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Butterfly House and Aquarium

4.5
·2k reviews·Sioux Falls, United States

Wander through a lush conservatory with hundreds of free-flying butterflies and explore a charming aquarium with a touch pool.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity

CrowdLow
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Indo Pacific Coral Reef

Butterfly House and Aquarium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wander through a lush conservatory with hundreds of free-flying butterflies and explore a charming aquarium with a touch pool.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"It's a very peaceful place to relax and simply enjoy the sounds of nature and the freedom of the animals."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦋 Rent a Butterfly Feeder

Worth the extra cost for an amazing close-up experience with butterflies!

⏰ Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Butterfly Conservatory

The Butterfly Conservatory

Indoor Conservatory

Wander through a lush environment filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies. A truly magical experience!

TikTok
Aquarium & Touch Pool

Aquarium & Touch Pool

Aquarium Section

Explore diverse marine life and get hands-on with sea creatures in the interactive touch pool.

Instagram
Butterfly Feeder Flower

Butterfly Feeder Flower

Butterfly Conservatory

Rent a special flower to attract butterflies and watch them land on it. An unforgettable close-up encounter.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays can get busy, so plan accordingly for a more serene experience with the butterflies and aquatic life. Reddit

Enhance Your Butterfly Encounter

Consider renting a butterfly feeder flower for an extra cost; it's a unique way to get up close with these delicate creatures. Reddit+1 This interactive experience is a hit with kids and adults alike. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Butterflies are active, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Catch butterflies before peak crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Okay but I think they’re so cool #fypシ #raisingmonarchs #monarchbutterfly
@sam.lw_
2.9M likes • 25.1M views

🦋 Rent a Butterfly Feeder

Worth the extra cost for an amazing close-up experience with butterflies! Reddit+1

⏰ Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful visit. Reddit

You're my crush #butterflies #kolohekai #lyrics #mycrush #music
@ogc90383
682.6K likes • 4.5M views
Go check out the new touch pool at the Butterfly House and Aquarium! Watch to learn about all the different animals you will be able to find there! #siouxfalls #butterflyhouse #familyfun #thingstodosiouxfalls #butterfly #southdakota
thehoodmagazine
8 likes • 482 views

🐠 Check Touch Pool Status

It may be closed for maintenance, but other sea life is still visible. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your camera for stunning photos of butterflies and marine life. TikTok

The Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House & Aquarium are recruiting volunteers! Now that we've merged as one organization, our volunteers get to enjoy both campuses. Volunteers can help with: - Daily giraffe feedings - Farm supervision - Bio fact presentations - Tidal touch pool - Butterfly Conservatory Learn more and apply today at GreatZoo.org/Volunteer. . . . #GPZoo #Zoo #SiouxFalls #Volunt...
greatplainszoo
74 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦋 Rent a Butterfly Feeder

Worth the extra cost for an amazing close-up experience with butterflies! Reddit+1

⏰ Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful visit. Reddit

🐠 Check Touch Pool Status

It may be closed for maintenance, but other sea life is still visible. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your camera for stunning photos of butterflies and marine life. TikTok

⏳ Allow 1-2 Hours

Perfect for a short, enjoyable outing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the Butterfly House and Aquarium to be a delightful and peaceful experience, especially for families. The highlight is undoubtedly the conservatory filled with numerous butterflies, with the feeder flower offering a particularly memorable close-up interaction. While the aquarium is smaller, it adds to the overall charm. Some visitors noted that the price might be a bit high for the size of the attraction, and the touch pool can sometimes be closed.

"Took the kiddos here while visiting Sioux Falls. Loved it! The touch pool at the aquarium part was closed but there were still some sea buddies we could see! The kids enjoyed it. Then we did the flower spritz things for the butterflies. You hold the flowers while walking through the butterfly house & there's a chance they can land on them so you see them really up close and personal. It was extra cost but worth it. Not too expensive & memories made!"

Stormie

"This was great fun for my 5&6 year olds! They were a little disappointed that the touch tanks were closed when we went but I also completely understand the need. It's not a large place and I don't know the price completely justified the experience but it was fun. I do recommend renting a butterfly feeder, the kids really enjoyed that part!"

Ashley Kruger

"This place was a very nice experience, sharing time with the butterflies and, at the same time, experiencing their small aquarium. It's a very peaceful place to relax and simply enjoy the sounds of nature and the freedom of the animals. I would definitely recommend this place for a date."

saray Gracia

What People Like

Abundant butterflies
Magical conservatory
Interactive feeder flower

What People Dislike

Touch pool closure
Price for size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Butterfly House and Aquarium is located in Sioux Falls, SD. It's a driving distance from Fargo, approximately 3.5 hours away. Instagram It's also mentioned as being part of the Great Plains Zoo campus, so check their specific location for directions. Instagram

While specific parking details aren't widely shared, it's often associated with larger attractions or parks, suggesting ample parking is usually available. Reddit

Yes, it's a popular day trip destination, especially from nearby cities like Fargo, MN. Instagram Plan for a 3-4 hour drive each way. Instagram

The environment is generally accessible, with paved paths in the conservatory and aquarium sections, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. TikTok

The attraction is relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Consider a map upon arrival if available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest it's not overly expensive. Renting a butterfly feeder flower is an additional cost but considered worth it by many. Reddit+1

Booking in advance is generally recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events like Homeschool Day. Instagram Check their official website for the most up-to-date ticketing information. Instagram

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or social media channels for the most current hours of operation before your visit. Instagram

Discounts may be available for groups, children, seniors, or military personnel. Look for information on their website or inquire at the ticket counter. Instagram

If the Butterfly House and Aquarium is part of a larger organization like the Great Plains Zoo, a membership to that organization might grant access. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore a conservatory filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies TikTok and a small aquarium with various sea life, including a touch pool. Instagram Renting a butterfly feeder flower is a popular interactive activity. Reddit+1

Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to see and experience all that the Butterfly House and Aquarium has to offer. Reddit

Absolutely! Kids love the butterflies and the aquarium. Renting a feeder flower is a particular hit with younger visitors. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed, and it's a great spot for capturing beautiful shots of butterflies and marine life. TikTok

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Dress in layers as the conservatory can be warm and humid. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Specific dining facilities within the Butterfly House and Aquarium are not widely detailed. It's advisable to check their official website or plan to dine at nearby restaurants. Reddit

Outside food and drinks may be restricted. It's best to confirm their policy on outside food before your visit. Reddit

If food is available on-site, it's likely to include options suitable for children. Otherwise, nearby eateries would offer variety. Reddit

Sioux Falls offers a variety of restaurants. You can find options ranging from casual cafes to more formal dining experiences close to the attraction. Reddit

Many find it a very peaceful and relaxing place for a date, enjoying the sounds of nature and the freedom of the animals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lush conservatory with hundreds of butterflies is ideal. The aquarium tanks also offer great opportunities for capturing marine life. TikTok

Flash photography is often discouraged in sensitive environments like butterfly conservatories and aquariums to avoid disturbing the animals. Check for signage or ask staff. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional or commercial photography might require special permits. TikTok

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the aquarium. For butterflies, a macro lens can capture intricate details. TikTok

Yes, some visitors have documented seeing newly hatched butterflies, offering unique photographic moments. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Butterfly House and Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families. Kids are captivated by the hundreds of butterflies fluttering around them. TikTok Renting a butterfly feeder flower is a must-do activity that provides thrilling close-up encounters and creates lasting memories. Reddit+1 The aquarium, with its various sea creatures and the interactive touch pool (when open), adds another layer of excitement. Instagram It's a relatively compact attraction, making it manageable for younger children, and typically takes 1-2 hours to explore. Reddit

💑 Couples and Dates

This venue offers a uniquely peaceful and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a date. The serene environment of the butterfly conservatory, with its lush plants and gentle fluttering, provides a tranquil escape. Reddit It's a place to relax, enjoy the sounds of nature, and appreciate the beauty of the animals together. Reddit The aquarium adds an element of shared discovery, and the opportunity for close encounters with butterflies can lead to memorable moments. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Butterfly House and Aquarium presents a wealth of opportunities. The butterfly conservatory is a dream for macro photography, allowing you to capture intricate details of wings and patterns. TikTok+1 The aquarium tanks offer chances to photograph diverse marine life, though low-light conditions might require a camera with good performance in dim settings. Instagram Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography to avoid disturbing the delicate creatures. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Butterfly Conservatory

Step into a vibrant, humid world teeming with hundreds of free-flying butterflies from various species. The conservatory is designed to mimic their natural habitat, complete with lush greenery and blooming flowers. Visitors often describe the experience as magical and serene, a stark contrast to the outside world. TikTok It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature's beauty, with butterflies flitting around you and occasionally landing on your clothing or outstretched hand. TikTok

Many visitors recommend renting a butterfly feeder flower for an additional fee. This allows for an incredibly close-up encounter, as butterflies are attracted to the nectar and may land on the flower you hold. Reddit+1 This interactive element is particularly popular with children and creates lasting memories. Remember to move slowly and gently to maximize your chances of a butterfly visitor. TikTok

Exploring the Aquarium and Touch Pool

Beyond the butterflies, the attraction features a small but engaging aquarium. Here, you can observe a variety of marine life, from colorful fish to other fascinating sea creatures. While the aquarium might not be as extensive as larger dedicated facilities, it offers a delightful complement to the butterfly experience. Instagram

A highlight for many is the touch pool, where visitors can gently interact with certain sea animals under supervision. Instagram However, it's important to note that the touch pool may occasionally be closed for maintenance or conservation reasons. Reddit Even if closed, the other aquatic displays provide plenty of interest and educational value for all ages. Reddit

Community Insights and Tips

Real visitors and content creators share valuable insights that can enhance your visit. For instance, many emphasize the benefit of visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate experience with the butterflies. Reddit The rental butterfly feeder flower is consistently praised as a worthwhile splurge for an unforgettable close-up. Reddit+1

Content creators often showcase the sheer beauty and tranquility of the conservatory, with videos highlighting the abundance of butterflies and the unique job of working there. TikTok+1 Some even capture the excitement of seeing new butterflies hatch, adding an element of surprise to the visit. TikTok While the aquarium is smaller, its presence adds another layer of discovery, and the touch pool, when open, is a definite crowd-pleaser. Instagram

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