Butterfly Rainforest

Part of the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Butterfly Rainforest is a separate, ticketed exhibit at the otherwise free museum. The daily live butterfly spotlight program is a fascinating way to learn about specific species that are currently living in the screened enclosure, but you’re also free to walk around on a self-paced tour and enjoy the outdoors. This exhibit is a USDA containment facility, so there are special rules you should know before you go.

• You cannot bring food or strollers, and should refrain from touching anything in the exhibit.

• The enclosure is screened-in but outdoors, so bring water, apply sunscreen, and consider UV-protective clothing.

• There is a free indoor butterfly exhibit in the Florida Museum of Natural History, too.

• Keep an eye out for the many different species of birds, turtles, and fish in the Butterfly Rainforest as well.

• There are seasonal weekend butterfly plant sales.

The Butterfly Rainforest is part of the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville at 3215 Hull Road. If you’re driving, take I-75’s SW Archer Road exit east to SW 34th Street. Public parking is available, but keep in mind that students or faculty may also use these lots during the school week. Multiple public buses stop at the Butterfly Rainforest, as do taxi cabs and rideshares.

Although it’s a separate, paid attraction, many visitors to the Florida Museum of Natural History go to the Butterfly Rainforest, and you may find it’s least crowded early in the day. Remember that the entrance to the exhibit closes 30 minutes prior to its daily closing time. The butterfly spotlight takes place at 2pm Monday to Friday, as long as weather conditions are favorable.

The green space across from the Butterfly Rainforest is the Natural Area Teaching Library for the University of Florida. This 60-acre (24-hectare) space has four interpretive trails that weave through three ecosystems. It’s free to visit and is home to dozens of species of butterflies. These trails are another great way to engage with Gainesville’s landscape and learn about its ecology.