This historic B.C. city is one of Canada’s ‘most charming’ with Victorian-era buildings to explore

Duncan, B.C. is a small city situated in the heart of Cowichan Valley, with hundreds of historic storefronts, galleries, and bistros to explore – some of which date all the way back to the Victorian era. Considered one of the ‘most charming’ places in Canada, Duncan has a little something for every traveller to enjoy.

About Duncan

Located on the traditional lands of the Cowichan First Nation, the community was first known as the townsite of Alderlea, and later “Duncan’s Crossing.” Prior to its settlement, the Cowichan people lived in Duncan and its surrounding areas for millennia.

Today, Duncan serves as the urban centre of the Valley, with “more to do and see per square foot than any other city,” according to its website. It’s also home to the largest collection of outdoor totems in the world, making it a significant destination for preserved Indigenous history and heritage as the “City of Totems.”

“Downtown Duncan features over 40 beautifully carved totems by Indigenous artists from across Vancouver Island, Canada and as far away as New Zealand,” reads Duncan’s website.

Visitors can explore the totems on a self-guided journey that dives into the stories behind each one, with totem tour maps available for pick-up at the Cowichan Valley Museum.

B.C.’s longest-running farmer’s market

Prefer to hit up a farmer’s market now that warmer months are rolling around? The Duncan Farmers’ Market is the longest-running farmer’s market in B.C., taking place every Saturday year-round. Visitors can peruse over 100 vendors at the market square on Craig St. and down Ingram St.

The market features an array of produce, in-season fruit, honey, eggs, cheese, meat, seafood, fresh flowers, wines, and spirits, as well as specialty items and quirky artisan creations galore.

There’s also a night market that launched in Duncan last summer that is set to return on the third Thursday of each month from June to November. Here, 200 Craig St. transforms into a lively hub of 40+ local vendors, live music, and fun for all ages.

Looking to extend your visit? The nearby Kinsol Trestle is a historic landmark of the Cowichan Valley Trail, considered one of the tallest free-standing trestles in the world, according to the CVRD.

So pack your bags and get ready for an easily do-able road trip to Duncan, which is about a three-hour-drive from Vancouver.

Enjoy your visit!

Duncan

How to get there: Drive three hours and 12 minutes from Vancouver to Duncan via the Trans-Canada Highway.

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