I always make it a point to explore a city’s green spaces, as they provide a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Denver, a city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, is a shining example of how urban life can coexist with nature. With its abundance of parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, the city offers a perfect balance of vibrant city living and tranquil, nature-filled escapes.
During my recent trip to Denver, I had the pleasure of visiting some of its most celebrated parks and gardens. From tranquil gardens to bustling public parks, I immersed myself in the city’s green spaces, each offering something unique in terms of entertainment, relaxation, and natural beauty. I’ll share my personal experience with three of the best parks and gardens in Denver, complete with activities, tips, and my honest feedback. So, let’s embark on a journey through Denver’s Urban Oasis.
City Park: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Entertainment
Location: 2001 N Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
How to Get There:
• From Denver International Airport: A quick 30-minute drive or a light rail ride (A Line) to Denver Union Station, then transfer to the Route 43 Bus.
• From Denver Union Station: Take the Route 43 Bus directly to the park (approximately 25 minutes).
Ticket Price: Free entry for the park, but additional fees may apply for specific attractions such as the Denver Zoo or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science located within the park.
Opening Hours: 5 AM – 11 PM (Park), specific hours for attractions vary.
City Park is undoubtedly one of Denver’s crown jewels. Spanning 330 acres, this sprawling green space is an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. As soon as I entered the park, I was greeted by the vast, manicured lawns and towering trees, with the shimmering backdrop of downtown Denver’s skyline.
My Experience at City Park:
The first thing that stood out to me was how well the park manages to balance urban energy with peaceful, nature-filled spaces. The large, central lake, known as Ferril Lake, was a highlight of my visit. I watched people paddle boating, some leisurely cruising across the water, while others enjoyed a serene walk around the perimeter of the lake. The air was crisp and fresh, and the view of the park’s green expanse, coupled with the mountain range in the distance, felt almost surreal.
But City Park isn’t just about quiet walks and lake views. The park also offers plenty of fun activities for all ages.
Recommended Activities:
Paddle Boating on Ferril Lake: Renting a paddleboat was an unforgettable experience. For just $15 per hour, I rented a boat with my partner, and we leisurely paddled around the lake. It was peaceful, scenic, and provided a unique perspective of the park. The price was reasonable, and the activity was a fun way to enjoy the lake while getting some light exercise.
Visit the Denver Zoo: The Denver Zoo, located within City Park, is a fantastic destination for animal lovers. I had the opportunity to explore the zoo, which features a wide range of animals from around the world. The exhibits were thoughtfully designed, and I enjoyed getting up close to the animals. The cost of admission is $20 for adults, which I found to be a fair price for the experience. The zoo also offers a range of educational programs, making it an excellent activity for families.
Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Located on the eastern edge of City Park, this museum was a highlight of my visit. The museum offers a fascinating range of exhibits, from dinosaur skeletons to space exploration. I spent several hours here, enjoying interactive exhibits and learning about the natural world. The museum charges $19.95 for adults, and I highly recommend it for anyone visiting the park.
Service and Experience:
City Park’s amenities are well-maintained, with plenty of benches, picnic tables, and restrooms available. The park has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, and it was clear that people of all ages enjoy spending time here. The staff at the zoo and museum were friendly and knowledgeable, offering great insight into the exhibits.
Pros:
• Expansive green space perfect for a wide range of activities.
• Easily accessible by public transport or car.
• Variety of attractions, including a zoo, museum, and lake activities.
Cons:
• Can get crowded, especially on weekends and during the summer months.
• Limited parking near popular attractions like the zoo and museum.
Denver Botanic Gardens: A Hidden Gem of Serenity and Beauty
Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
How to Get There:
• From Denver International Airport: A 30-minute drive or an A Line light rail to Union Station, followed by a 10-minute bus ride on the Route 10 to the gardens.
• From Denver Union Station: Take Route 10 Bus for approximately 10 minutes or use a 20-minute walk.
Ticket Price: $15 for adults, discounts available for students, seniors, and children.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Seasonal hours for specific gardens may vary).
Website for Reservations: Denver Botanic Gardens
A short ride from downtown Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens is an absolute must-see for anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. I was fortunate enough to visit on a sunny afternoon, and the gardens were absolutely breathtaking.
My Experience at Denver Botanic Gardens:
As I wandered through the gardens, I was immediately captivated by the lush landscapes and variety of plants. The gardens are beautifully organized into different themed sections, including the Japanese Garden, the Water Garden, and the Tropical Conservatory. The sense of tranquility here was palpable—everything from the sound of the water trickling through fountains to the gentle rustling of leaves created a soothing atmosphere.
The gardens are also a fantastic place for plant lovers. I found myself fascinated by the wide range of plants on display, from exotic flowers to desert cacti. There was something calming about being surrounded by such diversity in nature.
Recommended Activities:
Explore the Japanese Garden: One of the highlights of my visit was the serene Japanese Garden. The carefully manicured bonsai trees, tranquil koi ponds, and bamboo groves created an atmosphere of calm and introspection. I spent at least an hour here, walking slowly along the stone paths and enjoying the peaceful environment.
Tropical Conservatory: The conservatory was like stepping into a different world. Filled with lush greenery, towering palm trees, and vibrant flowers, the tropical climate created a stark contrast to the dry, sunny Denver weather outside. For just $15, this immersive experience was a wonderful way to temporarily escape into a tropical oasis.
Attend a Seasonal Event: The gardens host seasonal events such as the Chihuly in the Gardens exhibit, featuring stunning glass art installations by artist Dale Chihuly. These events are included in the entry price and offer a unique twist on the traditional garden visit.
Service and Experience:
The Denver Botanic Gardens were impeccably maintained, and the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. The visitor center offered useful information, and there were several cafes and gift shops where I could purchase refreshments or unique plant-related souvenirs.
Pros:
• Stunning, well-maintained gardens with a variety of plant species.
• Tranquil and peaceful, providing an ideal environment for relaxation.
• Offers seasonal events that add an extra layer of excitement.
Cons:
• Can get busy, especially during peak seasons.
• The entrance fee may seem a bit high for some visitors, though the experience justifies it.
Washington Park: A Local Favorite for Recreation and Relaxation
Location: 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209
How to Get There:
• From Denver International Airport: A 30-minute drive or take the A Line light rail to Union Station, followed by a 10-minute bus ride or a 25-minute walk.
• From Denver Union Station: You can take Route 3 or Route 6 Bus, which stops directly at Washington Park.
Ticket Price: Free entry.
Opening Hours: 5 AM – 11 PM daily.
Washington Park, or Wash Park as it is affectionately known by locals, is a beloved spot in Denver, offering an ideal blend of outdoor activities, relaxation, and scenic beauty. I visited on a sunny morning, and the park was bustling with joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, and families enjoying the lush, green space.
My Experience at Washington Park:
What I loved most about Washington Park was the sense of community it exuded. As I walked around, I noticed how well-integrated the park was into the surrounding neighborhood. Locals were out in full force—jogging along the park’s many trails, playing soccer, or simply lounging in the sun. The large, serene Smith Lake in the center of the park was particularly beautiful, with people rowing boats and watching the ducks paddle along the water.
The park offers plenty of space for picnics, barbecues, and social gatherings, making it a perfect spot for a casual day out.
Recommended Activities:
Cycling or Jogging Around the Lake: Washington Park features a 2.6-mile loop around Smith Lake, which is perfect for cycling, jogging, or leisurely walks. I rented a bike from one of the local shops near the park and spent a couple of hours cycling along the scenic path, surrounded by lush greenery and city views.
Rowing on Smith Lake: For just $10 per hour, I rented a rowboat at the lake. Rowing on the calm waters was a peaceful and invigorating experience, and it offered me a chance to see the park from a different perspective. The boat rentals are reasonably priced and provide a relaxing way to enjoy the park.
Tennis or Volleyball: Washington Park has well-maintained tennis courts and volleyball courts that are free to use on a first-come, first-served basis. While I didn’t get a chance to play, I observed others enjoying friendly matches, and it added to the lively, active atmosphere of the park.
Service and Experience:
Washington Park’s amenities are excellent, with clean restrooms, plenty of picnic tables, and sports equipment rentals available nearby. The park was well-kept, and the locals seemed to take great pride in their public space.
Pros:
• Vibrant, lively park with plenty of activities.
• Great for outdoor fitness and recreation.
• Beautiful views of the lake and surrounding areas.
Cons:
• Can get crowded, especially on weekends and during the summer.
• Limited parking spaces, especially during peak hours.
Denver is a city that celebrates nature, and its parks and gardens provide some of the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to escape into a peaceful botanical garden, engage in outdoor activities, or simply enjoy the beauty of the city’s green spaces, Denver’s urban oasis has something for everyone. My visits to City Park, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and Washington Park gave me a deep appreciation for how nature and urban living can seamlessly blend together. I highly recommend exploring these spaces during your visit to Denver—there’s no better way to experience the city’s true spirit!