About
The National Butterfly Center is the pilot project of the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), a nonprofit organization committed to environmental conservation and education. It is located in Mission, Texas, because the Rio Grande Valley is home to the greatest volume and variety of butterflies species in the United States.
Just 10 years ago, this 100-acre parcel of land along the banks of the Rio Grande River was a commercial onion field. Today, it is the largest botanical garden in the United States focused on propagating native plants for pollinators in formal gardens and wildscapes. This nature preserve contains a Hackberry Forest and several species of endangered plants and animals. Expect season variations and changes subject to rainfall, temperatures, etc.
THE NATIONAL BUTTERFLY CENTER IS NOT A BUTTERFLY HOUSE.
All wildlife found in the NABA Section of the Lower Rio Grande Wildlife Conservation Area, which includes a National Wildlife Refuge tract and Bentsen-RGV State Park, is free-roaming.
The National Butterfly Center features walking trails and two birding areas, as well as a photography blind. Our butterfly and bird lists may be found on our website.
PLEASE NOTE:
Butterflies prefer sunny days, with temperatures above 70 degrees, so days like this are the best for enjoying the wild, free-flying butterflies. The peak of butterfly season normally occurs in late October/early November, and may continue until the first prolonged cold snap.
Handicapped parking available, with many accessible areas.
National Butterfly Center
3333 Butterfly Park Drive
Mission, TX 78572
Latitude: 26.180243
Longitude: -98.364973
Entrance Fees
- Adult: $10 Daily
- Children (5-12): $5 Daily
- Child 4 Years and Under : Free
- Weekpass: $35
Hours
Open daily,
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.