As we head into the worst part of winter, aka the part where we’re all just not so patiently waiting for spring, you’ll want to take advantage of one of the best annual events in Columbus.
Franklin Park Conservatory is once again inviting the public to take in the beauty of Blooms & Butterflies. The exhibition has been around for nearly 30 years and it’s always a treat. Hundreds of colorful butterflies fly freely throughout the Pacific Island Water Garden, making for one majestic visit to the conservatory.
As you walk through this tropical paradise full of gorgeous blooms, you’ll see a variety of butterflies basking on plants and fluttering overhead. It really is one of the most joyful ways to spend an afternoon in Columbus, especially on snowy winter days.
The exhibition opens on February 25, 2023, and there will be tons of fun for the whole family at the Conservatory’s Opening Day event. Kids will be able to make a fairy wand, then check out the butterflies in the Pacific Island Water Garden Biome while visiting the costumed Garden Fairies. Children are encouraged to wear their own fairy costumes to the event.
Butterflies are beautiful little creatures. They are most active during periods with bright, clear sunlight. But they aren’t just pretty to look at. Butterflies are important pollinators, a group of insects and animals that are responsible for 1 in every 3 bites of food we consume and contribute over 200 billion dollars to the food economy worldwide.
In addition to seeing butterflies in the Pacific Island Water Garden Biome, you can also stop by the Metamorphosis Lab in the Grand Atrium to learn all about the butterfly lifecycle. There you’ll be able to look at the difference in chrysalises and get up close as brand-new butterflies make their way out.
At the Conservatory, butterflies receive all the care and nutrition necessary to live long lives. Usually, they live even longer there than they would in the wild. It might be tempting when you’re walking around to touch the butterflies or to try and feed them, but that could cause them harm, so it’s best just to observe them from a distance.
Butterflies & Blooms will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from February 25 through May 29. Franklin Park Conservatory is located at 1777 E. Broad Street. For more info,
