This year marks the 25th anniversary of “Blooms & Butterflies,” with hundreds of colorful butterflies flying freely in the conservatory’s Pacific Island Water Garden. Special presentations are offered daily at 1 and 3 p.m. daily offer for a deeper insight into the delicate creatures. On Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon, butterfly lovers of all ages can explore Metamorphosis Lab Discovery Tables to interact with cocoons, chrysalises and moths with the guidance of a butterfly expert.

Admission: $19, or $16 for those 60 and older, $12 for children 3 to 12

COSI, the Center of Science and Industry, is another institution housed in an architecturally significant and interesting building (designed by this year’s Pritzker Prize-winning architect, Arata Isozaki). Inside that building is one of the country’s most acclaimed science centers, where visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits, includ-ing the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery.

Also, through Sept. 2, the exhibit “Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids,” will examine the real and imaginary aspects of history’s most legendary animals.

Admission: beginning at $25, or $20 for children 2 to 12. Family Friday Night (last Friday of the month) offers admission tickets after 5 p.m. for $15, or $10 for children. Some exhibits, including “Mythic Creatures,” have an additional fee. 999.