Tampa’s First Bug Zoo, Nature Center & Native Butterfly Botanical Garden Now Open for Visitors!
A unique, memorable, and educational attraction for all ages.
Imagine a tranquil oasis with several Florida native butterflies fluttering, caterpillars munching and the chance to see a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis. Butterfly Tampa visitors will learn how these pollinators truly teach us about the health of our environment in an enchanted, living rainforest in our South Tampa education exhibit.
To inspire dedicated conservation of butterflies and other pollinators through chemical-free native plant landscaping, public education and recreation.
Enjoy seeing live butterflies, their caterpillars munching on their host plants, and possibly witness a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis! While our main focus is butterflies and the native plants they rely on, there are many other creatures that rely on native plants and benefit our ecosystem.
Visit our new living bug zoo in our Bug Bungalow and several native and exotic reptiles, amphibians and turtle residents of Tampa Bay Butterfly Foundation’s living exhibit!
CLICK BELOW TO VIEW A VIDEO ABOUT US.
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Cool little place with a lot of cool insects and reptiles, and its clear the staff cares a lot about the animals and conservation. Would come again
Ashley H
December 18, 2025This plant and animal sanctuary is absolutely a local gem! The animals they have look to be very well taken care of, and the staff are welcoming, and a wealth... read more of knowledge. Krista and Jamie were enthusiastic and happy to share information, thank you both for providing a great experience.
Vilmos Balla
October 24, 2025Wow! This was an amazing experience. The handlers are knowledgeable and kind. We saw many different types of butterflies, reptiles, etc. I’d definitely come back again!
Christa B
October 19, 2025 -
It wasn't free as advertised it was $17 for me and my child but they had some cool little animals but mainly native animals to Florida
Jenni (Jen)
October 17, 2025I had a lot of fun. They have so many amazing critters and butterflies & the gift shop alone is worth the trip
Tom Blaze
October 7, 2025It’s a lovely place to learn more about Florida’s diverse ecosystem and get locally grown plants. Also, the workers there are so nice and insightful within their respective areas. Shout... read more out to Zachary who works with the invertebrates and Jaime that works with reptiles and amphibians!
Paola Benitez
September 14, 2025 -
A great way to spend an hour looking at native plants and animals. Very nice butterfly garden with lots of activity.
Kayden
September 14, 2025Loved this gem!! Staff are so passionate and eager to share their knowledge!! Cool reptiles and critters in the habitats, lovely gardens outside with a very natural feel rather than... read more being overly manicured. There is no enclosure so the butterflies can come and go as they please- how it should be!! This can cause variability in the amount of butterflies you may see and fyi the outdoor space is not huge but we absolutely loved it and can’t wait to go again! Cute store with yummy honey etc and plants for sale 💚🦋
Meowsy and Rawrsy
September 2, 2025Nice little butterfly garden and small animal rescue. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about all the animals. The staff made the visit. They are dedicated to butterfly... read more conservation and animal rescue. They are excellent at spotting the animals. Their enthusiasm is infectious! Great folks and a great place!
Jen and Dave Ricotta
August 15, 2025
FRIENDS OF BUTTERFLY TAMPA
4113 Henderson Blvd Tampa, FL 33629 • 813.551.BFLY (2359) • Info@ButterflyTampa.com