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Montreal Insectarium

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Montreal Insectarium (Canada)

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The Montreal Insectarium is one of the most significant museums of its kind globally, part of the Espace pour la vie museum complex. Founded in 1990 by Georges Brossard, it is dedicated to educating the public about the fascinating world of insects and their vital ecological roles. Following an extensive multi-year renovation, it reopened in 2022 with a completely reimagined immersive experience that allows visitors to perceive the environment from an insect's perspective. The collection has over 250,000 specimens, including both live insects and preserved exhibits from every continent. The building's architecture is unique, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding Botanical Garden. The Insectarium aims to foster a greater appreciation for arthropods and to dispel common misconceptions about them. It stands as a leading center for entomological research and environmental education in Canada.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

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Avg °C-11-10-35131922211791-7
Rain mm72687695931099598881148198

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Montreal Insectarium is a museum dedicated to the insect world and is open to visitors. The exhibits are interactive, featuring live and preserved insects from around the globe.
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Typical hours
The Insectarium is typically open daily from 9:00 to 17:00, with extended hours in summer. Check the website for current times.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed throughout the Insectarium. Flash can disturb the insects, so it is prohibited in most areas.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes one and a half to two hours. The interactive stations and variety of exhibits encourage lingering.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the adjacent Botanical Garden and Planetarium. These three attractions form the Espace pour la Vie and are located right next to each other.
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Getting there
The Insectarium is located in Parc Maisonneuve and is easily accessible by metro (Pie-IX station). Parking is available in the area.
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Insider tip
The visit is especially worthwhile for families with children, as there are many interactive stations. Avoid peak weekend times for the best experience.

Geography

Coordinates
45.56000, -73.55000

Facts

  • The Insectarium officially opened its doors to the public on February 7, 1990.
  • It welcomes approximately 400,000 visitors from around the world each year.
  • The collection includes over 150 live species, ranging from ants to butterflies.
  • Georges Brossard donated his private collection of more than 250,000 items to start it.
  • The 2022 redesign incorporates biomimicry to simulate real insect environments.
  • The museum is a member of the Canadian Museums Association and is globally recognized.

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Sights in the town Montreal Insectarium (14)

Maison Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine🏛 museum

A museum in Montreal, the former home of Louis-Hippolyte La Fontaine.

Théâtre Denise-Pelletier🎭 culture

A theatre in Montreal, named after actress Denise Pelletier.

Olympic Park🌳 park

The site of the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, featuring the iconic Olympic Stadium.

Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville🌿 nature

A national park on islands in the St. Lawrence River near Montreal.

Montreal Biodome🎡 recreation

Montreal Biodome, an indoor nature museum with four ecosystems.

🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00💶

Villa De La Broquerie🏺 historical

A heritage-listed 19th-century villa in Montreal's Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district.

Maison de la Culture Mercier🎭 culture

Maison de la Culture Mercier is a cultural centre in the Mercier borough of Montreal, offering local art exhibitions and workshops.

Église Sainte-Famille⛪ religious

Église Sainte-Famille is a Catholic church in the Mercier borough of Montreal, dedicated to the Holy Family.

La Petite Rivière📍 landmark

La Petite Rivière is a small river in Montreal's Mercier neighbourhood, flowing into the Saint Lawrence River.

La Passe📍 landmark

La Passe is a natural channel in Montreal, used by boats to navigate between the river and the canal.

Parc de la Pointe-du-Marigot🌳 park

Parc de la Pointe-du-Marigot is a park on a point in Montreal's Mercier borough, with waterfront views and trails.

Parc Roger-Rousseau🌳 park

Parc Roger-Rousseau is a community park in Montreal's Mercier borough, named after a local politician, with a playground and sports fields.

🕒 Mo-Su 07:00-23:00

RCOC Museum🏛 museum

A museum in Montreal displaying the history of the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps.

Site Iroquoien📍 landmark

An archaeological site in Montreal indicating Iroquoian settlement.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see?
Thousands of live and preserved insects from around the world.
Is it part of a larger park?
Yes, it is within the Space for Life (Espace pour la vie) complex.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, timed-entry tickets are highly recommended.
Can you touch the insects?
Generally no, except during special moderated presentations.
Is it scary for children?
No, it is designed to be educational and fascinating.
Montreal Insectarium: where is it located?
Montreal Insectarium is located in Canada.
Montreal Insectarium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maison Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine, Théâtre Denise-Pelletier, Olympic Park.
Montreal Insectarium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Montreal Insectarium: why is it worth visiting?
The Montreal Insectarium is one of the most significant museums of its kind globally, part of the Espace pour la vie museum complex.
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