Avoid the Cold Head to The Tropics!
With a high of 10 degrees tomorrow, and let's face it will we really see 10, it is time to look at something warm to do tomorrow. Now I might just hibernate under my rumpl blanket all day with my national parks book and dream of the future, but if you have kids that isnt an option. I have heard mountains are closing but were you really going skiing tomorrow? What about heading to the tropics? I know, I know who has the money for a 24 hour trip like that! Not me! But let's head to a tropical place and stay warm with tropical creatures. Trust me it's easier than you think.
Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory in Deerfield Massachusetts is where we are headed. This magical place is located 5 minutes off of interstate 91 in Western Massachusetts, making it very easy for all to access. Magic Wings is truly magical, especially on a cold day, they keep the conservatory at a humid 80 degrees. Once inside you are surrounded by trees, bushy plants and butterflies everywhere!
First, use the coat room to ditch your layers, then head into the gift shop to pay admission. This might get pricy for groups but once you pay you can go in and out multiple times as long as you finally leave by 5pm. While checking in be sure to buy a butterfly key at $1 these are a great souvenir and it is always fun for a budding Lepidopterologist (Studier of butterflies and moths) to identify the butterflies and moths they will see.
Walk through the door that says enter and start playing the fun game of find the critter! Perfect game for your school age kids, have them search for stick bugs, tree frogs and various lizards. When you have found all the critters head into the air lock. This air lock will make more sense when you leave the butterfly room, as the blowing fans ensure no hitchhikers leave with you.
Stepping into the butterfly room can be overwhelming. It's hot (around 80 degrees), there are plants everywhere, and butterflies swooping at you. Take a moment to take it all in. Breath in the earthy smells. When you are ready pick left or right and start wandering. The animals have the right of way here, tortoises will cut you off, butterflies will swoop by, and button quail are constantly running around.
Once you have had your fill follow the paths back to the airlock. Check your back to make sure no hitchhikers follow you out.
Head to the gift shop and start exploring for a memento to remember your butterfly trip. I personally had to pick up a butterfly coloring book and an insect identification book. I found their prices very decent in comparison to amazon (I checked) and was happy to support Magic Wings.
If the snack bar is open head in and get some water and a snack before heading out. If it isn't ask in the gift shop for a suggestion. They were very helpful in recommending a restaurant and giving us directions there too.
Have a great weekend and stay warm!
Rachel
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