Butterfly Pavilion

Butterfly Pavilion offers an enchanting hands-on experience where kids can walk among thousands of free-flying butterflies in a tropical conservatory, get up close with tarantulas (including the famous Rosie the Tarantula!), and explore interactive marine touch tanks. This isn't your typical zoo,it's an invertebrate wonderland where children can actually touch and interact with fascinating creatures under expert guidance.

• ✓Walking through the tropical conservatory with 1,600+ free-flying butterflies from around the world
• ✓Holding Rosie the Tarantula during scheduled encounter sessions
• ✓Interactive marine touch tanks where kids can feel sea stars, sea urchins, and sea anemones
• ✓Bug Zoo featuring exotic insects like walking sticks and giant cockroaches
• ✓Crawl-A-See-Um play area designed for toddlers and preschoolers

1. 1.Wear bright colors to attract butterflies,they're more likely to land on you! Avoid wearing butterfly patterns though, as staff recommend solid bright colors work best.
2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings right when they open at 9 AM for the most peaceful butterfly experience and best photo opportunities without crowds.
3. 3.Don't miss Rosie the Tarantula encounter,check the daily schedule upon arrival as encounter times vary and this is often the highlight for brave kids.
4. 4.Bring a light jacket even in summer,the butterfly conservatory is kept warm and humid (around 80°F), but other exhibits are climate-controlled.
5. 5.Allow time for the Water's Edge exhibit with touch tanks,kids can spend 30+ minutes here touching sea stars and anemones.

Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the smallest crowds and most active butterflies. Butterflies are most active earlier in the day, and you'll have better opportunities for interactions before school groups arrive mid-morning.

Admission prices vary by age with discounts for children; check their website for current rates and combination ticket deals. Free parking is available on-site, and while there's no full restaurant, they have a small café with snacks,consider eating before or after your visit.

Open year-round with consistent hours (9 AM - 5 PM daily), making it perfect for cold Colorado winters when indoor activities are needed. They host special seasonal events including Butterflies & Brews for adults and holiday-themed educational programs.

Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread are less than 5 minutes away on Wadsworth Boulevard, offering quick kid-friendly options before or after your visit.