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Frequently Asked Questions
General Tickets and Planning
How do I buy tickets as a gift for other people?
You can purchase tickets as a gift online or over the phone by calling 250-652-4422.
What is your refund policy?
Online tickets are non-refundable and do not expire. If you are unable to visit on the ticket date, the value of the unused ticket can be applied towards the price of admission at any time.
What will be in bloom when I visit?
The Butchart Gardens has distinct seasons, each with a unique offering. Visit our Seasons pages for further details. Our Plant Guide has more information.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are welcome to visit provided they are kept directly at your side and under control at all times. You are expected to clean up after your pet.
From December 1 – January 6, pets will not be permitted between 3:00pm and 8:00pm.
During all other times, pets are welcome at The Butchart Gardens. When visiting The Gardens with your pet:
- Please ensure you are fully aware of what your pet is doing at all times.
- For the safety of all visitors and to continue to allow dogs to visit, owners must keep pets on leash and no farther than 1 meter/3 feet. We would prefer you did not use a retractable leash.
- Pick up after your pet so that others do not step in anything unpleasant. Waste bags are available when you enter The Gardens as well as the parking lot, at the Ross Fountain, the Carousel Patio and the Wharf Lookout. Litter can be deposited into garbage cans designated for trash.
- Avoid interactions with other pets to maintain the comfort and safety of all our visitors.
Please review the Pet Policy for information about leash restriction and BC Certified Guide & Service dogs.
Where can I find a map of The Gardens?
You can view our map online ahead of time, or you can find printed maps in 23 languages at our Visitor Centre.
What about parking?
All parking is free. We accommodate cars, bicycles and RVs. Accessible parking for those with disabilities is also available.
We do not permit overnight parking.
Where can I picnic at The Gardens?
Our designated picnicking areas are adjacent to the main parking lot and on the concert lawn.
BBQ’s of any kind are not permitted.
What happens if it rains?
If it rains – or will rain imminently! – our staff distribute hundreds of umbrellas throughout the grounds and parking lots so you can borrow one and stay dry.
We also encourage visitors to bring their own umbrellas in the event of rain.
Accessing The Gardens
Are the gardens wheelchair and scooter accessible?
The Butchart Gardens is over 120 years old. Some pathways are therefore narrow, and as the gardens are built around an old limestone quarry with gardens stretching down to the shoreline, there are pathways with a steeper grade.
Paths with steeper grades are located as follows, and alternate routes are noted by signage and indicated on our visitor map:
- Between the Concert Lawn and the Rose Garden
- In the Rose Garden
- Between the Star Pond and the Japanese Garden
- Between the bus parking lot and the Seed & Gift Store
- Between the statue of Annabelle and the Rose Carousel
Restaurants, Seed & Gift Store and the Carousel are wheelchair accessible.
- Close parking is available upon request.
- Only motorized and standard wheelchairs are permitted; however, the compact-style of a four-wheeled motorized wheelchair is more suitable to our pathways.
Do you have wheelchairs or mobility scooters for rent?
Complimentary wheelchair rentals are available, please note that loaner wheelchairs do not have handbrakes. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Butchart Gardens does not have electric scooters on site to rent. If you wish to rent a mobility scooter, please contact Motion directly at 1-888-222-2172.
Are strollers available?
Complimentary strollers are available on a first-come, first-served basis from the Visitor Centre.
All of the washrooms on the grounds are outfitted with baby changing stations for your convenience.
Can I bring my wagon?
Effective January 7, 2025, wagons and stroller wagons will not be permitted. Complimentary push carts are available for small children.
Services & Amenities
Can I store my luggage while I visit The Gardens?
Yes, our Visitor Information Centre can hold luggage and other small items free of charge while you visit The Gardens.
Where is the lost and found?
Please turn in and report any lost items to the Visitor Information Centre. You can also collect items at the Visitor Centre. If you have lost an item, please contact reception at 250-652-4422 and they will direct you to our lost and found or email lostandfound@butchartgardens.com
Is there first aid at The Gardens?
Mobile first aid assistance is readily available and we encourage you to accept the help of our well-trained First Aid Attendants. If you experience or witness an injury, mishap or emergency, please notify any staff member immediately, report to our Visitor Information Centre, or call 250-652-4422. Our staff are well-equipped to assist you with any injury or medical incident and will ensure the incident is properly documented. Band-aids, anti-nausea and other comfort medications are available for sale in the Visitor Information Centre.
Garden Etiquette
Do you allow photoshoots at The Gardens?
Photography is welcome, but should not interfere with the enjoyment of other visitors; please do not block pathways or limit other visitors and staff from passing by. Do not stand, walk, or place tripods in garden beds. Drone photography or videography is not permitted. Props or costumes are not permitted.
Can I use a tripod?
Photography is welcome, but should not interfere with the enjoyment of other visitors. Please do not block pathways with tripods.
Can I use a selfie stick?
For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, selfie sticks are not permitted.
Are drones permitted at The Gardens?
Operating a drone is not permitted anywhere on property.
Is there a location where someone can smoke or vape at The Butchart Gardens?
For everyone’s enjoyment, The Butchart Gardens, including the parking lots, are entirely smoke and vapour free.