The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory — Attraction in Key West

Astonishing, like walking through a faerie land - This place was magical, and we almost didn't go because of the drive! However, after we asked several people if it was worthwhile for the drive, every person who had actually been to the butterly and nature conservatory said it was a good stop.

I am so grateful that people were willing to share their experiences here. They could use a more efficient way to check people in, though I am not sure what that would look like b/c the explanation of how to be sure you don't let the nature out or accidentally smoosh anything is pretty important.

The single room is set up so that you wind around the beautiful foliage, so the small space doesn't seem so small after all. You almost have to go through once for the butterflies, once for the birds/other creatures, and once for the foliage to take it all in.

You can come back any number of times throughout the day as long as you keep track of your receipt, so we walked through in awe in the morning, and the butterflies were very active. My sister sat down very still and calm and they landed on her and flew all around her. I sat down, vibrating with excitement, and they said, "Nope." That's okay, butterflies, I enjoyed you anyway!

The flamingos are gorgeous and the barking monkey birds (I can't remember their real name) were fun to see and hear. I never thought I was a huge fan of butterflies - I like them, they're pretty, and they are fun to watch. However, after this visit, I'm a pretty big fan.

Who knew there were so many types of butterflies? On our second trip through in the afternoon, the butterflies were calmer and more likely to be sitting on a plant, so easier to photograph. At the entrance, a lovely young staff member named Sidney chatted with me about how I felt like I was in a magical land of faeries. After I walked away, she came up the row to ask me if I wanted to see something special and cool.

Of course, I did! The photo I've included in this review is of a glasswing butterfly. I will forever be grateful to Sidney for taking the time to scoot on down to where I was and give me such a wonderful experience/gift. I have never seen such a delicate beauty as that butterfly. I am moved to speechlessness looking at the photo I captured of the moment (and if you have stuck with me for this entire review, you can probably guess that "speechless" isn't something that often happens to me). Thank you, Sidney!

I will recommend this visit to anyone visiting the area. The surreal experience is...

The Butterfly and Bird Conservatory in Key West is truly exceptional. It's a cozy space where they've crafted a delightful path amidst lush plants and a charming fountain. You'll be mesmerized by the hundreds of butterfly species in all their vibrant colors gracefully fluttering around. Additionally, you can spot a variety of colorful birds, including flamingos and turtles. Spending an hour here is a pure joy, especially for toddlers who will absolutely adore it. The soft music in the background creates a heavenly ambiance reminiscent of scenes from the movie "Avatar."

One of the representatives shared that they import butterflies from around the world, nurture them here, and release 45 to 55 butterflies daily into this conservatory. It's fascinating to learn that butterflies have a lifespan ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months.

Don't miss the lovely gift shop, which includes exquisite butterfly-themed jewelry for the ladies.

The admission fee is $18.5 for adults, and it's worth every penny. What's even better, children under 3 years old get in for free. Plus, once you purchase your ticket, you have the convenience of multiple entries and exits throughout the day, allowing you to enjoy this enchanting place until 4.30 pm. Strollers are not allowed inside.

And Bonus Tip : there's a convenient free parking lot behind the conservatory, which is a valuable find in an area where parking can be...

If you love Butterflies, I mean REALLY LOVE BUTTERFLIES, please RUN to The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservation Center NOW! I took my 8 and 14 year old boys and the reactions from the 14 year old was amazing. Don’t get me wrong, the 8 year old was over the moon as well by the entire experience. If you have issues with things flying around you or a sense of chaos flying around your face, neck, etc., this will be a nightmare for you. The entire time there are GORGEOUS butterflies flying around you and it’s fantastic. There are two Flamingos that have a running conversation of yelling that is pretty unmistakable loud but not overwhelming. There is also turtles, birds and koi fish to see as well. The gift shop area is very small, so please pack your patience because there are young kiddos running around. I found the staff to be helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Lastly, there is NO CELLPHONE usage within the butterfly exhibit. If you need to take a call, please do it before or after visiting, because a staff member will politely ask you to get off the phone or leave. Period! Please check out The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservation, you won’t regret it. Purchase your tickets online so that you can take advantage of additional savings on your entrance tickets. Also, military veterans also get additional...