Wings of Wonder: Explore Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
Discover the tranquil beauty of Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park, a serene garden sanctuary teeming with butterflies and native plant life in Southwest Harbor, Maine.
Nestled in the charming town of Southwest Harbor, the Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park is a breathtaking sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of butterflies. This beautifully curated garden features a variety of native plants that attract numerous butterfly species, creating a vibrant and tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this park offers a unique experience that connects visitors with the wonders of nature.
A brief summary to Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
- 191 Main St, Southwest Harbor, Maine, 04679, US
- +1207-244-9264
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8 pm
- Friday 7 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the warmer months for the best butterfly sightings, as the garden is most vibrant in summer.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning flora and vibrant butterflies; photography is a highlight here.
- Consider visiting early in the morning for a peaceful experience and a chance to see butterflies at their most active.
- Check local events, as the park occasionally hosts educational workshops and guided tours.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths and exploring the various sections of the park.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, head southwest on ME-3. Walk along the designated pedestrian path, enjoying the scenic views of the park. After approximately 2.5 miles, you will reach the intersection with Main St in Southwest Harbor. Turn left onto Main St and continue walking for another 0.5 miles. Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park will be on your right at 191 Main St.
-
Biking
Start at the Acadia National Park carriage roads near Jordan Pond. Follow the carriage roads toward the southwest, heading toward the road leading to Southwest Harbor. Once you reach ME-3, turn left and bike about 2 miles until you reach the intersection with Main St. Turn left onto Main St and continue for approximately 0.5 miles. The park will be on your right at 191 Main St.
-
Public Transit
From Bar Harbor, take the Island Explorer bus (Route 3) towards Southwest Harbor. The bus will make several stops along the way. Get off at the Main St stop in Southwest Harbor. From there, walk along Main St for about 0.2 miles. Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park will be on your left at 191 Main St.
Discover more about Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Echo Lake Beach
2.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Echo Lake Beach, a hidden gem in Southwest Harbor, Maine, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation.
Acadia Mountain Trailhead
3.7 km
Explore Acadia Mountain Trailhead, a breathtaking hiking area in Maine's Acadia National Park, offering stunning views and adventures for all levels of hikers.
Asticou Azalea Garden Parking
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Asticou Azalea Garden, a serene botanical oasis in Northeast Harbor, Maine, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil escapes.
Gatehouse
4.3 km
Discover the historical charm of the Gatehouse in Northeast Harbor, Maine, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Cliffside Bridge
6.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Cliffside Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and architecture meet.
Amphitheatre Bridge
6.1 km
Discover the stunning Amphitheatre Bridge in Acadia National Park, where nature's beauty meets architectural elegance, perfect for your next adventure.
Wonderland Trail Trailhead
6.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park at the Wonderland Trail Trailhead, a serene escape into Maine's stunning coastal landscapes.
Cobblestone Bridge
6.2 km
Explore the historic Cobblestone Bridge in Mt. Desert, Maine—a stunning architectural gem surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
6.4 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor, Maine—an exquisite botanical paradise for nature lovers.
Penobscot Mountain
6.9 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Penobscot Mountain in Maine, a premier hiking destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
6.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Jordan Pond Dam Bridge in Acadia National Park, where stunning landscapes and peaceful waters await your visit.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
6.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and delicious American cuisine at Jordan Pond House, a culinary haven in Acadia National Park.
Stanley Brook Bridge
6.9 km
Discover the beauty of Stanley Brook Bridge, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Acadia National Park, Maine, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
Sargent Mountain
7.4 km
Explore Sargent Mountain, a breathtaking peak in Acadia National Park, offering stunning views and diverse hiking trails for every adventurer.
Deer Brook Bridge
7.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Deer Brook Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where stunning architecture meets tranquil nature in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wendell Gilley Museum
0.7 km
Explore the Wendell Gilley Museum in Southwest Harbor, Maine - a unique destination celebrating the art of bird carving amidst stunning natural beauty.
Flying Mountain Trailhead
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene nature trails at Flying Mountain Trailhead in Acadia National Park, a hiker's paradise.
Carroll Homestead
1.6 km
Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Carroll Homestead in Southwest Harbor, Maine, where tradition meets scenic landscapes.
Southwest Harbor View Point Road
2.0 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Southwest Harbor View Point Road, a scenic gem on Maine's picturesque coast, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
Yourcenar House
3.2 km
Explore the life and legacy of Marguerite Yourcenar at Yourcenar House, a serene literary museum set in the scenic landscapes of Northeast Harbor, Maine.
Great Harbor Maritime Museum
3.2 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage at Great Harbor Maritime Museum - a captivating journey through Northeast Harbor's seafaring past.
Acadia Mountain
3.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas and challenging trails of Acadia Mountain, a breathtaking hiking destination in Acadia National Park, Maine.
Asticou Azalea Garden
4.0 km
Discover the enchanting Asticou Azalea Garden in Mt Desert, Maine, a botanical paradise filled with stunning azaleas and serene landscapes.
Asticou Terraces
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Asticou Terraces in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature's serenity meets exquisite landscape design.
Thuya Garden
4.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Thuya Garden in Northeast Harbor, Maine, where vibrant flowers and serene pathways await nature enthusiasts.
Suminsby Park
5.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Suminsby Park in Mt. Desert, Maine – a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation.
Maine Granite Industry Historical Society Museum
5.9 km
Uncover Maine's granite heritage at the Maine Granite Industry Historical Society Museum, where history and craftsmanship come alive in the heart of Mt. Desert.
Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
5.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve in Seal Harbor, a nature lover's paradise.
Seawall Picnic Area
6.1 km
Discover the beauty of Seawall Picnic Area in Acadia National Park, a serene spot perfect for picnics with stunning ocean views and natural trails.
Seal Cove Auto Museum
6.3 km
Explore the Seal Cove Auto Museum: A unique collection of vintage automobiles and motorcycles in scenic Seal Cove, Maine, perfect for car enthusiasts and history lovers.
Essential places to dine
Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2
1.0 km
Experience Mediterranean cuisine at its finest in Southwest Harbor at Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2 – where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors.
Red Sky Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Red Sky Restaurant in Southwest Harbor, Maine—where fresh local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Rodick's Takeout
1.1 km
Discover fresh seafood and local flavors at Rodick's Takeout in Southwest Harbor, where every bite reflects Maine’s rich culinary heritage.
The Upper Deck - Craft Beer - Terrace/Outdoor Dining - Lobster Rolls - Burgers
1.6 km
Experience fresh seafood and craft beer at The Upper Deck in Southwest Harbor - perfect for outdoor dining with stunning views.
Beal's Lobster Pier
2.0 km
Experience fresh Maine seafood at Beal's Lobster Pier—where every bite tells a story of coastal charm and culinary delight.
123 Main Street: June-Oct, Thurs-Sun, 9-3.
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at 123 Main Street in Northeast Harbor – a culinary gem open June through October.
Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery
3.2 km
Discover delightful dining at Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery in Northeast Harbor – where fresh flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Copita
3.2 km
Discover Copita: A delightful dining destination in Northeast Harbor offering fresh local cuisine and inviting ambiance amidst Maine's stunning scenery.
The Bucking Lobster
3.6 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at The Bucking Lobster – your go-to takeout restaurant in Northeast Harbor.
Abel's Lobster
7.8 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Abel's Lobster in Mt. Desert – where fresh flavors and family-friendly dining meet.
Burning Tree Restaurant
10.3 km
Discover exquisite wines and fresh seafood at Burning Tree Restaurant in Otter Creek - A must-visit culinary haven for food lovers.
Mainely Meat Barbeque At Atlantic Brewing Company
12.3 km
Experience mouth-watering barbecue and local brews at Mainely Meat Barbeque in beautiful Bar Harbor - A must-visit for food lovers!
Atlantic Brewing Company
12.3 km
Experience handcrafted beers and local flavors at Atlantic Brewing Company in Bar Harbor, Maine—a must-visit for craft beer lovers.
The Travelin Lobster, LLC
13.4 km
Savor fresh seafood at The Travelin Lobster in Bar Harbor—your ultimate destination for delicious crab dishes and coastal charm.
2 Cats Bar Harbor
14.3 km
Discover the unique flavors of Maine at 2 Cats Bar Harbor - where breakfast becomes an unforgettable experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bramble and Stone
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Bramble and Stone, a charming boutique in the heart of Southwest Harbor, Maine.
Acadia Quietside Shop
1.1 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Southwest Harbor offering unique Maine artisan products and souvenirs that capture the essence of Acadia National Park.
The Kimball Shop
3.2 km
Explore The Kimball Shop in Northeast Harbor for unique Maine gifts and charming local crafts that capture the spirit of the region.
Swallowfield
3.2 km
Explore Swallowfield in Northeast Harbor, a unique home goods store and art gallery showcasing local artistry and exquisite gifts.
Main Street Mercantile
3.2 km
Explore the charming Main Street Mercantile for unique gifts and local art, capturing the essence of Northeast Harbor, Maine.
Otter Creek Market
10.1 km
Explore the flavors of Maine at Otter Creek Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local specialties near Acadia National Park.
Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop
10.8 km
Discover the charm of Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop, where unique Acadia souvenirs meet stunning mountain views.
Thunder Hole Gift Shop
11.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Thunder Hole Gift Shop in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine, an essential stop for every coastal adventure.
Ernie’s Antiques
12.6 km
Explore a unique collection of vintage home goods and collectibles at Ernie’s Antiques in Bar Harbor, Maine, where every piece has a story.
Fabricate LLC
14.4 km
Explore Fabricate LLC in Bar Harbor, a must-visit scrapbooking and craft store brimming with unique fabrics and art supplies for every creative soul.
Gift MDI
14.5 km
Explore Gift MDI in Bar Harbor for unique Maine gifts and artisanal treasures that capture the local spirit.
Indigo Blues - Blueberry Gifts - Art - Jewelry - Local Products/Crafts
14.6 km
Discover Indigo Blues in Bar Harbor, where local art and crafts come together to offer unique gifts and treasures that capture the essence of Maine.
The Maine Store
14.7 km
Explore The Maine Store in Bar Harbor, where unique local gifts and handcrafted treasures await every visitor.
Serendipity
14.7 km
Explore the unique clothing and accessories at Serendipity, a charming boutique in Bar Harbor that captures the essence of Maine's coastal style.
Arts and Ends
14.7 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local treasures at Arts and Ends in Bar Harbor, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thurston's Lobster Pound
5.9 km
Experience the taste of freshly caught lobster and seafood at Thurston's Lobster Pound, a coastal dining gem in Bernard, Maine.
Tap & Barrel Tavern
14.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tap & Barrel Tavern in Bar Harbor, a top sports bar offering delicious food and local brews for every visitor.
Garden Lounge
14.8 km
Discover the serene Garden Lounge in Bar Harbor, Maine, where refreshing drinks meet a tranquil ambiance in a picturesque setting.
Cottage St. Pub
14.9 km
Discover the charm of Cottage St. Pub in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bar Island Land Bridge
15.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Bar Island Land Bridge in Bar Harbor, Maine - a hiking paradise with stunning views and unique coastal experiences.
Eagles Nest Cocktails
15.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Eagles Nest Cocktails in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet unforgettable moments.
Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen
16.2 km
Experience the essence of Maine at Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.
Fogtown Brewing Company
28.8 km
Discover the essence of Maine craft brewing at Fogtown Brewing Company, where exceptional beers and delicious pizzas await in a delightful setting.
Whale's Tooth Pub
54.1 km
Experience the best of coastal Maine cuisine at Whale's Tooth Pub, where fresh local seafood meets a friendly atmosphere and stunning views.
Paper Plane
59.0 km
Discover the essence of Camden at Paper Plane, a premier cocktail and wine bar offering exquisite drinks and breathtaking views.
Salt Wharf
59.0 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at Salt Wharf, where fresh catches meet stunning waterfront views in Camden.
Camden Harbour Inn
59.1 km
Discover elegance and tranquility at Camden Harbour Inn, a luxurious hotel in the heart of Camden, Maine, with breathtaking harbor views.
Natalie's Restaurant - Relais and Chateaux
59.1 km
Experience the best of modern European cuisine at Natalie's Restaurant, Camden's premier fine dining destination with breathtaking views.
The Waterfront Restaurant
59.1 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood with stunning harbor views at The Waterfront Restaurant, a must-visit for any coastal traveler.
Peter Ott's on the Water
59.2 km
Discover the best of Maine's seafood at Peter Ott's on the Water, where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views in Camden.
