If you had one day in Victoria (8 hours), what would you see? We are going to be in Seattle for a few days in September and have planned to take a day trip to Victoria via the Victoria Clipper. Any hints?

I like two main attractions in Victoria:
The BC provincial museum near the harbor and Butchart Gardens.

The museum is smaller than some of the European giants, but it is very well done, very seeable, and one of those places that impresses me as being well thought out.

Butchart Gardens are special. They are in a class by themselves. I am not a garden person, but that establishment comes close to making me into a convert!
(I think plural pronouns, verbs and adjectives are appropriate here because Butchart is not just one garden. There are many in different gardens within the same set of walls. Regardless, I have been there 3 times and I think I could stand a 4th visit without much trouble.

While near the museum I would also add a walk through the Empress Hotel and up Wharf or Goverment St. If time allows, take a little harbour ferry.

The 45 minute Parliament tour is fascinating and offers a rich glimpse into Victoria's inner workings. If you're interested in something like that, check with the Parliament building when you first arrive to see what times the tours are offered. As I recall they shut down early on certain days.

Enjoy your time in Victoria!

AL

well you must go for "high tea" somewhere. The Empress of course is very elegant and expensive - locals go to "The Blethering Place"

another place for high tea that the locals go is "The White Heather"
Its about a block away from the Blethering Place"

High Tea at Butchart's is the best!