Butterfly Tour
Each week, we receive hundreds of butterfly chrysalides and moth cocoons and wait as they undergo their metamorphic magic. See it happen on this Behind-the-scenes tour.
Tour Information
What Does it Take to Run a Butterfly House?
For starters; patience! Each week, we receive hundreds of butterfly chrysalides and moth cocoons and wait as they undergo their metamorphic magic. What you may not know is that the purchase of these butterflies from tropical butterfly farms adds to a sustainable rainforest economy. We work with butterfly farmers around the world to keep the butterfly house full of tropical beauties. Over the last 30 years, butterfly farming has blossomed into a vital economic alternative to logging and other activities that destroy the rain forest.
Learn more when you join our experienced biologists in processing a butterfly shipment. Even try pinning a butterfly chrysalis yourself! By taking part in this experience, you allow us to purchase more pupae from these farms and; therefore, help save the rainforest.
Tour Information
Ages: All ages
Time: 30 min
Tour Size: 4 Maximum (Limited per USDA regulations)
Availability: See Listings
Registration: Call 605-334-9466 x10 or email becca@sdaquarium.org to schedule your experience.
Price: $10/person (does not include admission)
Activity: Get a behind-the-scenes look with our Biologist as she prepares these pupae shipments.
Getting Ready for Your Tour
- Wearing non-slip shoes is recommended (flip-flops, crocs and heels not suggested)
- Dress comfortably with layers, the butterfly containment area is kept at 80-85 degrees.
- Plan to arrive no more than 5 minutes before your tour. Check in at our main facility entrance.
- Stay late—your admission is good for a full day of exploration.
- When booking a tour, please notify staff member of any guests with special needs.
Become a Member
Enjoy unlimited visits for a full year with your membership! We offer a variety of affordable membership options for individuals, couples, families and grandparents to help you make the most of your local tropical oasis.
After Dark Experience
Butterfly Feeding
Help us keep our most popular inhabitants happy and healthy with a unique look at how butterflies eat. They’ll be eating out of the palm of your hand! Purchase your butterfly feeding equipment for $3 at the admissions counter for up-close-and-personal fun.