Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming

The annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies are Blooming exhibition at Meijer Gardens is the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation. More than 60 species from Africa, Asia, and Central and South America flit about the five-story Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, giving visitors an up-close look at the stunning diversity and exquisite beauty of these winged wonders. Don’t be surprised if one of these vibrant world travelers lands on you during your stroll – especially if you wear bright colors!

In addition to showcasing the butterflies in flight, the exhibition features feeding stations with nectar plants so you can see them in detail, and an Observation Station where hundreds of butterflies and moths emerge from their chrysalides and cocoons each week. Special educational programming invites visitors to learn more about these lepidopteran dazzlers, design their own butterfly gardens, create butterfly art and more. The outdoor Lena Meijer’s Children’s Garden also hosts a variety of interactive butterfly-themed activities to coincide with the exhibition.

America’s #1 Sculpture Park

Be sure to check out everything else Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has to offer during your Butterflies are Blooming visit. Named the #1 sculpture park in the nation by USA Today, Meijer Gardens offers a seamless blend of art and nature. Wander through outdoor gardens filled with 200+ captivating sculptures as the serenity of winter transitions to the rebirth of spring. Tour indoor gardens including a carnivorous plant house and English perennial garden, and bring the kids to the indoor Curiosity Courtyard if the weather outside is too frightful (or even if it’s not).

Plan a Grand Getaway

Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the butterflies and all the rest – you can always refuel at the on-site James & Shirley Balk Café during your adventures. Also, check out some other fantastic Spring Activities in Grand Rapids … and make your Butterflies are Blooming visit the centerpiece of a very Grand Getaway!

Getting There

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a 12-16 minute drive from the 200+ hotels, restaurants, shops and nightlife venues of downtown Grand Rapids, and it’s easily accessible from the I-96 and I-196 expressways. Parking is plentiful and free. The Butterflies are Blooming exhibition can get busy, especially on weekends and spring break days, but you can skip the ticketing line by reserving your tickets online. The exhibition is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.