“A rainforest experience in the heart of the desert”
By Michelle Talsma Everson
Imagine stepping out of Scottsdale, Arizona, and into a tropical rainforest setting, all in a moment’s time. You may instantly start sweating because it’s humid, but the view of bright green plants, a small waterfall and pond, and thousands of butterflies is worth it. Colorful butterflies from around the world surround you. Most notable are the bright blue ones; but there are also varieties with shades of orange, red and gold, and even grey ones with nearly see-through delicate wings. You step cautiously. A butterfly lands on your hand. Other people watch in awe and their eyes light up as they take in the same beauty. Welcome to Butterfly Wonderland.
Recently, my sister-in-law and best friend were in town at the same time, so I wanted to take them someplace that was unique and memorable; an attraction that would be a fun experience for my 3-year-old son, too. We found it all at Butterfly Wonderland, the largest butterfly pavilion in the U.S. The Scottsdale-based destination, located off of the Loop 101 and Via de Ventura in Scottsdale, and part of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, features an atrium, interactive exhibits, 3D movie theater, gift shop and cafe.
First Impressions
When you first walk in to Butterfly Wonderland, you’re greeted by a welcoming atmosphere and then ushered into a 3D showing of Flight of the Butterflies, a documentary that follows the migration of the monarch butterfly. For families with children, this is one of the highlights of the experience.
After the movie, guests make their way to the Butterfly Emergence Gallery, where butterflies make the metamorphosis from chrysalis to butterfly. Then, it’s time for the most anticipated part of the experience—the conservatory.
The Butterfly Wonderland Conservatory
The conservatory (also known as the atrium) is the obvious highpoint of the visit. The 10,000-square-foot atrium is kept at rainforest temperature and humidity levels, so be prepared for a sweat that is totally worth it. Inside, the atrium features tropical plants, a waterfall, a large Koi pond, and thousands of butterflies. Most noticeable were the blue Morpho butterflies from the rainforests of South America.
While you’re not supposed to reach out and touch a butterfly on your own, many of the colorful residents land on visitors. For children, this is an amazing, educational experience. My son had a blast seeing—and even getting up close to—the butterflies.
Curator Danya Cooper encourages children and adults to observe with all of their senses. “Our facility is more than a museum. It is a living, sensory experience,” Cooper says. “The Scottsdale setting is a dramatic choice as it juxtaposes two distinct eco-systems, allowing visitors to step from the arid Arizona desert directly into a tropical rainforest environment.”
Wondering where all of the butterflies come from? According to butterflywonderland.com, the butterflies seen inside the conservatory are sent as chrysalids from butterfly farmers in Costa Rica, Malaysia, Ecuador, Thailand and the Philippines.
More to See
In addition to the butterfly atrium, there is a display that includes a live ant colony and Honey Bee Extravaganza. The ant colony is fascinating because you can see up close the tunnels and ants at work. The honey bee exhibit features honey bees going about their daily activities in an active hive. Both displays are behind glass so visitors get an undisturbed (and safe) vantage point.
Love creatures of the deep? Don’t miss the Rivers of the Amazon aquatic display that features a variety of sea life. There’s also an interactive tank where you can touch Motoro stingrays.
If you work up an appetite, Butterfly Wonderland is home to a cafe that serves simple meals and snacks. There is also a gift shop where you can pick up mementos to remind you of your big day.
Fluttering to the Future
According to the Butterfly Wonderland staff, the attraction is the first phase of a planned entertainment complex that will include an aquarium, IMAX theatre and museum. For now, Butterfly Wonderland is welcoming the community through the myriad of experiences it offers which include opportunities for field trips, internships and workshops. The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation, its non-profit arm, provides educational and research opportunities.
To learn more about Butterfly Wonderland, visit butterflywonderland.com.
Photo Credit:
Arched-wing Cattleheart Neotropical courtesy of Butterfly Wonderland
Blue Morpho butterfly by Gregory Phillips
