Explore the Best Things to Do in Westminster, Colorado
Westminster is a vibrant city located in Adams and Jefferson counties in Colorado. It is a suburban community between Denver and Boulder and is known for its picturesque natural surroundings, diverse population, and quality of life. The city has a population of over 115,000 residents and is home to various businesses, parks, and cultural attractions.
Westminster is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 60 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The city is also home to several parks, including the famous Standley Lake Regional Park, which offers visitors the chance to fish, camp, and enjoy a variety of water sports. Westminster is also home to the Butterfly Pavilion, which features a tropical rainforest environment and a diverse collection of butterflies and other insects.
Westminster also has a rich history celebrated through its many landmarks and cultural attractions. The city is home to the historic Westminster Castle, a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. The Westminster Historical Society Museum also provides a glimpse into the city’s past, with exhibits and artifacts that highlight the area’s mining and agricultural heritage. Overall, Westminster is a dynamic and thriving city that offers visitors and residents a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and rich history.
Butterfly Pavilion
The Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, Colorado, is a unique and exciting zoo that offers visitors the chance to see a wide variety of insects, arthropods, and other small creatures up close. One of the main attractions of the Butterfly Pavilion is, of course, the butterflies themselves. Visitors can walk through a tropical rainforest exhibit filled with free-flying butterflies from around the world and even have the chance to feed them. The Pavilion also features several other exhibits, including an insect zoo, a honeybee exhibit, and a water feature with aquatic creatures like fish and turtles.
In addition to its exhibits, the Butterfly Pavilion also offers a range of educational programs and classes. These include butterfly releases, behind-the-scenes tours, and special events for children and families. In addition, the Pavilion is committed to conservation efforts and offers educational programs on pollinators, habitat conservation, and sustainable living.
The Pavilion also hosts some research projects, including studies on the behavior and ecology of butterflies and other invertebrates. Overall, the Butterfly Pavilion is a unique and fascinating zoo that offers visitors a chance to learn about and interact with various small creatures.
North Standley Lake Open Space Park
North Standley Lake Open Space Park in Westminster, Colorado, is a beautiful park that offers visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of Colorado’s Front Range. The park is home to several different habitats, including wetlands, forests, and prairies, and is an excellent place for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. The park is also located on the shore of Standley Lake, a large reservoir that provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
One of the main attractions of North Standley Lake Open Space Park is its extensive trail system. The park features over 8 miles of trails that wind through various habitats and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. So whether you’re looking for a stroll or a more challenging hike, the trails at North Standley Lake Open Space Park offer something for everyone.
In addition to its trails and water-based activities, North Standley Lake Open Space Park also features many amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor center with exhibits and information about the park’s history and ecology. The park is open year-round, and each season offers unique beauty and exploration opportunities.
Ice Centre At the Promenade
The Ice Centre at the Promenade is a premier ice skating rink in Westminster, Colorado. The facility allows visitors to skate on two NHL-sized ice rinks that are open year-round. The rinks are suitable for skaters of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes, and the Ice Centre offers a variety of programs for both recreational and competitive skaters. Additionally, the Ice Centre is home to various figure skating and hockey clubs, making it a hub for the local skating community.
One of the unique features of the Ice Centre at the Promenade is its dedication to sustainability. The facility utilizes a state-of-the-art ice plant system designed to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the Ice Centre uses a variety of sustainable practices, such as composting and recycling, to reduce its environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability makes the Ice Centre a responsible and eco-friendly destination for skaters.
The Ice Centre at the Promenade also features a variety of amenities and services for visitors. The facility includes a pro shop where skaters can purchase equipment and accessories, as well as a concession stand that offers a variety of food and drinks. The Ice Center also offers skating lessons, public skating sessions, and private ice rentals for events and parties.
Westminster Castle
Westminster Castle, also known as Westminster University, is a historical landmark in Westminster, Colorado. Built in the late 19th century, the castle features unique architecture that blends elements of both Gothic and Romanesque styles. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Westminster, providing a stunning backdrop for photos and a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Originally built as a university, Westminster Castle was part of an ambitious plan to establish a Christian academic institution in the area. However, the university was forced to close due to financial difficulties, and the castle was repurposed as a Masonic lodge. Today, the castle serves as a private residence, but visitors can still enjoy its striking exterior and the beautiful views from its location atop the hill.
In addition to its unique architecture and historical significance, Westminster Castle also features a fascinating past. Legend has it that the castle is haunted by the ghost of a young woman who fell to her death from the tower. Visitors can learn about this and other exciting stories about the castle by taking a guided tour or exploring the grounds independently.
Ketner Open Space
Ketner Open Space is a picturesque park in Westminster, Colorado, that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park boasts over 70 acres of natural beauty, including trails that meander through open meadows and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, or a stroll in the serene environment. The park is also home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and other small animals.
One of the main attractions of Ketner Open Space is its extensive trail system. The park features over 3 miles of hiking and equestrian trails that wind through the area’s natural beauty. The trails are suitable for all skill levels and offer an excellent opportunity to experience the park’s unique ecosystems. Additionally, the park is adjacent to the Big Dry Creek Trail, which connects to a more extensive network of trails throughout the Denver metropolitan area.
Ketner Open Space also features a variety of amenities for visitors. The park includes a picnic area with tables and grills, restrooms, and drinking fountains. The park is open year-round, and each season offers unique beauty and exploration opportunities.