Scottsdale’s Butterfly Wonderland earns certified autism designation

PHOENIX – Butterfly Wonderland has joined a neighboring attraction in Scottsdale in becoming a certified autism center.

The butterfly facility is next door to OdySea Aquarium, which in July 2019 became the first Arizona attraction to receive autism certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continued Education Standards.

The designation means that visitors and families with children who have autism and other sensory differences can enjoy the best possible experience that caters to their needs.

“Butterfly Wonderland has always strived to be an accessible and accepting destination, as we know families with children on the autism spectrum are often challenged to find joyful, peaceful attractions to visit,” Butterfly Wonderland Executive Director Dee Mangulins said Tuesday in a press release.

To earn the IBCCES certification, the attraction had to provide necessary facility options and put its staff through training on how to recognize the needs of guests on the spectrum.

“In developing our employees through these training programs, we can continue to ensure meaningful experiences for everyone who steps through our front doors,” Mangulins said.

“We look forward to engaging new audiences and enabling even more people with the fun, educational and enriching rainforest experience we provide at Butterfly Wonderland.”

Visitors to Butterfly Wonderland can enjoy a rainforest experience, 3D theater, reptile exhibit and more.

The butterfly and aquarium attractions are located at the Loop 101 Pima Freeway and Via de Ventura.

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