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Little boy enjoying the bug zoo in Victoria BC canada

Victoria Bug Zoo: A Unique Experience For Insect-Loving Kids And Adults

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity in British Columbia, we suggest checking out the Victoria Bug Zoo. Tucked into downtown Victoria just steps from the city’s main streets and attractions, this mini zoo allows kids to come face-to-face with some of nature’s most fascinating species of insects, including tropical bugs, dark scorpions, arachnids, and an ant colony.

What Makes the Victoria Bug Zoo So Special?

This isn’t your average museum. The Victoria Bug Zoo specializes in offering up-close interactions with live insects, their staff are dedicated to making that experience unique for all ages. giving both kids and adults the chance to discover the important work these small animals do in ecosystems across the globe.

  • An amazing world of live insects where you can see, hold, or gently touch the bugs. Yes! even a giant walking stick or mantis!

  • You can take a look at a massive leaf-cutter ant colony that’s always bustling with activity.

  • Check out dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and colorful beetles, all thrill without the fear factor.

  • Meet venomous spiders that knowledgeable tour guides interact with and show off.

Spider crawling up its terrarium at the bug zoo

Why Parents Recommend The Bug Zoo?

Parents love that you get an educational experience with a strong focus on insect conservation and helping people rethink their “icky” opinions of our legged relatives.
GoWhee families also recommend to bring a notepad for the kids so they can sketch their favorite bug!

Things to Know Before You Visit With Kids

The entire experience takes about 30–60 minutes, and the bug zoo is open year-round.

The Indoor, climate-controlled, and stroller-friendly. This is the ideal place to come to if you encounter a rainy day or a hot one, too. Be aware that there is no food onsite, but there are tons of dining options within walking distance.

Wheelchair users will be all set since the place is truly ADA. They also offer special hours each day (the first hour in the morning) where everyone has to wear masks to protect immunocompromised visitors.

Tickets start at $CA18 for adults, and kids under 4 are free.

Itinerary For A Day in Victoria

Make it a day-long visit and enjoy other recommendations of kid-friendly activities shared by GoWhee members.

  • Morning: Enjoy the bug zoo in the morning for fewer crowds

  • Lunch: Get a poutine at Beaver Trail

  • Afternoon: Spend a few hours strolling in the Beacon Hill park. In the summer, they often have live music, and you can look for the many art sculptures and other displays throughout the park.

  • Snack: Enjoy a kid-friendly high-tea experience at the Pendray Inn tea house.

  • Evening/Night: Enjoy the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood, with the street food-like atmosphere, houses on tilt, and a cute playground.

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FAQ

Can visitors hold the insects?

Yes, visitors have the opportunity to hold certain insects under the supervision of the staff.

Can I host a birthday party at the Victoria Bug Zoo?

No, the bug zoo doesn’t allow private events, but you can schedule group sessions of 10+ people, with a discount, ahead of time.

Is it scary for younger kids?

Not at all. The experience is designed to be gentle and educational. Kids can choose their level of interaction, and the guides are great at helping little ones feel safe and curious.

Can we take photos inside the Victoria bug zoo?

Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged! Just be respectful of the insects and avoid using flash near sensitive species.

Is there parking near the big zoo?

There is public paid parking a few blocks away, but no parking in front of the bug zoo.

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