Be the only one in your class to know the difference between a Monarch and a Mexican Silverspot! You might just be the class expert on metamorphosis, too! Before you head back to school, visit Butterfly Wonderland.
An ideal indoor playground for the month of August, Butterfly Wonderland is a living, sensory experience that begins with the 3-D theatre and the “Flight of the Butterflies” that introduces visitors to the fascinating life of butterflies. Guests then move to the Butterfly Emergence Gallery where they observe the most dynamic stage of a butterfly metamorphosis. From there, guests move into the dramatic, glass-enclosed atrium that is home to thousands of butterflies from the far reaches of the world, in a carefully controlled rainforest environment. More than a traditional viewing facility, the Conservatory is lush and tropical with waterfalls and colorful plants and trees. A large Koi pond also houses colorful species of fish.
The experience continues at the “Rivers of the Amazon” with large freshwater aquariums that with creatures from the Amazon and other habitats. Through 10-foot picture windows, guests can view exotic fish and even salt water stingrays in a large touch tank. Other ways to learn more about nature’s wonder: The Live Ant Colony with 360-degree viewing to follow the ants to different environments and The Honey Bee Extravaganza, an intricate exhibit that features a series of beehives, protected by glass, that allow each visitor an unimpeded view as the bees produce honey and go about their daily activities.
The Butterfly Treasures gift shop is great for leisurely shopping and the Café for cool refreshments and lunch on a hot August. There is also a multi-purpose room for children’s birthday parties or private events.
Some insider tips from the Chief Curator, Dayna Cooper: “If you wear red, orange and yellow, the butterflies might be especially attracted to you.”
Butterfly Wonderland gives families a wonder-filled, rainforest adventure that just might be the highlight of their summer!
Butterfly Wonderland is located at 9500 East Via de Ventura in Scottsdale, AZ 85256 at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. For more information, call 480-800-3000 or visit www.butterflywonderland.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ButterflyWonderland.
