Step Into the World of Emily Carr: A Guided Walking Tour Through Her Life in James Bay

Discover the vibrant life and legacy of one of Canada’s most iconic artists on this unforgettable 2-hour walking tour through historic James Bay, Victoria — the neighborhood where Emily Carr was born, lived, worked, and died. If you love art, history, or storytelling, this is a journey you won’t want to miss.

Why join us?

Because few artists are as intimately tied to a place as Emily Carr is to Victoria. As we walk the very streets she roamed, you’ll uncover the deep roots that shaped her visionary artwork and bold spirit.

What to Expect: A Walk Through History

We’ll visit 9 remarkable sites, each offering a window into a different chapter of Carr’s extraordinary life — from her childhood home to the places she sketched, taught, built, and wrote about.

Our journey begins at 10:00 AM with a warm welcome and introductions at For Good Measure’s outdoor covered patio. Just a block away is Carr House, a beautifully preserved National Heritage Site where Emily was born.

As we stroll the quiet streets of James Bay, you’ll discover the homes of Emily’s sisters, whose lives and enduring presence profoundly influenced her emotional and creative world.

Stand where Emily stood — at the site of the quirky apartment house she designed and managed. This was more than a building; it was a sanctuary of stories, later immortalized in her bestselling book The House of All Sorts.

Enjoy a peaceful walk through one of Emily’s favorite sketching spots and cross the stone footbridge built in her honor, tucked beneath whispering trees.

From the elegant Helmcken House to the grand Crystal Garden, where Carr gave her famous 1930 “Fresh Seeing” speech (monkey sidekick Woo included!), you’ll hear tales of triumph, struggle, and artistic rebellion.

After a brief rest at the Museum Plaza, we’ll make our way to the Emily Carr Statue in front of the iconic Empress Hotel. There, you’ll learn the fascinating story behind its creation — and why this tribute captures more than just her likeness.

From the statue, we’ll stroll three blocks to the site of her father’s former storefront, a cornerstone of Emily’s childhood and early memories.

Our final stop takes us to the building where Emily Carr spent her final days — a place steeped in history and still touched by her lingering presence in more ways than one.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Emily Carr or new to her story, this tour brings her world
vividly to life.

Bonus: At the end of this walking tour you might want to take a 45 minute guided tour of the interior offered by the Carr House at noon (optional but highly recommended!)

Ready to walk in Emily’s footsteps?

Join us for a journey through the heart of Victoria — and the soul of a remarkable woman whose legacy still paints the West Coast with bold color and spirit.

Limited to 10 participants — reserve your spot today!

Emily Carr Chronicles Guided Walking Tour in Victoria, BC

Emily Carr Chronicles Guided Walking Tour in Victoria, BC

Event Info

Hosted By:

Marilyn Jones

Marilyn Jones

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