Victoria Butterfly Gardens is an indoor tropical garden in Brentwood Bay, on Vancouver Island, with free-flying butterflies, tropical plants and birds. Walk among ponds and waterfalls, then look for turtles, koi, reptiles and insects in the displays. The exhibits also explain the butterfly life cycle, so there is more to explore than the main garden. The warm, humid indoor climate is part of the experience; wear light clothing and take your time, especially if you want to spot the less obvious animals.
A tropical garden in Brentwood Bay
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Its indoor garden is designed for tropical plants and animals, so the climate inside stays warm and humid. Dress for that environment, even if the weather outside is cool.
Paths lead through greenery, ponds and waterfalls. Butterflies fly freely through the garden, and can sometimes land on visitors. Take your time as you walk: some of the animals and insects are small or easy to miss at first glance.
More than butterflies
The garden is also home to tropical birds, flamingos, turtles, koi and reptiles. Depending on what you spot, you may see animals such as iguanas, lizards, frogs or tortoises. The displays include insects such as stick bugs and leaf-cutting ants, giving the visit a different focus before or after you enter the butterfly area.
Look for the exhibits about the butterfly life cycle, which show the stages of development. The garden’s variety makes it useful for a family visit or for anyone interested in insects and wildlife, not only butterflies.
Planning your visit
Set aside about two hours if you want time to look through the different displays without rushing. The setting is compact, but the smaller creatures reward a closer look. Weekdays are a practical choice if you would prefer to avoid busier periods, which can include Sundays.
There are no barriers separating visitors from some of the animals and insects, so watch where you step and move carefully. The gardens have on-site parking, with free parking listed among the amenities. Tickets in advance are recommended. A small gift shop at the entrance sells snacks and ice cream.
FAQ
Where are Victoria Butterfly Gardens?
They are at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay, on Vancouver Island.
How long should I spend at Victoria Butterfly Gardens?
Allow about two hours to explore the garden and its animal and insect displays.
What can you see besides butterflies?
The garden has tropical birds, flamingos, turtles, koi, reptiles and insect displays, including leaf-cutting ants and stick bugs.
What should I wear to Victoria Butterfly Gardens?
Wear light clothing. The indoor garden is warm and humid.
