Wings of Fancy at Brookside Gardens
Looking for something to do in or near Silver Spring, MD? Then I can highly recommend spending an afternoon at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, MD. Stroll the grounds, have a picnic and visit the Wings of Fancy, a live butterfly and caterpillar (and moth) exhibit.
The exhibit starts with an educational introduction, the life-cycle of a butterfly, and a quick reminder of the rules: please don't touch the butterflies and make sure to shake your clothes, bags etc. before you leave. Apparently butterflies like to hitch a ride outdoors which could get you into a bit of trouble.
The transport of butterflies is governed by the USDA and only a few species can be moved across state lines and any release also requires a permit! Who knew? So, please check your clothes carefully before you go, there is a full-length mirror at the exit to make it easier.
The Wings of Fancy exhibit is located in the South Conservatory, 1500 Glenallen Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902 (parking can be challenging during peak hours as lots fill quickly) and is open daily from 10 am - 4 pm until September 22nd, 2013.
Tickets for the Wings of Fancy exhibit can be purchased at the Visitor Center and Conservatories and are $6 for adults and $4 for children ages 3 - 12, admission to Brookside Gardens is free.
I don't recall how many different butterfly species are fluttering around at the exhibit but they are all beautiful and make for really great photo opps. Here are some pictures of the ones I was able to capture:
Things to do in Silver Spring, MD: Wings of Fancy Exhibit at Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
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