A Sign of Spring: The Butterflies are Back at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens

When someone gets excited, they're said to have "butterflies in their stomach." However, starting this weekend at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, the excitement there means butterflies on your head.

One of Rockford's jewels is Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, where no matter the weather, it always feels like Spring and Summer. And to really add to the Spring-like atmosphere, this weekend "Simply Spring: The Butterfly Exhibit" returns to delight young and old alike until May 21st.

Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and literally hundreds of native butterflies make their return to Nicholas in this always-popular event that takes you through the entire butterfly life-cycle. You'll see butterflies emerging from their chrysalis, warming themselves in the sunshine, and flitting about their awesome tropical habitat.

Here's a look at last year's exhibit:

For more information on "Simply Spring: The Butterfly Exhibit at Nicholas, click here.

And, if you've ever wondered why exactly butterflies are called butterflies...