Family Programs

Did you know tinsel was inspired by nature? Spend a festive morning exploring the surprising connection between sparkling holiday decorations and the incredible world of spider silk. Meet some of our remarkable spider ambassadors up close, learn about the wonders of silk, and bring the heartwarming story of Cobweb Christmas to life through interactive storytelling and play.

Please note: General Admission is included in the ticket price.

When the sun goes down, the adventure begins. Whether you're planning a unique date night, a fun outing with friends, or a solo mission of curiosity, Flashlight Tours invite you to explore Butterfly Pavilion like never before — in the dark.

Armed with a flashlight, unravel the secrets of the Pavilion, working as a team to solve puzzles throughout the zoo. Join our expert guides for a one-of-a-kind, after-hours experience that weaves together storytelling, real science, and live animals. Do you have what it takes to escape the Pavilion?

Slow down, move together, and experience the magic of family yoga surrounded by hundreds of free-flying butterflies in our tropical rainforest. This playful, all-levels class invites children and their grown-ups to explore movement through partner poses, breathing games, mindful moments, storytelling, and nature-inspired yoga.

Together, we'll stretch like caterpillars, balance like butterflies, sway with the trees, and pause to notice the incredible life all around us. Rather than focusing on perfect poses, this class celebrates connection, curiosity, and joyful movement. Families will leave feeling grounded, refreshed, and with a deeper appreciation for one another and the natural world.

Perfect for families with children ages 4 10 (siblings welcome), no yoga experience is needed just bring your sense of wonder.

Come create memories, share laughter, and discover how slowing down together helps us notice the beauty that's always been around us. The warm rainforest, filled with tropical plants and butterflies, offers a truly one-of-a-kind setting for mindful family connection.

Homeschoolers and your families, these days are reserved especially for you! Take advantage of these exciting opportunities to explore our engaging exhibits and interact with thousands of invertebrates! Each Homeschool Day incorporates themed activities great for all ages. These include various invertebrate investigations, talks with real scientists, fun crafts, and more.

October 15, 2026: Masters of Disguise

Many invertebrates utilize camouflage to help them survive, making them the ultimate masters of disguise! We will explore how different colors, patterns, and behaviors help invertebrates survive and thrive through classes, activities, and crafts.

November 12, 2026: Adaptations are the ultimate secret to survival!

Join us as we dive into the diverse world of invertebrate adaptations and learn how these unique animals survive in ecosystems all over the planet.

January 14 - Into the Deep

Dive beneath the waves to discover the underwater world of ocean invertebrates! We'll explore different marine habitats and learn about the incredible animals that call the ocean home.

February 18 - Love Bugs

Romance isn't just for vertebrates! Join us to celebrate love and learn more about the strange and fascinating ways invertebrates find and attract their mates.

March 10 - Better Together: Ecosystem Relationships

Join us to explore the diverse relationships that make up an ecosystem! From mutualism to parasitism, we'll look at how invertebrates interact with one another and the world around them to keep our ecosystems healthy.

At Butterfly Pavilion, we know that things can get hectic with busy butterflies and bodies buzzing around. During quiet afternoons, come experience our exhibits in a unique way that meets the needs of your family. With natural lighting, quiet tones, and limited admission, this event provides an enjoyable, low-key experience just for them. We also have a Quiet Room sponsored by SOAR Autism, which is a space for any guests experiencing sensory overload to go to and relax in a comfortable and low sensory environment. Each Sensory Friendly Afternoon offers guided interpretation in each exhibit, optional activity guides, and access to our playroom.