A sight for the curious mind
So you’ve made it through a long seven weeks of class. School has been hectic, extra-curriculars are running you dry, this guy or girl you’ve been texting has been sending confusing responses. Sounds like you deserve a break.
If you’re looking for something relaxing and different to do in Waterloo Region, try spending an afternoon at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. I recently spent an afternoon perusing this local landmark, my curiosity stemming from the conservatory’s sign on highway 85 seen when coming to and from Wilfrid Laurier University.
For $13 after tax and a 15-minute drive, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (CBC) can become quite the calming experience. Kristen Otis, environmental science graduate from the University of Guelph and current nature interpreter at the conservatory, explained the layout of the CBC, “We have two main spaces. The space we are in right now is 10,000 feet of tropical greenhouse, where we have 2,000 free-flying butterflies. “
But wait nature addicts, that’s not all. Otis added, “We have our two galleries out front where we have insects and butterflies of the world on display, as well we have a display about bats on loan from the [Royal Ontario Museum] until Mar. 29.”
These rooms were filled with exotic creatures that would be sure to absolutely terrify even the most courageous of souls if seen scampering across a bedroom floor.
However to me the real prize was the greenhouse. It is a tranquil spot that would be a great place to read to the sound of the woosh of the small waterfall. Otis talked about how useful a resource the conservatory could be for students. “During weekdays it’s really quiet so it would be a great place to study. It’s just you, and your notes, and the butterflies.”
And who knows, you might get lucky and find a butterfly that’s good at math.
The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is something removed from the typical routine. Lose the Friday-night movie and try something new, local, and refreshing in the Waterloo Region. I had a great time on my trip there this week with my eyes permanently glazed-over in awe; these butterflies are truly a sight for the curious (childlike) mind.
If you are planning on going to the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory check out their website, and try your best to check it out on a sunny day, since like most of us, the butterflies are more energetic and active when catching the sun’s rays.