You Won’t Believe What’s Blooming at This Hidden Alberta Oasis—And It Has Wings!

By Nerissa McNaughton on June 24, 2025.

Have you been to the Windmill Garden Centre & John’s Butterfly House in Medicine Hat? This hidden gem not only offers an up-close experience with stunning North American butterflies but also provides a chance to connect with the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Whether you’re there for the blossoms or simply looking for a unique outing with butterflies, this haven is what you have been looking for.

The Windmill Garden Centre

In operation since 1942, the Windmill has a destination for gardeners and nature lovers alike for more than 80 years. Known for its extensive selection of plants, gardening tools, and outdoor decor, it’s a one-stop shop for anyone looking to bring beauty and life to their space. Beyond its practical offerings, this garden centre is bursting with charm, offering inspiring displays and expert staff ready to help you cultivate your green thumb. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Windmill Garden Centre provides both the resources and the atmosphere to make gardening a joyful experience.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Windmill Garden Centre in Medicine Hat, Alberta (@windmillgardencentre)

John’s Butterfly House

Tucked into the Windmill Garden Centre is John’s Butterfly House, a haven where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of butterflies. This unique attraction features a tropical environment alive with vibrant, fluttering butterflies native to North America. Ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat, the Butterfly House offers an up-close look at these delicate pollinators while educating guests on their life cycles and role in the ecosystem.

Fun North American Butterfly Trivia

• Butterflies Taste with Their Feet
  Did you know butterflies have taste sensors on their feet? This helps them land on plants and “taste” them to determine if they’re suitable for laying eggs!
• Monarch Butterflies Migrate Thousands of Miles
  The monarch butterfly, one of North America’s most famous species, can travel up to 3,000 miles during its annual migration from Canada to Mexico.
• Butterflies Can See Colours We Can’t
  Humans can see three primary colours (red, blue, yellow), but butterflies can see ultraviolet light. This allows them to detect flowers and markings invisible to us.
• Some Butterflies Mimic Predators
  Certain butterfly species, like the viceroy, have evolved to look like toxic or bad-tasting species (such as the monarch) to deter predators.

A Beautiful Adventure!

Pack your curiosity and camera and head to the Windmill Garden Centre & John’s Butterfly House. Don’t wait too long—each season brings a new opportunity to marvel at the wonders of butterflies and the beauty of the blooms. Learn more online and on Facebook and Instagram.

Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups  Summer Escapes Guide advertising feature. Summer Escapes is a special feature about things to do in Alberta this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and  food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.