Butterfly Wonderland
Step into a tropical rainforest teeming with thousands of butterflies. Explore vibrant exhibits of reptiles, fish, and insects.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Butterfly Wonderland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a tropical rainforest teeming with thousands of butterflies. Explore vibrant exhibits of reptiles, fish, and insects.
"It was magical from start to finish. I do not regret going at all."
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Look for combo tickets with Odysea Aquarium or other Arizona Boardwalk attractions to save money.
🦋 Butterflies on You!
Be patient and still; butterflies might land on you! It's a magical experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rainforest Conservatory
Main Conservatory
Wander through a lush, tropical paradise filled with thousands of free-flying butterflies.
Life Cycle Exhibit
Near Conservatory Entrance
Witness the fascinating stages of a butterfly's life, from egg to chrysalis to emergence.
Tropical Waters Observation Pool
Aquatic Exhibit Area
Marvel at vibrant fish, reptiles, and amphibians in beautifully designed habitats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Look for combo tickets with Odysea Aquarium or other Arizona Boardwalk attractions to save money.
🦋 Butterflies on You!
Be patient and still; butterflies might land on you! It's a magical experience.
💧 Humid Environment
The conservatory is hot and humid for the butterflies. Dress in light clothing.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The vibrant colors and delicate creatures offer endless photo ops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Look for combo tickets with Odysea Aquarium or other Arizona Boardwalk attractions to save money.
🦋 Butterflies on You!
Be patient and still; butterflies might land on you! It's a magical experience.
💧 Humid Environment
The conservatory is hot and humid for the butterflies. Dress in light clothing.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The vibrant colors and delicate creatures offer endless photo ops.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive right at opening to experience the magic before it gets too busy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Butterfly Wonderland for its magical and immersive experience, especially for families. The sheer number of butterflies and the educational exhibits are highlights, though some find the conservatory's heat and humidity challenging. It's widely considered a worthwhile attraction for its unique beauty and engaging displays.
"Awesome attraction especially if you have kids, my 2 small toddlers really enjoyed themselves, and it was a fun mixture of entertainment and education. Staff are all very friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to share info on the butterflies. They have some small indoor exhibits with fish and reptiles as well. They also have inclusive options for children with processing difficulties or other challenges. Definitely a worthwhile place to visit when at the boardwalk"
Tyler Green
"This was amazing. It was magical from start to finish. I would say this is probably not for babies. There seemed to be a lot there, and their conservatory is hot and humid for the best environment for the butterflies. Their reptile, amphibian, and underwater displays are just gorgeous. I do not regret going at all. It was a great afternoon well spent."
Dove Whidden
"For anyone that loves butterflies and other insects, this is the place for you. An awesome video at the beginning that talks about stages of the butterfly, thought was very interesting. Once in the butterfly area, it was awesome, had a few land on me, that was cool. Go here early, when its cooler, but definitely a must see!"
Jason Burlingame
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Butterfly Wonderland is located at 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, as part of the Arizona Boardwalk. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might require transfers, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Arizona Boardwalk, where Butterfly Wonderland is located. You should have no trouble finding a spot, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach Butterfly Wonderland. The drop-off point is usually at the main entrance of the Arizona Boardwalk.
Yes, Butterfly Wonderland is generally stroller-friendly. The pathways are wide enough to navigate with a stroller, making it accessible for families with young children.
The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), which is about a 20-30 minute drive from Butterfly Wonderland, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission for adults is around $33, with prices varying for children and seniors. Combo tickets with other Arizona Boardwalk attractions can offer savings. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This can save you time at the entrance and sometimes offers slight discounts.
Look for combo deals with other Arizona Boardwalk attractions like Odysea Aquarium. Sometimes, coupons or special offers are available, so it's worth checking their website or local tourism sites.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Butterfly Wonderland website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. They often open around 9 AM.
While there isn't a strict time limit, most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the conservatory and other exhibits. You can stay as long as you like within operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the main conservatory, you'll find fascinating exhibits featuring reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of fish in the Tropical Waters Observation Pool. They also have a 'Live Insect Zoo' and a chrysalis room.
Yes, it's great for kids! Toddlers and young children often enjoy the colorful butterflies and interactive exhibits. However, the humid environment might be challenging for very young babies.
You are not allowed to touch the butterflies to protect them. However, they are known to land on visitors, which is a magical experience!
Butterfly Wonderland occasionally hosts special events, including stingray and shark feedings on Saturdays at the Tropical Waters Observation Pool. Check their schedule for details.
Absolutely! The exhibits provide interesting information about butterfly life cycles, migration, and conservation, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings are ideal for photography as the light is softer and there are fewer people. The butterflies are also very active then.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the conservatory to avoid disturbing the butterflies and other visitors. Check their specific policy.
You can capture stunning close-ups of butterflies on flowers, wings, and even on visitors. The lush greenery provides a beautiful backdrop for macro photography.
Flash photography is typically discouraged to avoid startling the butterflies. Natural light is abundant, so you should be able to get great shots without flash.
The entire conservatory is a photo opportunity! Look for areas with dense foliage and colorful flowers where butterflies tend to congregate. The emergence room also offers unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as the pathways are generally accessible. While the conservatory is warm and humid, it's a small price to pay for the wonder it provides. Look into combo tickets with nearby attractions like the Odysea Aquarium if you plan a full day of family fun.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on macro photography to capture the intricate details of butterfly wings and their delicate features. Be patient; the best shots often come when you wait for a butterfly to land on a flower or even a visitor. Remember to refrain from using flash photography, as it can startle the subjects and is often prohibited.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Educational Seekers
The diverse collection of insects and aquatic life in the other exhibits further enhances the educational aspect. It's a place where you can deepen your appreciation for the natural world and its intricate ecosystems. The knowledgeable staff are often on hand to share insights, making it a truly enriching experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Rainforest Conservatory
It's important to remember that this environment is carefully maintained to support the butterflies' life cycle. The warmth and humidity are crucial for their survival and activity. While it can feel warm to visitors, it's essential for the well-being of these delicate creatures. The conservatory is designed to allow for close encounters, with butterflies frequently landing on pathways and even on visitors themselves, offering unforgettable moments.
For the best experience, try to visit during the morning hours when the butterflies are most active and the crowds are thinner. This also provides the best lighting for photography, allowing you to capture the intricate patterns on their wings. The sheer number and variety of butterflies make each visit unique and captivating.
Beyond the Butterflies: Other Fascinating Exhibits
Don't miss the Live Insect Zoo, which introduces visitors to a variety of other fascinating invertebrates. This area provides a closer look at creatures that often go unnoticed, highlighting their unique adaptations and roles in the ecosystem. The Chrysalis Room is another must-see, where you can observe the incredible transformation process of butterflies firsthand, from the pupal stage to their emergence into the world.
These additional exhibits add significant value to your visit, offering a broader perspective on the natural world. They are thoughtfully curated to be both educational and visually engaging, ensuring that there's something to capture everyone's interest, making Butterfly Wonderland a comprehensive nature experience.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Practical Tips
Consider purchasing combo tickets if you plan to visit other attractions on the Arizona Boardwalk, such as the Odysea Aquarium. This can lead to significant savings and allows you to experience more for less. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and any available discounts or special offers.
Finally, remember that the conservatory is warm and humid, so dress accordingly in light, breathable clothing. Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning beauty, but be mindful of flash photography, which can disturb the butterflies.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit