Oklahoma lies along the migration route of monarch butterflies heading to Mexico, with the eastern part of the state offering the best chances to see large groups of these beautiful butterflies each fall.

Their route, often humorously referred to as “the monarch highway,” follows Interstate 35. As they travel from their northern breeding grounds to their wintering sites in Mexico, typically from late September to early October, the butterflies take breaks at various parks and gardens along the interstate.

During this period, you can see groups of monarchs congregating in trees, on nectar-rich plants, and around milkweed. Cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa provide excellent opportunities to witness these stunning swarms during their journey.