Igniting a Passion for the Planet
through arthropod education
Idlewild Butterfly Farm brings science ALIVE in the classroom! While insects may be small, their presence on Earth is huge: with over 900,000 identified species, there are more kinds of insects than all other animals and plants combined. It is our mission to educate people of all ages on the important role the tiniest creatures play in nature to ignite a commitment to conservation.
Experience Idlewild
Field Trips
We love to host classrooms, summer camps, scout troops, garden clubs, homeschool groups and other special interest or community groups!
Visits to Idlewild Butterfly Farm typically last one hour and begin with a tour through our fascinating Insectarium, where visitors will view up-close insects such as hissing cockroaches, giant stick insects, praying mantids, and more! Participants will learn where they are from, what they eat and how they protect themselves from predators.
Bring the Bugs to You
Classroom Visits
In-person classroom visits are available during colder months, typically within the Kentuckiana region. We offer a variety of fun and engaging educational opportunities that are compatible with Kentucky Science Standards, adapted for appropriate age levels. Please note: 2-hour minimum is required outside of Jefferson County. Please contact us to inquire about pricing.
Buggy Badges
Scout Experiences
Scouts of all ages enjoy a memorable experience at Idlewild! We tailor scout visits to the badge your group is aiming to earn AND earn your own special Idlewild badge with any program! Scouts may visit Idlewild for a customized field trip or participate in Scout specific workshops. We are also happy to offer a Live Insect Experience and custom programming at your location.
Bring on the Bugs!
Community Events
Let us bring the bugs to you! Our Live Insect Experiences promote respect and understanding of all arthropods by allowing guests to get up-close and personal with various species of our insect friends from Idlewild! Looking for an educational guest speaker to present at your next community group meeting? Interested in having a booth with exotic insects on display at your big event? Contact us to discuss if we are available to participate! Program fees and mileage reimbursement apply.
Tours and Workshops
Tour Idlewild to learn about the Butterfly Farm and the native and exotic insects housed in our laboratory, a USDA Containment Facility. We host informational workshops and special events throughout the year that are open to the public. Sign up for our mailing list to be notified of our schedule of tours, workshops and special events. Click below to sign up for what is currently available. Private tours and Field Trips may be arranged.
