What a wonderful experience! My wife and I took our 9-year-old granddaughter here, and we all enjoyed ourselves. The enclosed area with 1600+ butterflies was the highlight for me. Having butterflies with luminescent wingtips flutter in front of my face was a psychedelic experience. Watching butterflies doing mating rituals and pollenating flowers were also high points. We spent at least an hour in this space alone. The rest of the exhibition consisted of invertebrates, both dead and alive. With assistance from one of the many helpful volunteers I had a giant tarantula crawl onto my palm. It was a treat. I also enjoyed observing insects, especially ants, do their thing. This was a wonderful and educational experience. I recommend it for children and adults. read more

I visited for the first time with a friend and her ~18-month old daughter during the last weekend of "Living Lights," which was sheer madness. Their parking lot was full so we ended up parking at a car dealership across the street, which meant dashing across a busy street with a stroller. What a great start to the evening. Now, likely because of living lights, it was particularly crowded, so while I would have liked to have spent more time looking at the exhibits I was feeling kind of claustrophobic. I did notice that many of the displays were both kid and adult scale, which is nice. There were a couple of interactive stations, where you could touch a starfish or hold a tarantula, if you're into that sort of stuff. The actual butterfly pavilion looks like it would be beautiful to visit during the day, but after dark with lighting displays? Less appealing. The butterflies are for the most part inactive, but if you have a sharp eye you might spot a few hanging out on the undersides of leaves or on branches. Unfortunately, I found myself getting blinded by the lights every now and then -- and butterfly spotting is difficult when you are seeing spots in your eyes. The actual Christmas light displays outside were fairly modest, but it was a relief to get outside and away from the crush of people. The featured displays were the butterfly and insect sculptures around the outdoor grounds, illuminated with a shifting palette of light. Would I go back for Living Lights? Probably not, but I'd certainly visit again during the day. Admission fees are quite modest (~$10 for an adult), which I reckon is well worth it for the butterfly pavilion alone. Spending more time looking at the exhibits under less crowded conditions would be worthwhile, as well. read more

My family loves this place! Buying the membership was the smartest move of the summer. I have a two-year-old and a seven-year-old and it's the perfect size for a summer activity. We like that the indoor facility is air-conditioned. In May 2019 they added a new indoor playground called the Colorado backyard and it's awesome! You can hold a tarantula and a cockroach and play with mill worms. They also have easy parking, a really cool landscaped outdoor area with crawfish in the water feature plus a natural area with lots of prairie dogs too. Pros: awesome day camps, great staff, great volunteers and clean bathrooms Cons: Sometimes the place becomes overrun with outside school and day care groups and sometimes the groups are poorly supervised read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Looking for crawfish in the water feature - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

My daughter came to visit me a few weeks ago and she loves insects, fishes, bugs and well...She's like her dad, a real knowledgeable nerd. (Thank God) because I'm a disguised RPG dork. She loved this place and yes the highlight was holding the turantula, she seemd also fascinated with the roaches (creepy) for the price this place was GREAT!.. lol we also bought some chocolate covered bugs and cheddar worms, to give to my hubby..lol it was hilarious. The butterfly room was beautiful and there was a live turtle. This place is great especially to broaden ones intellectual level with all the information provided. Not to mention I live like 5 minutes from there. read more

Butterfly Pavilion - My BRAVE Angel - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

We were in the Denver area looking for something to do with our little one when we came across this place. Who doesn't like Butterflies? When you walk in they have the pavilion to your right or you can go to your left and see other insects and interesting things of nature. You can even have a tarantula walk on you. That was fun! Think about the Butterly Pavilion as a big cage full of butterflies flying all over the place. They may land on you or fly right by you and you have to be careful you don't step on them. Such a nice thing to do especially with your little ones. If you are ever in the area and are looking for something to do take a look at this place. read more

I love the butterfly pavilion and every time I have a visitor come into town I take them to see it so even after my 10 plus visits I still am excited to go! So if you enjoy butterflies and/or into any type of crawly, flying, creeping insect you really should pay a visit! Fun guaranteed! read more

I've been a member here for many years and generally enjoy the experience. It's fun to see how many species of butterflies you can spot on a visit and to relish the occasional glimpse of one you've never seen before. Holding Rosie the tarantula is a highlight for kids and adults alike and the marine specimen section, though small, is a welcome interlude between the bug room (filled with scorpions, spiders, centipedes and more) and the butterfly area. Staff has always been informative and outgoing with an uncanny ability to put you at ease around critters which have probably spent more time in your nightmares than in your hand. My only complaint is that the Pavilion is a victim of its own success, making it difficult to find a time when you can, as an adult, spend some quiet reflective time in a magical space surrounded by living stained-glass flittering wings in a lush, tropical paradise or sit and silently gaze into a turtle pond filled with koi. At this point I'm pretty much OVER going on the weekends when it is OVERrun with parents OVERwhelmed by understandably OVERexcited little ones and during the week there seem to be multiple field trips visiting all day. In an ideal world, they would open a couple hours earlier in the morning just for adults. You know, kind of like an "adult swim" time at the pool. In spite of the chaos which frequently accompanies your visit... it's still worth seeing if you've never been. Just don't go while I'M there ;) lol read more

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A good time! A short time. Takes about 2 hours MAX to get through, and that's if you're stopping and reading every sign, chatting with employees. Perfect for mornings with kids before naps. read more

This little center is clean, family friendly, and safe and resourceful enough to have a charming break in your day. If you are a lover of critters and science, imagination and exploration, or scenery and tranquility... this place is for you! I brought my sweet two year old I nanny for, for an afternoon out. Perks of this location is with membership you can visit here countless times! (Her family are members and added me in WOOOHOO!) when bringing out Little's, I look at accommodations, safety and interactive play areas. For tiny tots and toddlers this location is great. It has three zones to cruise through, PLENTY of displays living and still to read and look at and most importantly its small and convenient, where you don't feel overwhelmed to take two steps and freak out. The employees and volunteers were very cheerful and gave out plenty of information! Go visit Rosie the tarantula where children 3 yrs and older ( us adults too) CAN HOLD A LIVING ARACHNID!! I'll pass though.. I took a picture within petting distance . But the topping on my windy winter sundae was the tropical bright lavish butterfly room. Rich with plant and flowers this walk around area housed thousands of butterflies dancing through the humid air. They skip past you, parade around you and stroll calmly near you. Beautiful afternoon out! Bring the kids, the grandparents the families looking for something nice and peaceful to do! read more

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I remember coming here when I was little and having fun, but this is definitely still a cool place to visit as an adult. Who doesn't love wandering around a room filled with butterflies? Especially when that room is set up like a rain forest in Colorado? There's some great photo opportunities in the pavilion, and if you hang around long enough you are likely to have a butterfly land on you. There's also plenty of creepy crawly things to look at, and you can hold a tarantula if it tickles your fancy (my fancy was not tickled by such things). Admission is very reasonable - $7.95 for adults and $5.95 for kids. It's a nice thing to do on a day you don't want to break the bank. read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

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What a cluster. They really should consider limiting the amount of tickets sold each day. There were so many things my son wanted to see but we could barely even move with all the people jammed in there. Super overcrowded, not even close to enough adequate parking. Big disappointment, we left after 30 min. read more

I think our toddler liked the Butterfly Pavilion even more than the zoo - it isn't as overwhelming as all of the space and people seeing the Lions, Tigers and Bears. We spent about an hour looking at all of the insects and sea creatures and butterflies. Even though the parking lot was full and there was a wedding reception and several birthday parties going on, it was not as crowded as we expected. read more

This is a great place to take the kids. There are 3 different rooms with exhibits and also, a gift shop. There was also a food truck outside. We brought our little stroller but soon realized it's a little crowded for a stroller and the place is small enough to carry your little around if you have to. We watched a demonstration where butterflies were released, and another where you could eat bugs. Even as an adult, I learned some things here! I also sampled a meal worm (ewww!). The exhibits were all interesting and the gentleman with the fancy mustache giving the demonstrations was entertaining. The only thing that bugged me was that there were some kids acting obnoxious, hitting each other with toys in one of the rooms and the adult watching them wouldn't do anything about it even after I said something. I could not find an employee to report it to. I'm excited to go back though! It is a little pricey ($12 per adult, $8 for kids). But I felt like it was a reasonable price for somewhere you visit just a few times a year. They also have memberships available. read more

Thank you Rosie whatever number Rosie you were for making my babies tarantula holding dreams come true! She loved that hairy, crawly thing and she felt so brave after finally being able to meet her! We really loved the bug education and the walk through the flowers with all the butterflies! This place is perfect for small kids who love adventure, exploring and learning! Coming during the week is way better than the weekend due to the busyness factor! read more

First time going and it was "OK" I just recommend for parents to not trust the cubbies to leave your kids shoes for the playground area, you may think there safe but there not, people are really out there stealing kids shoes, I know there hard times but come on that's disturbing. And when I went to complain with staff they made me feel like it was not a big deal or I'm wired for even complaining. I did not expect for anything to happen other than them be more aware from people doing that and let people know that that is not acceptable. read more

I was a little concerned what the kids would think because they've been to a lot of zoos and aquariums before, but they loved it. The insect and butterfly exhibits were unique. Staff was great. read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

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The Butterfly Pavillion is one of those places that the entire family can enjoy. Insects, spiders, and other creepy, crawly critters dominate one room, sea creatures can be observed and touched in another area of the building, and butterflies flit and flutter around in a climate controlled room that feels like the tropics each day of the year. The gift shop is filled with all kinds of neat things, and is a great place to pick up a birthday or other gift, regardless of whether you pay the admission to see the sights. On a recent weekend visit, the place was busy, busy and I truly enjoyed hearing the kids share their discoveries with each other. "That's an Araneae!" "Cool, look at this starfish that's so huge!" Once inside the butterfly pavilion (a nice respite on a cold winter day), I was truly amazed by the butterflies. The color and activity was amazing. read more

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Who doesn't like beautiful butterflies? I came here for field trips since I was 8 years old! The tradition passes on to future students of Colorado, as everyone gets to come here. There are hundreds of beautiful butterflies flying in these exhibits and it's also very humid with lots of trees and rain. There are rooms where you study about different kinds of butterflies! I love seeing them fly around freely and without a worry or care. read more

A big fan of the place and have a membership. My kids love it. Do not under any circumstances pay money for the Christmas lights show. I was embarrassed to have brought friends. It's horrible. No butterflies fly, there is one glowing scorpion, and the firefly princess show is comically bad and more like a striptease. Not appropriate for children. Otherwise, love the place. They should just keep their day job and leave the Christmas lights to somebody else. read more

Perfect place to spend a few hours for little ones. I would say any and all under 10. The exhibits are well designed and maintained. I would add a little more in the form of physical play in their play room though. Not enough to get the energy out. And the butterfly habitat is a little small. But a wonderful place for 2-3ish hours, including snacks/lunch. My 4 and almost 2 y.o. loved it. SEE THEIR WEBSITE for current promotions including coupon deals. read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

Took my boyfriends mom and niece here last weekend. So fun, however, one of the exhibits was closed and we ended up roaming around outside trying to locate a "zoology" tent of some kind? There were a couple of birthday parties going on with tables outside and after taking a look around we felt like we were intruding so we gave up trying to find the zoology thing after walking around sweating in the 98 degree weather . Feel like we missed out on an exhibit for the money I paid, which is unfortunate. But they were hosting their 20th anniversary, so we got some cool stuff in the gift shop for 20% off, that was nice :) read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

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It's a really great place to relax and enjoy beautiful butterfly's. I do wish they had more seating in the butterfly area but other than that it's a amazon sight to see. My children loved holding rose the tarantula and the water area is amazing with a hands on activity area where you get to touch sea stars and another aquatic animal I'm not sure the name of. Outside they have plenty of seating to eat at so don't forget to pack a lunch for your family. Overall this is a really fun place to bring your children I do recommend bringing older children or calm children seeing there's not very much to do other than look and don't touch. I bought a membership combo pass which would be your best bet if you want a relaxing day to yourself or a fun packed day at the children's museum with the family. read more

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I'll never forget this place, it holds a special place in my heart! Such a beautiful, peaceful spot being in a room surrounded by glorious, colorful butterflies. And there's a 9-year-old tarantula (lives up to 30!) that you can actually hold and get a picture with. Got a sticker for holding little Rosie. You can also touch a starfish and a horseshoe crab. Fun! Perfect place for a date, or an offbeat family outing with the kids. It's great for all ages! read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

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There are only fond memories of this place in my head. My dad looked it up and planned for us (family of 4 adults) to visit while we were on vacation. While it is great for kids, its also great for the 'kid in you.' We all had a fantastic time...3 of us were taking pictures and it felt like we didn't have enough time to take it all in. I am jealous for those who can visit here frequently, especially in the winter. PS - as mentioned, it does get hot!! Even for those of us who are 'always' cold. :) read more

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How magical! So many beautiful butterflies and flowers. Our 9 month old loved it. They didn't land on people as much as I hoped. We did missed the 12:30 release so maybe the butterflies were more friendly then. Still beautiful! It's a bit pricey for how small it is but the butterflies were worth it ($11 for a non-Westminster resident). read more

Butterfly Pavilion - Museums Near Me - Westminster, Colorado

Great family friendly indoor and outdoor location. Young and elementary age children would love it. Of course, big kids and adults have enough to see and do too! Amazing seeing the variety of invertebrates and the various attractions, such as holding Rosie, the sea life exhibit, and walking amongst the butterflies. read more

We attended the last homeschool day here and it was amazing. We have previously attended and enjoyed it but this time was especially great! We loved all of the super cute craft ideas and most of all the experiments! Keep the experiments coming! The more hands on the better. The staff was very pleasant, very informative, and helpful. We will definitely come to the next homeschool day! Thank you!! read more

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I love this place!! The staff was so nice and helpful and the butterfly exhibit was so cool! My boyfriend and I walked around a million times just looking at the different butterflies. The staff here does a great job keeping up with the facility. They even have a student discount which is helpful! read more

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Love the Butterflies but everything else is just ok. Not really worth the price of admission. Very small place , not much of an a attraction except for the butterflies. But again not worth the admission. Would not go out of my way to see this again. Better attractions in Denver than this. read more

Great place for kids to explore & learn about bugs, ocean critters, & butterflies! Love the play area afterwards! Staff is kind & knowledgeable. read more

We went a few weekends back and just so happened to be spider day. Admission for Adults is $12 and a 2 year old was $8! We had a $1 coupon off and the cashier said yeah, okay but wasn't paying attention and he charged full price and was not worth the effort to get back in line for $3 off. Spiderman was there so we got a picture with him. There is a kiddie area that has a slide and play area. Butterflies were abundant. Good to go every once in a while but the kiddo lost interest quick. read more

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I liked this place a lot, the kids loved it but after an hour they were done. Also you are not supposed to touch the butterfly but it too tempting when they land on your arm. Good field trip place, not too good if kids have a high amount of energy because you have to be careful with the butterfly's. My kids are 6,4,2 and I also had my nieces ages 8 and 5. I think the 8yr old appreciated it the most. read more

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This spot was a cool little find. Was blown away about how it was setup and what you could do. The staff is also very knowledgeable and takes the time to answer any questions you have or teach you things about the critters. Highly recommend. read more

What an unexpected little treat! Very nicely done with lots of learning activities for kids and even a chance to hold a tarantula! Small but very cool. read more

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This place is super fun for all ages! The butterfly pavilion is definitely the main attraction they have butterflies the size of hummingbirds. Lol.... if you want more they offer garden trails outside the property super relaxing and pretty. Worth a visit for sure! read more

The kids love going here and our 7 year old is excited to be going on a field trip here this year. They like Rosie up front and of course the butterfly's. It's especially neat to be able to see the butterfly's as they emerge from their cocoon. read more

Great place with a great variety of butterflies and other insects and many not native to the state of Colorado. They have some spiders as well. You can observe them in the cab on stage and walk amongst the butterflies. Great opportunities if you're into macro or regular photography. read more

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My girlfriends and I stopped on the way back to the mountains. Mind you, we are 30 but we had such a great time. It is a little small but overall a great experience. It wont take too long either. The gift shop was insanely pricey. They do sell food, like grab and go for an ARM and a LEG. But the hot dog stand out front is so reasonable and well worth the 6 bucks for a hotdog, chips and a drink. Every one we had an interaction with was extremely friendly! read more

Loved taking my 4 & 2 year old nieces here. They enjoyed seeing all the different butterflies but I could have done without the spiders although my nieces loved them. read more

I can't recommend this place highly enough! Super friendly and knowledgable staff that promote a hands on learning experience. Beautiful selection of tarantulas, scorpions etc but the real gem is the butterfly pavilion. The vegetation was amazing, the environment was tranquil, and the selection of butterflies and animals was amazing. I would love to come back with a book when I have a few hours to find a bench and read. I especially recommend it on a cold, snowy day like when we visited as it is like stepping into a whole different world. read more