Butterfly House

Location: 62 Eckernkamp Drive
 Smithtown, New York 11787(off Landing Ave)

Hours: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily (June through September)

Fee: Adults: $3.00
  Children under 12: $2.00
  Senior Citizens: $2.00

Photographers: Photographers are welcome however, reservations must be made in advance to set up photography equipment for a fee of $20 per 1/2 hour, per person.

Welcome to Sweetbriar Nature Centers’ Butterfly and Moth Vivarium, Long Island’s first living seasonal butterfly display. Created in 1997, with funds donated by the Smithtown Rotary Club, our 30’x50’ screened enclosure is home to over 20 species of native North American butterflies and moths complete with lush vegetation and flowers necessary for their survival.

As you enter, you will notice our “Who’s flying” identification cards. These are some of the species you are likely to see on your visit. Further down the path, your next stop will be at our emergence cage. Here, pupa (preadult stage of butterfly life) are hung and develop to emerge as winged adults. This metamorphosis is truly one of nature’s unforgettable sights and is one that you may be lucky enough to witness.

All Lepidoptera on display are farm bred and are not taken from the wild. We also breed certain species on site that (when available) are on display for your viewing and education. Throughout your visit, you will be aided by interpretive signs found along paths, and staff and volunteers will answer any questions you might have. Unlike most butterfly displays, at Sweetbriar, one of our main goals is to educate so our visitors walk away with a total butterfly experience.

To ensure you and your children’s safety and to protect these delicate creatures, we ask that you please adhere to the posted rules at the entrance.

So let your journey into the Wonderful World of Butterflies and Moths begin. We are sure it’s one you won’t soon forget.