When the calendar says spring but the weather is still holding on to winter, you've got to head to Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory in South Deerfield.
Magic Wings is one of the most enchanting places in Western Mass. It's an 8,000 square foot, 80 degree conservatory full of butterflies, moths, and beautiful vegetation. We're talking over 3,000 butterflies dancing through the air. There are other animals to visit with too -- lizards, button quail, koi, turtles. You can even witness butterflies emerging from their chrysalises. The conservatory is not a huge space so you can feel comfortable letting the kids take the lead and follow along as they explore.
Spending part of the day meandering around the paths of the conservatory is pure bliss. It's a very peaceful place with so many beautiful flowers, plants, and ponds to appreciate. However, you also want to save some time to check out the adjoining exhibit room. There are even more animals to visit with here (on our most recent visit there were some brand new button quail chicks just hatched that morning -- cutest. things. ever), butterfly videos to watch, and lots to learn about migration, butterfly life cycle, and the environment.
If you have a budding photog in the family bring him or her here. This place is a photographer's delight. There is a scavenger hunt the kids can conquer and animal encounters are offered as the staff feed and care for the residents (we got to pet a skink on our most recent visit). The staff is excellent for answering questions about all the animals and plants. But it's also lovely to just park it on a bench and take in all the beauty.
You do have to warn the kiddos (especially the youngest) that you cannot chase or touch the butterflies and you have to watch where you step. Sometimes they take a rest on the floor and you want to be careful not to step on anyone. If a butterfly decides to land on you, lucky you; however, you cannot touch it or flick it off.
I think it's also important to note that even though I think that Magic Wings is one of the most enchanting places in all of Western Mass, if you have a family member who is fearful of insects, birds or butterflies (it's actually a thing -- Lepidopterophobia) please don't subject them to a visit here. I've witnessed a few really fearful children in the sanctuary and it doesn't help to remind them that butterflies are peaceful and don't sting. It can be very unnerving for some people to have many winged things flying about their heads. Let the reluctant family members sit it out in the snack bar or lobby. There is no charge for visitors unless you want to enter the exhibit area.
Magic Wings also has a sit-down restaurant (Monarchs) and a separate food court with many affordable options (think sandwiches, soup, soft serve, baked goods). There is no outside food allowed -- if you want to picnic you can do so in your car in the cold weather.
Admission is $16/adult and $10/child. Admission is FREE for kids under 3. It's important to note that strollers are not allowed in the sanctuary. You definitely want to bring your carrier for itty bittys. It's a pretty toddler-friendly space so you should feel comfortable letting your new walker explore on their own.
Magic Wings is located at 281 Greenfield Road in South Deerfield. They are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and only close on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
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