Published January 13th 2010

Each butterfly starts from a tiny egg, develops into a caterpillar and eventually turns into a beautiful butterfly; it is amazing to note the difference from start to finish. If you miss seeing butterflies and want your fix of vibrant colors in the cold winter, head over to The
Butterfly Conservatory at the American Museum of Natural History where hundreds of butterflies of all shapes, sizes and colors are delighting visitors as part of the "Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter" exhibition.
The butterfly vivarium is about 1,315 square feet and is a green, thriving oasis in the middle of the city. You will experience being surrounded by approximately 500 free flying butterflies as well as learn a substantial amount about how they live and flourish. There is also a pupa display case where you can view the pupa actually emerging. It is an up close and personal experience that can take your breath away.
The exhibition first opened at the American Museum of Natural History in 1998 and has been popular ever since. It is no surprise considering that it provides visitors with an opportunity to walk through lush greenery in a warm environment as butterflies float around. Kids and adults will enjoy an experience that does not happen every day. It ends on May 31, 2010 so there is still time to visit "Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter" exhibition before it closes.
Why? Each visit is a different experience
When: Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY
Where: Daily; entrance is every 15 minutes from 10:15 am to 5 pm
Cost: Adults $24; Children 2-12 $14; Seniors/Students with ID $18