Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, Virginia

Not many botanical gardens can claim to have an on-site maternity ward, but the Lewis Ginter Botantical Garden has just that — for butterflies! The garden’s butterfly nursery hosts native butterfly species as they emerge from their chrysalides, and lucky guests have the opportunity to peek inside to see their progress. The adult butterflies will be happy to see you as well — they’ll land on your shoulders as you walk through their enclosure. (Note that this attraction is only available between April and October.) The children’s garden, with its giant treehouse, rose garden, and cherry tree paths, is especially photogenic, as is the classically inspired glass-domed conservatory.

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, Arizona

You might not believe that a beautiful garden with bountiful blooms could thrive in the Phoenix heat. However, the Desert Botanical Garden is home to 140 acres of plants, all of which thrive in the desert. As you might expect, there are cacti and succulents aplenty, but you might be surprised at some of the other heat-tolerant plants, including the whimsically delicate desert wildflowers. The Desert Botanical Garden also features seasonal exhibits on butterflies and birds, and it regularly hosts art installations. The Electric Desert exhibit features plants, light, and sound after regular hours.