A magical oasis located in the heart of Key West, Florida, the lush sanctuary at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is dedicated to the conservation and appreciation of butterflies, birds and the surrounding tropical environment.

As you step into this tranquil paradise, you are transported into a fascinating ecosystem full of life and beauty. The mesmerizing butterfly habitat is the crowning jewel of the conservatory, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

Home to over 50 different species of butterflies from around the world, the habitat provides a rare opportunity to witness these delicate creatures up close.

As you stroll through the lush, climate-controlled environment, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, with butterflies gracefully fluttering all around you.

Complementing the diverse butterfly population, the conservatory is also adorned with an array of tropical plants and flowers. These vibrant blooms not only create a stunning visual backdrop but also serve as a critical food source and habitat for the butterflies.

With the perfect blend of nature and human intervention, the conservatory is a testament to the harmonious balance that can be achieved between humans and nature.

The Wings of Imagination Butterfly Gallery

The Wings of Imagination Butterfly Gallery is a unique space within the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where the world of art and nature come together in perfect harmony.

This charming gallery showcases an exquisite collection of butterfly-inspired art, celebrating the ethereal beauty of these delicate creatures.

The gallery proudly features the mesmerizing artwork of Sam Trophia, a renowned artist known for his exquisite butterfly creations. Using real butterfly wings, Trophia meticulously crafts intricate and vibrant pieces that capture the essence of these remarkable insects. His use of acrylic in these artworks adds a luminous quality, enhancing their lifelike appearance.

His art pays homage to the natural beauty of butterflies while raising awareness about their importance in the ecosystem.

The Enchanting World of Birds

In addition to the captivating butterflies, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is also home to a diverse array of bird species. From colorful parrots to graceful flamingos, the aviary provides a safe haven for these feathered friends, allowing visitors to marvel at their beauty and observe their natural behaviors.

Among these are 20 exotic bird species, including the elegant flamingle, vibrant finch, and the quaint quail.

The birds and butterflies coexist harmoniously within the conservatory, creating a balanced and thriving ecosystem. The presence of these exotic birds alongside the butterflies adds a dynamic and colorful dimension to the experience.

The presence of birds helps to maintain the delicate equilibrium by controlling the population of insects and other small creatures, while the butterflies contribute to the pollination of plants, ensuring the continued growth and diversity of the flora.

This symbiotic relationship highlights the interconnectedness of all living things and emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts.

Keep in Mind These

To ensure a delightful and respectful experience at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, please keep in mind the following guidelines, shared with warmth and consideration:

• Refrain from touching the butterflies: As tempting as it may be, kindly avoid handling these delicate creatures, as their wings are quite fragile and can be easily damaged. Understanding their life cycle and how they are active at different times can enhance your appreciation without the need for physical contact.
• Stay on the designated paths: To protect both the flora and fauna within the conservatory, please adhere to the designated walkways and avoid venturing off the paths. This helps preserve the migration patterns and role in pollination of the butterflies in their natural habitat.
• Supervise children closely: Encourage children to appreciate the beauty of the butterflies and birds from a safe distance while ensuring they don’t disturb the habitat.
• Be mindful of photography: Feel free to capture the magic of your visit, but please avoid using flash photography as it may startle or harm the butterflies and birds.
• Silence your devices: To maintain the serene atmosphere within the conservatory, kindly set your mobile devices to silent mode and avoid loud conversations.

Best Time to See Butterflies

While the conservatory is a year-round attraction, the best time to witness the greatest variety and activity of butterflies is typically during the warmer months.

Mornings are particularly ideal, as this is when butterflies are most active, basking in the sunlight and feeding on nectar. The conservatory opens at 9 a.m., providing an excellent opportunity to see these creatures in their most vibrant state.

However, any time of day can provide a delightful experience, as the conservatory is designed to maintain optimal conditions for its inhabitants. Keep in mind that the last ticket is usually sold before 5 p.m.

Entrance Fee and Opening Hours

To ensure an unforgettable experience at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, it’s recommended that you visit their official website for the most up-to-date information on admission fees and hours of operation.

As hours may vary seasonally or due to special events, checking the website will help you plan your visit accordingly. Remember to check the admission fee details, especially if you’re planning a visit with children, as there are different rates for adults and children aged 4 to 12.

How to get to Butterfly Conservatory in Key West

To get to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, located at 1316 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040, you have several options depending on your starting point:

• By car: If you’re already in Florida, you can drive to Key West by taking the scenic Overseas Highway (US Route 1). Driving through the Florida Keys on your way to Key West, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and picturesque islands that surround you. It’s an experience that will surely leave you in awe of nature’s beauty. Once in Key West, navigate to Duval Street, where the conservatory is situated.
• By ferry: If you’re in the vicinity of Fort Myers or Marco Island, you can opt for the Key West Express ferry service. The high-speed catamarans offer a comfortable and enjoyable journey to Key West, where you can then use local transportation options, like taxis, rideshares, or even bicycles, to reach the conservatory.
• By shuttle or bus: Several companies offer convenient and budget-friendly shuttle or bus services from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Key West, making it an appealing alternative to flying or driving. When you come to Key West, you’ll find that the island is small and everything is within walking distance of each other, making it possible to explore on foot or by bike

Key West is a small island and everything is within walking distance of each other. It is possible to explore on foot or by bike.

Duval Street, where the conservatory is located, is right in the heart of Key West and serves as a bustling hub, brimming with charming shops, appetizing restaurants, and a myriad of tourist attractions. It’s the perfect setting to explore and make lasting memories.

• Address: 1316 Duval Street
• Phone Number: 305-296-2988

Video

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FAQs

What species of butterflies can I see at the Key West Butterfly Conservatory?

The Key West Butterfly Conservatory houses an impressive collection of 50 to 60 different butterfly species from around the world. Visitors can witness a kaleidoscopic array of colors and patterns, making it a truly magical experience.

Is there a gift shop at the conservatory?

Yes, the conservatory features a gift shop and gallery where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including items related to butterfly and nature themes. The shop offers a variety of products that cater to all ages.

What educational opportunities are available at the conservatory?

The conservatory is not just an attraction but also a learning center. It offers highly educational experiences with expert naturalist guides. Visitors can learn about the life cycle and metamorphosis of butterflies, along with their role in pollination.

Can I see any other animals at the conservatory besides butterflies?

Apart from butterflies, the conservatory is home to a variety of other creatures, including 20 exotic bird species, turtles, and other small reptiles and amphibians, all thriving in a naturalistic glass-enclosed habitat.

What are the opening hours of the Key West Butterfly Conservatory?

The conservatory is open daily from 9 a.m., allowing visitors to explore the enchanting world of butterflies and other nature-related exhibits. It’s recommended to check their website for specific closing times and last ticket sales.

Is the conservatory suitable for children?

Absolutely! The Key West Butterfly Conservatory offers a family-friendly experience. Children can enjoy watching live caterpillars feeding and butterflies in free flight, making it both fun and educational.

Conclusion

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory offers a truly enchanting experience, immersing visitors in the captivating world of butterflies, birds, and tropical plants.

A visit to this magical oasis not only provides a memorable encounter with these delicate creatures but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation and our connection to the natural world.