Butterfly House Pacific Grove
A private residence transformed into a vibrant masterpiece, adorned with thousands of handcrafted butterflies, telling a beautiful love story.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for vibrant colors
Butterfly House Pacific Grove
Best Time
Best light for vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A private residence transformed into a vibrant masterpiece, adorned with thousands of handcrafted butterflies, telling a beautiful love story.
"An awesome find with even more beautiful story, truly something very special."
Admire from the Street
It's a private home, so enjoy the view from the sidewalk and be respectful of residents. :camerawithflash:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant butterflies are a photographer's dream! Best seen in natural light. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thousands of Handcrafted Butterflies
Exterior of the house
A breathtaking display of vibrant, hand-painted butterflies covering the entire exterior of the home.
The Heartwarming Backstory
The house itself
Learn about the devoted husband who decorated the house for his wife, who was losing her eyesight.
Intricate Details
Exterior of the house
Discover the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision in every butterfly and detail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Love Story Adorned
Respect the Residence
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from the Street
It's a private home, so enjoy the view from the sidewalk and be respectful of residents. :camerawithflash:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant butterflies are a photographer's dream! Best seen in natural light. :iphone:
Understand the Story
The house's beautiful backstory adds a layer of meaning to your visit. :heart:
Check for Updates
While the exterior is the main attraction, some sources mention the inside is also beautiful. :information_desk:
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from the Street
It's a private home, so enjoy the view from the sidewalk and be respectful of residents. :camerawithflash:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant butterflies are a photographer's dream! Best seen in natural light. :iphone:
Understand the Story
The house's beautiful backstory adds a layer of meaning to your visit. :heart:
Check for Updates
While the exterior is the main attraction, some sources mention the inside is also beautiful. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Butterfly House for its stunning visual appeal and the deeply touching backstory behind its creation. It's described as a unique and heartwarming stop that leaves a lasting impression, though some note the importance of respecting it as a private residence.
"What an awesome find!! A really beautiful place with even a more beautiful story... if you have the chance, you really should check it out, it's something very special 🦋🦋"
Cynthia Truitt
"Such beautiful art and a beautiful story behind it all. FYI.. Neighbor across the street doesn’t care for the house."
JayTo TheMe
"I wasn’t to sure about the history of this place but it was absolutely stunning to pass by 🙂↔️"
ASH P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Butterfly House is located at 309 9th Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for those exploring the Monterey Peninsula. Parking is typically street parking, so be prepared to walk a short distance.
While specific bus routes directly to the house might vary, Pacific Grove is served by local bus lines. It's advisable to check with local transit authorities for the most current routes and schedules.
Street parking is the most common option. Visitors often find spots on 9th Street and surrounding residential streets. Arriving earlier in the day can increase your chances of finding convenient parking.
Absolutely! The Butterfly House is a perfect quick stop when visiting other Monterey Bay attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium or Cannery Row. It's a charming addition to any itinerary.
Yes, the Butterfly House is located in a residential area of Pacific Grove, making it walkable from many parts of the town, especially if you are exploring the charming streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required as the Butterfly House is a private residence. Visitors admire the exterior art from the street.
Since it's a private home, there are no official visiting hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours to appreciate the colorful details.
There is no admission fee to view the exterior of the Butterfly House. It's a free attraction for the public to enjoy from the street.
The Butterfly House is a private residence, so visitors are not permitted inside. The main attraction is the stunning exterior artwork.
The house is consistently adorned with its butterfly art, making it a year-round attraction. The dedication to its upkeep ensures it remains a vibrant sight.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours offer the best lighting to capture the vibrant colors of the butterflies. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful, soft light.
While photography from the street is generally welcomed, remember it's a private residence. Avoid intrusive photography and respect the privacy of the occupants and their neighbors.
You can capture stunning close-ups of the individual butterflies, wide shots of the entire house adorned with art, and details of the intricate designs.
Drone usage is generally restricted in residential areas and around private properties. It's best to avoid drones to respect privacy and local regulations.
Experiment with different angles from the sidewalk. You can get great shots from street level, and sometimes slightly elevated views from across the street can offer a different perspective.
🎫 ❤️ The Story & Meaning
The house was lovingly decorated by a husband for his wife who was losing her eyesight. He used bright colors and butterflies to help her find her way home.
The art was created by J Jackson, often referred to as 'The Butterfly Man,' who dedicated 25 years to adorning his home.
It's named the Butterfly House because the entire exterior of the residence is covered in thousands of handcrafted butterflies.
While not officially designated as a historical landmark in all contexts, it is widely recognized as a beloved local landmark and a testament to a beautiful love story.
It symbolizes enduring love, artistic expression, and a unique way of navigating challenges, making it a heartwarming sight for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's a private residence, the visit is brief and focused on admiring the exterior. This is ideal for younger children who may have shorter attention spans. Encourage them to spot their favorite colors or butterfly shapes. Remember to keep noise levels down and stay on the sidewalk out of respect for the residents.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hour for softer light and a more dramatic effect. While the house is a private residence, the exterior art provides a rich canvas. Be mindful of the surroundings and respect the property while you capture its beauty.
❤️ Couples & Romantics
Take a moment to appreciate the dedication and artistry, perhaps reflecting on your own relationships. It's a picturesque and heartwarming stop that adds a touch of romance to any visit to Pacific Grove.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Inspiring Love Story
+1In response, her husband, J Jackson, embarked on a decades-long project to transform their home into a beacon of color. He meticulously adorned the entire house with thousands of handcrafted and painted butterflies. This artistic endeavor served a dual purpose: it was a beautiful gift for his wife and a practical aid, helping her recognize their home and navigate her way back after walks with her guide dog.
+1This heartwarming backstory is what truly elevates the Butterfly House from a quirky roadside attraction to a deeply moving experience. Visitors often express being touched by the dedication and love poured into every detail, making it a memorable stop on the Monterey Peninsula.
Artistry and Aesthetics
The artistry extends beyond mere quantity; there's a clear attention to detail in the placement and design of each butterfly. From afar, it creates a cohesive, vibrant tapestry, but upon closer inspection, the individuality of each piece becomes apparent. This makes it a rewarding subject for photography, offering both grand vistas and intricate close-ups.
While the primary focus is the butterflies, the house itself provides a charming backdrop. The combination of the colorful art and the residential setting creates a unique and whimsical atmosphere that has made the Butterfly House a beloved local landmark and a must-see for visitors to Pacific Grove.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit