Discover the Enchantment of Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
Explore the serene beauty of Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park, a vibrant haven for butterflies and nature lovers in Southwest Harbor, Maine.
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
Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park is a hidden gem located in Southwest Harbor, Maine, renowned for its breathtaking butterfly gardens and tranquil natural beauty. This enchanting park spans several acres and is meticulously designed to attract a wide variety of butterflies, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers. As you walk through the park, you will be captivated by the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers and the delicate fluttering of butterflies in their natural habitat. The carefully curated landscape features a variety of native plants that provide essential nectar and habitats for many butterfly species. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths that weave through the gardens, allowing ample opportunities to pause and appreciate the stunning views. The park is not only a haven for butterflies but also a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature. Families will find this location perfect for picnics, with plenty of open spaces for children to explore and play. The park is open from 7 AM to 8 PM every day, ensuring that you have plenty of time to experience its beauty at your leisure. In addition to its captivating natural scenery, the Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park also serves as an educational resource, with informative displays that teach visitors about butterfly life cycles, conservation, and the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a wildlife photographer, or simply looking for a serene spot to connect with nature, this park is a must-visit destination that offers both relaxation and inspiration.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best butterfly activity and cooler temperatures.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning colors of the butterflies and flowers.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's open spaces, making a day of your visit.
- Check the weather forecast, as butterflies are less active on cloudy or rainy days.
- Be mindful of the plants and avoid touching the butterflies to preserve their natural environment.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Attractions Nearby to Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
- Wendell Gilley Museum
- Flying Mountain Trailhead
- Carroll Homestead
- Southwest Harbor View Point Road
- Yourcenar House
- Great Harbor Maritime Museum
- Acadia Mountain
- Asticou Azalea Garden
- Asticou Terraces
- Thuya Garden
- Suminsby Park
- Maine Granite Industry Historical Society Museum
- Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
- Seal Cove Auto Museum
- Acadia National Park
Landmarks nearby to Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
- Echo Lake Beach
- Acadia Mountain Trailhead
- Asticou Azalea Garden Parking
- Gatehouse
- Cliffside Bridge
- Amphitheatre Bridge
- Wonderland Trail Trailhead
- Cobblestone Bridge
- Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
- Penobscot Mountain
- Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
- Jordan Pond House Restaurant
- Stanley Brook Bridge
- Sargent Mountain
- Deer Brook Bridge