Purdy Butterfly House

Step into an enchanted world on your Alabama getaway at the Purdy Butterfly House!

This captivating open-air exhibit offers an immersive experience in a world of butterflies and lush greenery. The 9,000-square-foot sanctuary at the Huntsville Botanical Garden is home to over a thousand butterflies native to the Southeastern United States. 

Their life cycles unfold amid tropical plants, tranquil ponds, and trickling streams. These ensure pollinator-friendly plants nourish butterflies and other creatures like turtles, frogs, and fish. It’s a visual delight that also educates. 

The Purdy Butterfly House is open during the warmer months, from May through September. Its proximity to other key landmarks makes planning an itinerary easy. For instance, combine visiting the US Space & Rocket Center and Weeden House Museum & Gardens for a day of jam-packed exploration. With so many things to see and do in Huntsville, the combination of possibilities is endless!

The Purdy Butterfly House is a prime example of the depth of discovery at the Huntsville Botanical Gardens. Visiting is an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world in a serene and vibrant setting.

Purdy Butterfly House: Fun Facts & Cool Features

A fun fact is that this sanctuary is the largest open-air butterfly house in the United States. The expansive structure is the perfect home for various butterfly species, while the flowering plants, lively ponds, and flowing streams add magic to your visit. 

A fascinating fact for budding scientists is that the Purdy House allows visitors to observe the butterfly’s life cycle. From caterpillars munching leaves to butterflies gracefully taking flight, every aspect of their transformation is on display. 

Future biologists will marvel at the resident turtles and frogs, who add to the serene atmosphere. These aquatic companions can be spotted basking on rocks or swimming through clear waters.

A key highlight of the butterfly house is its role in education and conservation. Through features like interpretive signage and interactive programs, visitors learn about the importance of pollinators in maintaining biodiversity. 

The butterfly release event is the most appealing time to visit and attracts large crowds. Held during the summer, guests can release butterflies and contribute to rebuilding local populations. These provide a close-up view of nature while giving back to the environment.

When you’re ready for lunch or dinner, plenty of nearby options exist. The Viet House Restaurant is a short drive away and offers authentic, fresh Vietnamese cuisine. Only a few blocks away is Blue Plate Cafe, which features Southern comfort food in a laid-back atmosphere.

Adding the Purdy Butterfly House to your Huntsville vacation will appeal to all ages. Its lush surroundings, educational value, and hands-on experiences make it an unforgettable destination. Whether admiring the delicate dance of butterflies, exploring the garden’s serene beauty, or participating in a butterfly release, the Purdy House will add a touch of magic to your trip.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Huntsville to the Purdy Butterfly House:

• Head south on Jefferson Street toward Holmes Avenue.
• Turn right onto Governors Drive Southwest (US-431 S/AL-53 S).
• Continue straight for 3 miles.
• Turn left onto Bob Wallace Avenue Southwest.
• Drive approximately 1 mile.
• Address: 4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805.

Cost

Below are the costs of visiting:

• Garden Member: Free
• Child 2 and Under: Free
• Child (3-15): $13
• Adult: $20
• Senior (60+): $17
• Military (with valid ID): $17
• Student (with valid ID): $15

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.