Step inside Sioux Falls’ Butterfly House & Aquarium for a hands-on encounter with fluttering wings and shimmering fish. This intimate destination offers a refreshing taste of nature year-round, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including young children and seniors
Wildlife
History
Sioux Falls has long been a regional hub for natural attractions, with the Butterfly House & Aquarium enhancing indoor wildlife education in the area.
Conservation
The facility promotes awareness by fostering close-up connections with insect and aquatic life, encouraging visitors to appreciate and protect local ecosystems.
Butterfly House & Aquarium
Step inside Sioux Falls’ Butterfly House & Aquarium for a hands-on encounter with fluttering wings and shimmering fish. This intimate destination offers a refreshing taste of nature year-round, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Butterfly House & Aquarium in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a combined live butterfly conservatory and saltwater aquarium open to the public.
The venue showcases more than 800 free-flying butterflies and a dozen saltwater exhibits featuring reef fish and marine life. Butterfly House & Aquarium offers daily admission for families, visitors, and educators, plus a free field trip program for Kindergarten through fifth-grade classes during limited time slots. Educational signage and trained staff provide age-appropriate information about butterfly lifecycles, pollination, aquatic ecosystems, and conservation practices.
The site maintains a controlled tropical environment for butterflies and carefully managed saltwater systems to support animal health. Safety protocols and accessibility measures are in place to create a welcoming visit for diverse guests. Located within Sioux Falls, the attraction complements local cultural and nature-focused offerings and serves as a resource for school groups and community programs.
Ticketing options, hours, and field trip reservations are available through the attraction's official channels; visitors are encouraged to confirm availability before arrival. Photography is allowed in most areas for personal use, while commercial photography requires prior permission. Butterfly House & Aquarium participates in community outreach and supports conservation education through exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. Reviews and visitor feedback highlight the immersive quality of walking among butterflies and observing marine exhibits up close. The venue emphasizes education, conservation, and safe, memorable experiences for families and school groups. Staff prioritize animal welfare and follow established husbandry and biosecurity best practices to protect residents and visitors alike. Year-round educational programming.
Location
Sioux Falls, SD
Located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Butterflies
800+ free-flying
Walk among hundreds of butterflies
Saltwater Exhibits
12 exhibits
Twelve saltwater exhibits on display
Field Trips
K–5 free
Free field trips for K–5 classes
Reserve daily admission or arrange a free K–5 field trip — make a memorable, educational outing in Sioux Falls.
Bring Butterfly Feeder Flowers
Purchase the $3 feeder flowers to attract butterflies close enough for an unforgettable hand-feeding experience.
Plan for a 1–2 Hour Visit
Allow up to two hours to comfortably see both the butterfly garden and aquarium without rushing.
Check Interactive Aquarium Features
Touch tank areas may occasionally close due to staffing, so confirm availability before your visit for full experience.
Pair Visit with Sioux Falls Zoo
Consider the Monarch Zoo Membership for combined admission to the Butterfly House and Sioux Falls Zoo to maximize value.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Non-slip shoes help you move comfortably through indoor paths and viewing areas.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture vibrant butterfly wings and aquarium scenes; low light settings may help.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Indoor temperatures are climate-controlled but layering adds comfort during the cooler months.
fall|winter
Cash/Card for Feeder Flowers
Bring payment to purchase butterfly feeder flowers needed for the hands-on feeding experience.