Introduction
These two neighbourhoods in Victoria BC, are often spoken of as one or as “The Hospital District”. What makes it unique is the hospital, and the health care agencies that abound in the area. Jubilee is bordered by Oak Bay Ave. in the south, Foul Bay Rd. and Richmond St. on the east, Bay and Hillside Ave. on the north and Shelbourne St. on the west.
Lifestyle
For those who love shopping, there are attractive boutiques on the edges of the area. There are also ethnic restaurants that are popular. Shopping villages and malls are just outside the borders, leaving room for residents to enjoy the streets and their neighbours. This neighbourhood offers respite for those convalescing, easy access to downtown for young professionals and a lovely setting for raising a family.
Dollars & Sense
Eating out and coffee prices are in the typical range, with chains and independent businesses being competitive. There are higher-end options for shops and eateries closer to Oak Bay. Housing prices are on the more affordable end of the scale for this city.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Most of what exists here is a spin-off from the hospital. Multiple pharmacies and health care agencies, health practices and related shops abound. The location is close enough to the beaches as well as major shopping to serve all residents. Neighbourhood associations tackle issues such as graffiti and recycling, and they participate in local planning.
2.6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
There are plenty of buses both in and out of the area since it is a major traffic corridor. Parking is at a premium so bussing or biking are advised, and there are bike lanes. The highway is about 5km away as is the bus station, along with ferries to the U.S. and float planes.
In the Area
There are two small elementary schools in the area. A middle school and a high school are also right outside the borders. The Royal Jubilee Hospital, BC Cancer Agency, National Institute for the Blind and several other health practices are located here. A few parks and public green spaces are well used and there are some places of worship.
Meet the Neighbours
This area is a mix of senior and families. Homes here are more affordable on the Victoria scale, so younger families often put down roots. There are also single people in the apartments or suites.
The Vibe
There is a buzz of activity on the main streets as people working at or using the health care services travel to and from. Jubilee is also a transit corridor to outlying neighbourhoods, the beaches and parks to the east, University of Victoria and other major destinations. In the evenings, traffic settles down and the streets are quieter.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Wrap and Roll
Wrap and Roll is a pizza, sandwich and Mediterranean shop that is popular with local hospital workers, residents and families. There are fresh, homemade recipes and the shop is allergy-aware.
more infoFern Park
This green space with a recently updated playground is well-used by local residents. Dog walkers mingle with families enjoying the natural surroundings. This park is a quiet haven away from the traffic.
more infoSpirit Garden
A green space since the 60s, this community reclaimed area is a hub for connecting. Volunteer-built and maintained, the garden is enjoyed by dog-walkers and flower lovers of all ages.
more infoDiscovery Coffee
This is a local roaster focusing on quality and ethically sourced beans, featuring local art and vinyl sounds. This company also offers coffee training with their barista trainers.
more infoFriends of Music Society
Located at the Royal Jubilee Hospital's Eric Martin Pavilion, this non-profit charitable society runs programs to build bridges between musicians with and without mental illness. Part of their mandate is to have fun and educate the public about mental illness.
more infoThe Victoria College of Art
The Victoria College of Art is an Independent, non-profit college offering both Fine and Applied Arts Diplomas for 40 years with over 5,000 alumni.
more info