Butterfly Pavilion

Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, Colorado, is a unique invertebrate zoo and interactive facility dedicated to educating and inspiring visitors about the world of butterflies and other small creatures. As the first stand-alone, non-profit invertebrate zoo in the United States, Butterfly Pavilion houses more than 1,600 free-flying butterflies, along with other fascinating insects, spiders, and marine invertebrates. From tropical butterfly gardens to hands-on exhibits featuring creatures like Rosie the Tarantula, the pavilion offers an immersive experience that is both educational and fun, making it a top family-friendly destination in Colorado.

Why Visit Butterfly Pavilion

• Lush Butterfly Conservatory: Walk through a tropical indoor conservatory where thousands of butterflies fly freely, creating a magical experience for all ages.
• Hands-On Learning: Engage with interactive exhibits, such as petting Rosie the tarantula, handling starfish, or learning about unique aquatic invertebrates.
• Invertebrate Zoo: Discover over 5,000 animals across exhibits dedicated to bugs, bees, marine life, and more, offering a close-up view of unique ecosystems.
• Conservation Education: Learn about critical conservation efforts for invertebrate species and their essential role in the environment.
• Beautiful Gardens: Explore Butterfly Pavilion's outdoor gardens, including the Colorado Backyard, designed to attract native pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Best Time to Visit

The Butterfly Pavilion is open year-round, offering a climate-controlled environment in its indoor conservatory where butterflies flourish regardless of the season. Spring and summer are popular for enjoying the outdoor gardens, but the pavilion’s tropical exhibits make it an excellent choice even during colder months. Weekday visits are recommended for fewer crowds.

How to Get There

• By Car: The Butterfly Pavilion is conveniently located in Westminster, Colorado, about 15 minutes north of downtown Denver, accessible via U.S. Highway 36.
• By Public Transit: Denver’s RTD bus service offers routes from downtown Denver to Westminster, with stops near the pavilion.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive Early: Plan your visit early in the day, especially on weekends, to enjoy a more intimate experience.
• Dress Comfortably: The indoor conservatory is warm and humid to support the butterflies’ tropical habitat; dress in light layers for comfort.
• No Flash Photography: Bring a camera, but remember that flash photography can disturb the butterflies.
• Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in the conservatory’s warm climate.
• Support Conservation: Consider purchasing tickets in advance or donating to support the pavilion’s conservation efforts.

Visiting the Butterfly Pavilion offers an enchanting opportunity to experience the beauty and importance of invertebrate life up close. With its tropical garden setting, interactive exhibits, and dedication to conservation, this one-of-a-kind pavilion is an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and those eager to learn more about our natural world.