Get your spring buzz on at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven at the Nature Museum

The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences in Lincoln Park is the perfect spot to get excited about spring. Being surrounded by colorful butterflies and vibrant flowers in a lush tropical setting is an instant mood-booster. Whether escaping the winter chill or just looking for a burst of spring energy, visiting here will lift your spirits and put you in the mood for warmer days.

Museum visitors gather every day at 2 p.m. in the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven to witness the wonder of nature as hundreds of newly emerged butterflies are released for their first flight. The magic of the moment highlights the wonder of nature and the delicate life cycle of these amazing creatures.  

The 2,700-square-foot greenhouse is home to 40 species of exotic butterflies and several bird species from the Southern Hemisphere. While strolling among the pools of water, flowers, and tropical trees, thousands of butterflies whizz around looking for the perfect place to land.

The museum brings in a steady stream of butterflies, keeping the haven full of color and life all year round. Chrysalises are carefully shipped to the Dr. Doug Taron Chrysalis Lab in the Butterfly Haven building. After experts check them for parasitoid hitchhikers or wasps, the chrysalises are labeled and sorted according to their species. They are then mounted onto foam boards, where the real work begins. Some butterflies can emerge within a few days, but others take several months.

Patrons will also learn about the butterfly’s life cycle, from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. Experiencing the entire process firsthand is fascinating and educational.

For a unique experience, Butterfly Haven also hosts Saturday morning Butterfly Yoga classes. These classes combine peaceful yoga practice with the calming presence of fluttering butterflies, offering a serene way to stretch, relax, and welcome the weekend.

The Butterfly Haven is the ultimate place to escape, relax, and enjoy nature’s colorful wonders amid the hustle and bustle of the Windy City. It is the perfect place to kick back and get lost in nature’s peaceful beauty, brightening your day.

Click the link for more information on admission to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences.

For more information regarding the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, click the link.

Click the link for a full description and schedule for Butterfly Yoga classes.