Western Colorado Botanical Gardens and Butterfly House

Description:

• This botanical garden along the Colorado River offers a delightful escape into the natural world. Located on 15 acres, the facility includes a butterfly house, greenhouse with more than 600 exotic tropical plants, paved trails, and outdoor gardens and demonstration areas. In the butterfly house, visitors stroll through a lush forest of flowering plants, ferns, and ponds. But don't let the butterflies land on your palms -- oil from your hands will clog their taste buds, which are located on their feet, and prevent them from finding food. The adjacent greenhouse contains hundreds of plants, including orchids and other colorful tropical varieties. Also in the greenhouse are fishponds and several whimsical metal sculptures. Walkways connect the botanical gardens with the Colorado River Trails system. Allow 2 to 4 hours.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010