History of the Buildings
This 5.9 hectares property has served as a site of government in British Columbia since 1864. The original structures, known as the Birdcages, were built to house the elected assembly for the Colony of Vancouver Island and continued to be used by the Legislative Assembly after British Columbia became a Province of Canada in 1871. The current Parliament Buildings, designed by the architect Francis Rattenbury, were officially opened on February 10, 1898.
Take a Tour
Free guided tours are available throughout the year. Come to discover the history of the province, the architectural splendor of our cherished heritage building and learn about British Columbia's parliamentary process.
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Observe Debates
Visitors are welcome to observe proceedings from the Public Galleries when the Legislative Assembly is sitting. Please check the Parliamentary Calendar to see if the Legislative Assembly will be sitting on the day of your visit. Visitors can also observe Parliamentary Committee meetings or find out more about public consultations that are underway. Public meetings of Parliamentary Committees are listed in the Committee Meeting Calendar.
Dine at the Parliamentary Dining Room
We are thrilled to announce that in conjunction with all public health guidelines, our seated dining services resume beginning Tuesday, October 20, 2020. Reservations can be made at 250-387-3959. You may also enjoy our delicious cuisine through our curbside take out service. For more information, please visit the Parliamentary Dining Room webpage.
Browse the Parliamentary Gift Shop
Located next to the exit on the first floor of the Parliament Buildings, the Parliamentary Gift Shop offers a variety of souvenir and protocol gifts that are custom made for the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.