Denver City Park is a historic and expansive green space located in the heart of Denver, Colorado. As one of the largest and oldest parks in the city, it offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions. The park is a central hub for community gatherings, outdoor activities, and hosts landmarks such as the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

History

Denver City Park was designed in the late 19th century as part of the City Beautiful movement, which aimed to introduce beautification and monumental grandeur in cities. The park’s development began in the 1880s and continued to expand and evolve over time. It was created to provide a grand public space that would offer citizens a scenic retreat from urban life, following the tradition of great European parks.

Facts

• Denver City Park covers over 330 acres of land.
• The park features several lakes, including Ferril Lake and Duck Lake.
• It is home to the Martin Luther King Memorial.
• The park includes historical monuments and statues, including a statue of Robert Burns.
• Denver City Park is the site of the City Park Golf Course, a classic urban golf course with city and mountain views.
• The park has been designated as an official Denver Landmark.

Location

Denver City Park is located east of downtown Denver, bordered by York Street to the west, Colorado Boulevard to the east, 23rd Avenue to the north, and 17th Avenue to the south.

Website

While Denver City Park does not have a standalone website, information can be found on the Denver Parks and Recreation official website at www.denvergov.org.

Opening Hours

The park is open every day from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Individual attractions within the park, such as the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, have their own operating hours and admission fees.

Things to Do

• Denver Zoo: Explore one of the most popular zoos in the United States, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Enjoy exhibits on topics ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration.
• Jogging and Biking: Utilize the many trails for running, walking, or cycling.
• Boating: Rent a pedal boat on Ferril Lake during the warmer months.
• Picnicking: Find numerous picnic spots throughout the park for a relaxing meal outdoors.
• Playgrounds: Several playgrounds cater to children of different ages.
• Tennis and Golf: Use the public tennis courts and the 18-hole City Park Golf Course.
• Summer Concerts: Attend free Jazz in the Park concerts on select Sunday evenings in the summer.
• Gardens: Visit the City Park Greenhouse and the beautiful flower gardens that bloom in spring and summer.

Tips For Visiting

• Parking: There is ample free parking within the park, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and during events.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you’re visiting in the summer months.
• Stay Hydrated: Water fountains are available, but it’s a good idea to bring your own water bottle.
• Respect Wildlife: Do not feed the ducks or other wildlife in the park.
• Check the Calendar: Look at the Denver Parks and Recreation calendar for special events and closures.
• Explore Everything: Plan enough time to explore the park’s multiple attractions, as there is a lot to see and do.

Conclusion

Denver City Park is a cornerstone of the city’s park system, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and cultural institutions. Its historic significance and variety of attractions make it a must-visit location for residents and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, an educational visit to a museum, a fun family day out, or a place to exercise, Denver City Park provides a perfect setting amidst the urban landscape of Denver.