It has been years since we’ve had the opportunity to see and learn about pollinators in the Lewis Ginter Conservatory, and it did not disappoint.
Richmond families will certainly want to put M&T Bank Butterflies LIVE! on their activity bucket list. Gus and I both loved watching the butterflies, but the highlight was definitely the butterfly release. Twice daily, new butterflies are released into the exhibit.
The exhibit, like the entire garden, is full of hands-on learning. For example, check out the moth enclosure, and then learn how moths and butterflies differ. While younger children are likely to be taken by the colors and movement, older children, who learn about the butterfly cycle as a Virginia SOL, can flex their knowledge and have a real-life representation of what they’ve learned in the classroom.
The Lewis Ginter staff is amazingly knowledgeable and answered every question Gus had, from identifying various species to what butterflies drink (there’s a little gatorade on the rocks for them!).
Prior to visiting, tell your children:
1) Wear bright clothing. Try to look like a flower if you’re hoping for a butterfly to land on you.
2) Walking feet are required. The butterflies often land on the floor, so we need to move slowly and pay attention, so we can keep them safe.
3) The butterflies are for looking with eyes only. No touching allowed.
M&T Bank Butterflies Live is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and included with Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden admission.
Members are free; $17 for adults; $14 for seniors; $8 for ages 3 to 12; children younger than three are free. Lewis Ginter members are free.
Restrooms in Visitor’s Center, Education Center (near Library), and the Children’s Garden. Be sure to explore the Children’s Garden afterward, and visit the Gift Shop in the Visitor’s Center.
For details, go here.
