Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History — Attraction in Gainesville

We have an 11 year old daughter with special needs who needs to travel to Gainesville every year to see her specialty doctor at UF. We can only afford to fly and stay there for a day or two, and the heart very favorite thing to do while there is visit the butterfly rainforest. She literally talks about it all year long until we go.

We got tied up after our flight and 2 hours of driving to arrive at the Butterfly Rainforest at 4:34pm. We thought we were going to make it since it closes at 5pm. We ran our hearts out to get inside only for them to shrug and said “sorry, registrations close at 4:30p.” 4 minutes late…..

I, myself, am a rule follower, but this is one of those times where I ask for an exception based on the situation and how this is our only chance to go. I explained all of the above and without any remorse, they said they can’t do it.

My daughter was completely heartbroken and they still wouldn’t budge. I begged and pleaded on my daughters behalf.

So, we just walked around the museum for a bit and we then explained our story to the person near the entrance of where you go into the rainforest. She felt awful and asked the security guard if we could take her in just for a minute (which my daughter would be so grateful and happy for). Mind you this is still like 4:40pm and they kick everyone out of the area by 5pm. I assured them we’d be in and out before anyone else even exits.

Security guard turned it down.

I honestly have no idea how someone could be this rigid and unwilling to make a more than fair and reasonable exception.

The rainforest is great (hence why she always wants to go), but this experience made me very frustrated and sad for...

Butterfly Rainforest is like stepping into a page of a fairy tale book. Though compact in size, it bursts at the seams with vibrant life and natural beauty. A favorite among children, the venue is a testament to the idea that sometimes the most magical places come in small packages. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by a myriad of fluttering wings, as countless butterflies dance around, making it a delightful spectacle. The vivid hues of these delicate creatures contrasted against the backdrop of lush greenery and radiant flowers is genuinely a sight to behold. Speaking of flowers, the Rainforest is a paradise for botany enthusiasts. The curated collection of flora not only serves as nourishment for the butterflies but also provides visitors with a sensory treat of colors and scents. Each petal and leaf has been meticulously cared for, showcasing the delicate balance and harmony within this micro-ecosystem. The addition of the serene water body dotted with colorful koi fish adds another layer of charm to the place. Watching these graceful fish move through the water, almost in a rhythmic dance, is both calming and captivating. Though it might not take a whole day to explore, the Butterfly Rainforest leaves a lasting impression. It's a testament to nature's beauty and a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful things are found in the smallest of spaces. In conclusion, if you're looking for a quick escape into a world of vibrant colors, mesmerizing creatures, and tranquility, the Butterfly Rainforest should be on your radar. It's not just an attraction; it's an experience - one that both kids and adults...

Absolutely disgusted. First of all, the rainforest butterfly area is quite small. That’s fine not a big deal. However, the staff members within 12 minutes of entering at 4:30 PM made announcements and physically tried to direct my toddler daughter out toward the exit, claiming they were closing in 10 minutes. This happened at 4:42PM. I politely asked them if they close at five and they left me alone. 10 minutes after, I had other staff aggressively, rudely, (almost like it was discriminate) YELLING AND DEMANDING that I needed to leave or that I was gonna be escorted by Security at 4:54pm. At which point I said nope you’re not gonna get away with talking to me or treating me like this, SO I will sit right here until 5 PM and you will get me whoever I need to speak to that is enforcing this five minute policy. I am attaching videos and pictures. I THINK A PHONE CALL TO AN ATTORNEY IS PROBABLY NEEDED. I’m sure the university and its upper executive faculty would be appalled to hear how university staff members are treating the public who pay a fee to see this exhibit . Also, it’s a butterfly rainforest sanctuary. Where is the Zen and mellowness? We’re not in New York City. Or a war zone. We’re in northern Florida. Mind you, IT IS THE MAJORITY OF staff members WHO are adamant About pushing to leave 5minutes early. Verbatim this was stated, “we do not get paid one minute after 5 PM and we have duties and responsibilities that we need to get done before 5 PM and you can’t be here for us to do that.” Do yourself a favor, go...