Nathaniel Hawthorne said, “Happiness is a butterfly, which, when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you.
The obligations of everyday life can quickly take over, regardless of the time of year. We find it hard to fit everything into our busy schedules, and carving out time to relax and recharge usually falls to the bottom of the to-do list. However, slowing down and connecting with nature is often the remedy our bodies crave. Just minutes from our bed and breakfast in Hershey, PA, you’ll find two of our favorite spots for doing just that!
Hershey Gardens
170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033
Open year-round, the indoor butterfly atrium at Hershey Gardens serves as a habitat for hundreds of butterflies from around the globe. Walking through the door, you will feel transported to a tropical paradise. Filled with a stunning array of foliage, flowers, and unique trees like the cacao and plumeria, it’s the perfect oasis for observing these natural beauties fluttering through the air. Feeding stations around the garden allow you to closely observe the intricate patterns on their delicate wings. Standing in front of the chrysalis cabinet, you can sometimes witness the miraculous transformation from pupa to emerging butterflies! The atrium is open daily, and admission includes access to all 23 acres of additional outdoor gardens and displays, making this a must-see on your next visit to Hershey, PA.
DEAC Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Conservation Area
1140 Cocoa Ave, Hershey, PA 17033
Within easy walking distance of the Inn on Church Road lies a beautiful piece of land that is part of the Hershey Trust. In addition to a walking trail established by the township, the Derry Environmental Action Committee has transformed a portion of this land into a Monarch butterfly conservation area. The area was created to provide food and shelter for the declining population of Monarch caterpillars and butterflies. Did you know that Monarchs can migrate up to 3,000 miles between Canada and Mexico each year? If this isn’t impressive enough, their offspring can instinctively return to the same trees or regions, guided by the position of the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field. Planting various nectar plants and milkweed (Monarchs exclusively lay their eggs on milkweed) offers a haven for these beautiful insects. It’s not only a lovely spot for a leisurely walk, but it’s also perfect for viewing butterflies in their natural surroundings.
Interesting Facts About Butterflies
Did you know that there are approximately 20,000 known species of butterflies worldwide, and roughly 575 of them inhabit the United States? The smallest butterflies, like the Western Pygmy Blue, have a wingspan of just 0.5 inches, while the largest, like the Queen Alexandra’s birdwing, spans up to 12 inches! Their flight speed can range from about 5 to 12 miles per hour, with some clocking in at 30 MPH.
Like bees, butterflies serve an essential role as pollinators, especially for wildflowers. Their incredible vision lets them see a wide spectrum of colors, including ultraviolet light. Their stunning wings are covered in light-reflecting scales that create vibrant patterns and colors. Both sides are symmetrical, with each wing being almost a perfect mirrored match.
Connecting with Nature at the Inn on Church Road
The flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining! It’s the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway and enjoy the natural beauty here in Hershey, PA. The Inn on Church Road offers a luxurious weekend retreat. Our unique rooms have been designed with every comfort in mind. From super-plush robes and complimentary slippers to our heated bathroom floors with walk-in rainforest showers or deep soaking tubs, you will be pampered
at every turn. Our pantry is stocked with snacks and drinks for late-night cravings, and our gourmet breakfasts are crafted with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
Stay with us, spend a weekend unwinding, and let nature work its quiet magic. Maybe, if you are lucky, happiness will sit on your shoulder in the form of a butterfly.
