Discover the Magic of the Butterfly Houses on Mackinac Island

Did You Know… Mackinac Island is home to not one, but TWO enchanting butterfly houses! If you’re looking for a magical experience during your visit to Mackinac Island, don’t miss the chance to step into a world of color and wonder while you walk among hundreds of fluttering butterflies from all over the world. It’s a must-see experience for nature lovers and curious minds alike! These beautiful attractions offer the perfect escape for visitors of all ages and are especially great for a rainy-day activity. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the butterfly houses on Mackinac Island.

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Are there two butterfly houses on Mackinac Island?

Yes! There is the Original Butterfly House and Insect World and the Wings of Mackinac.

The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World

Just a short walk from downtown, situated on McGulpin St. just behind Ste. Anne’s Church, the Original Butterfly House is the first of its kind in Michigan, and the third oldest live butterfly exhibit in the country! Inside this enchanting greenhouse is a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of vibrant butterflies from four continents. Wander through the paths and watch butterflies land on colorful flowers and learn about the fascinating life cycle of these delicate creatures.

Attached to the greenhouse, the Insect World exhibit offers a fascinating look at other insects and bugs from all corners of the world. This addition makes it a fun and educational stop for curious minds.

I mean, have you ever heard of a Strawberry Pac-Man frog?!

The Original Butterfly House and Insect World has daily animal encounters and butterfly releases. Check out their website for the most up to date times.

Key Highlights:

• Over 1800 square feet of tropical garden space
• Educational displays about butterfly conservation
• You can enjoy unlimited visits to the Original Butterfly House during your stay on the island with your ticket wristband
• Insect World exhibit featuring turtles, beetles, tarantulas, and more
• Knowledgeable staff who are ready to answer hundreds of your child’s questions
• Beautiful gift shop with butterfly-themed souvenirs

Tip: Bring your camera and wear bright colored clothes! One may even land on you!

Want to keep the butterfly magic going at home? Be sure to check out our other post featuring our favorite butterfly-themed books and educational games for kids! It’s a great way to extend the learning (and fun) beyond your visit to the butterfly houses on Mackinac Island. 🦋

Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory

Located at Surrey Hills in the interior part of the island, Wings of Mackinac offers another incredible butterfly experience in a beautiful glass-enclosed garden. This charming conservatory focuses on creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere where you can observe butterflies up close. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and often shares fun facts about the different butterfly species you see fluttering around.

Key Highlights:

• Tranquil, garden-like setting
• Great spot for a quiet, peaceful break during your busy island day
• Make sure the kids keep their eyes open for fairies and dragons
• They also offer educational resources about butterflies on their website
• Wings of Mackinac is one of the stops during the public carriage tour (additional admission required)
• Close to the Surrey Hills shops and eateries

Tip: Stop by Surrey Hills’ other shops and grab a snack or souvenir after your visit!

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Both butterfly houses are open seasonally, usually from early May through October.
• Admission fees apply and are separate for each location.
• It’s typically warm and humid inside to keep the butterflies happy, so dress accordingly.
• Watch your step! Sometimes butterflies land right on the path.

Visiting the butterfly houses is a magical experience that fits perfectly into any Mackinac Island itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful moment surrounded by nature or a fun and educational activity for kids, these little slices of paradise are sure to leave you smiling.

Ready to be surrounded by butterflies? Add the Mackinac Island Butterfly House and Wings of Mackinac to your must-visit list this season!

Make sure to check out some of these other Mackinac Island posts to help you plan your dream vacation:

• 25+ THINGS TO DO WITH TEENS ON MACKINAC ISLAND THEY’LL ACTUALLY ENJOY
• WHAT’S NEW ON MACKINAC ISLAND IN 2025
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