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Home » Recent posts » We had the best day at Butchart Gardens! Here’s what we did!

We had the best day at Butchart Gardens! Here’s what we did!

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Look, if you simply can’t get enough gardens, you’ve got to go here. The place literally has six gardens to explore, where you can easily spend a full day wowing to yourself and sniffing the vibrant array of flowers and plants.

From enchanting hidden corners to grand, meticulously maintained displays, you can consider this your ultimate guide to exploring Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island. Get ready to be inspired by the beauty that awaits! 

Best Time to Go to Butchart Gardens

The best time to go to the Butchart Gardens is early in the morning or during late afternoon hours. As for the season, it’s a great place to visit year-round, with each season offering its own floral wonders and unique charm.

July and August mark peak season, with paths often congested between 11am and 3pm.

Things to Know about Butchart Gardens

Admission

Online tickets grant entry at any time during open hours, except during the Christmas Season, which requires a Timed Entrance Ticket. 

The time on your ticket indicates when The Gardens open, and you’re welcome to arrive anytime during operating hours.

Parking

The car parking lot is conveniently located within the gardens, with the Mediterranean Gardens adjacent to it. 

Parking is free and available for cars, bicycles, and RVs. Additionally, designated parking for people with disabilities is provided.

Guided Tours

If you’d like to have a guide touring you throughout Butchart Gardens, there are companies like Viator, Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing, and Landsea Tours, among others, that offer such tours.

These tours typically include a tour around Victoria, BC and transportation to and from the gardens, as well as a knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the history and highlights of Victoria and Butchart Gardens.

What is the history of the Butchart Gardens?

floral-display-butchart-gardens

The Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island is a botanical wonder, renowned worldwide for its stunning floral displays and diverse landscapes. 

It serves as a vital attraction, drawing tourists and locals alike to experience its beauty and tranquility, offering a cherished escape into nature’s splendor.

In 1904, Robert and Jennie Butchart moved to Vancouver Island to start a cement plant at Tod Inlet’s limestone-rich site. 

Jennie transformed the quarry into the Sunken Garden by moving soil with horse-drawn carts by 1912. 

Between 1906 and 1929, they expanded with the Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, and Rose Garden. Grandson Ian Ross developed it into a global attraction, adding concerts, night lighting, and the Magic of Christmas. 

Since 1977, great-grandson Christopher hosts an annual firework show. In 2009, sister Robin introduced the Children’s Pavilion and Menagerie Carousel. 

Totem Poles carved in 2004 by Charles Elliott and Doug La Fortune honor Indigenous heritage. 

Today, a National Historic Site, The Butchart Gardens blend remnants of the original plant with over 900 varieties of bedding plants.

How to Get to Butchart Gardens

By Car: drive to Tsawwassen ferry terminal, which is a 45-minute ride from downtown Vancouver. Take a 90-minute ferry to Vancouver Island. The gardens are a 35-minute drive from the terminal; downtown Victoria is another 35 minutes away.

By Public Transit: Take the Skytrain to Bridgeport Station, then bus #620 to Tsawwassen terminal for a 90-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island. 

BC Transit bus #81 connects at Swartz Bay with ferries departing from Tsawwassen terminal on odd hour sailings. 

Disembark at Swartz Bay, where the bus stop is outside the foot passenger terminal; the bus goes directly to The Gardens.

By Float Plane: Fly with Harbour Air between downtown Vancouver and downtown Victoria. The flight takes about 35 minutes.

Where to Stay near Butchart Gardens

Brentwood Bay Resort

Address: 849 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1C5, Canada

Phone: +1 250-544-2079

Pricing: $$

Book Now

Nestled in the serene community of Brentwood Bay, this beautiful inn offers a tranquil setting with peaceful waters, visiting seals, and stunning views. 

The inn itself is both beautiful and artistic, featuring an updated mid-century modern design with plenty of wood, glass, and art. Brentwood Bay Resort has an upscale restaurant, a spa, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center.

Motel 6

Address: 2401 Mt Newton Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 1T8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4464

Pricing: $

Book Now

Motel 6 – Victoria Airport – Saanichton offers a convenient location just minutes from Victoria International Airport and 8 kilometers from Butchart Gardens. 

What sets it apart are the onsite dog park and barbecue areas, which are rare finds in many accommodations.

While it may not boast 5-star luxury, if you’re seeking a comfortable night’s rest before or after your flight, it’s an excellent choice for a brief stopover.

Quality Inn Waddling Dog

Address: 2476 Mt. Newton Cross Roads, Saanichton, BC V8M 2B8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-1146

Pricing: $$

Book Now

With a Tudor-style façade and located 11 minutes from the Butchart Gardens, the Quality Inn Waddling Dog offers Classic rooms with decorative exposed wooden beams.

Continental breakfast is free here! Other amenities include an outdoor tennis court, a billiard room, a restaurant, bar, and afternoon tea.

Super 8 by Wyndham

Address: 2477 Mt Newton Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 2B7, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-6888

Pricing: $

Book Now

Offering an excellent blend of value, comfort, and convenience, this hotel provides a budget-friendly setting with a variety of amenities catered to travelers. Situated in the heart of Saanichton, it boasts a prime location.

While the breakfast may be simple, it’s fresh and flavorful, and the best part is it’s not overcrowded. You can truly appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings and enjoy a peaceful meal.

Where to Eat near Butchart Gardens

The Dining Room at Butchart Gardens 

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-8222

Pricing: $$$

Website

The original family home of Robert Pim Butchart and his wife, Jennie, has been transformed into The Dining Room, offering a delightful afternoon tea experience. 

Particularly noteworthy are the English Breakfast tea and Rose Congou tea, along with Butchart Gardens’ heavenly signature scone, sausage roll, wild BC salmon sandwich, and smoked albacore tuna sandwich.

The Blue Poppy Restaurant

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Pricing: $$

Website

The Blue Poppy café, nestled in a former greenhouse, serves up comforting dishes and delectable housemade desserts. The ambiance is simply stunning with its light-filled space, beautiful molding, and captivating lights.

The curry is an absolute standout, bursting with flavor and utterly delicious. It’s truly a delightful surprise to discover such exceptional food in a botanical garden setting.

Butchart Gardens Coffee Shop

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Pricing: $$

Website

After a couple of hours strolling through the gardens, the Butchart Gardens Coffee Shop is a must-visit spot for a cozy break with some tea or pastries to cap off your garden tour.

Inside us a warm, well-lit atmosphere adorned with beautiful art on the walls. Treat yourself to snacks and delicious coffee, making it a perfect stop before continuing your exploration of the gardens.

Blue’s Bayou Cafe

Address: 899 Marchant Rd, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1B4, Canada

Phone: +1 250-544-1194

Pricing: $$

Website

Since 1997, the Blue’s Bayou Cafe has been dishing out mouthwatering jambalaya, gumbo, and Cajun-Creole specialties in a New Orleans-inspired setting or on the picturesque waterfront patio.

We tried the volcano dip, opted for the large jambalaya to share, and ordered drinks. The large jambalaya portion was generous, easily feeding 3-4 people; we even had leftovers. The food was absolutely delicious!

What to Do in Butchart Gardens

Check out the Flower Beds at Sunken Garden

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

The Butchart Gardens’ Sunken Garden showcases 151 flower beds and a stunning variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs. On your way in, you’ll find yourself at Waterwheel Square where you can take a photo of the view of the gardens. 

Next, you can explore the tranquil pond surrounded by weeping willows in the Bog Garden. For more spectacular views, climb to the top of “the Mound,” a massive rock embankment at the garden’s center.

Follow the Paths that Lead to the Rose Garden

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

Blooming from summer through early fall, the Rose garden features an astounding 2,500 floribundas, climbers, ramblers, and hybrid tea roses. 

There are 30 arches entwined with lush sprays of roses where you can wander and take a fantastic photo in. 

The Rose Garden is likely the highlight for many visitors, showcasing an impressive array of roses. You could easily spend 30 minutes here, immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and delightful scents.

Step through the Grand Torii Gate to the Japanese Garden

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

The Japanese Garden at Butchart Gardens was designed by Isaburo Kishida around 1910.

Here, Himalayan blue poppies bloom in late spring, while summer brings azaleas and rhododendrons, and autumn sets the maple trees ablaze with vibrant red hues.

The Japanese Garden is a truly intricate part of the grounds, filled with numerous small features and winding trails that lead you through various paths. It’s definitely worth exploring, with its charming ponds and traditional buildings.

Keep an eye out for owls—you might even spot one bathing in the meandering streams.

Wander through the Italian Garden

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

Once serving as the Butchart family’s tennis court, the Italian Garden now boasts not one, but two stunning, flower-strewn ponds, including the elegant cross-shaped pond.

Originally intended for Mr. Butchart’s ornamental duck collection, the star pond is a highlight. With 85 different plant varieties and 22,000 spring bulbs and biennials, this area is a springtime paradise.

As one of the last expansive gardens you’ll encounter, it highlights smaller and exotic flowers in spacious settings, complemented by stone patios and expansive shrubs and hedges.

Don’t miss the chance to savor a taste of Italy with authentic gelato or handmade sorbetto.

Check out Exotic Plants at the Mediterranean Garden

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

Nestled beside the parking lot, the Mediterranean Garden is a charming oasis flourishing with lush, exotic plants. Though small in size, it packs a powerful punch and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Featuring a diverse collection of drought-resistant and exotic plants from around the world, you’ll encounter everything from electric-blue delphinium to towering banana plants with massive leaves, and an awe-inspiring agave plant.

Marvel at the Majestic Ross Fountain

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

At the far end of the Sunken Garden, you’ll find this fountain surrounded by a changing array of seasonal blooms. 

It was installed in 1964 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the garden, and was a heartfelt gift from Robert Ian Ross, the grandson of Jennie and Robert, who dedicated his life to enhancing the Gardens.

During The Gardens Night Illuminations displays in the summer, it transforms into a mesmerizing sight. Witness magical lighting effects dancing across its waters, which soar an impressive 70 feet into the air.

Say Hello to Tacca the Bronze Boar 

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

Before bidding farewell to The Butchart Gardens, make sure to pay a visit to Tacca, the bronze sculpture of a wild boar. 

Nestled in the heart of Waterwheel Square, Tacca is a replica of a 1620 bronze cast by Pietro Tacca, famously displayed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. 

The family stumbled upon this legendary piece during a trip to Italy in 1973. 

Ever wondered why Tacca’s nose gleams with a polished sheen? Many visitors adhere to the age-old tradition that rubbing it brings good luck!

Ride the Rose Carousel

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

This carousel is one of the newer attractions. It’s located about halfway through The Gardens and it’s the best place to rest your feet.

Step into the domed Children’s Pavilion and take a spin on one of the brightly painted, hand-carved wooden zebras, camels, lions, horses, or chariots. 

And don’t forget to greet Annabelle, the elegant bronze carousel horse located next to the carousel.

Examine the Totem Poles

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

The Butchart Gardens proudly showcases a towering 30-foot totem poles standing near the Children’s Pavilion.

It was erected to commemorate the Gardens’ 100th anniversary. Additionally, they pay homage to the profound heritage of the First Nations people. 

These totems were intricately carved on-site in the timeless Coast Salish traditional style by the late master carver Charles Elliott of the Tsartlip First Nation.

Take a Look at the Dragon Fountain

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Phone: +1 250-652-4422

Website

The Dragon Fountain stands as a fantastical sculpture crafted from bronze and granite, depicting the universally recognized symbol of China. 

Introduced in 2015, this magnificent creation was generously gifted by Suzhou, Victoria’s sister city, and the People’s Republic of China.

Welcoming visitors in Waterwheel Square, the dragon symbolizes the enduring history and connections The Gardens shares with the Chinese community both locally and abroad.

Apps to Download for a Trip to Butchart Gardens

iNaturalist: assists in the identification of plants and animals by providing visually similar suggestions and verifying them with dedicated contributors.

iOs | Android

Maps.me: access offline maps and receive turn-by-turn navigation instructions.

iOs | Android

All Trails: online topographical map of over 50,000 trails in Canada and the USA.

iOs | Android

PeakFinder: offline app that uses an elevation model to identify mountain peaks.

iOs | Android


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