Experience the wonderful world of butterflies, insects and invertebrates in this enchanting conservatory just outside the city of Denver.
Located 17 kilometres northwest of Denver, the Butterfly Pavilion is the first independent, non-profit insect zoo in the United States and is a delightful place to visit for anyone who has an interest in butterflies, invertebrates and insects.Families, nature lovers and budding lepidopterists all flock here to learn about the life-cycle, habitat and conservation of these delicate creatures.A visit here ticks a lot of boxes as the pavilion also houses a tropical rainforest filled with exotic plants, an array of magical sea creatures, interactive and educational exhibits as well as beautiful gardens.At the Water’s Edge aquarium, stroke the horseshoe crabs, sea stars and sea cucumbers. Crawl-A-See-Em is a wonderful interactive exhibit which allows visitors a close-up look at all kinds of creepy-crawlies from scorpions to giant millipedes. If you are brave enough, pet Rosie, a Chilean rose hair tarantula.The highlight of the pavilion is definitely the 2,787-square metre Wings of the Tropics exhibit. This rainforest is home to 1,600 beautiful butterflies and over 200 global plant species. The conservatory is climate controlled to emulate the balmy conditions of their tropical natural habitats. Here, visitors have the privilege of watching the butterflies emerge from their chrysalides before being released into the rainforest. If you are really lucky, they might even land on you. As you wander around, marvel at the colour of the various breeds as they flutter and flit among the foliage.Conservation is of the utmost importance. Every week, between 600 and 1000 butterfly chrysalides are acquired from farms that operate from rainforests all over the world. Bear this in mind as you stroll around the Dee Lidvall Discovery Garden, noting the gorgeous flowers that have been specifically planted to attract and support the butterflies in their new environment.Wrap up the day with a gentle tramp around the pavilion’s nature trails before spreading a picnic rug under a shady tree and enjoying some well-earned treats.
