Open Daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Flight of Butterflies
On view March 14 – June 7, 2026
Let Your Imagination Take Wing
Wander through a kaleidoscope of wonder with Flight of Butterflies, an outdoor exhibit that combines nature, art and storytelling through a showcase of 25 striking butterfly sculptures that line the paths of WildWoods. Each artistic piece stands over seven feet tall and is created as a testament to the artists’ connection with nature, embodying themes of metamorphosis and evolution with the hope of inspiring others to be a champion of nature.
These impressive artistic works are inspired by two iconic butterflies: the vibrant eastern tiger swallowtail and the regal fritillary. Combining nature and art, these sculptures serve to represent commonly seen and often-threatened butterfly species.
These striking, larger-than-life butterflies don’t just capture attention — they leave a lasting impression, reminding every visitor that nature always has a story to tell.
Locally made possible by the generous support of Orkin and The Gary W. Rollins Foundation.
Exhibit Highlights
- A rainbow of 25 seven foot tall, uniquely designed butterfly sculptures.
- Creations inspired by two iconic butterflies: the vibrant eastern tiger swallowtail and the regal fritillary.
- Diverse artistry that spotlights inclusion as an inspiration for storytelling from a variety of backgrounds
- A photo op with large Monarch Butterfly wings.
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences’ Flight of Butterflies exhibit was originally made possible by support from the Tullman Family Office.
Fernbank is a nonprofit natural history museum, giant screen theater and old-growth forest, and is not affiliated with Fernbank Science Center, which operates as a division of DeKalb County Schools.
