There’s something about summer that calls us to the open road—the windows down, music up, and the thrill of discovering something new around each bend. If you’re planning a summer road trip and love the magic of butterflies as much as we do, consider adding a few incredible butterfly conservatories and gardens to your itinerary. These places don’t just offer a chance to marvel at nature’s most delicate creatures—they give you a chance to connect, learn, and even bring a bit of that magic home.
Here are some of our favorite butterfly destinations across the U.S.—all family-friendly, unforgettable, and teeming with the same exotic butterfly species you’ll find featured in our Butterfly Art Collection.
1. Smithsonian’s Butterfly Pavilion – Washington, D.C.
No butterfly-lover’s summer would be complete without a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Pavilion. This indoor tropical oasis is home to over 300 live butterflies from around the world, fluttering freely in a lush garden setting.
Some of the species you’ll spot—like the Blue Morpho (Morpho peleides) and Paper Kite (Idea leuconoe)—are also available as framed specimens in our Exotic Butterfly Art Collection. Imagine preserving your D.C. experience with a timeless, ethically sourced souvenir for your wall.
2. Reiman Gardens – Ames, Iowa
Nestled in the heart of Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens is home to one of the largest public butterfly conservatories in the Midwest. With over 800 butterflies in flight at any given time, this is more than just a garden—it’s a sanctuary of serenity and color.
Watch for species like the Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charithonia) and Tailed Jay (Graphium agamemnon)—both celebrated in our Framed Tropical Collection. A perfect midwestern stop to relax, learn, and find a connection between travel and art.
3. Butterfly World – Coconut Creek, Florida
Down in sunny Florida, Butterfly World is the largest butterfly park in the world. With over 20,000 live butterflies, it’s the kind of place where your inner child (and actual children) will be wide-eyed with wonder.
You’ll likely spot the dazzling Sunset Moth (Chrysiridia rhipheus) and Malachite (Siproeta stelenes)—two striking species we feature in our framed butterfly art. These make incredible souvenirs and conversation pieces long after your road trip ends.
4. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – South Deerfield, Massachusetts
If your summer travels take you to New England, the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory is a must-visit. With 8,000 butterflies flying year-round, it’s a hidden gem full of vibrant energy and peace.
After visiting, take a look at our New England-Inspired Butterfly Pieces—many include species like the Monarch (Danaus plexippus) and Giant Owl Butterfly (Caligo memnon) that you’ll remember seeing up close.
Souvenirs That Last a Lifetime
Butterfly houses create moments that linger—a quiet flutter on your shoulder, the hush of a greenhouse, the wonder in a child’s eyes. At The Butterfly Connection, we capture those moments in elegant, ethically sourced framed butterfly art. Many of the species you see on your road trip are preserved in our collection, allowing you to take a beautiful, lasting piece of that experience home.
Whether you’re curating a memory wall, searching for a meaningful gift, or simply love bringing nature indoors, our pieces are more than décor—they’re a story. And what better story to tell than your own summer of wonder?
Plan Your Road Trip, Then Visit Our Butterfly Shop to Bring It Home.
Have you visited a butterfly conservatory we didn’t list? Share your favorites in the comments—we’re always looking for new flutter-filled adventures!