Butchart Gardens Travel Guide

The Butchart Gardens, located in Tod Inlet, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, spans over 55 acres. Transformed from an abandoned limestone quarry, it is celebrated as the "second largest garden in the world" and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 2004.

Key Attractions

The garden is divided into five main themed areas: The Sunken Garden, the centerpiece, features tulips and lilies in spring and summer, resembling a giant floral basket. The Rose Garden boasts over 250 varieties of roses with a delightful fragrance. The Japanese Garden, with stone lanterns, ponds, and red-leafed pines, offers a serene ambiance, especially in autumn. The Italian Garden showcases European courtly elegance with manicured hedges, fountains, and sculptures. The Mediterranean Garden highlights drought-resistant plants like lavender, olive trees, and succulents.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: Open year-round. Monday to Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (extended hours in summer).
• Admission: Peak season: CAD 40; Off-season: CAD 20; Free for children under 5.
• Transportation: From downtown Victoria, take bus routes 75 or 81 to the Butchart Gardens stop. In summer, a cruise (CAD 35 for adults, CAD 25 for children) departs from the Inner Harbor, offering scenic views of Tod Inlet.

Special Experiences

• Night Tours and Events: During summer weekends, the garden stays open until 10:00 PM, featuring light shows. In winter, enjoy festive holiday light displays.
• Dining: The on-site café serves English afternoon tea. Don’t miss the floral-themed ice cream (CAD 5.75 per scoop).
• Tips: Pick up a map and flower guide at the entrance to avoid retracing your steps. Allocate about 3 hours for a summer visit and wear comfortable shoes.

Post by Calfsunny | Jul 27, 2025