The FlutterBy Butterfly Habitat is truly a rare gem—it only lands at Catawba Science Center once every three years, making this season’s appearance a must-see event. Open through early fall, this vibrant exhibit transforms the Outdoor Science Courtyard into a magical garden filled with native North Carolina butterflies. Families can stroll through the habitat as hundreds of butterflies flutter around them, landing on flowers, plants, and sometimes even visitors! It’s a perfect opportunity for kids to witness the butterfly life cycle up close, from caterpillar to chrysalis to full-grown beauty. Educational signs and friendly staff make the experience both enriching and engaging.

Also returning this season is the fun-filled Turtle Travels exhibit, where visitors can explore the fascinating world of turtles and tortoises. Through hands-on stations, families can track a turtle using radio telemetry, design their own turtle shells, and learn how these incredible creatures navigate their environments. It’s a fantastic complement to the butterfly habitat, offering a broader look at the animal world and conservation science.

With over 35,000 square feet of science exhibits, a planetarium, and impressive aquarium displays, Catawba Science Center makes a perfect day trip or weekend destination for families. But if you want to catch the butterflies before they take flight again—possibly not returning until 2028—make sure to visit soon. These seasonal wonders won’t be around forever!