Butchart Gardens
A world-renowned botanical garden, transforming a quarry into a breathtaking floral wonderland with diverse themed gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Butchart Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned botanical garden, transforming a quarry into a breathtaking floral wonderland with diverse themed gardens.
"Heard from friends that this was a "must see" place when visiting Victoria, BC. They were correct."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Garden Map
Essential for navigating the 55-acre property and finding key attractions. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sunken Garden
Central area
A breathtaking former quarry transformed into a vibrant floral masterpiece.
Rose Garden
Near the Italian Garden
A fragrant paradise showcasing a stunning collection of roses in full bloom.
Japanese Garden
Northwest section
A serene escape with tranquil ponds, meticulously sculpted trees, and traditional elements.
Mediterranean Garden
Southwest section
A sun-drenched area featuring drought-tolerant plants and a charming piazza.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Garden Map
Essential for navigating the 55-acre property and finding key attractions. :world_map:
Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada
Butchart Gardens - all the logistics
Consider a Membership
If you plan multiple visits, membership can pay for itself quickly. :moneybag:
Book Afternoon Tea
A delightful experience, often praised for its quality and value. :tea:
Butchart Gardens Summer Fireworks - Any tips?
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Garden Map
Essential for navigating the 55-acre property and finding key attractions. :world_map:
Consider a Membership
If you plan multiple visits, membership can pay for itself quickly. :moneybag:
Book Afternoon Tea
A delightful experience, often praised for its quality and value. :tea:
Visit During Special Events
Summer evenings offer live music and fireworks for an enhanced experience. :fireworks:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Butchart Gardens is overwhelmingly praised as a 'must-see' magical wonderland, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty, meticulous design, and rich history. Many highlight the stunning themed gardens, especially the Sunken Garden, and the exceptional quality of dining options like Afternoon Tea. While generally a positive experience, some visitors note that it can get crowded, making early visits or weekdays preferable.
"Heard from friends that this was a "must see" place when visiting Victoria, BC.
They were correct. The Butchart Gardens are a fantastic, magical wonderland. Pictures can only begin to capture the beauty and creativity of the extensive plantings from all over the world.
The story behind Jennie Butchart's creation of gardens out of a worked out limestone quarry (Portland Cement) which her husband Robert supplied her, is hard to imagine. Throughout the Gardens are historical pictures of the monumental task involved with the creation of this fantasy-land of rare and exotic shrubs, trees, flowers and water features. Also, unique is that the Gardens have stayed within the family for 100+years.
Took tour bus from front of Empress Hotel, for 45 minute ride to front gate. Ride itself was very informative, both ways. Kudos to Driver. BOB.
The Gardens provided a map of entire 55 acre property; which was needed to insure you saw everything, and to find the WC's. Allow yourself at least 2 hours, to leisurely walk around. Another 1-2 if you want to take pictures and relax in the numerous seating areas that dot the trails, and are sometimes almost hidden they are so secluded.
The major attractions are: Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Star Pond, Italian Garden, Piazza, and Mediterranean Garden.
Recommend going early, since when it gets crowded it's hard to move around.
My pictures will illustrate the beauty of Gardens.
A pleasant surprise was the Blue Poppy Restaurant. Bright,clean, fast, and the food was top-notch."
Roger Terry
"It's exactly as advertised: a large and beautifully manicured garden with a centerpiece of a stunning sunken garden. It used to be a quarry and was developed over time into the diamond garden or now is.
It's a wonderful place to go to see the plants, but also to go for a walk that feels like an escape from the every day. There are great shops to find special gifts and souvenirs. The cherry on top is the incredible cafe/tea house where you can get fantastic hot bevvies and delicious food. They have a phenomenal High Tea. My friend has been to it: she gave it very high praise. It costs half of what a high tea at The Empress costs, and according to my friend, the good is way better.
It's a "must-do" again and again in Victoria. In the summer they have an exceptional live music program. They also offer membership, which pays for itself in very few visits. Go!!!"
Donna Cashore
"experience and an absolute must-visit when you’re in Victoria. Just a short drive from downtown, the gardens are a breathtaking showcase of color, design, and nature’s beauty. Every section — from the Sunken Garden to the Rose Garden and Japanese Garden — feels like stepping into a new world, each one more stunning than the last.
What makes it special is the harmony between the landscaping and the natural surroundings. It doesn’t feel overdone — everything is carefully crafted yet respectful of the environment. You can sense the love and care that has gone into maintaining it for over a century.
The walking paths are easy to follow, making it enjoyable for all ages. We especially loved how different viewpoints offer fresh perspectives of the same gardens. Depending on the season, the floral displays change, so it’s a place you could return to again and again.
Pro tip: If you visit in the evening during summer, the illuminated gardens and fireworks shows add a whole new layer of magic."
Manik Gupta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a tour bus, public transit, or drive. The Empress Hotel offers convenient tour bus services that take about 45 minutes. Public bus routes are also available, though they may take longer. Driving offers flexibility, with ample parking on-site.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors arriving by car. It's generally free for garden visitors.
Yes, taxis and rideshare services are readily available in Victoria and can take you directly to the gardens.
Tour buses from downtown Victoria are a popular and informative option. Public transit is also a budget-friendly choice.
The travel time varies: approximately 45 minutes by tour bus, and potentially longer by public transit or if driving during peak traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by season and age. It's best to check the official Butchart Gardens website for the most current pricing information. Memberships are also available for frequent visitors.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the gate, but buying online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to save time and potentially secure your preferred entry slot.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and groups. Check the official website for details on any applicable promotions or group rates.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Butchart Gardens website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for your planned visit date.
Absolutely! Spring is a fantastic time to visit, with daffodils, tulips, and rhododendrons in bloom, and the indoor Spring Prelude garden is a highlight.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden offer iconic and picturesque backdrops. Look for unique perspectives from different viewpoints.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the gardens' beauty.
Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or for commercial shoots. It's advisable to check the garden's photography policy on their website.
The transition from the quarry to the vibrant gardens, the reflection ponds, and the meticulously arranged floral displays are all highly photogenic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Butchart Gardens offers several dining experiences, including the Blue Poppy Restaurant, a cafe, and the renowned Afternoon Tea service.
Yes, the Afternoon Tea is highly praised for its quality and value, often considered better than high tea at The Empress.
Picnicking is generally not permitted within the main garden areas. Dining facilities are available for visitors.
The Blue Poppy Restaurant offers a bright, clean, and fast dining experience with top-notch food, suitable for a pleasant meal.
Dining facilities typically offer a range of options. It's recommended to check menus online or inquire directly with the restaurants for specific dietary accommodations.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours to leisurely explore the 55-acre property. Allow an extra 1-2 hours if you plan to dine or take many photos.
The main pathways are generally well-maintained and accessible. However, some areas might have inclines or uneven terrain. Check with guest services for specific accessibility information.
Key highlights include the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Star Pond, Italian Garden, Piazza, and Mediterranean Garden.
Wi-Fi availability can vary. It's best to check with guest services upon arrival or look for designated Wi-Fi zones.
The gardens were created by Jennie Butchart out of a worked-out limestone quarry, a monumental task that has remained in the family for over 100 years.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Bring a stroller or carrier for very young children, as there's a lot of walking. Pack snacks and drinks, though dining options are available. Consider visiting during the day to allow ample time for exploration before little ones get tired. The gardens are generally safe and well-maintained, making it a stress-free outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save on purchasing them inside the gardens. If you plan to visit multiple times, investigating a membership can offer significant savings over individual ticket purchases.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking the Afternoon Tea service for a special treat, which is highly recommended for its quality and charming atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting History of Butchart Gardens
Over the decades, the gardens expanded to include various themed areas, each reflecting different horticultural styles and inspirations. The Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, and Mediterranean Garden are just a few examples of the diverse landscapes that have been meticulously cultivated. Remarkably, the gardens have remained within the Butchart family for over a century, a testament to their dedication to preserving Jennie's original vision and continuing to innovate.
This rich history adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience. As you wander through the vibrant displays, you're not just seeing beautiful flowers; you're walking through a living piece of history, appreciating the immense effort and love that has gone into creating and maintaining this magical place. The historical photographs displayed throughout the gardens offer a glimpse into the monumental task of its creation, making the visit even more impactful.
Experiencing Butchart Gardens: A Sensory Delight
The landscaping and design are equally impressive. Each themed garden offers a distinct atmosphere, from the serene tranquility of the Japanese Garden with its ponds and meticulously pruned trees, to the grandiosity of the Italian Garden and the sun-drenched charm of the Mediterranean Garden. The walking paths are thoughtfully laid out, guiding visitors through a journey of discovery, with hidden seating areas offering moments of quiet reflection.
Beyond the visual and olfactory delights, the gardens offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. The Blue Poppy Restaurant and Afternoon Tea service provide delightful culinary experiences, often praised for their quality and ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit