Frequently asked questions
FAQ - Insectarium
What is the Insectarium's Metamorphosis project?
With its new configuration, the Montréal Insectarium invites the public to meet real, living insects in an immersive atmosphere.
The team has completely revised its approach to provide a new museum and educational experience. The goal? Contribute to change the way humans see insects in order for them to develop what we call “entomophilia” at the Insectarium—the appreciation or valorization of insects. This transformation will take place through a unique immersive visit experience where visitors will first be invited to put themselves in the place of insects, then encouraged to connect with them in an intimate way, to discover their great diversity, and then to spend quality time in their company in the Great Vivarium.
The architectural concept of the Metamorphosis project received an Award of Merit from Canadian Architect magazine in December 2018. It was the result of an international architectural competition won by the consortium of five architectural and engineering firms : Kuehn Malvezzi, Pelletier de Fontenay, Jodoin Lamarre Pratte architectes, Dupras Ledoux and NCK.
Is the memory of the founder of the Insectarium Georges Brossard honoured in the new museum?
Mr. Brossard's legacy is honoured with a stele erected in his memory on the esplanade of the new museum.
How can I download the mobile app to visit the Insectarium?
The Insectarium's mobile app is available for free download on the App Store and Play Store. It is available on iOS and Android mobile platforms (minimum versions required: Android 6 Marshmallow and iOS 11).
Are there spaces for breastfeeding?
Yes, a specially designed space is available.
Do we have to do the whole visit?
As the site visit is unidirectional, it is mandatory to go through all the galleries.
Why will there now be separate pricing for the Insectarium?
The new museum offers an entirely revamped visitor experience. The intimate, one-way circuit will put all your senses on alert. The Montréal Insectarium becomes the first museum in North America where it will be possible to observe so many species of insects—live (including some roaming freely) and naturalized—in one place. Among the hundreds of species on display in the museum are butterflies that have never been shown to the public before, flying freely all year round! In an environment where science and beauty converge, the naturalized collection will be on display like nowhere else in the world. Another unique fact in North America: in addition to the thousands of free-flying butterflies, visitors will get to see and contemplate many other species of insects roaming freely. The new Espace pour la vie Passport will be a very affordable way to enjoy unlimited, year-round access to all Espace pour la vie museums.
How long does it take to visit the museum?
The average visit takes an hour and a quarter to an hour and a half.
Do I get to eat insects?
Insect tasting isnot among the first animation activities that will be offered.
Is there a gift shop at the Insectarium?
No. However, the Jardin botanique gift shop sells items related to the Insectarium.
Are there access ramps, elevators or other possibilities to improve the visit for people with impaired mobility
The Insectarium will obtain an accessibility certification from the Kéroul organization (the certification rating is not yet known). Wheelchairs (non-electric) are available free of charge at the ticket counter, however, as this is a help service and the number of chairs is limited, we cannot guarantee their availability.
Can you handle insects or touch butterflies in the Insectarium?
The new museum tour offers numerous encounters with living insects. In the Great Vivarium, the visitor wanders among hundreds of free-roaming insects. Some may decide to land on people for a few minutes. At the Insectarium, the decision goes to the insects! Humans must not take the lead: do not touch the insects!
However, under the right conditions, guides may bring people and insects together.
Does the Butterflies Go Free event still take place?
At the new Insectarium, visitors will have access all year round to the Great Vivarium where dozens of species of butterflies from all over the world interact, in addition to many other insects.
Is it allowed to take pictures at the Insectarium?
Yes. It is possible to photograph insects and other arthropods.
Is there an audio guide?
No. The information is given by the guides, as well as by screens you will find in certain areas. You can also download the Espace pour la vie mobile application to access more information on the experiments, the insects and the activities.
Is there parking? Is there a parking fee?
Yes, there is paid parking in front of the Insectarium (parking lot P2) accessible from Sherbrooke Street.
Can I buy a meal at the Insectarium?
No, there is no food service at the Insectarium, but there is a lunch area for visitors who have brought their lunch.
Where can I eat my lunch? Is there a microwave?
Yes. Since it is not allowed to eat in the Insectarium's exhibition halls, a lunch area has been set up in the main lobby so that visitors who brought their lunch can set up there. There is also a microwave available on site. Please note that the availability of places in the lunch area may vary according to group reservations.
Can I buy an annual pass to visit the Insectarium?
Yes, visit the Friends of the Insectarium member site to learn more about the annual pass and member privileges. You can also purchase the Espace pour la vie Passport to have unlimited access to its museums for a whole year.
Do you organize guided tours?
No, but guides are present all along the visit to accompany you.
Is it possible to visit the Insectarium if you are afraid of insects?
The visit offers various experiences related to insects. Some areas do not include any living insects, others have them in vivariums, while they are found roaming free in the Great Vivarium. Based on an intimate, multi-sensory one-way circuit, the approach is meant to be progressive. Only after having familiarized themselves with certain aspects of the insect world will visitors find themselves in the presence of live insects.
This experience can be overwhelming for someone with a phobia of insects. However, at no time is the presentation of insects made in such a way as to provoke reactions of fear or surprise. Obviously, no dangerous insects are presented.