Victoria is the state capital of British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. But among all the stately Victorian buildings is a surprise. Literally a small surprise. Tucked away underneath the giant – and rather upmarket – Empress Hotel, is Miniature World. Established in 1971, this remarkable museum has been delighting visitors for over 50 years with its intricate miniature displays and whimsical dioramas that bring stories of fact, fiction, and fantasy to life. Billed as “The Greatest Little Show On Earth!” with more than 85 great little attractions. The museum showcases an impressive collection of miniaturized scenes that span various themes and time periods, from historical recreations to fantastical worlds.
As you enter the displays, the first thing you see is ultra modern – it’s a display of life in outer space.
As you pass into the main display areas, you find a huge variety of model worlds from medieval towns to the Knights of the Round Table.
The museum also features the Great Canadian Railway, Canada’s National Wonder of the 1880s and one of the World’s Largest Model Railways. This impressive display celebrates Canada’s railway heritage and the crucial role trains played in connecting the vast country.
Another notable exhibit is the World’s Smallest Operational Sawmill, which showcases the intricate engineering possible in miniature form. 11 years in the making, this exhibit demonstrates the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into creating these tiny worlds. Among the standout attractions are two of the World’s Largest Doll Houses circa 1880 with over 50 rooms beautifully furnished in exquisite detail. These Victorian-era dollhouses represent extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to detail, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century domestic life in miniature form. The intricate detail of some of the townscapes is quite astonishing
Themed Worlds and Experiences
The museum is organized into several themed sections that transport visitors to different realms. See Circus World, Space 2201, Frontier Land, Fantasy Land, King Arthur’s Camelot, Circus World, The Fields of Glory, The World of Dollhouses plus much more. There is even a circus display where miniature performers entertain in elaborate big-top settings. Whether you’re interested in history, craftsmanship, or simply enjoy the wonder of seeing familiar worlds recreated in miniature, Miniature World offers a unique perspective on storytelling through incredibly detailed displays. The museum serves as a testament to human creativity and the enduring appeal of miniature worlds that capture our imagination and transport us to places both real and imagined.
Visitor Information
This attraction is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm but the last admission is at 5:15pm. Admission is CAN$9 for a child and CAN$19 for an adult. It’s located at 649 Humboldt Street on the north side of the Empress Hotel. It’s easy walking distance from the city centre.
