The Butterfly Conservatory at the Museum of Natural History

As you may have noticed the weather is fickle.  If we are lucky, soon Mother Nature will realize it is time for the onset of spring.  Until the weather is more consistent in the real world, transport yourself to a happy, warm place temporarily.  A place with lush vegetation'a place where people speak in hushed voices'a place where butterflies flutter around by the thousands.

At the Butterfly Conservatory at the Museum of Natural History (through May) a ticket gets you access to the general museum as well as time in the butterfly habitat that is packed with fluttering friends. The place contains many different species of adorable and intricate butterflies that are free to interact with you'that is, fly around and sometimes land on you.

Just remember that when you enter the conservatory it is necessary to go through a couple doors to prevent butterflies from accidentally leaving the habitat.  When I was going in, of course a giant butterfly was trying to make a run-for-it'I mean a fly-for-it.

Luckily, there is a skilled person in attendance who is in charge of rescuing would-be escapees and keeping them inside.  He is also adept at pointing out the most interesting, rare and beautiful species of butterflies.  He is also in charge of sweeping butterflies off the ceiling with a giant feather.  I want that job.

The conservatory is a restful place that promotes peace and tranquility.  You will leave feeling relaxed and maybe wanting to get a pet butterfly'or 500.

If you are too broke to go frolic with them in person, watch the exciting world of the butterflies via live web right here.

American Museum Natural History
Butterfly Conservatory
79 Street And Central Park West
[Upper West Side]