Relax in Wonder at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
We’ve been to Key West a few times in the past. On those prior trips, we focused on the killer party vibe that is rolled out to guests every day of the year. On this trip, we decided to hit a few of the other tourist activities, including a little bit of cool nature.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
We went into this tour with no expectations, because the butterfly farm we previously visited in Cozumel was lame. But, we love nature, so we took a chance, and damn are we glad we did.
This small complex off of Duval Street is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle just down the street. After paying our admission, we walked into a small room with butterfly migration maps, informational signage and a few displays featuring common North American butterflies. We spent ten minutes learning a bit about the various beautiful species, and then opened the door into an amazing tropical micro-habitat.
The exhibit is a large, glass enclosed atrium decorated with lush live tropical plants. Running water features wind through the pathways, while beautiful tropical birds zip close by. And then, you notice the butterflies. Hundreds of them! They are everywhere, offering a kaleidoscope of colors as they flutter through the air and flit from flower to flower. Beautiful and unique.
The birds were just as varied and maybe even more beautiful than the butterflies. Their colors are striking and incredibly varied. We particularly loved spotting two flamingoes in one of the hidden ponds along the path. It was a sight to behold. Between the butterflies, birds and flowers, there is literally stunning beauty in 360 degrees.
The walk itself took us about 25 minutes as the path wound back and forth through the facility. All of these lovely creatures reside in a peaceful environment where the primary sound was gently running water. Throughout the path, there were several serene little seating areas for It was relaxing and captivating – a nice side of Key West that we’d missed on previous visits.
At the end of the trail, we spent a few minutes checking out the butterfly nursery onsite. The nursery featured numerous caterpillars, pupae and stunning butterflies emerging from their cocoons. Cool.
Check out our YouTube video here:
The gift shop onsite is loaded with butterfly-themed gifts. Definitely stop by and check out their offerings. We went home with a bunch of stuff that is now displayed throughout our house. The $17 admission price does allow you to return later in the same day.
Tip: If you visit Hemingway House first, you can get a discount at the Butterfly Museum. We figured that our a little too late.
Bottom Line: It’s a unique attraction, and it’s a perfect quick escape in Key West. If you like nature and want a relaxing Key West break, visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory!
Bob and Jackie
Sunshine Vagabonds
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