Happy hour in Victoria, BC

For years, BC’s liquor laws didn’t allow happy hours, but that all changed in 2014. With new minimum drink prices in place, bars and restaurants in Victoria are now free to offer deals throughout the day. Here are a few places that have really taken advantage of the changes, with food and drink specials that’ll keep you happy for longer than an hour.

There's something about hotel bars that makes it easy to imagine you’re in a distant land, even if you’ve only traveled a few blocks. Victoria has plenty of these establishments – from the elegant Bengal Lounge to the honky-tonk Big Bad John’s, there’s a hotel bar for every taste.

Victoria earned the unofficial title of Canada’s craft beer capital in 1984, when archaic BC liquor laws were overturned, allowing Spinnakers to become the country’s first brewpub. It was once illegal to serve beer in the same building where it was brewed, but thankfully this is no longer the case. With quality brewpubs and plenty of local taps, Victoria is the place for microbrew aficionados to raise a pint.

Whether it’s a classic martini or an artisanal craft cocktail you’re after, Victoria’s rapidly growing mixology scene has you covered. Check out these local bars for an extraordinary libation or two.

Boasting the longest patio season of any Canadian city, Victoria has no shortage of scenic waterfront patios. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, pub grub or a slushy cocktail, there’s an outdoor patio for you. Pick one, pull up a chair and watch the world go by.

From the Okanagan vineyards of B.C. to the rolling hills of France, sip your way around the wine regions of the world at these local hot spots. Whether it’s Chardonnay or Pinot Noir that you prefer, you’re sure to find a wine that you won’t soon forget.