I went to Huntsville specifically to see the butterfly exhibit at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Photography is a hobby of mine, and it was recomended by another photographer as being a large and impressive exhibit. In fact, according to the local brochure it's the nation's largest seasonal butterfly exhibit. So I was rather disappointed that though the venue was large and attractive, they only seemed to have three species of butterflies when I went, and the most common ones at that (Monarch, Zebra Longwing, and Julia). As far as butterfly exhibits go, I think the one at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is much better.
But while I was disappointed in the butterflies, I thought the Children's Garden was delightful, full of imaginative touches in small themed gardens ranging from dinosaurs with misting rocks, to space with a pod to walk through, to a small maze by my favorite--the storybook garden. At the center is a giant board game laid out with colorful path stones where you're the pawn. My four-year-old nephew would love it!
They had a seasonal exhibit of giant insects throughout the grounds, and it does require a bit of walking to see everything. The water garden was particularly impressive and worth the walk. I had a wonderful, fresh salad at the cafe at the entrance, and they also have a gift shop.

We were quite surprised at the diversity of garden areas that this place had. We visited early September and they had their annual Scarecrow Trail exhibit which meant that there were awesome scarecrows all along every trail in the place. I didn't know they could make so many different kinds of scarecrows, but somebody later told me there are scarecrow making classes available.

We spent many hours winding throughout the gardens and woodland trails. It was a lovely cool day and it wasn't crowded even though it was Labor Day. The Butterfly House was very special with beautiful flowers, many butterfly species and turtles in a beautiful pond. They even had butterfly chairs to sit in. It's a real treat and well worth the time and admission.

View more photos in my online photo gallery.

Gardens and Butterfly House:
http://www.theherbsplace.com/gallery/huntsvillegardens

Scarecrow Trail Photos:
http://www.theherbsplace.com/gallery/huntsvillescarecrow

Last time I was in Huntsville, my husband and I came here with his family. They were in the process of finishing a new butterfly exhibit structure to replace the smaller one currently in use. Regardless, seeing the butterflies even in the smaller venue was a treat.

The gardens are relaxing - perfect for a stroll. They also have a beautiful koi pond further in the park.

Near the entrance, there is an electric train that seemed to fascinate the kids in attendance.

Although we didn't stay for lunch, there is a small cafe with outdoor seating.

For people with mobility limitations, I believe a golf cart can be arranged for a docent-guided tour.

I can't wait to go back and recommend visiting as a quiet escape. (Well, except for the school kids that were running around, but they were having fun discovering nature!)