At the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, you’ll discover some of nature’s smallest heroes through interactive exhibits. All ages will enjoy this unique experience at one of the world’s first, stand-alone invertebrate zoo.
What Kids Will Love
Kids will love the 1,600+ butterflies flying freely in the Wings of the Tropics. Despite the tropical temperatures, my kids stayed here for hours waiting for a butterfly to land on their shirt or the handle of our stroller. The beautiful colors and diversity of both insects and plants is a must-see.
The youngest kids will love Colorado Backyard, which features indoor play structures, live animals, a chance to hold Rosie the tarantula (ages 3 and up), a virtual reality experience and a rotating exhibit area.
What Moms Will Love
Moms will love this chance to expose their kids to nature, the hands-on exhibits and the outdoor trails to burn off that energy.
Mom Tip: For a low-cost family experience, check out Family Science Nights once a month (5th of every month) where admission is just $5 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Explore the exhibits and complete self-guided activities for a prize and gift store discount.
Who It’s Best For
The Butterfly Pavilion is designed for all ages!
Location and Parking
The museum is located at 6252 W. 104th Ave. Westminster, CO 80020.
Butterfly Pavilion offers free onsite parking, including accessible parking, oversized spots for larger vehicles or trailers, and overflow parking. If the main lot is full, Butterfly Pavilion guests can park offsite for free at Westin Westminster or the Armed Forces Tribute Garden.
Admission & Hours
Book your tickets online and save. Butterfly Pavilion’s online General Admission tickets are $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for seniors (65+), $10.95 for children (ages 2-12), and free for children under the age of 2.
Butterfly Pavilion is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. with timed entry. Doors to the facility close at 4:15 p.m. for last admission. If you’re wanting to avoid crowds, check out the occupancy tracker here.
Discounts are offered for AAA members, library card holders, Westminster residents, SNAP recipients and annual membership holders.
Memberships
Annual memberships are offered for individuals and families of different sizes. Members enjoy free unlimited admission, guest passes, VIP Event access, camp and birthday party discounts, and more.
Mom Tip: The Butterfly Pavilion and Children’s Museum of Denver – Marsico Campus have teamed up for a combo membership deal.
Nursing Room Availability
A lactation room is offered in the Colorado Backyard exhibit. Ask a staff person for access.
Stroller and Wheelchair Accessibility
Butterfly Pavilion is ADA-accessible and welcomes outside strollers and wheelchairs into the facility.
Seating Area
Benches are offered in each exhibit area for guests to rest.
Sensory Friendly Accommodations
Noise-canceling headphones and weighted vests are available upon request. Butterfly Pavilion also has a quiet area in our Colorado Backyard exhibit that guests are welcome to utilize at any point during their visit.
On the last Wednesday of every month from 3-5 p.m., Butterfly Pavilion hosts Sensory Friendly Afternoons, where you can come experience our exhibits in a unique way that meets the needs of your family. With natural lighting, quiet tones, and limited admission, this event provides an enjoyable, low-key experience just for them. Each Sensory Friendly Afternoon offers guided interpretation in each exhibit, optional activity guides, and access to our playroom.
Special Events
Programming is offered for adults, the whole family and even virtually. Day camps and summer programs are offered. One of our favorite annual events is the Pollinator Palooza festival in June. Check out the full calendar to register for your favorites!
