The Butterfly House at Navy Pier — Attraction in Chicago

Absolutely LOVED my experience here yesterday! It’s currently too cold for the butterflies but instead they had the “Incredible Insects” exhibit with live Golden Orbweaver Spiders, Death Feigning Beetles, Millipedes, Giant Prickly Stick Bugs, Huge Moths, and Death Head Cockroaches— all very appropriate for the spooky season of October 👻 it was even decorated for the holiday as well with cute halloween decor for photos!

They also had a pinned exhibit with different varieties of tarantulas, beetles, and scarabs that were gorgeous and very educational!

The live insects available to hold were all very docile and gentle— perfect experience for nervous but curious kiddos 🥰. The attendants were all extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and encouraging. Definitely commend the staff that works with the public as well as the folks behind the scenes of these beautiful creatures’ care. You can feel the love, care, and attention that goes into this business.

All in all, for a $10 ticket per adult, it was WELL worth the pocket cash for the atmosphere, experience, pictures, and memories with my loved ones 💗 Please consider supporting this business and hitting the pier for your next trip to Chicago! Try the children’s museum while...

I had such a delightful experience here! If not for my travel schedule, I would’ve come back here a 2nd time. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about butterflies and the environment. The energy of this space is also immaculate. In fact, it was very healing. I used to be creeped out by butterflies, but I ended up happily catching multiple! I paid $19 to get in, which could be considered a little steep, but the House is independently operated to my knowledge so do keep that in mind. My main recommendation is that people be patient when trying to get a butterfly. They are very sensitive to your mood and scent so whatever you’re putting out, they can sense it. It may take a few tries , but remain calm, utilize the technique they teach you, and have fun! Eventually you’ll be a butterfly-catching pro!

—also I had to wait because I hadn’t bought a ticket. it may be different for people who purchased online beforehand. It was...

⭐ 1 Star Disappointed and Frustrated – Arrived Before Close, Doors Already Locked I drove 45 minutes to visit the Butterfly House at Navy Pier, arriving around 6:15–6:20 PM — well before their posted closing time of 7:00 PM. To my surprise, the doors were already locked. I asked a staff member inside the gift shop if they had closed early, and she told me, "We close at 6:15." This directly contradicts what’s listed on the official website, which clearly states a 7:00 PM closing time. Nowhere on the site does it mention a last admission time or that doors lock early. It felt like the staff just decided to close up shop when it was convenient for them, regardless of what their public hours say. Very disappointing — especially after making the trip specifically to see this attraction. Shame on the Butterfly House and the team working this evening on 10/5/25. Visitors deserve accurate information and better...