Can one see Victoria in a single day trip from Seattle and easily walk everywhere? How nice are the Butchert Gardens at this time of year - worth visiting or too early in season? If I have 3 days in Seattle, is it worth giving 1 up to go to Victoria? Thanks.

Butchart Gardens are not within walking distance of downtown Victoria. You will need to take a bus.

Yes, I think the gardens are worth it.
I am not a garden person, but Butchart is special. For example, I was not bowled over by Giverny; just another flower garden.

Yes. Take the Victoria Clipper from the Seattle waterfront, and it takes you into Victoria's Inner Harbor. You will find buses waiting to take you to the Gardens.

The clipper trip alone would give you a taste of what it is like to live on this coast.
As to 'too early' my daffs and camelias are fading, my tulips and rodos are coming into their own. Hyacinth and magnolias are smelling out the place.

That's a really tough question. I love both Seattle and Victoria, but they are quite different. It would be helpful if you could give us an idea on what sort of things you like to do.

Butchart is wonderful at this time of year. Tulips, narcissus, daffodils, lots of colour. It is a world-class attraction - no lie.

We did the other way around Victoria to Seattle for a day, but we stayed over night. The Clipper often offers good packages.
Doing it in just one day may be a bit much if you wish to see the Butchert.