NOTE: The recently published 2011-2012 BC School Destinations Directory, in which we advertised, has published some inaccurate information about our school visit program in their magazine. The most serious error is that it states that school group visits that are booked with two weeks notice on weekdays are provided for free. As a non-profit organization we are unable to provide our school programs for free. We sincerly hope that their error in their directory does not cause any problems for your group. Please refer to the information below for accurate information on school group visits, including our new online booking procedure.

UBC Botanical Garden offers 15% off to school groups, non-profits, summer camps and after-school care programs. Visit our rates section for full details. All School Group visits must be booked through our online booking form. Please fill our our booking form here. Note: we are currently booking school group visits on Tuesday and Thursdays. All other groups over 10 participants receive 10% off. Click here to be redirected to group tours options for adults.

1. Garden tour

There are three seasonally themed garden tours for school and youth groups. Tours last approximately 1 hour to 1 ½ hour. Your group can bring a snack or lunch to be enjoyed indoors following the tour. Tours are adapted to the specific age group.

Autumn colours (September to October)

Don't be sad, summer is over but fall is the season of plenty! During this tour, students learn about the treasures an autumn garden has to offer. They will explore our mysterious Asian Garden, discover the different edible parts of plants and even harvest some fruits and vegetables to bring back to school for discussion and tasting! Students are also introduced to the changes in beautiful autumn foliage and various plants with mysterious attributes related to Halloween and candy.

Winter Wonders (November to February)

The UBC Botanical Garden is an enigmatic place in winter. During this tour, students will follow the garden trails through towering conifers, unique bark textures, unique fragrant and showy winter flowers, and colourful berry displays. Students will also become detectives and look for evidences of wildlife. Despite appearances, the garden is alive! Students will be fascinated to learn about the remarkable adaptations that permit plants and animals to survive winter conditions until spring is back.

Spring surprises (March to June)

Spring has sprung, and there are lots of new and exciting marvels growing in the garden. Students are invited to stroll through the garden to discover the myriad of beautiful flowers awaken by springtime. They will explore the astounding tricks plants use to attract insects and the priceless role of pollinators. A tour enjoyed by all senses with its spectacular smells, dazzling colours, stimulating textures and enigmatic sounds...

2. Nitobe Memorial Garden Tour

 For a unique cultural experience, consider a visit to Nitobe Memorial Garden, one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in North America and regarded as among the top five outside of Japan.  Students will learn about Japanese culture, the tea ceremony, and a story of life evoked by Garden symbols that convey an intriguing cultural tale. This tour takes approximately 45 minutes.  To ensure that you have adequate time we recommend planning your visit for 1½ hours.

3. Canopy Walkway Tour

The canopy walkway is 308 metres long and 17.5 metres high. Groups receive a one hour fully guided tour during which they learn about BC forests, the environment, first nations, and more on an exciting aerial adventure. Kids of all ages leave with smiles and interesting new knowledge. . The vocabulary and specific content of the tour can be altered to accommodate any age range. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes; to ensure that you have adequate time plan your visit for approximately 1.5 hours.

4. Garden and Canopy Walkway Tour

A combination of either option 1 or 2 combined with 3. With this option the group will receive a canopy tour and garden tour. Approximately 2.5 Hours. Please note: the post-tour activity and room are only available with standalone option.

5. Custom options

Would you like to bring your group for a visit but don’t see a tour option that matches your group’s curriculum? Contact us for more information.

Teachers get free admission.Teachers are welcomed to come and visit the garden prior to their date of booking. Just bring an official document showing you are a teacher and you will get free admission for you and 1 guest.