The Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Cockrell Butterfly Center is a captivating destination for visitors. Featuring a stunning living habitat with over 1,500 butterflies, the interactive glass structure provides a unique opportunity to learn about the essential role insects play in our ecosystem. With its 50-foot waterfall and friendly staff, the center has earned high praise from visitors. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an engaging educational experience, the Cockrell Butterfly Center is sure to leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.
Good To Know
- The Cockrell Butterfly Center offers an immersive experience with over 1,500 live butterflies from 50 of the world’s largest and most colorful species.
- Admission starts at $12 per person, with options for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later.
- The center is wheelchair accessible and features a three-story glass structure with a 50-foot waterfall.
- Visitors can explore educational exhibits highlighting the crucial role of insects in human life.
- The center is located in Houston’s Hermann Park and is accessible by car, public transportation, or on foot.
Overview and Pricing
The Cockrell Butterfly Center is located at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Admission to the center starts at $12.00 per person. Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Admission to the center starts at $12.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The center also offers a reserve now and pay later option, allowing guests to book their spot without an upfront payment. The pass is valid for one day, and visitors can check availability for starting times.
The center is wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive experience for all.
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Experience Highlights
Visitors to the Cockrell Butterfly Center can walk through a living butterfly habitat, seeing a vibrant world populated by over 1,500 butterflies.
They’ll see approximately 50 of the world’s largest and most colorful butterfly species, including some of the biggest.
The interactive experience takes place in a three-story glass structure featuring a 50-foot waterfall.
Visitors can also marvel at live and preserved specimens of giant arthropods and learn about the critical role insects play in human life through the center’s educational exhibits.
Visitor Reviews
With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 61 reviews, the Cockrell Butterfly Center has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors.
Reviewers praised the center’s educational value and interactive elements, with one visitor noting the "amazing" experience of walking through the living butterfly habitat.
The staff, especially Lauren, received high marks for their friendliness.
However, some visitors expressed dissatisfaction with the gift shop staff’s attitude.
Additional Features
Along With the living butterfly habitat, the Cockrell Butterfly Center offers a range of interactive games and quizzes related to insects.
Visitors can get up-close views of giant wasp nests and Houston’s largest cockroaches. The exhibits also feature insights from interviews with entomologists, providing an educational and engaging experience.
Visitors can even observe the fascinating behavior of leaf cutter ants at work. With these additional interactive elements, the Cockrell Butterfly Center aims to immerse visitors in the world of insects and enhance their understanding of these important creatures.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
The last entry to the Cockrell Butterfly Center is at 5:30 PM. Visitors should plan to spend around 45 minutes exploring the exhibits, but the duration is flexible. Flash photography is not permitted inside the center. Tickets must be picked up at the box office, and entry times are assigned, which may result in wait times during peak visitation periods.
| Key Details | | |
|————-|–|–|
| Last Entry | 5:30 PM | |
| Estimated Visit Time | 45 minutes | Flexible |
| Photography | No Flash Allowed | |
| Ticket Pickup | Box Office | Assigned Entry Times |
Getting There
Getting to the Cockrell Butterfly Center is straightforward.
The museum’s address is 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030. Visitors can easily access the center by car, public transportation, or on foot.
The Cockrell Butterfly Center is located at 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, and is accessible by car, public transit, or on foot.
Ample parking is available at the museum’s main lot. For those taking public transit, the center is accessible via the METRORail Red Line, with the Hermann Park/Rice U station a short walk away.
The center is also within walking distance from other Hermann Park attractions like the Japanese Garden and the Miller Outdoor Theatre.
What to Expect
Upon entering the Cockrell Butterfly Center, visitors are immediately immersed in a lush, tropical environment. Over 1,500 butterflies from around the world flutter freely amidst the 50-foot waterfall and three-story glass structure.
Guests can marvel at approximately 50 of the world’s largest and most colorful butterfly species, as well as live and preserved specimens of giant arthropods. Educational exhibits provide insights into the role of insects in human life.
Interactive games and quizzes further enhance the experience. While flash photography isn’t allowed, visitors can observe leaf cutter ants and gain knowledge from onsite entomologists.
Making the Most of Your Visit
How can visitors make the most of their time at the Cockrell Butterfly Center? Be prepared to learn about the living butterfly habitat, where over 1,500 butterflies of 50 species flutter around. Arrive early to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the interactive exhibits and educational displays. Don’t miss the 50-foot waterfall feature or the close-up views of giant arthropods. To enhance your experience, engage with the knowledgeable staff, particularly the entomologists who can provide insightful commentary. Lastly, plan ahead to maximize your visit by reviewing opening hours and any potential wait times.
| Arrive Early | Explore Interactives | Engage with Staff | Plan Ahead |
| — | — | — | — |
| Avoid crowds | Waterfall feature | Entomologist insights | Opening hours |
| Ample time | Giant arthropods | Knowledgeable staff | Wait times |
| 50 butterfly species | Educational displays | Enhance experience | Maximize visit |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks Into the Butterfly Center?
Yes, visitors can bring their own snacks into the Butterfly Center. However, food and drinks are not allowed in the main exhibit area to avoid disturbing the butterflies.
Are Service Animals Allowed in the Butterfly Exhibit?
Service animals are allowed in the butterfly exhibit. Visitors with disabilities can bring their service animals to provide assistance during the experience. However, personal pets are not permitted in the butterfly center.
What Should I Wear to Stay Comfortable During My Visit?
It’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid any butterfly landings. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as the exhibit involves a fair amount of walking and exploration.
Are Photos Allowed to Be Taken of the Butterflies?
Flash photography is not allowed, but visitors can take non-flash photos to capture the beautiful butterflies. However, they should avoid disturbing the butterflies or their habitat during their visit.
Is There a Restroom Available Within the Butterfly Center?
Yes, there are restrooms available within the Cockrell Butterfly Center. Visitors can use the facilities located inside the exhibit before or after exploring the interactive displays and observing the diverse butterfly species.
The Sum Up
The Cockrell Butterfly Center at the Houston Museum of Natural Science offers a captivating and educational experience for visitors. With over 1,500 butterflies and an immersive, three-story glass structure, it’s a must-visit attraction that provides a unique glimpse into the essential role insects play in our ecosystem. Praised for its friendly staff and overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, the center is sure to delight and inspire visitors of all ages.
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