Chattahoochee Nature Center
Discover native flora and fauna, from fluttering butterflies to river wildlife, on 127 acres of natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, blooming flora
Chattahoochee Nature Center
Best Time
Pleasant temps, blooming flora
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover native flora and fauna, from fluttering butterflies to river wildlife, on 127 acres of natural beauty.
"Pure joy from start to finish! My 3-year-old was in butterfly heaven."
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Georgia summers are hot. Bring plenty of water, especially for the Butterfly Encounter.
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Feed butterflies nectar sponges for an unforgettable, up-close experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Butterfly Encounter
Butterfly House
Hundreds of native butterflies flutter around you in a vibrant, nectar-filled sanctuary. Magical for all ages!
River Trails
Various trailheads
Explore scenic, well-maintained paths along the Chattahoochee River, perfect for walking and nature photography.
Wildlife Exhibits
Discovery Center
See native birds, beavers, and other rehabilitated wildlife up close in clean, informative enclosures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Membership Perks & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Georgia summers are hot. Bring plenty of water, especially for the Butterfly Encounter.
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Feed butterflies nectar sponges for an unforgettable, up-close experience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the grounds.
🧺 Picnic Lunch
Pack a lunch to enjoy at their outdoor seating areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Georgia summers are hot. Bring plenty of water, especially for the Butterfly Encounter.
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Feed butterflies nectar sponges for an unforgettable, up-close experience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the grounds.
🧺 Picnic Lunch
Pack a lunch to enjoy at their outdoor seating areas.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of native plants, wildlife, and butterflies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chattahoochee Nature Center for its magical Butterfly Encounter and well-maintained nature trails. The knowledgeable and kind staff, along with the opportunity to see native wildlife, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that summer can be very hot, so planning accordingly is essential.
"I had a great time as a solo visitor. They have an amazing variety of native plants and flowers, and in turn has abundant opportunity to spot native insects and birds. In summer it’s very hot, so plan to bring water and wear appropriate clothing. I brought my lunch, and there is plenty of seating and tables to rest outdoors. They had a small selection of native plants on sale which can be purchased at the lobby counter."
Margeaux McClelland
"We fluttered into the most magical day at the Butterfly Festival—and it was pure joy from start to finish! My 3-year-old was in butterfly heaven. 💕 She wore her favorite butterfly dress (because obviously you have to match the butterflies 🦋) and spent the whole day twirling, giggling, and chasing wings.
We got to make butterflies, feed them nectar, and even had one land right on her little finger—it was like they knew she was one of them! 💫 The puppet show had her belly laughing, and the butterfly crafts made her feel like a little artist. And let’s not forget the ice cream break to cool down from the sunny 90° weather 🍦—because all good adventures need sprinkles!
It was a perfect mommy-and-me date, full of magic, sunshine, and a whole lot of wonder. Thank you to the Nature Center for creating a space where curiosity can soar and little ones can feel like fairy queens of the garden! 🧚♀️💜"
alex k
"We were visiting family in Atlanta and we were going to the al fresco concert one evening - arrived early so we could walk the paths. Really nice trails, smooth enough even for kids. Beautifully designed, very well-maintained, with a few wild birds (injured, couldn't be released back to the wild) along the path. The enclosures are impeccably clean, but for me the highlight was visiting the butterfly enclosure. We were given little painting sponges saturated with sugar water, and my five-year-old inner child was squealing ecstaticly! The docent knew her stuff and she was so kind and patient, and obviously delighted to share her enthusiasm with us. Utterly cool experience! Then we spent a chill evening with a picnic dinner listening to music by Café au Lait."
Heather Steinmiller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chattahoochee Nature Center is located in Roswell, Georgia, just outside of Atlanta. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors use GPS navigation.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Public transportation options to reach the Chattahoochee Nature Center can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services.
Yes, Paces Mill Park and the Chattahoochee River are nearby, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. +1
From Midtown Atlanta, it's about a 15-minute drive to the river access points, and the Nature Center is a short drive further into Roswell.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Nature Center is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays (12 PM to 5 PM). Always check their official website for the most current hours.
Admission fees vary, but an annual membership is a great value if you plan to visit multiple times, offering unlimited access and discounts.
While not always required, booking tickets or memberships online in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or special events.
Check the official website for potential discounts for seniors, children, or military personnel. Membership often provides the best value.
Admission typically includes access to the nature center's exhibits, trails, and grounds. Special events or encounters may require separate tickets.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the magical Butterfly Encounter, the native wildlife exhibits, and the scenic trails along the Chattahoochee River. +1
Many of the trails are paved and well-maintained, making them suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs.
Generally, pets are not allowed on the grounds to protect the native wildlife. Please check their specific pet policy.
You can see native birds (some injured and in rehabilitation), beavers, and a wide variety of insects and other small creatures. +1
The Nature Center offers various educational programs, workshops, and sometimes guided tours, especially for school groups and families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Nature Center may have a small cafe or snack bar, but it's best to check their current offerings. Many visitors opt to bring their own food.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged! There are outdoor seating areas and tables available for visitors to enjoy their packed meals.
Yes, Roswell has a vibrant dining scene with many restaurants located a short drive from the Nature Center.
Roswell offers a diverse range of dining, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, including options like empanadas.
It's a good idea to plan your meals. You can enjoy a picnic on-site or explore the dining options in Roswell before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Butterfly Encounter, the river trails, and the wildlife exhibits offer fantastic opportunities for nature photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in nature centers and parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check their specific regulations.
You can capture images of native birds, butterflies, beavers, and various insects. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best for wildlife activity.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but commercial photography may require special permits. Always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife shots. Midday can be harsh due to direct sun.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for their STEAM lab which is great for bug-loving kids, and keep an eye out for special events like festivals and puppet shows that are designed to engage young audiences.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for spotting wildlife and capturing the best light.
🎓 Educational Visitors & Volunteers
Annual memberships are highly recommended for frequent visitors, offering great value and access to educational programs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Butterfly Encounter
It's a truly magical experience where you can observe these delicate creatures up close, and even purchase nectar to feed them, encouraging them to land on your hand. This encounter is more than just a visual spectacle; it's an educational opportunity. Docents are often on hand to share fascinating facts about the butterflies' life cycles and behaviors.
Pro-tip: Consider visiting during a butterfly festival for an even more immersive experience, complete with crafts and puppet shows.
Exploring the Chattahoochee River Trails
The trails provide excellent opportunities for nature photography, allowing you to capture the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Keep an eye out for native birds, insects, and other small wildlife that inhabit the area.
Some sections of the river are also accessible for activities like swimming or wading, particularly near areas like Paces Mill Park, which is a short distance away.
Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education
The Discovery Center houses these animals, offering clean and informative enclosures where you can observe them up close. Visitors can learn about the species' natural habitats, behaviors, and the importance of protecting them.
The staff and volunteers are often highly knowledgeable and passionate, eager to share the stories of the animals and their journeys. Volunteering at the Nature Center is also a rewarding experience, allowing you to contribute directly to animal care and conservation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit