Outdoor Science Courtyard
Step outside and discover science all around you. Our Outdoor Science Courtyard invites visitors of all ages to explore, observe, and connect with the natural world right in their own backyard!
Science Happens All Around Us
The Outdoor Science Courtyard is a hands-on outdoor learning space where curiosity meets nature. From weather observation to plant life and beyond, the courtyard extends the science center experience into the open air.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime member, the courtyard offers something new to discover every season. It's a perfect complement to your indoor exploration at CSC.
Not a Member? Join today to visit anytime FREE!
Join TodayActive Play & Discovery
Climb, move, investigate, and interact with hands-on features that encourage physical activity while building curiosity and problem-solving skills!
Plant & Nature Study
Explore native plants, observe wildlife, and learn about the ecosystems that thrive right outside our doors. Scan the ecoExplore sign to catalog your findings!
Weather & Environment
Observe weather patterns, learn about the atmosphere, and connect your classroom science to the real-world!
Butterflies & Pollinators
Discover the fascinating world of butterflies, moths, and other pollinators while learning how these species help our ecosystems thrive.
Find the Outdoor Science Courtyard
The Outdoor Science Courtyard inside the Main Arts & Science Building located on the SALT Block campus. Look for the double doors in the breezeway between the North and South entrances.
View Campus MapFlutterby Butterfly Habitat Returns Spring 2028!!
Flutterby Butterfly Habitat Returns Spring 2028!!
The beloved Flutterby Butterfly Habitat is taking a seasonal rest and will be back in Spring 2028! This immersive walk-through habitat lets visitors get up close with live butterflies in a lush, garden-like environment.
From delicate wings to fascinating life cycles, the habitat is a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages. Butterfly entry is included with your general admission to Catawba Science Center. CSC Members can visit anytime FREE!
Not a Member? Join today to visit anytime FREE!
Join Today!
What to Expect
Butterfly Nursery
Peek into our chrysalis nursery and watch the magic of metamorphosis up close — butterflies in the making, waiting to hatch and take their first flight.
Entice a Butterfly to Land
Team members spray a little sugar water on your hands, giving butterflies a reason to flutter over and land right on you!
Life Cycle Education
Learn about the fascinating life cycles of caterpillars, moths, and butterflies through hands-on education and up-close encounters.
Important Habitat Info 🦋
- No more than 30 visitors in the exhibit at a time.
- Strollers must be left in the lobby and are not permitted in the exhibit.
- Approximately 1/3 of the exhibit has a flat/level surface and is accessible for visitors with wheelchairs, walkers, or canes.
- No running, jumping, or rough housing in the exhibit.
- Visitors must stay on the path at all times.
- No grabbing butterflies, as they will land or crawl on you when they are comfortable. (The butterflies can touch you, but you cannot touch the butterflies)
- Visitors must be checked for "hitch hikers" before leaving the exhibit.
- Plants, butterflies, rocks etc. CANNOT be removed from the exhibit per our permit.
- Plants/flowers CANNOT be picked or taken from the exhibit per our permit.
- The habitat will be closed when it rains as butterflies will hide to protect themselves.
Questions About the Courtyard?
Our staff are happy to help with any questions about the Outdoor Science Courtyard or your visit to CSC.
Phone
(828) 322-8169