Step into the fascinating world of insects at Portland Insectarium. Enjoy hands-on activities, live bug encounters, and expert insights perfect for curious minds of all ages.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience involves mostly walking indoors at a relaxed pace.
Wildlife
History
The Portland Insectarium was founded to educate the public on the ecological importance of insects in Oregon and beyond.
Conservation
The Insectarium promotes sustainable practices by emphasizing insect biodiversity and habitat preservation in its exhibits and programming.
Portland Insectarium
Step into the fascinating world of insects at Portland Insectarium. Enjoy hands-on activities, live bug encounters, and expert insights perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Portland Insectarium is a hands-on entomology center that introduces visitors to live and preserved arthropods through interactive exhibits, classes, and guided field experiences. The Insectarium offers general admission access to displays and activities, specialty workshops like tarantula handling and macro photography, and focused classes such as insect pinning and identification. Seasonal summer camps for ages 10–18 cover animal care and husbandry, specimen pinning and preservation, field identification, and an option to purchase a full-series package with a completion certificate. Sessions combine classroom instruction, guided walks, and hands-on practice; many sessions include take-home kits, care sheets, pinned specimens, or shadowboxes.
Programs emphasize safety, ethical handling, and respect for living creatures. Sessions are led by trained educators with entomology knowledge and experience working with mantises, jumping spiders, tarantulas, and other arthropods. Small group sizes and supervised interactions ensure safe, educational experiences for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Registration is required for workshops and camps due to limited space; some programs include zoo admission or are offered as add-ons to a general visit. The Insectarium is a resource for families, educators, and hobbyists seeking practical skills—such as specimen preparation, field collecting techniques, and basic husbandry—and fosters curiosity with accessible materials and community events. Whether attending a one-hour tarantula handling session, a two-hour pinning workshop, or a weeklong camp, visitors leave with tangible skills, take-home materials, and an informed appreciation of insects.
The Insectarium also partners with schools and community groups to provide curriculum-aligned workshops, outreach events, and volunteer opportunities for learners of all ages.
Ages Served
10–18 (camps)
Programs for young learners and teens.
Experiences
10+ sessions
Workshops, walks, and camps available.
Take‑home Items
Included
Kits, care sheets, pinned specimens, shadowboxes.
Booking
Limited space
Registration required for workshops and camps.
Secure spots for camps and workshops — limited capacity ensures personalized, supervised learning.
Bring Kids for Interactive Fun
The exhibits are designed with hands-on activities that are especially engaging for children and families.
Allergy Considerations
If you have allergies, check with staff about possible exposure to insect habitats or preserved specimens.
Photography Allowed
Feel free to bring a camera or smartphone for bug close-ups, but use flash sparingly to avoid disturbing live insects.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be on your feet exploring various exhibits, so comfortable footwear is recommended for better mobility.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
To move comfortably while exploring the exhibits.
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing close-up shots of unique insects and displays.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Indoor temperatures may vary, especially during cooler months.
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Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit with a water bottle.