Miniature World Tours and Activities

Miniature World contains more than 85 dioramas that depict historical, factual, and fantasy scenes in miniature scale. Watch tiny trains chugging along tracks; see a small working sawmill in action; observe a scaled-down circus in full swing; and inspect Lilliputian versions of Camelot and Dickensian London. 

Some tours of Victoria combine free time at Miniature World with stops at family-friendly attractions such as Victoria Bug Zoo and Royal BC Museum. The mini displays are designed to be explored independently, which allows you to linger over the intricate details and admire the artistry. Some exhibits include interactive elements, such as buttons that trigger moving parts, audio, and lighting.

Miniature World is in Downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island, right next to the Inner Harbour and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Walking from Inner Harbour takes about 5 minutes.

Miniature World is busiest during the summer months of May through September. To explore without crowds, arrive for opening (9am) or an hour or so before closing (9pm, mid-May to September; 5pm, October to mid-May). Allow about 60 minutes to explore. 

Miniature World is situated within the Empress Hotel, a historic landmark of Downtown Victoria. Built in the early 20th century, this grand château was one of a series of hotels constructed by Canadian Pacific Hotels to accommodate passengers traveling on Canadian Pacific Railway routes. The opulent hotel, which has played host to royalty such as the Prince of Wales and Queen Elizabeth II, features stained glass, carved wood ceilings, and antique furnishings.