Butterfly Pavilion - black and white butterfly on green leaf
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Butterfly Pavilion

4.7
·4k reviews·Westminster, United States

Wander through a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of vibrant butterflies and fascinating invertebrates. A magical escape for all ages!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity

CrowdLow
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Butterfly Pavilion - black and white butterfly on green leaf

Butterfly Pavilion

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wander through a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of vibrant butterflies and fascinating invertebrates. A magical escape for all ages!

4.7
(4k reviews)

"A dream to walk among the butterflies, a truly magical and educational experience for everyone!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🦋 Butterfly Attraction Trick

Buy fake flowers with sugar water to attract butterflies.

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

The outdoor garden is perfect for stunning photos.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Butterfly Conservatory

The Butterfly Conservatory

Indoor exhibit

Wander through a lush environment with hundreds of butterflies fluttering around you. A truly magical experience!

Tarantula Encounters

Tarantula Encounters

Invertebrate exhibits

Get up close with Rosie the Tarantula and other fascinating arachnids. A thrilling experience for the brave!

Outdoor Garden

Outdoor Garden

Exterior grounds

A beautiful, well-maintained garden area perfect for photos and a peaceful stroll. Great for picnics too!

Aquatic Life

Aquatic Life

Various exhibits

Discover a variety of aquatic creatures, from colorful fish to marine invertebrates.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and afternoons can get busy, so book tickets in advance if possible. Check for special events or seasonal exhibits that might affect crowd levels.

Beyond the Butterflies

While butterflies are the main draw, don't miss other invertebrates like tarantulas and aquatic creatures. Consider holding a tarantula for a unique photo op! Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more butterfly activity
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (weekdays)
Why
Butterflies are still active
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be busy, book ahead
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

a dream to walk among the butterflies 🦋✨️ #SOARtropicalbutterflies #butterflypavilion #butterflyexhibit #scbgarden #butterflies #tropicalbutterflies #botanicgarden #japanesegarden
@itsnatalie10
162K likes • 1.1M views

🦋 Butterfly Attraction Trick

Buy fake flowers with sugar water to attract butterflies. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

The outdoor garden is perfect for stunning photos. TikTokInstagram

How butterflies get into the NHMLA Butterfly Pavillion. #microlearning #nhmla #butterflies
@noelstnick
141K likes • 678.6K views
We love visiting the Butterfly Pavilion!!! 🦋 Did you know that there are more than just butterflies here?! 🕷🐝🐠🦀? Butterfly Pavilion Hours: Open everyday from 9:00 am – 5:00pm entry closes at 4:15pm Do you have a favorite exhibit or area? @butterflypavilion #butterflypaviliondenver #butterflypavilion #iheldrosie #tarantula #thingstodoindenver #denverfamily #denverfamilyfun #westminstercolorado...
days.in.denver
56 likes • 2.9K views

🤝 Friendly Staff

Docents are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to answer questions. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Especially for LA's Natural History Museum location, reservations are often required. TikTok

Flutter into fun - at the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, CO! 🦋 Rachel stopped by the gift shop and discovered a world of wonder! Come see what the buzz is all about and check out MicroPuzzles while you're there! 🧩✨ Butterfly Pavilion . . . . #micropuzzle #micropuzzles #colorado #jigsawpuzzle #jigsawpuzzles #butterfly #butterflies #ButterflyPavilion #invertebratezoo #CultureForAll
micropuzzles
42 likes • 963 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦋 Butterfly Attraction Trick

Buy fake flowers with sugar water to attract butterflies. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

The outdoor garden is perfect for stunning photos. TikTokInstagram

🤝 Friendly Staff

Docents are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to answer questions. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Especially for LA's Natural History Museum location, reservations are often required. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Butterfly Pavilion for its enchanting atmosphere and the magical experience of being surrounded by hundreds of butterflies. The opportunity to hold a tarantula and the well-maintained outdoor gardens are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. While some find it a bit small or pricey, most agree it's a worthwhile and memorable visit, especially for families.

"This was always a fun place to visit as a kid, but as a parent now I love it even more. There are so many things to see and learn and the docents were very friendly. The play area for kids was a nice surprise too! We’ll be back for sure."

Kara W

"We were planning to do some hiking in a canyon on our last afternoon in Colorado, but the day was so hot and the sun was so bright so we looked for something to do inside and found this place. We were very glad we did! We enjoyed all the butterflies, and the children especially enjoyed the VR headset experience. The huge play area for young children was a huge hit as well. A little expensive, but we really enjoyed it. Would definitely recommend if you’re looking for something to do inside or to break the pace from exploring Colorado’s beautiful scenery."

Kevin Horst

"Pretty small, but not too expensive! There’s lots of opportunities to learn, and would be perfect for younger kids! The outdoor butterfly area is beautiful, and full of great photo moments. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It has the cutest little souvenir shop to finish your visit with. I’d recommend for a short activity for anyone, especially families with young kids :)"

Kora Barnett

What People Like

Magical butterfly encounters
Tarantula holding experience
Beautiful outdoor gardens

What People Dislike

Can be small
Slightly expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main Butterfly Pavilion is located in Westminster, Colorado, near Denver. Instagram For specific locations like the one at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, check their website. TikTok

Directions vary by location. For the Westminster, CO location, it's easily accessible by car. Instagram If visiting the LA Natural History Museum's exhibit, public transport or ride-sharing are good options. TikTok

Yes, ample parking is generally available at the Westminster location. Instagram Parking at museum locations will follow the museum's policies.

Yes, depending on the location. The LA Natural History Museum exhibit is accessible via public transport. TikTok For Westminster, CO, ride-sharing services are an option.

Hours can vary by season and location. The Westminster, CO location is typically open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with entry closing at 4:15 pm. Instagram Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary by location. The LA Natural History Museum exhibit is around $10, with members free but still requiring a reservation. TikTok Check the official website for the most current pricing for any location.

It's highly recommended, especially for the LA Natural History Museum exhibit which requires reservations. TikTok Booking online can also save you time and guarantee entry.

Keep an eye on their website or local deal sites for potential discounts. Membership often provides free or discounted entry. TikTok

Admission typically grants access to the main butterfly conservatory, invertebrate exhibits, and sometimes outdoor garden areas. Instagram+1

Yes, memberships are often available and can offer benefits like free admission and discounts. TikTok

🎫 🦋 Onsite Experience

You'll see thousands of butterflies, tarantulas, spiders, fish, and other fascinating invertebrates. Instagram+1 Some locations also feature aquatic exhibits. Instagram

Yes, it's a common and magical experience! Butterflies may land on you, especially if you stand still. TikTok

Absolutely! Kids love the interactive exhibits, the chance to see so many butterflies, and holding tarantulas. InstagramReddit

Rosie is a well-known and friendly tarantula that visitors can often hold. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Butterfly Pavilion is an invertebrate zoo, so expect to see spiders, insects, and aquatic life. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

The indoor conservatory with lush plants and the outdoor garden offer beautiful backdrops. TikTokInstagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of flash photography, which can disturb the butterflies. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos of the tarantulas, but always follow staff instructions for safe viewing. TikTok

Mornings often offer softer light and more active butterflies. TikTok

Avoid using flash photography inside the conservatory to protect the butterflies' delicate eyesight. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Butterfly Pavilion is a fantastic destination for families. Children are captivated by the sheer number of butterflies and the opportunity for them to land on them. TikTok The interactive exhibits, like holding a tarantula, are a huge hit. Instagram Many locations also feature play areas for younger children, making it a well-rounded outing. Reddit

Consider purchasing sugar water-dipped flowers to attract butterflies for even more magical interactions. Reddit The outdoor garden is also a great spot for kids to explore and burn off energy. It's an educational and fun experience that will leave kids buzzing with excitement.

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission prices can vary, the Butterfly Pavilion often offers good value, especially considering the unique experience. TikTok Look for online discounts or consider membership if you plan to visit multiple times. TikTok The LA Natural History Museum exhibit is particularly affordable at around $10. TikTok

Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs inside. The outdoor garden areas are often free to explore and provide beautiful photo opportunities without an additional charge. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Butterfly Pavilion is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots. The vibrant colors of the butterflies against the lush greenery create a picturesque setting. TikTokInstagram The outdoor garden is particularly photogenic, with well-maintained flowers and pathways. Reddit

Be mindful of lighting conditions; mornings often provide softer, more flattering light. TikTok While flash is generally discouraged to protect the butterflies, experiment with natural light and macro lenses to capture the intricate details of the insects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Butterflies

The star attraction at any Butterfly Pavilion is, of course, the butterflies themselves. These exhibits are designed to mimic tropical environments, complete with lush vegetation and controlled humidity, creating a haven for hundreds of species. Visitors can witness the entire life cycle, from chrysalis to emergence, and marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of these delicate creatures. It's a truly immersive experience, with butterflies often landing on visitors, creating unforgettable moments. TikTok+1

Some species, like the Atlas Moth, have incredibly short lifespans, living only a week or two after emerging from their cocoons. TikTok This emphasizes the ephemeral beauty of these insects and the importance of conservation efforts. The educational aspect is significant, with staff and signage providing insights into butterfly behavior, migration, and their role in the ecosystem. Reddit

Beyond Butterflies: A World of Invertebrates

While butterflies steal the show, the Butterfly Pavilion is a comprehensive invertebrate zoo, showcasing a diverse array of fascinating creatures. You can encounter spiders, including the famous Rosie the Tarantula, which visitors often have the opportunity to hold. TikTokInstagram This hands-on experience is a highlight for many, offering a unique perspective on these often-misunderstood animals.

Beyond arachnids, the pavilion often features exhibits on other invertebrates like ants, beetles, and even aquatic life. Instagram+2 These displays provide a broader understanding of the insect world and its importance. The attention to detail in creating habitats for each species ensures a realistic and educational viewing experience, making it more than just a butterfly house. Reddit

Conservation and Education

The Butterfly Pavilion is not just an attraction; it's a center for conservation and education. Many of these facilities are dedicated to breeding programs and research, helping to protect endangered butterfly populations and their habitats. TikTok Visitors learn about the challenges these insects face in the wild, such as habitat loss and climate change, and how they can contribute to conservation efforts.

Educational programs and interactive exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Reddit From understanding the life cycle of a butterfly to learning about the ecological roles of various invertebrates, the pavilion offers valuable learning opportunities that extend beyond the visit. TikTok

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