtownvictoria.ca

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest events and more!

DVBA

  200-764 Yates Street, Victoria BC

  250-386-2238

  info@downtownvictoria.ca