Looking for unforgettable things to do in Dallas Fair Park? Step into a living tropical dream at Texas Discovery Gardens’ Butterfly House, where dozens of butterflies from around the world flutter freely in a vibrant glass conservatory. It’s more than a photo op — it’s a moment of wonder, learning, and connection with nature.

✨ A One-of-a-Kind Butterfly Experience
Stroll through lush tropical gardens as butterflies from Africa, Asia, and the Americas dance through the air. Watch them land on blooming nectar plants, tropical foliage — or even your shoulder! It’s an immersive way to learn about the fascinating life cycle of butterflies, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to fluttering adult.
The Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM and kept between 70–85°F year-round. Rain or shine, it’s always butterfly weather inside!
🦋 Don’t Miss the Daily Butterfly Release at Noon
Each day at 12:00 PM, join us for the magical moment when newly emerged butterflies take their very first flight into the conservatory! Our daily butterfly release gives you an up-close look at the final stage of metamorphosis. A staff member will share fun facts about the species being released and answer your butterfly questions — it’s a must-see experience for families, photographers, and nature lovers of all ages.
It’s the perfect time to visit and capture the wonder of butterflies as they spread their wings for the first time!

🐛 Watch the Magic Unfold in Our Emergence Chamber
Be sure to visit the Butterfly Emergence Chamber, located in the lower section of the conservatory. Here, you can see real butterflies emerge from their chrysalides — sometimes right before your eyes!

🌺 Explore Tropical Plants and Exotic Butterflies
The butterfly house is filled with beautiful tropical plants that feed our butterflies. Explore the stunning relationship between flora and fauna in this carefully curated habitat. From nectar-rich flowers to lush green leaves, our plants represent ecosystems from across the tropics.
Among the many butterfly stars you might encounter:
- Blue Morpho – a fan favorite known for its brilliant iridescent blue wings
- Blue-banded Swallowtail (Africa)
- Grecian Shoemaker (Central/South America)
- Blue Glassy Tiger (Asia)
- Chocolate Pansy (Asia)
- Black and Gold Birdwing (Philippines)
- Piano Key Postman (South America)
- Ruby-spotted Swallowtail (Central/South America)
- King Shoemaker (Central America)
- Variable Cracker (Central/South America)
- Leopard Lacewing (Asia)
Each visit offers something new — a chance to spot a different butterfly, see a new emergence, or discover a plant in bloom.

🌿 Learn, Celebrate, and Explore
At Texas Discovery Gardens, we believe in the power of experiential learning. Kids and adults alike can discover the importance of butterflies, organic gardening, and sustainability through interactive exhibits and programming.
Planning an event? You can rent our indoor and outdoor spaces for:
We’re a hidden gem for events — especially during the week!
🎟️ Tickets and Memberships
Purchase tickets online or onsite, and consider becoming a member! Members enjoy free daily admission, perks during the State Fair of Texas, and other special benefits.