The Butterfly Haven – Idaho’s Largest Butterfly House

The moment you step out of your car in the parking lot, you’re greeted by the unmistakable scent of flowers drifting on the breeze. The greenhouse itself is warm and humid — even if it’s chilly outside; inside it feels like summer. That’s intentional, of course. Butterflies thrive in warm climates, and the greenhouse is designed specifically to keep them comfortable.

Inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by thousands of butterflies, flitting freely among a lush indoor garden and brightly colored blooms. The butterflies found here are native to the area. We saw many of these varieties of butterflies: Queen, Weidemeyer’s Admiral, Buckeye, Mourning Cloak, and Red Admiral.

Visitors are reminded not to touch or hold the butterflies — their wings are extremely fragile. However, if a butterfly decides to land on you, you’re more than welcome to enjoy the moment. It’s not uncommon to see guests standing still, hands outstretched, hoping one of these fluttering beauties will pick them as a temporary perch.

What sets The Butterfly Haven apart is how wonderfully family-oriented it is. While the butterflies are obviously the main attraction, many families find themselves equally enchanted by the buttonquails — small, gentle birds that wander around on the ground beneath the flowers and foliage. These tiny birds are especially popular with children, and it’s easy to see why. They’re cute and interactive.

If the buttonquails start following you, it’s usually a good sign — they’re hungry and ready for a snack. Visitors can purchase a small amount of feed. Feeding them is a fun experience, it was one of the favorite parts of the visit for my kids. Watching them scurry around your feet and peck gently at the food is sure to leave you smiling.

Beyond its obvious visual appeal, The Butterfly Haven is also an educational resource. Visitors can learn about the butterfly life cycle and the critical role these pollinators play in our ecosystems.

There is a shop outside of the butterfly greenhouse that has souvenirs that are butterfly themed and a glass display of an active honeycomb where the bees go into this glass display and outside. It also has stick bugs, caterpillars, and chrysalises. You may see a butterfly emerge from their chrysalis or see a caterpillar wrapping themselves up in one. Seeing butterflies emerge from their chrysalises and flutter from flower to flower is a hands-on biology lesson unlike anything in a textbook. 

School groups, homeschool families, and curious tourists all find something to take away from their visit. Whether it’s a newfound knowledge of pollinators or simply the joy of witnessing nature’s beauty up close, everyone leaves a little more inspired.

One of the most remarkable things about The Butterfly Haven is how immersive the experience is. The fragrance of the flowers hits you before you even step inside — a lush, sweet perfume that instantly sets the tone. Inside, the greenhouse bursts with color from the flowers and butterflies and creates a dreamlike setting. Combined with the sound of rushing water from the waterfalls, it becomes more than just a place to visit — it becomes a sensory escape.

This is a place where you can slow down. Take a breath. Let your senses take over and simply be in the moment. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by beauty.

1. Dress for warm weather, even in chilly weather. The temperature in the greenhouse is warm and often humid. Light, breathable clothing is recommended.
2. Bring some extra money if you want to feed the buttonquails. Kids especially love this! They also accept card. 
3. Respect the butterflies. Do not attempt to touch or catch them. If they land on you, enjoy the magic — but always let them come to you.
4. Take your time. There’s no rush. Wander the garden paths, pause to watch a butterfly relax on a flower, or just sit and let the experience calm the nerves.

Many Idahoans are surprised to learn that a butterfly paradise like this exists in their own backyard. Pingree is a small farming community in Bingham County, located between Blackfoot and American Falls.

Here is a short video of our experience at the Butterfly Haven!

You’re probably wondering about the price. Click this link. https://yellowstoneteton.com/listings/the-butterfly-haven 

The Butterfly Haven’s website is listed and admission is posted there.

Whether you’re looking for a fun activity with the kids, an educational outing, or a peaceful spot to enjoy the wonders of nature, The Butterfly Haven in Pingree offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

So next time you find yourself near Pingree in Eastern Idaho, don’t miss out. Follow the sweet scent of flowers, step into the warmth, and let yourself be surrounded by thousands of fluttering wings. 🦋

The Butterfly Haven

📍 1462 W 200 S, Pingree, ID 83262

🌿 Indoor garden with butterflies and birds.