Whether you live in the Branson area, or you're traveling through, be sure to make time for the amazing Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure.
Settled in the hills just outside of the busy city of Branson, you'll see what really does look like a Palace! The outdoor garden is beautifully landscaped to attract butterflies from miles around.
You'll begin your tour in one of the best gift shops at any attraction in the nearby area. Full of souvenirs ranging from chimes to coffee mugs, postcards to handmade products from local vendors right here in the Ozarks. Be sure to take something back for loved ones, or a keepsake for yourself!
Before you get into the Butterfly exhibit, you'll have several other opportunities for fun and education. The Rainforest Theater, the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze, the Banyan Tree Adventure, and the Living Rainforest Science Center. Each present their own unique experience!
In the Living Rainforest Science Center, you will find 25 live reptiles and amphibians that call the rainforest home. Utilize the interactive kiosks and informational displays to learn the importance of the rainforest in the lives of butterflies and other species.
And now the moment we've all been waiting for.
Walking into the Butterfly Aviary is about the closest thing to stepping foot into an actual rainforest. The waterfall flowing in the back, vibrant green plant life and bold flowers fill the room. From the moment you walk through you'll want to be on the lookout in all directions. Floor, ceiling and everything in between is a landing space for butterflies, so watch your step!
You can choose to hold a nectar tube to attract some butterflies in your direction. Maybe one will land!
As you make your way through, you'll notice informational signs, beautiful sitting areas and even a bridge if you want to check out the view from above. If you would like to capture the moment, the photo opportunities are endless!
New butterflies are released throughout the day, so be sure to check for peak times to enhance your experience. Looking for more information on a specific butterfly? The staff members are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and happy to help.
You'll walk among 1,000 live butterflies of different species, imported right from the rainforest! This makes that rainforest vibe all the more realistic. Not only are there gorgeous and exotic butterflies, but you might also notice the fast flying, colorful birds as well!
No matter which way you look or where you stop to take it in, you will be surrounded by vivid beauty.
If you didn't get enough of the experience and feel like you want to see it all over again, you can! The wristband passes are valid for three days! (Wristbands must stay on wrists)
You can go through any of the exhibits as many times as you would like within those three days to get the absolute most out of your visit.
Staff members ask that you be respectful of the hard work and care put into the Butterfly Palace and as tempting as it may be, please don't pick up the butterflies. They are fragile creatures and if one lands on you, snap a picture and let it fly away on its own!
Would you like to create your own butterfly garden at home? The Butterfly Palace shares is Nectar recipe! Simply mix one scoop Orange Powdered Gatorade and 2 Quarts of water in a shallow dish. Change nectar daily and refrigerate any extra. Plant wildflowers that are native to your area and that specifically attract what you are hoping to bring into your garden.
Our experience was nothing short of amazing and we saw such incredible sightings. Add this to your list of places to visit before the summer break is over! If you have family coming to visit the Branson area, bring them to the Butterfly Palace to be wowed!
Please enjoy more of my personal photos from our visit.
Thank you to the Butterfly Palace for the experience and allowing us to take this adventure and share about it with other families!
