Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
Immerse yourself in a tropical world of butterflies and fascinating insects at Montana's first tropical butterfly house.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See butterflies take flight
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
Best Time
See butterflies take flight
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in a tropical world of butterflies and fascinating insects at Montana's first tropical butterfly house.
"A truly magical and educational experience for all ages, highly recommended!"
🎯 Wear Light Clothing
The butterfly room is a warm 85°F! Lockers are available for your jackets. :sunny:
✨ Catch a Release
Timing your visit for butterfly releases offers a magical, educational experience. :butterfly:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Butterfly Room
Tropical Conservatory
Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of fluttering butterflies amidst lush tropical blooms.
Insect Exhibits
Insectarium
Discover fascinating spiders, beetles, millipedes, and more with engaging displays.
Butterfly Releases
Butterfly Room
Witness newly emerged butterflies take their first flight – a truly special moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Light Clothing
The butterfly room is a warm 85°F! Lockers are available for your jackets. :sunny:
✨ Catch a Release
Timing your visit for butterfly releases offers a magical, educational experience. :butterfly:
🎒 Bag & Seat Policy
Large bags and baby car seats are not allowed inside. Use provided lockers for outerwear. :handbag:
🤓 Chat with Staff
Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share fascinating facts about the insects. :nerd_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Light Clothing
The butterfly room is a warm 85°F! Lockers are available for your jackets. :sunny:
✨ Catch a Release
Timing your visit for butterfly releases offers a magical, educational experience. :butterfly:
🎒 Bag & Seat Policy
Large bags and baby car seats are not allowed inside. Use provided lockers for outerwear. :handbag:
🤓 Chat with Staff
Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share fascinating facts about the insects. :nerd_face:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The vibrant butterflies and lush plants make for stunning photo opportunities. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium as a magical and educational experience for all ages. The knowledgeable staff and the vibrant butterfly room are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a recommended stop for families and travelers alike. Some note the warm temperature inside the butterfly conservatory and the restrictions on large bags.
"$10 adults, $8 senior citizens. Not sure for the little ones; we didn't have any with us today :) Great for young and old. See the insectorium first, then the butterflies. Know that you can't bring large bags or baby car seats in. You can put your outerwear in provided lockers, as its 85° in the butterfly room. Cute little gift shop."
K D
"What a fun excursion! We were visiting from Oregon and thought this would be fun. It indeed was. Recommended for any group!"
Kayla Warner
"I love this place. The staff is always wonderful, the facility is beautiful and my kids can roam without worries. The exhibits are awesome and the butterfly room is a lovely experience, particularly after releases. Kids get bored after about an hour- I could sit all day. We visit every time we stay in Zoo Town. Tips: Visit after releases and wear cool clothing- it is hot in the butterfly room ☺️"
Talia Knudsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is located in Missoula, Montana. While specific public transport details can vary, it's often accessible by car. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when traveling through the area.
Information on dedicated parking can be limited, but visitors generally find parking options nearby. It's advisable to check their official website or local parking guides closer to your visit. :car:
Absolutely! It's described as an 'unexpected highlight stop' and a place that can 'pull people off the interstate.' It's a unique Montana experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adults are typically $10, and senior citizens are $8. Pricing for children may vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most current rates.
No, large bags and baby car seats are not permitted inside the facility. You can utilize provided lockers for outerwear. :noentrysign:
While specific discount information isn't always highlighted, seniors receive a reduced rate. It's always a good idea to inquire about potential group or special event discounts. :moneywithwings:
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. :clock1:
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it can be a good idea, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to ensure entry. Check their website for ticketing options. :ticket:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The butterfly room maintains a tropical environment at approximately 85°F. It's recommended to wear light clothing and utilize the available lockers for heavier items. :thermometer_face:
For children, a visit usually lasts about an hour. Adults might find themselves lingering longer, especially if they engage with the knowledgeable volunteers. :hourglass:
The facility often has knowledgeable volunteers who provide insights during your visit, especially during butterfly releases. Check for any scheduled lectures or special programs. :teacher:
Yes, it's considered great for both young and old. Children enjoy the interactive exhibits, while adults appreciate the educational aspects and the beauty of the butterfly room.
You'll find a wide array of invertebrates, including butterflies, spiders, arachnids, millipedes, centipedes, and crustaceans.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The facility has a cute little gift shop, but dedicated dining options are not typically mentioned. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit. :coffee:
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the exhibit areas. It's best to consume them outside the facility. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and the vibrant butterflies and lush environment offer fantastic photo opportunities.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that might disturb the insects.
The butterfly room itself is a prime location, especially near the plants and flowers where butterflies often rest. The variety of insects also provides unique photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear light clothing due to the warm butterfly room, and utilize the lockers for jackets. While large bags and strollers aren't allowed, the experience is manageable for toddlers and up. The knowledgeable volunteers can also make the visit extra special by explaining things in an age-appropriate way.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
Plan for about an hour to an hour and a half for your visit, making it an ideal short excursion. The facility is designed to be engaging and educational, providing a memorable experience without requiring a full day commitment.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of insects on display and the educational insights provided by the staff. Witnessing butterfly releases and learning about the life cycles of various invertebrates adds a deep layer of appreciation for the natural world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Butterfly Room
The lush environment is carefully curated with blooming plants and flowers, providing both a beautiful backdrop and sustenance for the butterflies. It's a truly immersive experience, offering a stark contrast to the Montana landscape outside. Many visitors describe it as 'magical' and a 'lovely experience.'
To enhance your visit, consider timing it with the scheduled butterfly releases. This allows you to see these delicate creatures emerge and take flight, a moment that is both educational and breathtaking. The sheer quantity of butterflies can be impressive, making it a highlight for many.
Exploring the Insectarium's Wonders
Knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers are often on hand to share captivating facts and stories about these creatures. They can educate visitors on everything from the intricate patterns on a beetle's shell to the unique behaviors of a wolf spider. This interactive element significantly enriches the learning experience, making it engaging for all ages.
This part of the exhibit is crucial for understanding the broader ecosystem and the importance of all creatures, big and small. It's a chance to overcome any hesitations about 'creepy crawlies' and appreciate their vital roles in our environment.
A Unique Montana Experience
+1Its creation was a significant community effort, involving a close partnership between founders and UM faculty. This collaborative spirit has resulted in a facility that promises to 'pull people off the interstate' and offer a memorable stop for travelers.
+1Whether you're a local or a visitor, this 'hidden gem' provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a way that's both beautiful and informative. It's a testament to the diverse attractions Missoula has to offer beyond its renowned outdoor adventures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit