Arriving at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory

All year round, you don't need to fly south to see butterflies flying freely. Just over a 2-hour drive from Boston, make a stop at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory to see over 4,000 native and tropical butterflies. We had a blast trying to count as many as we could see – it was a big number!

At Magic Wings, you'll be able to take photos of butterflies you may have never seen in the outside world. Many folks bring their professional cameras here to capture these insects' beauty. Phone cameras will work just fine for amateurs (like me!).

When you enter the 8,000-square-foot building, go slightly to your left to enter the gift shop and purchase your tickets. Tickets for adults are $16, kids ages 3-17 are $10, and children under 3 are free.

 
You might not believe your eyes! Magic Wings Butterfly Conservancy and Gardens photo by rickpilot2000 via Flickr CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Inside Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory 

We decided to have our butterfly adventure during the winter months. It just happened that we stumbled upon it on our vacation, but I'd still do the same. Inside, the conservatory is warm, wet, and tropical. It felt like a wonderful escape from a harsh winter wind. However, I can also see this being a great spot for a summer, spring, or fall visit because the beauty of the butterflies is worth a visit at any time.

After you purchase your tickets, you'll go through a door into a display and educational area. Here, there are terrariums with other living creatures, including stick insects and frogs. Displays of butterfly collections allow you to get your first up-close look at their beauty. It's just the beginning, though, because through the next set of doors is the green and tropical oasis that houses thousands of live butterflies.

When you enter the butterfly area, it's fun to just marvel at the sheer number of butterflies. As you wander through the paths, take in the tropical greenery and the beautiful flowers along the way. We sat on a bench for quite a while, looking all around. Magic Wings is a perfect place to observe beauty. If you have elementary-age or older children, you may want to encourage them to bring a sketchbook along to capture what they see.

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory in South Deerfield lets you explore nature as a family all year long.

Other Animals to See at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory

Besides the beautiful butterflies at Magic Wings Conservatory, you'll be able to see koi (Japanese carp) swimming in the water areas. There are also some birds in the conservatory. TIP: Watch your step!  Little button quail are roaming about and like to run across the footpaths. So, tread lightly!

In the furthest area from the entrance, there are also some reptiles and birds. All of the staff are very knowledgeable and will answer any questions along the way. 

Check Out the Magic Wings Gift Shop

You might have already hit up the gift shop when you came into the conservatory. If so, then your last stop before heading back to your car is likely the restroom or the tables for a snack. However, if you saved your shopping spree for last, you can let the kids enjoy the butterfly, caterpillar, and reptile colorful stuffed animals. Perhaps a pair of butterfly wings is on your preschooler's wish list. There are also garden supplies and butterfly yard ornaments. Butterfly books are also sold at the gift shop. 

Magic Wings: What to Know Before You Go

To help plan your trip to the butterfly conservatory, here are some tips and tricks to make your visit seamless.

• Strollers are not permitted inside the gift shop or conservatory area. There's a room available for stroller parking. If you have little ones, it's recommended that they either walk or be in a carrier.
• The Food Court is currently closed, according to the website and our experience in 2024. 
• There are tables available in the entrance hall for a snack break or to re-group after your visit.
• There are tons of photo opportunities, so make sure you bring your camera(s) and a charged phone!
• Enjoy your magical butterfly experience!

All photos courtesy of the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism unless otherwise noted.