For a quieter visit, try going when Meijer Gardens first opens at 9 am or later in the afternoon between 3-5 pm. We visited on a weekday morning, which tends to be less busy, and did not have a wait.
To keep the butterflies happy, the conservatory is 85 degrees Fahrenheit and 70% humidity. Sounds dreamy after a long winter, but also quite a contrast from the outdoor conditions!
Butterflies tend to be more attracted to bright colors, so dressing vibrantly may increase your butterfly appeal. I have yet to have a butterfly land on me, but dress like a colorful flower and you just might attract a butterfly friend.
From egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to mature butterfly, you can observe the fascinating stages in the life cycle of a butterfly at Meijer Gardens.
Throughout the area, you’ll find helpful signs by clusters of milkweed that say “Look for monarch caterpillars here.” Caterpillar spotting is definitely a hit with kids!