Westminster Colorado Guide | Butterfly Pavilion, Lakes & Things to Do

Your Guide to Westminster

Lakes, trails, and family attractions

Westminster sits in the sweet spot between Denver and Boulder, with easy access to both cities via US-36. The city has developed into a destination in its own right, with the Butterfly Pavilion drawing visitors from across the region.

Standley Lake offers swimming, fishing, and paddling with mountain views. The Orchard Town Center provides shopping and dining in a walkable setting. Westminster's trail system connects neighborhoods and parks.

The city spans from the plains to the foothills, with Standley Lake Regional Park on the west side offering some of the best urban outdoor recreation in the metro area.

Explore Westminster

Nature, science, and recreation

BUG

Butterfly Pavilion

Tropical butterfly conservatory with over 1,600 butterflies. Touch tanks, invertebrate exhibits, and outdoor gardens.

LAKE

Standley Lake

1,000-acre reservoir with swimming beach, fishing, and paddling. Trails circle the lake with mountain views.

SHOP

The Orchard

Open-air shopping center with restaurants, stores, and entertainment. Westminster's dining and shopping hub.

TRAIL

Big Dry Creek Trail

12-mile paved trail connecting Westminster to neighboring cities. Part of the regional trail network.

GOLF

Legacy Ridge

Championship municipal golf course with mountain views. Consistently rated among Colorado's best public courses.

REC

City Park Recreation

Pool, fitness center, and sports facilities. Indoor and outdoor recreation for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Westminster visit

How far is Westminster from Denver?

About 10 miles north of downtown Denver via I-25 or US-36. Boulder is about 15 miles northwest on US-36.

Is the Butterfly Pavilion worth visiting?

Yes, especially for families. Walking through the tropical conservatory with thousands of butterflies is a unique experience. Plan for 1-2 hours.

Can I swim at Standley Lake?

Yes. The lake has a designated swimming beach open in summer. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing are also popular.

Is Westminster a good base for visiting Denver and Boulder?

It can work well. You're between both cities with highway access to each. US-36 express lanes make Boulder commutes predictable.

Westminster, Colorado