Let’s face it—a museum dedicated to bugs seems kinda icky, but a visit to Insectropolis in Toms River puts these creepy crawlers into a whole new light. From arthropods to bees to insects, spending time at the Bugseum of New Jersey is a unique and (dare we say) fun way to learn more about them and gain insight into how they help the environment. Kids will love to play insect games, discover new facts, and even touch live bugs (um, yes?). Read on to learn more about one of NJ’s most fascinating and coolest museums. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)
Insectropolis: The Bugseum Of NJ
Start at Bug University
The museum follows a loop, starting with taxonomy, the system of classification, and how it helps scientists identify living things. Spin the wheels of Metamorphosis and lift the flaps of Phylum Arthropoda–by the time you finish the exhibit, you’ll have a “degree” in all things bugs. As you make your way around the loop, step onto a ladybug step stool and use the touch screens to test your knowledge. You can also visit the WBug Radio to learn all about animal communication. Other interactive exhibits include The Rock State Prison, which features larger-than-life infamous bugs like mosquitos and fleas that get a bad rap, and Top Cops, the carnivores of the pest species.
More to explore
At the Rubber Tree Plant exhibit, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a bug’s world. Start the exhibit by watching a monitor streaming a hardworking ant colony, demonstrating their teamwork in action. After that, kids will love getting on their knees, crawling through the Mud Tube, and feeling like a termite in the deep underground. Another cool spot is the Creepy Cavern, where you’ll find tons of tarantulas with peculiar names like Twinkle Toes or Charon. With a donation of $20, you can name their creepy crawlers. There’s more to see, including the Hive Airport, where your littles can learn about honeybees or peer through the windows to see the featured live arthropods (it changes with the seasons) in the Insectropolis Zoo.
Touch a creepy crawler
One of the highlights of the Bugseum is the live demos of insects in rooms off the main floor, scheduled daily. Seeing a live demonstration is a must—it gives you a chance to hold everything from a tarantula to a millipede to a scorpion. If you or your kids get put off by holding it, don’t worry. The instructor gives everyone an opportunity to pet it instead, but only if you want to.
What to know before you go
The entrance to Insectropolis is in the same area as its parent company, Ozane, a pest control company. Once you enter Insectropolis, the museum is small, and you can travel one loop. Depending on your child’s interest level, your visit could take 1-2 hours. The museum is stroller-friendly, and everything is on one floor, but it can get crowded during busier times. Restrooms are available, and there is a gift shop full of classic childhood toys, books, butterfly gardens, fun bug candies, and jewelry. Admission is $12 per visitor, and ages 2 and under are free, and you can purchase tickets onsite. Hours vary during the summer and school year, so it’s best to check ahead before you go.
For more information, visit the Insectropolis website, Instagram and Facebook.
Insectropolis
1761 Route 9
Toms River, NJ 08755
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