My Trip to Arizona, Part 2

While I was visiting my friend in New River, Arizona, I discovered this place called Arizona Boardwalk. It was a collection of tourist traps, which normally aren’t that fascinating, but this one held a special secret. It houses the largest butterfly sanctuary in the United States, called Butterfly Wonderland. As soon as I learned that, I knew I had to see it for myself.

A few weeks after discovering it, I finally got the opportunity to visit. There were so many species of butterflies, more than I ever imagined seeing at once. The sanctuary was beautiful too. It was filled with trees and plants and shrouded in a clear, dome-shaped roof that flooded the space with light while simultaneously protecting the butterflies. It was like being outside in the wild, yet we were indoors. There was even a small river that cut through the middle of the sanctuary with a bridge for you to cross it.

While we were there, we learned all about the migration patterns of the butterflies and even watched as some emerged from their chrysalises. When I was in elementary school, we did an experiment with caterpillars where we took care of them and fed them until they went through metamorphosis. So this wasn’t my first time watching a butterfly emerge from a chrysalis, but it’s definitely something that will never get old. Each time you witness it, you’re reminded of just how incredibly fascinating nature can be.

I’ll always remember my time at Butterfly Wonderland. If you ever find yourself in Arizona, I highly recommend visiting. You won’t be disappointed.