Butterfly Conservatory
Butterfly Conservatory
4.5
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- KiwiFan17Canada244 contributionsMagical immersive experience with a few drawbacksThird visit in 20 years. Still enchanting with so many species of butterflies and moths in a tropical setting. Ticket agent was a bit snarly when I asked about a CAA discount that she said only lasted one week. Full price for one adult was almost $20 CAD including tax. Parking is $5 on top of that. The staff inside the live exhibit itself were friendly and helpful. I wish they would be more assertive with stupid visitors who think they have the right to pluck butterflies off flowers for their own pleasure. If I were in charge, anyone who did that would be kicked out immediately. Respect nature! Definitely did not like the photo taking at the beginning of the exhibit and the forced departure through the gift shop. Both of those experiences bookending the exhibit felt like an extra money grab that takes away from the genuine beauty and charm of the place. I could be interested in the gift shop naturally. Don't force me through it. Mid November was an ideal time to visit because it wasn't very crowded.Visited November 2023Travelled soloWritten November 13, 2023
- Elizabeth B2 contributionsA great way to spend a cold December day.The Butterfly Conservatory is located in a park, so you get to walk through a beautiful green space with ancient trees, and then experience butterflies and tropical plants....a wonderful day. I would also like to mention Mary, the lovely volunteer who helped us out with parking pass information and directions. We really enjoyed the entire experience.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten December 27, 2023
- EFW2014Woolwich, Maine1,522 contributionsPart of the wonder passWe choose to buy and pick up our wonder pass here. This place is pretty neat, it’s part of the wonder pass, if it wasn’t I don’t think is worth $15+ plus $5 parking per hour. You will only need one hour parking. 2 if you’re seeing the gardens as well. Nothing to see in December as everything was dead.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten December 28, 2023
- Rachel & Andy393 contributionsBeautiful Butterflies.Visited 26/05/2023. Fabulous conservatory, filled with lots of butterflies, and lots of information about them. Really pretty to see them flying around. Nice if they land on you, I just wish people would stop trying to touch them (as it can kill them).Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten April 17, 2024
- JuneNY1,630 contributionsWonderful Experience!The group of senior citizens I was with today thoroughly enjoyed the short film explaining the conservatory and the process of raising the butterflies. Walking through the conservatory was rather magical! I highly recommend this.Visited April 2024Travelled with friendsWritten April 25, 2024
- Rodalita BFrancisco I. Madero Municipality, Mexico3,614 contributionsBitterfly conservatory..Butterfly conservatory at Niagara falls ontario Canada Butterfly Conservatory is a beautiful place.such as very wonderful. The attraction colorful of a many classical butterfly. They are like a human fell living to stay at the green house with Ancient trees. and with at botanical garden lush. Besutiful park. & nature eith a nice views.. it is located in a Park at Niagara falls. You get to walk through a beautiful green space and the experience butterflies Nature & wildlife areas..Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten May 17, 2024
- AingmireOneida, New York31 contributionsA Must VisitThe butterfly conservancy was amazing! The flora was beautiful and having a variety of butterflies fluttering all around and hiding in all different places made the experience one to remember. I could have stayed there all day but we had an hour to tour through because we went in the evening but the hour was plenty of time to walk through a few times. I’d go back again!Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten July 12, 2024
- Paradise7857701 contributionWonderfulThe Butterfly Conservatory is a wonderful place to spend an hour or two. We couldn’t believe the sheer number and variety of butterflies. Just sit and let them fly around you. Very relaxing. Well worth a visit. Children will love it.Visited July 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten July 28, 2024
- Lynn S21 contributionsSerenity, beauty, and butterfliesButterfly conservatory in Niagara is very beautiful and worth the visit. Gorgeous pathways and foliage, embrace the serenity of butterflies everywhere in the amazing conservatory. The staff are lovely and well informed to help. The only downside is that manditory photograph taken as you come in, however this is the marketing upsell in all Niagara attractions. We learned after buying one at Niagara Fury, to avoid the photo upsell booths.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten August 9, 2024
- SuzeeQLEgg Harbor Township, New Jersey870 contributionsBewildered by butterfliesWhat a beautiful place with tons of butterflies landing on you, flying around you and in front of you. The variety was unbelievable! Our day people could track a monarch with a sticker that had a code to the date it was released. The gardens all around the conservatory were amazing as well! Beautiful things in the gift store. So happy I didn’t miss this attractionVisited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten September 7, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Dutchie33
Toronto, Canada376 contributions
Jul 2020
This was our second visit. This time it was during Covid restrictions and we had our 5 year old granddaughter with us.
It was pretty quiet with only the 4 of us and one other couple. It was nice to have basically the whole place to ourselves. She enjoyed the visit as did we.
We were required to wear a mask during our visit. It gets pretty hot here at the best of times so adding the mask did make you very warm. You may want to consider this if adding the mask would make it uncomfortable for you.
Be sure to check your receipt. We had 3 adults and one child. We were charged for 4 adults and one child. That's an extra $16.95. I didn't realize until we had already left and were back at our hotel.
I called and made arrangements to go back the next day to get a credit. They did that without any problem. However while I was waiting I overheard another family so no we only have 2 adults and one child. Thought it odd that it was the same scenario thus my warning to watch what is being charged.
The parking is $3.00 per hour and you must calculate how long at the time you park your car. We were there an hour which was enough time.
It was pretty quiet with only the 4 of us and one other couple. It was nice to have basically the whole place to ourselves. She enjoyed the visit as did we.
We were required to wear a mask during our visit. It gets pretty hot here at the best of times so adding the mask did make you very warm. You may want to consider this if adding the mask would make it uncomfortable for you.
Be sure to check your receipt. We had 3 adults and one child. We were charged for 4 adults and one child. That's an extra $16.95. I didn't realize until we had already left and were back at our hotel.
I called and made arrangements to go back the next day to get a credit. They did that without any problem. However while I was waiting I overheard another family so no we only have 2 adults and one child. Thought it odd that it was the same scenario thus my warning to watch what is being charged.
The parking is $3.00 per hour and you must calculate how long at the time you park your car. We were there an hour which was enough time.
Written July 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steve c
Brampton, Canada81 contributions
Aug 2021
Easy to get to with ample paid parking. The grounds and gardens are nice, clean and picture worthy. Interesting foliage outside has signs so you can identify each species. Covid restrictions still in place so they were properly limiting attendance, this meant a little bit of a wait for us outside but it was reasonable. once inside it is air conditioned and fresh. some of the pre-displays and video were not operating due to covid restrictions. Once inside the conservatory it is magical the amount of butterflies free roaming throughout. Interesting plants, changing elevations, waterfalls, all add to the exotic setting. there is a fixed direction on the path but once inside you move at your own pace so this can be 10 minutes or an hour. lots of benches and rocks to sit on to rest or just view the butterflies. Many different species and very colorful. If you are lucky (and wearing white) they will land on you. Do not pick them up or poke at them. Most only live 2-4 weeks so they are fragile. Unfortunately there is no staff along the route to tell the unruly kids who misbehave. The climate is humid and there are stairs to climb so keep that in mind for the elderly. so many photo opportunities because of good lighting and interesting foliage. No where else will you be surrounding by this many butterflies. The kids who love animals will love this.
After the conservatory you can freely walk around the gardens, visit the gift shop and have a meal to make a day of it.
My only criticism is that they could make this experience more educational. The pamphlet that shows the different butterflies should be a check list for the kids to find and maybe a sticker at the end for completing the list and understanding the life cycle and their importance in our world.
After the conservatory you can freely walk around the gardens, visit the gift shop and have a meal to make a day of it.
My only criticism is that they could make this experience more educational. The pamphlet that shows the different butterflies should be a check list for the kids to find and maybe a sticker at the end for completing the list and understanding the life cycle and their importance in our world.
Written August 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hollywarshaw
Plymouth, MA20 contributions
Feb 2020
Getting there was half the fun. Admission is included with a "Wonder" pass, as well as the bus, which made the guided 30 minute drive down Niagara River in a comfortable bus almost as much fun as the conservatory itself. It was a snowy, cold winter day when we went and it was so nice being in warm, sunny inviting location with all of the beutiful butterflies.
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Judy Mok
1 contribution
Aug 2020 • Family
I understand that masks were mandatory for all indoor but there should still be enough social distancing. We came for a visit on a Sunday and it was very crowded once inside. People were hanging out gathering inside to enjoy the butterflies. I was expecting it would be one way traffic and non stop to keep distance from each other. Was a bit disappointed and uncomfortable. The conservatory should consider time ticket like the Toronto Zoo to limit capacity.
Written September 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
glasmorr
Castelnaudary, France91 contributions
Jul 2021
The conservatory is excellent. But, for the short time of the visit, the entrance fee and the parking fee is prohibitive to many. We have visited several times since the opening, but we are never returning to Niagara Falls. We have seen most attractions many times. So, with high hotel rates, expensive poor food, high parking fees, fewer floral attractions, why return?
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jjluke
Calgary, Canada2,047 contributions
Jul 2022
If you found this review informative, please indicate that it was helpful so I know where to better focus my review efforts. The Butterfly Conservatory in Niagara Falls is a welcome addition to anyone who wishes to unwind, relax and dial down your crazy visit to the Falls. It is located several kilometers away from the Falls themselves, enroute to Niagara on the Lake. Expect to spend about an hour inside the conservatory itself. It is a well-designed complex for visiting butterflies and if lucky, an attendant will open the nursery and place a butterfly on you. There are some smaller exhibits and a gift shop in the building. In addition, the grounds themselves offer ample opportunity for a walk and to relax. You can stretch your visit out several hours this way.
Above all else, please bear in mind that this is not meant to be something to plough through in 15 minutes, as it will be terrible value for money. Take your time and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, because once you leave, it’s back to the crazy Ontario traffic and Falls tourist traps. Once agin, if you found this review informative, please indicate that it was helpful so I know where to better focus my review efforts.
Above all else, please bear in mind that this is not meant to be something to plough through in 15 minutes, as it will be terrible value for money. Take your time and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, because once you leave, it’s back to the crazy Ontario traffic and Falls tourist traps. Once agin, if you found this review informative, please indicate that it was helpful so I know where to better focus my review efforts.
Written July 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
martymouse
Llanasa, UK119 contributions
Feb 2022
The visit to the Butterfly Conservatory was part of the Niagara Falls Wonder Pass package.
I didn’t think I would enjoy it quite as much as a I did. Again, this is a winter visit so the rest of the site is closed and, in our case, covered in snow, so relatively quiet. The other thing about the winter season is that you need your own transport to get to it; no public transport.
Once inside, you will be transfixed by butterflies everywhere and in the background the sound of the waterfall. It is warm and relaxing so find a place to settle down quietly and maybe a butterfly will land on you. You can leave your coats in the cloakroom – you won’t need them.
I didn’t think I would enjoy it quite as much as a I did. Again, this is a winter visit so the rest of the site is closed and, in our case, covered in snow, so relatively quiet. The other thing about the winter season is that you need your own transport to get to it; no public transport.
Once inside, you will be transfixed by butterflies everywhere and in the background the sound of the waterfall. It is warm and relaxing so find a place to settle down quietly and maybe a butterfly will land on you. You can leave your coats in the cloakroom – you won’t need them.
Written March 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
darlae1978
Traverse City, MI39 contributions
Aug 2022
This is a phenomenal Butterfly Conservatory and an easy stop if you are visiting the Niagara Botanical Gardens. The Butterfly Conservatory has such a wide array of butterfly varieties and the layout is lush and beautiful. The gift shop has a nice array of items, staff are friendly, and there are both informational displays and an educational video that you can check out before entering the conservatory. You'll need to pay a small fee to park, but you'll also have access to the Niagara Botanical Gardens from this parking lot, which is free to visit. The combination of the two stops is truly well worth the cost.
Written September 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KiwiFan17
Canada244 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
Third visit in 20 years. Still enchanting with so many species of butterflies and moths in a tropical setting.
Ticket agent was a bit snarly when I asked about a CAA discount that she said only lasted one week. Full price for one adult was almost $20 CAD including tax. Parking is $5 on top of that.
The staff inside the live exhibit itself were friendly and helpful. I wish they would be more assertive with stupid visitors who think they have the right to pluck butterflies off flowers for their own pleasure. If I were in charge, anyone who did that would be kicked out immediately. Respect nature!
Definitely did not like the photo taking at the beginning of the exhibit and the forced departure through the gift shop. Both of those experiences bookending the exhibit felt like an extra money grab that takes away from the genuine beauty and charm of the place. I could be interested in the gift shop naturally. Don't force me through it.
Mid November was an ideal time to visit because it wasn't very crowded.
Ticket agent was a bit snarly when I asked about a CAA discount that she said only lasted one week. Full price for one adult was almost $20 CAD including tax. Parking is $5 on top of that.
The staff inside the live exhibit itself were friendly and helpful. I wish they would be more assertive with stupid visitors who think they have the right to pluck butterflies off flowers for their own pleasure. If I were in charge, anyone who did that would be kicked out immediately. Respect nature!
Definitely did not like the photo taking at the beginning of the exhibit and the forced departure through the gift shop. Both of those experiences bookending the exhibit felt like an extra money grab that takes away from the genuine beauty and charm of the place. I could be interested in the gift shop naturally. Don't force me through it.
Mid November was an ideal time to visit because it wasn't very crowded.
Written November 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
luv2travelPittsburgh
Pittsburgh81 contributions
Sept 2022
Don't miss this! It is amazing how these beautiful little creatures light up the world with such colors and patterns. We visited the conservatory just before Covid hit, so our experience was perfect. When we returned home, DH planted many bushes and plants know for attracting butterflies. They worked! Now, I can see several Monarchs as well as the better known white varieties from my dining room window. They make me so happy, why do they have such a short life span? It seems so unfair. After our amazing tour of the conservatory and seeing so many different butterflies, we went into the gift shop. We purchased a large light up canvas wall art with the most beautiful photo of a Monarch on a purple flower bush. It's beautiful, not only during the day, but at night when the photo lights up. We did get one of those photos taken before you enter, but, honestly, it was well worth the cost. DH and I hope to return whenever the borders open up again. Meantime, we have our lovely butterflies who visit our bushes everyday, and our beautiful wall art to remind us of the our most enjoyable conservatory tour.
Written October 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We will be coming in mid march - are there butterflies to see or are they all cocooning?
Written January 21, 2024
Yes you can be seen mamy of variety butterflies with beaitiful color are there. Place also is awesome..you can not dought it must try!!!
Written May 18, 2024
Wego bus, to butterfly conservatory from Niagara falls, how frequently? How early ? How late? Map shows there regular stops and some
only North or South stops,. how I can go back, if I get off in a N stop I needed, and there is not S service at that stop? Can someone explain that. And also how to go from Butterfly conservatory to Floral clock. Thanks.
Written April 24, 2022
So sorry I’m not Canadian snd I drove so cannot give you an answer
Written April 25, 2022
Do i need to buy tickets online or can i buy at the gate? Is there free parking onsite?
Written July 22, 2021
Sorry, late answer. Tickets are available either way and there is free parking on-site. Park on the roof level, inside is too dark.
Written September 17, 2021
As far as I know it is still open they have arrows that show the direction you have to go in, strictly one way no back n forth as in the past.
A nice place to visit
Written October 23, 2020
Is it okay to bring camera & a tripod? Is there any tickets for having them there?
Written July 26, 2019
Cameras are welcomed but not sure about Tri-pods. If you have a “uni” leg it is likely more appropriate. The conservatory can get very busy and a tripod would impede traffic along the pathways. That may not be seen as friendly to other guests.
Early morning visits might be best if you wish to stand in one spot for a long time.
Written July 28, 2019
It's not free but it's under $20 per person.
Parking is free.
(wear light clothes as it's very warm inside)
Written January 23, 2020
Is there transportation from the Falls hotels area to get to the butterfly pavilion other than by car. We are going with a tour group - but they are not going to the butterfly pavilion - with all the other attractions they have lined up. We would like to see this on our own during our free time day- just do not know if public transportation is available Thank you in advance for any suggestions
Written February 14, 2019
I am writing to say that we did our trip. And yes - we took transportation bus called WeGo. From a place called table rock - near the falls They have three lines red -blue and green - the green line goes north - to the butterfly pavilion and other areas - blue line is local -and red line goes in the south direction Its $9.00 for the day - 24 hours Or you can get a 2 day pass $18.00 and 48 hours We took it on our free time from the tour group. Well worth it. They run about every 20-25 mins - in both directions You should try it - it’s the way to go - on n off all day long Much better than driving your car around town and outskirts
Written June 18, 2019
How to reach butterfly conservatory from the Niagara falls, in winter? (We are going as tourist and dotn have personal vehicle, public transportation preferred)
Written January 3, 2019
They do have a bus that will take you from the falls to the conservatory. It is included in the package you can buy.
Written January 20, 2019
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