There is something so special and dreamy about watching colorful butterflies with their delicate, paper-thin wings flitting through the air. Their ethereal beauty is unmatched by any other insect in the world. If you are intrigued by these stunning insects, spend a magical afternoon at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven when it re-opens and learn all about them as they dance around you.
The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven resides in a 2,700-square foot greenhouse inside Chicago’s Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, which is known for its conservation research and education efforts. It is also an eco-friendly facility using solar panels, a green roof, and natural light sources.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum/Facebook This museum is located in the heart of Lincoln Park.
Set in the city, this butterfly house is a relaxing escape from it all. There is just something so calming and enjoyable about watching these flying beauties.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum/Facebook
Tropical trees, flowers, and water features make the greenhouse a true haven for the more than 1,000 butterflies that have made this place home.
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Enjoy learning about the more than 40 species of exotic butterflies while they fly around freely.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum/Facebook
Every day at 2 PM (when the museum is open) is the First Flight Butterfly Release. This is a great opportunity to learn about the life cycle and then watch as butterflies and moths, who have just emerged from their chrysalises, take their first flights.
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Entry to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is included in admission to the museum. Adults are $9, students and seniors are $7, and children, ages 3 and over, are $6. Thursdays are donation-only days. Purchase an annual membership to support the museum and admission will always be free.
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Due to Covid, the Peggy Notebaert Museum and Judy Istock Butterfly Haven are currently closed, but add a visit to your list when it reopens in the near future. And when it does reopen, take an afternoon and let your mind wander and your feet wander around the Butterfly Haven! You will love watching hundreds of butterflies floating through the greenhouse. It is quite a magical experience.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum/Facebook
This museum is located in the heart of Lincoln Park.
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For more information on the museum, butterfly house, and online programming, visit the website here.
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Address: 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
