blue willow "butterflies & blooms" butterfly conservatory

This past summer, in trying to find something fun to do with my three year old granddaughter, I found Blue Willow's website. Living in Markham, Ontario, we were advised the drive would be about 10 minutes. Thirty minutes later we arrived, but well worth the drive. The setting was immediately inviting and I was so glad we ventured there. The staff were great and my three year old absolutely loved our time there which was easily three hours. From the well equipped playground; to the interesting "gift" shop; to the beautiful setting; but most importantly the butterfly conservatory. The young woman working there was amazing and guided us through all of the specimens and then into the conservatory. It was such a peaceful and lovely setting, even if it was a bit small. We walked around and around, stoppiing to marvel at the many butterflies, having many of them land on us. We loved it! Even now, months later, my granddaugher asks to go back. If you're looking for an afternoon in a lovely setting, not to mention a beautiful garden nursery, or the butterflies... pack a lunch and head north to Baldwin and the Blue Willow. You won't be disappointed.

The owners have tried to make their garden centre more of an attraction by adding a picnic area and the butterfly conservatory. It is well worth the visit for families or anyone who loves nature. It's also a great garden centre. The staff are very knowledgeable about the butterflies, and they raise several exotic species from around the world. While small, it can hold its own, even against the "professional" conservatories I have seen. Admission to the conservatory is $8, which is worth it just to have such an attraction in the area.