Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Discover Canadian and Asian art, serene Japanese gardens with a Shinto shrine, and rotating exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Canadian and Asian art, serene Japanese gardens with a Shinto shrine, and rotating exhibitions.
"A charming, well-curated gallery offering a great escape from the city."
Check for Free Days! :money_with_wings:
The AGGV sometimes offers free admission. Check their website before you go to potentially save on your visit!
Exhibit Rotation Alert :calendar:
Exhibits change often! See what's new on the AGGV website to make sure you don't miss out on current displays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canadian Art Collection
Permanent Collection
Explore a rich collection of Canadian paintings, showcasing the nation's artistic heritage.
Asian Art Treasures
Permanent Collection
Marvel at ancient Asian artifacts, some thousands of years old, offering a glimpse into diverse cultures.
Banksy & Warhol Exhibits
Temporary Exhibitions
Discover iconic works by renowned artists like Banksy and Warhol, often featured in special exhibitions.
Japanese Shinto Shrine & Gardens
Outdoor Gardens
Find tranquility in the serene Japanese gardens, complete with a traditional Shinto shrine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission Days
Exhibit Rotation Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ahhhhhhh the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is free! https://aggv.ca
Check for Free Days! :money_with_wings:
The AGGV sometimes offers free admission. Check their website before you go to potentially save on your visit!
Exhibit Rotation Alert :calendar:
Exhibits change often! See what's new on the AGGV website to make sure you don't miss out on current displays.
"Art Gallery of Greater Victoria: We are so pleased to announce that we have re-opened our doors to the public. To offer the public an opportunity to enjoy time spent with art and to celebrate the re-opening, the AGGV will offer free admission to all visitors until July 5, 2020"
Allow 2-3 Hours :stopwatch:
Plan for a couple of hours to explore the collections and temporary exhibits comfortably.
Don't Miss the Gardens :evergreen_tree:
Take time to wander through the beautiful Japanese gardens and see the Shinto shrine.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Free Days! :money_with_wings:
The AGGV sometimes offers free admission. Check their website before you go to potentially save on your visit!
Exhibit Rotation Alert :calendar:
Exhibits change often! See what's new on the AGGV website to make sure you don't miss out on current displays.
Allow 2-3 Hours :stopwatch:
Plan for a couple of hours to explore the collections and temporary exhibits comfortably.
Don't Miss the Gardens :evergreen_tree:
Take time to wander through the beautiful Japanese gardens and see the Shinto shrine.
Watch the Warhol Doc :movie_camera:
If Banksy and Warhol exhibits are on, don't skip the short documentary on Warhol's Brillo box.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria for its charming, well-curated collections, particularly the Canadian and Asian art. The serene Japanese gardens with a Shinto shrine are a unique highlight, offering a peaceful escape. While some temporary exhibits may not resonate with everyone, the gallery is generally seen as an intimate and worthwhile cultural experience.
"I really liked the permanent exhibits- Canadian paintings and Asian art. A lot of the space is dedicated to a temporary exhibit right now (9/2025) that I did not connect with but others may. That exhibit includes large self-portrait photos of an artist in personally symbolic / eclectic costumes out in nature. There were some cool artifacts from her family that were interesting to read."
Lily Storbeck
"A charming, well curated gallery a little east of downtown in a residential area. Easy for a quick visit (~2 hours) and a great escape from the city. Exhibitions were intimate and excellently presented. They are updated at a quick pace so make sure to return often. Staff were helpful and professional."
Mike S.
"Had some time without the kids and decided to visit. Very well laid out and enjoyed the calm and quiet. Banksy pieces were cool to see. Some of the ancient Asian artifacts were amazing. Thousands of years old and still exist, very fun."
Ben Schmidt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) is located a little east of downtown Victoria, BC, in a residential area. It's easily accessible by car or public transit. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the downtown core, or you can take a local bus route. Parking is generally available nearby.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Street parking is often an option in the surrounding residential area. It's advisable to check the AGGV's official website for any specific parking instructions or recommendations.
Absolutely! The AGGV is well-served by Victoria's public transit system. Several bus routes stop within walking distance of the gallery, making it a convenient option for visitors without a car. Check BC Transit for specific route information.
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a short distance east of downtown Victoria. It's often described as a pleasant walk, taking around 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. You can also reach it quickly by car or bus.
Yes, walking to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria from the Inner Harbour is a popular option. It's a scenic stroll through residential streets and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Enjoy the neighborhood as you make your way to the gallery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) sometimes offers free admission days. It's best to check the official AGGV website for the most current admission fees and any special promotions or free entry periods.
Yes, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has offered free admission in the past, particularly during certain periods or for specific events. Always check the AGGV's official website or social media for announcements regarding free entry days.
The operating hours for the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria can change seasonally or for special events. It's highly recommended to visit the AGGV's official website to confirm their current hours of operation before planning your visit.
While some galleries offer online ticket purchasing, it's best to check the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria's official website for their specific ticketing policy. They may offer online booking or recommend purchasing tickets upon arrival.
Yes, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria features a dynamic rotation of temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collections. These special exhibits often include works by well-known artists and can change frequently.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) showcases a diverse range of art, including permanent collections of Canadian paintings and Asian art. They also host temporary exhibitions that can feature contemporary works, photography, and pieces by renowned artists like Banksy and Warhol. +1
Beyond its art collections, the AGGV boasts beautiful outdoor gardens, including a Japanese Shinto shrine, offering a peaceful retreat. Visitors also appreciate the intimate presentation of exhibitions and the chance to see unique artifacts.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, including its permanent collections and any temporary exhibits. However, you could easily spend longer if you're particularly interested in the art or wish to spend more time in the gardens.
Yes, the AGGV can be a great experience for families. The variety of art, from historical Canadian pieces to potentially engaging temporary exhibits, can spark curiosity. The gardens also offer a pleasant space for children to explore.
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is often described as charming, well-curated, and intimate. Visitors appreciate the calm and quiet atmosphere, making it a great escape from the city bustle and a perfect spot for contemplation.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary for different exhibitions at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed in many areas, but flash photography and tripods are often prohibited. Always look for signage or ask gallery staff for specific rules.
Yes, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria offers several photo opportunities. The Japanese gardens with the Shinto shrine are particularly picturesque. Depending on the temporary exhibits, there might also be visually striking artworks or installations.
The Japanese gardens and the Shinto shrine are prime locations for beautiful photos. Inside, keep an eye out for visually compelling pieces in the permanent collections or any striking temporary exhibitions. The architecture of the gallery itself can also be photogenic.
Typically, flash photography is not permitted inside the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria to protect the artworks. It's always best to check the gallery's specific guidelines or look for posted signs within the exhibition spaces.
Yes, you can generally use your phone camera at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria for personal use, provided flash is off and it doesn't disrupt other visitors. Some special exhibitions might have stricter rules, so always be observant of gallery policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking the AGGV's website for any family-specific programming or activities they might offer. The gallery's relatively intimate size and calm atmosphere make it manageable for families, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable cultural outing. The chance to see unique items, like ancient Asian artifacts or potentially engaging temporary exhibits, can make art accessible and fun for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even when admission is charged, the AGGV offers a rich experience for the price. The combination of permanent collections, rotating temporary exhibits, and the beautiful outdoor gardens means you get a lot of value. It's a great way to immerse yourself in art and culture without a hefty expense, especially if you plan your visit strategically.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Vancouver
Allocate about 2-3 hours to explore the AGGV's diverse collections, including Canadian and Asian art, and any current temporary exhibitions. Don't forget to take a moment to enjoy the tranquil Japanese gardens and Shinto shrine before heading back to catch your ferry or bus. It offers a perfect blend of art and serene nature for a fulfilling day trip experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Beyond the enduring appeal of its permanent holdings, the AGGV is known for its dynamic temporary exhibitions. These rotating displays ensure that each visit can offer something new and exciting. Past exhibitions have included works by globally recognized artists like Banksy and Andy Warhol, drawing significant attention. The gallery's curators are adept at presenting these contemporary pieces alongside historical art, creating engaging dialogues between different eras and styles.
When planning your visit, it's always a good idea to check the AGGV's official website for the current exhibition schedule. This allows you to tailor your visit to your interests and ensure you don't miss any featured artists or themes. The gallery's commitment to showcasing both established masters and emerging talents makes it a vibrant cultural hub.
Tranquil Gardens and Shinto Shrine
Central to the garden's charm is the Japanese Shinto shrine. This authentic structure adds a distinct cultural and spiritual element to the grounds, making the AGGV more than just an art gallery. It's a place where art, nature, and culture converge, offering a multi-faceted experience for visitors. The combination of art and tranquil outdoor spaces is frequently cited as a highlight.
Spending time in the gardens and by the shrine is a recommended part of any visit. It’s an opportunity to appreciate a different facet of the gallery’s offerings and to enjoy the picturesque surroundings. The peaceful ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation after exploring the art collections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit