The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is Montana's first tropical butterfly house! And if you've already visited, you'd know that it's a sight to behold. Winged creatures, creatures with lots (we mean LOTS) of legs, and creatures that—well—don't look like creatures we've ever seen before. And that's because we likely haven't seen them in our neck of the woods. The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is home to bugs and butterflies from all over the world. Whether it be a field trip, exhibit, or educational program, your mind will be stimulated and your curiosity awakened.
If you're looking for family fun, consider a family field trip where families are able to complete an open-ended, bug-themed challenge or activity together. There are opportunities for hands-on experiences and learning, and what better way to familiarize yourself with a bug than to see it up close and personal?
There's fun for adults, too. Bugs and Brews is an evening lecture series where each month they host a new expert lecturer to discuss a fascinating topic relating to bugs. Past lectures have been about animal weapons, pests, native bees, and sea spiders. Draught Works! is the primary sponsor for these unique lectures where adults can indulge in a beer and be entertained by the bugs.
If your ears perked up over "hands-on experience" then maybe volunteering is for you. Whether you're interested in engaging with visitors, assisting with educational programs, or taking care of the bug ambassadors, there is surely a role to be filled. Volunteer opportunities range from museum volunteers (welcoming visitors/engaging with visitors at the Animal Encounter Area), education volunteers (field trips, camps, Bugs Around Town appearances, special events), animal care volunteers (feedings, cleanings), or behind the scenes volunteers (social media, woodworking, special skill set projects, etc.). There is no need to have a PhD in entomology or education to volunteer! Fill out an application online at MissoulaButterflyHouse.org.
Visit!
Visitors are welcome Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m.
1075 South Avenue West
Children (ages 3-17), seniors (ages 60+) and military: $8
General admission: $10
Group discounts are available for a party of 10 of more and you must call to schedule a visit. Tickets are available for purchase online and are highly encouraged as they are time-based to ensure the safety of the butterflies.