When you find yourself with a free afternoon in Kentucky, the options of things to do are endless. If you’re anywhere near Frankfort or happen to be planning a visit soon, be sure to add a stop to Wilson Nurseries to your list. It may seem odd to visit a garden center as an attraction, but here you’ll find the largest butterfly house in Kentucky. This hidden gem is a magical way to spend an afternoon and the greenhouse, as well as the on-site restaurant, are also wonderful places to experience.

Wilson Nurseries is a local, family-owned garden center with locations in Frankfort and Lexington.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
The Frankfort location has many things to offer both locals and visitors to the area with a few hidden gems on its property. If you love plants, landscape items, butterflies, and great food, consider a stop here.
Of course, the nursery offers all of your gardening needs and some of the most beautiful and unique plants you'll find anywhere.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
Frequent visitors rave about the quality of the plants, the lovely atmosphere, and the friendly service. But even if you're not in the market for new flowers, Wilson Nurseries in Frankfort has something for you.
The property also includes a Butterfly Greenhouse, which is typically open to the public from June through October.
Google/Angela Addington
The Butterfly Greenhouse includes 3,000 sq. ft. of habitat for thousands of native butterflies to call home. Tickets can be purchased for the Butterfly Greenhouse online. Be sure to check the official Wilson Nurseries website for current prices and hours.
Within the greenhouse, you'll find a wide variety of beautiful butterflies, all of which are native to Kentucky.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
With over 100 varieties of plants inside the greenhouse, the butterflies have a beautiful place to call home.

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This special Kentucky butterfly house is home to over a dozen species of butterflies.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
It's a magical place to spend the afternoon that all ages will enjoy. It's a slice of Kentucky's natural beauty, recreated in a space everyone can enjoy.
Wilson Nurseries also hosts many events throughout the seasons, which are worthy of checking out.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
For more butterfly fun, visit the butterfly release gatherings. You can see all of the upcoming events on the official site.
In addition to The Butterfly Greenhouse, the nursery has a delicious surprise, as well.
Facebook/Sage Garden Cafe
Sage Garden Cafe is a lovely breakfast and lunch spot that's open seven days a week. The menu offers fresh and local meals in a relaxed atmosphere. Include a meal here in your visit and check out the menu on the website.
Summer isn't the only season that shines at Wilson Nurseries.
Facebook/Wilson Nurseries
Visit in the summer for the butterflies but then return in the winter to stock up on all of your holiday decor needs. This nursery and butterfly house in Kentucky are magical all year long and the perfect excuse to head to Frankfort for an afternoon.

Enjoy this overview of Wilson Nurseries:

There are many magical ways to spend an afternoon in our state, including a trip to the largest butterfly house in Kentucky. Wilson Nurseries is a great resource for locals, but visitors will also love the butterflies, beautiful atmosphere, and delicious restaurant, all in one place. Have you been to this charming butterfly house in Kentucky? Share your experience with us in the comments!

For more information on the Butterfly Greenhouse and Wilson Nurseries, visit its website and follow along on Facebook. The Butterfly Greenhouse is open June through September, Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. While you’re in Frankfort, be sure to check out some of its amazing historic landmarks.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Kentucky butterfly house

Beth C. | April 22, 2021

What are the most beautiful places in Kentucky?

The most beautiful places in Kentucky include:

  • Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area
  • Yew Dell Botanical Gardens
  • Pinnacle Overlook at Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
  • Galt House
  • Natural Bridge
  • Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
  • Carter Caves State Resort Park
  • Barren River Lake State Resort Park
  • Nolin Lake State Park
  • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

With cascading waterfalls, rolling hills, beautiful mountains, caves, and endless rivers, Kentucky is truly one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. Whether you're a visitor or a lucky resident, there are some places that belong on your site-seeing bucket list. Some of the most beautiful places in Kentucky include those listed above. Learn more about these places when you check out our list of the most jaw-dropping places in Kentucky.

What are the best family-friendly attractions in Kentucky?

The best family-friendly attractions in Kentucky include:

  • HomeGrown HideAways
  • Tradewinds Treehouse
  • Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
  • The Rose of the Lake
  • First Farm Inn

If you're looking for great activities to enjoy with the whole family in Kentucky, you'll be delighted to learn there are loads to choose from. And, if you're looking for some great places to stay, you'll find there are one-of-a-kind accommodations in Kentucky that are also suitable for kids. Some of these accommodations include those listed above. Learn more about these kid-friendly destinations in Kentucky.

Does Kentucky have any hidden gems?

Hidden gems in Kentucky include:

  • Nolin Lake
  • Pine Island Double Falls
  • Amos Falls
  • Sand Cave at Cumberland Gap
  • Gabe's Branch Falls
  • Black Mountain
  • Double Arch Trail

You bet! It's possible to spend an entire lifetime enjoying all the hidden gems that Kentucky has to offer. Fortunately, we've pinpointed some of the best hidden gems in nature you'll want to uncover. Curious to delve more into these Kentucky hidden gems? Be sure to check out our hidden gems road trip that will lead to the most incredible natural wonders in Kentucky.

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3690 East-West Connector, Frankfort, KY 40601, USA