There’s been so much said about The Butchart Gardens, so it’s difficult to add to the discourse on the most popular thing to do on Vancouver Island. That said, the important things for me to take out of the day, is that you really should give the Gardens a solid three hours. You can easily do more. With the unusually cold winter, the blooms were not as present this week when I went. Even still, I enjoyed the whole three plus hours. Taking public transit there from downtown is easy, so I definitely recommend that if you are not driving. My favourite garden was the Japanese Garden followed closely by the Sunken Garden. I know I can’t wait to visit again, hopefully sooner than later!!

From the moment one steps into The Butchart Gardens, it’s clear this place is more than just a garden; it's a legacy of beauty and dedication. Created by visionary Jennie Butchart in the early 20th century, this garden stands as a testament to a love and passion for horticulture that has been carefully maintained and expanded by successive generations. Wandering the winding paths of The Butchart Gardens is like walking through a living work of art. Each section of the garden, from the Sunken Garden to the stunning Rose Garden, is meticulously designed to offer an immersive, colorful experience that shifts with the seasons. What began as Jennie Butchart's personal project has evolved into a must-visit destination for any visitor to Victoria, BC. No matter how many times you visit, there is always something new to discover among its blooming flowers and panoramic views. I highly recommend adding The Butchart Gardens to any travel itinerary in Victoria. It’s a place where history, culture, and nature come together to create a truly enchanting and rejuvenating experience. A true paradise on Earth that you simply cannot miss!

The Butchart Garden is massive. You'll find every kind of flower here. The Japanese Garden and Rose Garden are beautiful. Great place to spend 2-3 hours walking and admiring the beautiful flowers.

We drove from Inner Harbor to the garden in the morning at the end of April . The garden has some of the most beautiful tulips, Japanese maples and cherry blossoms. All of the trees have different flowers in spring time. I think it was much better than the well known tulips festivals that I have been.

Beautiful at any time or season. Different plants at different times.No special events due to the time of year.Second visit. The first was extremely memorable when attending when fireworks display in the evening

Very beautiful gardens! Roses were not yet out when we visited but lots of other colorful blooms. They do provide an identification guide but it would be easier if the plants have labels.(some may find this tacky). Head to the plant ID center beside the information center before heading into the gardens.

Butchart Gardens are approximately 45 minutes drive from downtown Victoria. We took the local bus (Route 75) and it goes into the gardens themselves. The plus is the cost, anyone can buy a day ticket that allows travel on the whole of the Victoria Network for just $5.00 Canadian Dollars. Once at the gardens which opened at 10.00am the choice of how to explore is up to the individual. We decided to go in a clockwise route, stopping to admire the numerous plants all displayed perfectly in either a quarry or sometimes in raised beds. We spent about 5 hours wondering around. It did start to rain, but thankfully umbrella’s are provided free and then returned at the various umbrella stations. Highly recommended and one useful tip is the price booked online in advance is the same as the price paid on the day, so if the weather isn’t playing nice you can choose as we did the day we wished to go. Catering was excellent and we thought reasonably priced. All staff were very friendly and enthusiastic. Lovely day out and would definitely recommend.

Where to start. Fantastic day out. So much to see. Fantastic gardens and flowers if you love that type of thing. There is a lot of walking but well worth it. This place is all lit up at Christmas and looks lovely apparently. This place is a must if in Victoria Canada.

A pristine garden very will laid out and kept immaculately. We were there in the spring so the tulips and daffodils were at their best. a choice of food outlets and a gift shop all of which were marginally more expensive than normal. Great map to guide you through the various areas. The star pool was empty so didn’t see it at its best. The sunken garden was as spectacular as the pictures on the website so was a highlight.

If you love a flower, you will fall in love with this place. 2 hours is enough to visit the place and wheelchairs can make most but not all the exhibits. Children would be mildly amused. Spend your time in the sunken garden. Pay attention to the detail in the Japanese garden, some of the best displays are discreet. Photographers would go wild in this place. May 9, 2024, the azaleas, rhododendrons and tulips were staggering. The peonies are a week away. The lobelias shine throughout the garden right now. It is hard to find a quiet spot in the afternoon when the tour busses are there. I bet early morning would be much better.