Butterfly House: Winter Poinsettias

January in Missouri is often cold and unpredictable, which can make outdoor activities and photography more challenging. After recently moving back home to Missouri, I found myself missing the warm, humid temperatures I was used to in Florida. Looking for color, warmth, and a change of scenery, I visited the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield, Missouri.

Stepping inside the Butterfly House in the middle of winter feels like entering a completely different climate. The warm air, tropical plants, and butterflies moving throughout the space offer an immediate break from the cold. It is a great reminder that Missouri has beautiful indoor places to explore year-round, even in January.

Winter Poinsettias in Full Color

During my visit, the Butterfly House was filled with poinsettias in a wide range of colors. Red, pink, white, orange, and yellow poinsettias were displayed throughout the gardens, adding warmth and brightness to the tropical setting. The combination of greenery and winter florals makes the space feel vibrant and inviting.

As a photographer, I am always paying attention to color, texture, and how spaces are styled. These seasonal displays offer a lot of visual inspiration that easily carries over into portrait and product photography.

Familiar Details and Creative Inspiration

One detail that stood out was a Radio Flyer wagon repurposed as a planter. I use a Radio Flyer wagon as a prop for dog and children’s portraits in my own photo studio, so seeing it styled in a new way was a great reminder of how simple, classic props can be used creatively.

At the time of my visit, the Butterfly House was also featuring a fairy house exhibit, with small houses hidden throughout the space. Slowing down to search for these details adds to the experience and encourages kids to explore and observe, something that often leads to the most natural moments during photo sessions as well.

A Family-Friendly Missouri Day Trip

The Butterfly House is a wonderful destination for families, especially during winter when outdoor options can be limited. The warm indoor environment gives kids space to explore while staying comfortable, making it an easy outing with children of all ages.

When the weather is nice, there is also an outdoor playground located next to the Butterfly House. This makes it simple to extend the visit and enjoy time both indoors and outdoors during milder winter days, spring, or fall. It is a great example of why this area works so well for family day trips.

Between the colorful indoor gardens and the nearby playground, it is also an ideal area for family portraits. Candid moments of kids exploring, playing, and just being themselves often turn into the photos families treasure most. You might even find yourself thinking how nice it would be to have photos of your kids playing at the playground or enjoying the day together.

Why Indoor Spaces Matter in Winter

Visits like this highlight why I have an indoor portrait studio in Troy, Missouri. Winter weather does not always cooperate, but photography does not have to stop. Having a warm, comfortable studio allows families, pets, and children to enjoy photo sessions year-round while still drawing inspiration from places like the Butterfly House.

Indoor sessions are especially helpful during colder months and can be paired with outdoor photos when the weather allows.

Missouri Botanical Garden Membership Perks

I have a Missouri Botanical Garden membership, which includes access to the Butterfly House and provides free admission to more than 300 gardens across the United States. It is a great option for families, travelers, and anyone who enjoys gardens, photography, or finding inspiration in new places.

A Winter Source of Inspiration

The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House is a great winter destination in Missouri when outdoor photography and activities are limited. Between the warm atmosphere, seasonal poinsettias, creative details, and family-friendly features, it offers inspiration during even the coldest months.

Whether you are visiting for a family outing, a day trip, or a break from winter weather, it is well worth the visit.