We opened our butterfly pavilion in April with the start of SOAR – Tropical Butterflies, which filled the 1,800-square-foot pavilion with brightly colored tropical butterflies of all kinds. There were blue morphos, giant swallowtails, malachites, rusty-tipped page and more. After a short break, we’ve now launched an entirely new exhibit called SOAR – Monarch Migration. So, how are these two exhibits different? If you attended Tropicals, should you visit Monarchs? YES!  Here are 10 ways Monarch Migration is an entirely new experience that you just can’t miss.

  1. SOAR – Monarch Migration highlights only one species – monarchs. The exhibit is entirely focused around this wonderful species and its story, from its migration habits, features and characteristics, plus its declining population and how YOU can help conservation efforts.
  2. Our host and nectar garden has been replanted to feature plants that western monarchs love. 
  3. Inside the pavilion there is a fall color palette being brought to life with new plantings. 
  4. When you walk into the pavilion, you will be stunned with the amount of orange you see! Because this exhibit features monarchs and mimics, every butterfly in the pavilion will be orange. 
  5. This exhibit is truly about education. We have entirely new signage, a new brochure (available at check-in) and our guides have new fun facts to tell so you can truly become an amateaur monarch expert. 
  6. Our Discovery Carts will have a monarch theme for visitors to enjoy. These carts will be active Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., except October 24 and holiday weekends.
  7. SOAR – Monarch Migration has a shorter run (only two months compared to Tropicals’ four-month run!) so there’s less time to see and learn about this beautiful species.
  8. The cooler weather will allow you to get up close and personal with the butterflies since they are less active in cold temperatures. This is a good thing because part of the exhibit is for you to learn how to tell a monarch from a mimic. Being able to see the details of each butterfly and understand their differences will help you become a monarch detective. 
  9. We know fall months can be just as hot as summer months some years, but if the cooler weather doesn’t happen, as we move further into fall and the sun sets earlier, the butterflies will become less active earlier in the day. This too will allow you time to investigate the butterflies and become a monarch detective. Also, please note that we will be closing the pavilion earlier once daylight savings time ends. Starting November 7, the last ticket will be at 3:30 p.m. to help offset the early time of sunset.
  10. We have new products to purchase at the kiosk that are monarch themed, including butterfly books, butterfly gardens, shirts, tea towels, tote bags, seed packets, hats and, most importantly, milkweed! 

So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets today! 

The Garden relies on generous donations from our Members, visitors and community to keep access to our 87 acres open for all and to provide unique horticultural experiences that help people find connections with nature. Please help us continue this mission for years to come by considering a gift to the Garden. You can do so here.