Is this adventure suitable for children?

Yes, the Summer Camp: Introduction is family-friendly and designed to engage all ages.

Are tickets available for walk-ins or is advance booking required?

Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot due to limited group sizes.

What should I bring to the session?

Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and optionally a notebook for notes.

Is there parking available at the Insectarium?

Yes, there is nearby public parking and some street parking around the venue.

How close is the Insectarium to downtown Portland?

It’s located within Portland city limits, easily accessible from downtown via public transit or car in under 20 minutes.

Are live insects handled during the tour?

Yes, supervised interaction with live insects is part of the guided experience.

Intro to Entomology at Portland Insectarium

Discover the fascinating world of insects with Portland Insectarium's Summer Camp: Introduction, held every Tuesday in Portland, Oregon. This private outdoor adventure experience is perfect for anyone curious about entomology, from beginners to nature enthusiasts. The program begins with a two-hour informative session led by expert guides who introduce participants to basic entomology concepts, insect identification, and the important roles insects play in ecosystems. Following this engaging session, attendees enjoy a guided tour through the Insectarium's diverse exhibits, observing live insect species up close and learning about their behaviors and habitats. Along the way, participants receive valuable take-home materials that enrich their newfound knowledge. This carefully curated experience offers a rare hands-on opportunity to appreciate insects beyond the usual backyard view. The mixture of education, exploration, and interactive learning sets it apart, making it both enjoyable and memorable for adults and kids alike. Whether you're visiting Portland or a local seeking a unique activity, the Summer Camp: Introduction is a perfect introduction to the natural sciences and an excellent way to get outside and refocus on the smallest yet most essential creatures around us.

About Portland Insectarium

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.