Imagine stepping into a place where vibrant butterflies flutter around you, surrounded by the beauty of nature. That’s the experience that awaits at Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter.
Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter (1909 Slavia Road, Oviedo, FL 32765) is a sprawling, open-air plant shop. It also boasts one of Florida’s largest native butterfly conservatories. At this shop, you can browse for plants and spend time with butterflies, all while supporting a family-run business.
I spent a recent afternoon at Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter. Although I’ve shopped the nursery before, I had yet to visit the Butterfly Encounter.
This attraction is a popular outing for Orlando families. They even offer guided tours Monday through Friday for school groups. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or just seeking a bit of magic, here’s what you need to know before you visit.
History of Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter
Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter is a fourth-generation family business. Two Czechoslovakian immigrants, Paul and Mary Lukas, started a farm in the area in 1911. In 1973, their grandson started the nursery as a way to continue the family business.
Over the years, the business grew. One of the family members got inspired by a butterfly garden in Costa Rica and wanted to bring something similar to Lukas Nursery. This led to the addition of the Butterfly Encounter in 2004.
Lukas Nursery
Lukas Nursery is massive. The shop offers everything from flowers to fruit trees. Just wandering the grounds is an experience in itself.
There’s an outdoor area and a pottery barn where they sell plant pots.
The nursery also features a greenhouse full of indoor plants. Fun statues, including dinosaurs and giraffes, decorate the greenhouse. I recently picked up a ZZ plant and a snake plant here.
Beyond the greenhouse, a path winds alongside a little pond. There’s seating here if you want to relax and enjoy the weather.
(There’s also a bull pen across the path, although the bull must’ve been in hiding when I visited.)
Past the pond, you’ll find a pavilion with more seating and some chicken coops nearby.
Lukas Nursery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including gardening classes and an annual fall festival. So even if you’re not in the market for plants, there’s plenty to enjoy at the nursery.
Butterfly Encounter
You can purchase Butterfly Encounter tickets inside the gift shop. Admission is $8.95 plus tax (free for children 3 and under).
The Butterfly Encounter entrance is located to the right of the cash register. Upon entering, you’ll find an indoor botanical garden.
Along the path, you’ll spot a couple of enclosures with Chinese button quail, cute white and gray birds.
The highlight is a screened-in room where you can interact with the butterflies. Although the room is small and can get crowded, it holds many butterflies.
The butterflies flutter around the room and rest on the plants, walls, and even the floor. You definitely have to watch your step, but it’s magical to be surrounded by them.
Inside the room, you’ll find small cups of sweet red liquid meant to attract the butterflies to your hand.
However, you might not need it. During my visit, the butterflies seemed to land on us humans regardless. One even landed on my arm and didn’t want to leave!
Before you leave the room, don’t forget to check for any butterflies hitching a ride on you.
Though small, the Butterfly Encounter is a charming experience that you can’t find elsewhere in Orlando. It provides families a magical outing with some great photo opportunities. For the best experience, visit between April and September, which is peak butterfly season.
If you’re inspired, Lukas Nursery also sells a variety of butterfly-attracting plants. The staff can help you create your own butterfly garden at home.
Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter Hours
Lukas Nursery is open Monday-Saturday from 8am-6pm, and Sunday 9am-5pm.
The butterfly encounter is open from 9am-4pm daily. Last admission is at 3:30pm.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Magic of Nature at Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter
Visiting Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter is a great way to enjoy nature, whether you’re a home gardener or a family seeking a fun outing. It’s also the perfect opportunity to shop local and support a family-owned business. If you’re looking for something fun and low-key to do this weekend, Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter offers a unique Orlando experience.