Enjoy the beauty of Minnesota nature at the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary.
Sometimes we just need to escape a bit, enjoy the flowers, birds and nature. The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary, part of Theodore Wirth Regional Park, is sort of a hidden gem.
Admission is free, which makes it even more enjoyable.
This is a park that has an excellent chance of having our state flower, the lady slipper, in June and July. The Garden contains 600 plant species and 130 bird species.
The narrow, winding trails of the Garden lead you through a variety of habitats in hilly terrain. Multiple routes can be selected for a shorter or longer walk. The total trail length is over one mile.
Hours are Tuesdays through Sundays, 7:30 am – 6 pm and Thursdays, 7:30 am – 8 pm (closed Mondays).
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden Storytime
Each week kids can enjoy storytime on Thursdays from 10am to 10:30am and on Saturday from 3pm to 3:30pm. There is no admission fee and no need to register in advance.
More About Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary
60,000 annual visitors enjoy spectacular seasonal displays of native wildflowers in woodland, wetland and prairie areas. Each area creates a different habitat that fosters different types of plants, animals and birds.
Nestled in the garden is the Martha Crone Visitor Shelter where you will find natural history displays, natural history reference materials and friendly staff and volunteers waiting to help with garden-related questions.
Looking to make a day trip? Check out the Wirth Lake Beach just outside the garden’s gate, with picnic shelters, and additional hiking trails.
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Laura is a kindergarten teacher and a busy mom of six who loves finding smart ways to save. She balances teaching and family life while always hunting for deals that make life more affordable and fun.
Originally from southern Minnesota, Laura has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. In her rare free moments, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and savoring a hot cup of coffee.
Katie V says
I’ve been here! It’s so beautiful! Definitely need to go back this summer.
Vicki says
This group is so much more than thrift. So glad I signed up!
Chrysa says
So happy to hear that!