The world-famous Butchart Gardens is a 55-acre floral oasis located on the Saanich Peninsula, 15 miles north of downtown Victoria, BC on Vancouver Island. Since 1904, the attraction has welcomed international visitors to explore year-round breathtaking displays of lush green gardens, beautiful seasonal blooms, carefully crafted sculptures as well as experience exquisite dining and traditional afternoon tea. Check out our Ultimate Guide to The Butchart Gardens for more background and insights on planning your season-specific trip.

Visiting The Butchart Gardens from Seattle

First, check out one of our seasonal overnight or day trip packages below to save on your FRS Clipper fast ferry! You’ll then hop aboard the Victoria Clipper V from Seattle’s Pier 69 and arrive in the heart of Victoria, BC’s Inner Harbor less than three hours later. Choose from three classes of service offering scenic views and spacious seating as you embark on your Canadian getaway. In Victoria, stroll the peaceful walkways of the Inner Harbour, dine al fresco, enjoy boutique shopping and immerse into the city’s old-world charm along with visiting The Gardens!

Seattle to Victoria with The Butchart Gardens Tour

Enjoy our most popular gardens getaway!

Discover why USA Today, CNN Travel and Conde Nast all rate The Butchart Gardens among the world’s most beautiful garden attractions and top places to visit in Canada! Featuring over 900 different plant varietals and five different types of gardens, you can always experience The Butchart Gardens in a new way based on the season!

Seattle to Victoria Overnight & Tea at The Butchart Gardens

Combine two great classic Victoria experiences!

Get a taste of what it would have been like to be one of Jennie Butchart’s personally-served guests and indulge in an experience steeped in tradition with an award-winning tea at The Butchart Gardens. Dine on a phenomenal array of sweet and savory treats that will leave you dreaming of your next bite before immersing yourself in thousands of beautiful blooms as you stroll through the iconic 55-acre grounds.

Seattle to Victoria Overnight & The Butchart Gardens Night Illuminations and Fireworks Tour

Experience the world-famous gardens from a new perspective!

Experience an unforgettable night of spectacular displays at The Butchart Gardens! See thousands of sparkling lights transform the grounds into a glittering fairyland. On Saturdays in July-August, the evening is capped with an array of breathtaking fireworks lighting up the night sky!

Seattle to Victoria Overnight & The Butchart Gardens Christmas Lights Tour

Discover holiday magic with friends and family!

Between Dec 1 – Jan 1, it’s holiday magic time at The Butchart Gardens during their annual 12 Days of Christmas Holiday Lights display! Hop on the Victoria Clipper fast ferry to travel from Seattle to Victoria and experience thousands of lights, carolers and ice skating at The Gardens!

The Butchart Gardens Trip Planning Information

What is the best way to get to The Butchart Gardens from Seattle?

With daily departures from Pier 69 in downtown Seattle, the Victoria Clipper high-speed catamaran provides a quick and scenic ride to the heart of downtown Victoria, BC in just 2 hours and 45 minutes.

FRS Clipper offers a Victoria Clipper with The Butchart Gardens overnight package including a hotel stay plus a city tour and transportation to and from The Gardens (BONUS: FRS Clipper delivers your luggage directly to your hotel upon arrival in Victoria if you book this package). Alternatively, FRS Clipper also offers a Victoria Clipper with The Butchart Gardens day trip option. Either trip can also be upgraded to include a stop at the Butterfly Gardens on your way out to The Butchart Gardens.

What are the hours at The Butchart Gardens?

The Butchart Gardens are normally open every day, year-round but due to COVID, you’ll want to double check The Butchart Gardens website before your visit for accurate day, opening and closing times.

How much is admission to The Butchart Gardens?

Admission to The Butchart Gardens changes depending on the season, with prices ranging from $16 -$40 USD per person for adults and $2 – $3 USD per person for children. FRS Clipper also offers motor coach tours to The Butchart Gardens, including admission to The Gardens plus a city tour and complimentary luggage drop off. Prices range from $60 – $64 USD per person for adults and $21 USD per person for children.

What is the best time of year to visit The Butchart Gardens?

The Butchart Gardens are open year-round, with each season bringing a new selection of gorgeous plants and flowers. Whether you see The Gardens blooming to life in the spring, catch a concert or stunning fireworks show in the summer, soak in autumnal foliage in the fall or wander through the lighted, 12 Days of Christmas displays during the winter, there truly is no bad time to visit.

How long does it take to walk through The Butchart Gardens?

3-4 hours is a recommended amount of time to allot to fully enjoy The Gardens. Plan your visit before you arrive with this map of The Butchart Gardens.

What is there to do in The Butchart Gardens?

  • Explore five beautiful main garden displays, all varying by season
  • Enjoy traditional Afternoon Tea
  • Visit for the magical Evening Illuminations display
  • Delight in a summer Saturday evening fireworks show
  • Enjoy the dining room, coffee shop or famous gelato
  • Have a playful evening ice skating on the rink during winter

Can I take my dog to The Butchart Gardens?

Yes, The Butchart Gardens are dog-friendly! You are required to keep your dog on a short leash and, of course, pick up after your pet.

Are The Butchart Gardens Wheelchair Accessible?

Yes, The Butchart Gardens are wheelchair and scooter accessible.  Wheelchairs are available free of charge with a $10 deposit and are first come, first serve from the Visitor Centre.

Can I take photos at The Butchart Gardens?

Yes, take as many photos as you please! While tripods are allowed at The Butchart Gardens, please note that drones and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited. Please be mindful of others when taking photos.

Is storage available at The Butchart Gardens?

The Visitor Center will store small luggage or items for free while you explore The Butchart Gardens.