Introduction
The Hillside-Quadra area has over 43 acres of parkland, according to the City of Victoria website. This makes it one of the greenest areas in Victoria. The north border is Tolmie Avenue, to the west is Blanshard Street, Bay Street is to the south and Cook Street is to the east.
Lifestyle
Residents here are generally commuting to other parts of the city for work via the main traffic corridors on its borders. Quadra Village, at the intersection of Quadra and Hillside streets, is the main focal point for business and services. People get to know their neighbours here and spend lots of time outdoors. There’s a strong community feeling for those who want to engage.
Dollars & Sense
The restaurant and coffee prices are typical of Victoria in general, according to their niche, ranging from fast food to slightly upmarket. The large grocery store offers value and a great salad bar. There are several thrift stores that do a brisk business. A variety of housing options with corresponding prices are here.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The area’s parks are a real asset, and often host festivals such as Highland Games and Beer Fest. A fairly new playground in the village is well used by all types of residents. This neighbourhood hosts art studios that offer classes and a non-profit bookstore that offers and receives community support. The diversity of food offerings and cultural mix are a breath of fresh air. There are compassion clinics offering medical marijuana popping up too.
2.0 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Being north-central of downtown, the area’s traffic corridors lead in, out and around the city. It's just minutes to ferries and the bus station. Plenty of residents choose to cycle around, despite the hills. The area is well served by the bus system and the airport is thirty minutes away.
In the Area
Independent, elementary and high schools are just outside this area’s borders. Within it is a French immersion elementary school, a private business, a technical and health care institution and a continuing education school. There is a very active community centre, several parks and playgrounds. The citizens' counselling centre, chiropractic, massage and other health practitioners are located here, as well as many social services and art studios. There’s a walk-in clinic and the hospital is minutes away.
Meet the Neighbours
This is one of the more diverse areas in Victoria in terms of culture. Caribbean, Dutch, Italian, Chinese, Greek and gluten-free restaurants and stores are within its borders, serving this mixed population. Plenty of young families, urban professionals, students and long-term residents live side by side. A corresponding range of socioeconomic status is evident.
The Vibe
This is a mostly residential area. On the main streets are several businesses, but outside of that, there are houses and parks. As such, there is a laid-back attitude, a calmness and settled feeling. People are living their lives and enjoying their families and activities, nothing too unusual or distinguishable. Called an “emerging neighbourhood” by the City of Victoria, it has a sense of movement and growth.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Best of Both Worlds Imports and Design Asian Emporium
This 6,000 square foot warehouse is full of treasures and is a treasure in and of itself. Find furniture, scarves, pillow cases, housewares, sculptures and art from all over Asia.
more infoSummit Park
This beautiful park has fabulous views, Garry oak trees, abundant birdlife, winding paths and rocky outcrops. Bring a picnic and enjoy.
more infoPart and Parcel
One of the newer kids on the block, this restaurant has lineups everyday before 11:30 a.m. when it opens. Ten dollars gets you a fresh and delicious local sandwich with multiple taste sensations and the restaurant offers sustainable seafood and ethically raised meats. Beef tongue, anyone?
more infoCaffe Fantastico
This is a very popular roastery, gallery, coffee shop and homebase of a Victoria multi-location business. Recently they acquired the neighbouring laundromat.
more infoDance Victoria
Classes, workshops, studio rentals, creative residencies, mentoring and more, this hub of activity has been a Victoria staple since 1997. Also a popular location for public dances.
more infoThe Roxy Theatre
One of Victoria’s oldest theatres, this building was recently taken over by a non-profit theatre society and converted from exclusively showing films to showcasing a combination of film and live productions.
more info