Photos by Ryan from LingoNomad (June 2019)
Fun Fact 2: Historic Origins
The Butchart Gardens was originally a limestone quarry owned by the Butchart family, which was transformed into a stunning garden by Jennie Butchart. She began the transformation in the early 1900s and continued to expand and enhance the gardens throughout her lifetime.
Fun Fact 3: Year-Round Bloom
Despite being located in a region with mild winters, Butchart Gardens boasts year-round blooms and an impressive array of plant species. From spring tulips to summer roses and autumn foliage, there is always something in bloom.
During the summer months, the gardens hosts stunning fireworks displays on selected evenings. Visitors can enjoy the fireworks lighting up the night sky in perfect harmony with the beautiful gardens.
In Christmas season, Butchart Gardens are adorned with Night Illuminations, where the gardens are beautifully lit up with thousands of lights, decorations, and festive displays, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors. It's a breathtaking sight that adds an enchanting touch to the winter experience.
Fun Fact 4: Themed Gardens
One of the most iconic features of Butchart Gardens is the Sunken Garden. It was created in the exhausted limestone quarry and is a magnificent display of vibrant flowers, greenery, and beautifully manicured lawns.
As a whole, Butchart Gardens is divided into several other distinct gardens, each with its own theme and character. These include the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, Mediterranean Garden, and more. Each garden offers a unique experience and ambiance.
Fun Fact 5: Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to the garden varies by the time of the year.
The fee for an adult is:
- Usually at its peak during the summer from June to September (CAD 39+),
- Followed by the spring from April to June (CAD 36+), and then
- In the holiday season from December to January (CAD 35+), and
- During fall in October (CAD 32+).
Tickets for the rest of the year usually go for under CAD 30.
Tickets for youths between the ages of 13–17 are typically around half that of adults', and tickets for children between 5–12 cost around CAD 2–3.
You can check out the latest entrance rates here.
Fun Fact 6: How Much Time Do You Need to Explore the Butchart Gardens?
When I was there, I spent approximately 3+ hours to explore the entirety of the garden.
Make sure you get a map near the entrance - I found it very helpful to follow the directions shown and to make sure you don't miss anything.
- You can also download the latest version of the map online here.
