Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Discover thousands of free-flying butterflies in a tropical indoor garden at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory.

Promoting conservation and butterfly education, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory offers one of the most unique and delightful experiences found anywhere in Ontario. It’s where you can witness the awe-inspiring moment butterflies emerge from their chrysalis before they take their first flight. You can stroll through their live-insect galleries to learn more about crawling critters and spot a variety of birds in the indoor conservatory.

Visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory website

A bright blue butterfly rests on a wooden log. — Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

How to get to Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Location: 2500 Kossuth Road, Cambridge

By car: The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory offers free on-site parking. Visit their Plan Your Visit page for more information and directions.

By transit: Go Transit offers train service to Kitchener. From there, take a local taxi or request an Uber to the conservatory.

Know before you go

The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory updates its hours seasonally. Check their website for their current hours of operation.

Timed tickets are required for all general visitors. You can purchase your tickets in advance online. Entry for children aged two and under is free, but a ticket must be reserved.

See accessibility features

Things to do at Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Discover more activities and experiences.

See live insects

Explore the Live Insect Gallery featuring exotic live insects, arthropods and other critters, or stop by the Leafcutter Ants exhibit and lean about the intricate world of ants.

Marvel at moths

Spend time in the Moths Magnified gallery featuring photographs taken by the late Canadian photographer Jim des Rivières. Witness amazing colours and patterns unseen by the naked eye.

Visit the on-site cafe

Refuel at the Chrysalis Cafe which offers an indoor dining room and outdoor patio. The cafe menu features full meals, snacks, drinks and a kid's menu.

Buy memorable gifts

Find unique gifts and treasures in the conservatory’s gift store. Browse through a collection of science and nature-themed products, fun snacks, self-care and more.

Attend a special event

Plan your visit to align with the conservatory’s robust calendar of special events. These events range from holiday family activities to butterfly and insect-themed workshops.

Articles and itineraries

Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Family-friendly zoos and butterfly conservatories to visit

Ontario’s zoos and animal parks bring the wonderful world of wildlife to you.

Read moreFamily-friendly zoos and butterfly conservatories to visit

Things to do on Family Day 2024 in Ontario

Get ideas for fun activities and things to do for kids of all ages this Family Day long weekend in Ontario.

Read moreThings to do on Family Day 2024 in Ontario

Fun March Break activities in Ontario 2024

Discover plenty of family bonding activities and fun things to do with your toddlers, tweens or teens.

Read moreFun March Break activities in Ontario 2024

4-day Ontario road trip: Grand River and Stratford explorer

Follow the Grand River to charming towns and communities and enjoy a mix of nature, culture and rural life. START…

A child smiles at a butterfly resting on his hand. — Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory | Destination Ontario

Interesting facts about the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Since 2001, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory has been welcoming visitors to their tropical paradise. Inside the spectacular conservatory are over 40 species of butterflies including the Monarch Butterfly, Golden Birdwing, Emerald Swallowtail, Rice Paper, and Silver-Spotted Flambeau.

The butterflies come from farms based in Costa Rica and the Philippines while still in their cocoons. Upon arrival, the cocoons are hung in the Emergence Window where each butterfly emerges into the world. Once they are ready, the butterflies prepare for their first flight in the main garden.

Accessibility features

Accessible drop-off location

Passenger drop-off is available by an accessible entrance.

Accessible parking

At least one identified, reserved parking space with a safe, clearly marked accessible route from the designated parking area to an accessible building entrance.

Wheelchair accessible

Unobstructed path through public hallways that are wide enough to allow people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices to move easily through the building.

Wheelchair and/or mobility devices available

Wheelchairs and/or mobility devices are available, free of charge, or for rent.

Last updated: April 12, 2024