The Butterfly Experience at Brookside Gardens is returning to Montgomery Parks this spring. Formerly known as Wings of Fancy, the exhibit is relaunching on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 10 a.m., and runs through Sunday, September 21, 2025. Advanced timed tickets go on sale Monday, March 3.
Visitors to the seasonal exhibit will get an intimate, up-close look at hundreds of brilliant live butterflies from North America, Costa Rica, Africa, and Asia as they flutter among colorful flowers throughout Brookside Gardens’ South Conservatory. Trained staff and volunteers will highlight the stages of metamorphosis, the important role butterflies play in healthy ecosystems, and how to ensure these beautiful insects thrive in our own gardens.
“We’re very excited The Butterfly Experience at Brookside Gardens is back, and we know the community is, too,” said Stephanie Oberle, director of Brookside Gardens. “The exhibit is better than ever. Visitors will be immersed in a dazzling display of butterflies from around the world while learning the important roles these pollinators play in a variety of ecosystems. We can’t wait for everyone to visit.”
Brookside Gardens is currently seeking volunteers to staff The Butterfly Experience. For more details about the volunteer opportunities and to sign up, visit the Volunteer Services Office webpage.
WHAT: The Butterfly Experience at Brookside Gardens Conservatory– 1500 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD (Additional parking is available at 1800 Glenallan Ave.)
WHEN: Thursday, April 10 to Sunday, September 21, 2025
- April-June: September: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (last ticket sold at 3:20 p.m.)
- July-August: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (last ticket sold at 12:20 p.m.); Weekends, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (last ticket sold at 3:20 p.m.)
TICKETS: $9 (ages 3-12); $14 (ages 13 and older), children under 3 are free but do require tickets. Tickets are available to purchase online in advance through Ticketsauce or can be purchased onsite through a QR code.