Denver Botanic Gardens - a garden filled with lots of purple flowers
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Denver Botanic Gardens

4.8
·17k reviews·Denver, United States

A sprawling urban oasis featuring diverse themed gardens, a tropical conservatory, and stunning seasonal light displays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Witness vibrant blooms awakening

CrowdMedium
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Denver Botanic Gardens - a garden filled with lots of purple flowers

Denver Botanic Gardens

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Witness vibrant blooms awakening

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling urban oasis featuring diverse themed gardens, a tropical conservatory, and stunning seasonal light displays.

4.8
(17k reviews)

"This place is fantastic. Highly recommend."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Frame Your Memories

Look for giant picture frames strategically placed to capture stunning landscape views. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory

Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory

Indoor Conservatory

Step into a lush, humid world with diverse tropical plants and cascading water features. A true urban oasis.

Instagram
Blossoms of Light

Blossoms of Light

Throughout the Gardens

Experience a magical winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights transforming the gardens into a festive spectacle.

TikTokInstagram
Themed Gardens

Themed Gardens

Outdoor Collections

Explore diverse landscapes from arid cacti to serene water gardens, each offering a unique horticultural experience.

Instagram+1
Monarch Butterfly Exhibition

Monarch Butterfly Exhibition

Various Locations

Discover art and nature celebrating the monarch butterfly's journey, symbolizing hope and resilience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Blooms

Wondering when to visit Denver Botanic Gardens for peak blooms? Mid-May offers a good chance for variety, but specific flowers like lily pads shine later in summer. Check their website for seasonal highlights to plan your perfect floral adventure. Reddit

Book Ahead for Special Events

Popular events like Blossoms of Light sell out fast, often months in advance! Secure your tickets online and early, especially for holiday light displays or special exhibitions. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring Mornings
Why
Witness vibrant blooms awakening
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Enjoy cooler temps & twilight magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter Evenings (Blossoms of Light)
Why
Dazzling holiday light displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you’ve been making your holiday must-do list in Denver, make sure to add Blossoms of Light at The Denver Botanic Gardens ✨ This yearly tradition has been lighting the Denver skyline for nearly four decades, and it’s always so magical at this time of year. If you’ve been to the Denver Botanic Gardens during the day, you already know how beautiful the grounds are, but nothing can prepare you for ...
@hifromdenver
52.7K likes • 964.7K views

📸 Frame Your Memories

Look for giant picture frames strategically placed to capture stunning landscape views. Perfect for photos! Reddit :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

@Denver Botanic Gardens such beautiful place🌸🌷 #thingstodo #denverbotanicgardens #denvercolorado #beautifulflowers #amillioncolors
@jess.xo.93
24K likes • 219.1K views
The Denver Botanic Gardens should be on your list to do next time you’re in Denver. 🪴 📍Located in the heart of Denver, just minutes from downtown in Cheesman Park. The 23-acre park contains a conservatory, a variety of theme gardens and a sunken amphitheater! ⛲️ One of my favorite parts of the Gardens was the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory. It showcases plant species found in each of...
followingreyna
59 likes • 1.9K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water or utilize the cafe to stay refreshed while exploring. Instagram :droplet:

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially for popular events. TikTok :admission_tickets:

☀️ The Denver Botanic Garden is a MUST for plant lovers. Such a great experience & a nice break from the hustle & bustle of the city. 🌴🌵🌲 The living collections at Denver Botanic Gardens are one of the most diverse in North America with seven major collections (alpine, amenity, aquatic, cactus and succulents, native, steppe, and tropical) identified. #denver #denverbotanicgardens #colorado #pla...
goplaceswithtatibrennan
64 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Frame Your Memories

Look for giant picture frames strategically placed to capture stunning landscape views. Perfect for photos! Reddit :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water or utilize the cafe to stay refreshed while exploring. Instagram :droplet:

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially for popular events. TikTok :admission_tickets:

🍽️ Cafe Delights

The on-site cafe offers great food, making it easy to refuel during your visit. Reddit :knifeforkplate:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(17k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Denver Botanic Gardens for its immense size and beautifully themed areas, offering a tranquil escape. The on-site cafe receives positive mentions for its quality food, and the cleanliness of facilities is appreciated. While generally well-received, some areas may be closed for private events, and not all paths are suitable for strollers.

"Cannot say enough good things about this place. I was not expecting how massive the gardens were. They were themed very nicely by demographic. I loved that they added giant picture frames around the park to capture certain landscapes because they really were amazing.
The food at the cafe was great as well.
The indoor rainforest is not huge, but there are areas you can get to up and down stairs to get every perspective which was really cool.

Overall, this place is fantastic. Highly recommend."

Nick Costa

"Beautiful! We chose great timing! The lily pads were in bloom, amazing!! The whole adventure was beautiful! Even my 8 year old grandson loved it! I have to comment on the restrooms, they were so clean! Much appreciated. The pictures did not invade anyone's space as you can see!"

Jana Husch

"Great outdoor experience and easy way to get in some steps. FYI, not all paths are for strollers, but that is not a problem. Enjoyed the indoor experiences too. We were impressed by the children's garden and the water feature."

Jayesh Jariwala

What People Like

Massive, well-themed gardens
Tranquil atmosphere
Clean facilities

What People Dislike

Occasional area closures
Some paths not stroller-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main Denver Botanic Gardens is located at 1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206, just minutes from downtown in Cheesman Park. Instagram You can reach it by car, with parking available, or via public transportation. Several bus routes stop nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Denver Botanic Gardens. It's advisable to check their website for current parking fees and availability, especially during peak times or special events. Reddit

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to the Denver Botanic Gardens. There's usually a designated drop-off/pick-up area. Instagram

Yes, besides the main York Street location, there's also Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, a larger, more natural setting located southwest of Denver. TikTokReddit

The gardens are quite extensive, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. While most paths are stroller-friendly, some areas might be more challenging. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on the season and any special events. It's best to check the official Denver Botanic Gardens website for the most up-to-date pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, as popular events sell out. TikTokReddit

For general admission, it's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance to secure your entry time and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. For special events like Blossoms of Light, advance purchase is mandatory and they sell out quickly. TikTok

Hours can vary seasonally and by location. It's crucial to check the Denver Botanic Gardens' official website for the most current operating hours for both the York Street and Chatfield Farms locations. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Check the Denver Botanic Gardens website for specific discount information and eligibility requirements. Member pre-sales are also common for special events. TikTok

Yes, a membership to the Denver Botanic Gardens offers benefits like free admission, discounts on events, and early access to ticket sales for popular attractions. TikTok

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory for a lush escape, explore the diverse themed gardens, and if visiting in winter, the magical Blossoms of Light event is a must-see. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The Children's Garden is a fantastic interactive space designed for young explorers, featuring water features and engaging activities. Reddit

The gardens boast seven major collections, including alpine, amenity, aquatic, cactus and succulents, native, steppe, and tropical plants, showcasing incredible biodiversity. Instagram

Yes, photography is encouraged! The gardens offer stunning backdrops, and many visitors find the dark water in ponds perfect for photos. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory provides an indoor rainforest experience. There are also often indoor exhibits or galleries. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers food and beverages. It's a convenient option for refueling during your visit. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the gardens, except for water bottles. It's best to check their specific policies on their website. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of light meals, snacks, and drinks. The food has been described as great by visitors. Reddit

While specific picnic areas might be limited, you can often enjoy a snack or light meal purchased from the cafe in designated seating areas throughout the gardens. Reddit

The Denver Botanic Gardens offers spaces for private events and parties. You can inquire about their event services through their website. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for the strategically placed giant picture frames that highlight beautiful landscapes. The dark water in the ponds also creates perfect reflections for photos. Reddit

While personal photography is welcome, professional photography sessions may require permits. It's advisable to check the Denver Botanic Gardens' photography policy on their website. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Instagram

Drone usage is typically prohibited in botanical gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the environment. Always check the specific rules. Reddit

Keep an eye on the Denver Botanic Gardens' events calendar. They occasionally host photography workshops or special events that might be of interest to photographers. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The Children's Garden is a highlight, offering interactive water features, play structures, and engaging activities designed to spark young imaginations. Reddit It's a place where kids can learn about nature through hands-on exploration. Reddit

Beyond the dedicated children's area, the sheer variety of themed gardens provides endless discovery. From colorful flower displays to interesting plant shapes, there's always something new to point out. Consider visiting during events like Glow Before Dark for a family-friendly Halloween experience with pumpkin displays. Instagram Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover!

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For those who love to capture beauty, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a paradise. The themed gardens offer diverse backdrops, from arid desert landscapes to lush tropical environments. Instagram+1 Don't miss the unique picture frames scattered throughout the grounds, perfect for framing stunning shots. Reddit The dark water features create beautiful reflections, ideal for capturing the essence of the gardens. Reddit

Visiting during the golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) will provide the best natural light for your photos. Instagram Be aware of potential closures for private events, which might affect access to certain areas on specific days. Reddit Always check the gardens' photography policy if you plan on professional shoots.

🌸 Plant Lovers & Gardeners

With seven major living collections, including alpine, aquatic, cactus and succulents, native, steppe, and tropical plants, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a dream for plant enthusiasts. Instagram You can explore diverse ecosystems and learn about a vast array of species. Instagram The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory is a must-visit for its exotic flora. Instagram

Consider visiting in spring or summer for the most vibrant blooms. Reddit The gardens also host exhibitions like 'Mariposas Sin Fronteras,' celebrating the monarch butterfly, which appeals to those interested in conservation and natural symbolism. Instagram It's an excellent place to gather inspiration for your own garden or simply to appreciate the artistry of horticulture.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Themed Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is renowned for its diverse collection of themed gardens, offering a journey through various horticultural styles and plant types. From the arid beauty of the Cactus and Succulent Garden to the serene waterscapes of the Aquatic Garden, each area provides a unique visual and sensory experience. Visitors often rave about the Native Garden, showcasing plants indigenous to Colorado, and the Steppe Garden, which highlights plants adapted to dry, grassy environments. Instagram+1

Don't miss the Alpine Garden, which recreates high-altitude conditions, or the vibrant Tropical Conservatory, a humid haven filled with exotic flora. Instagram The Amenity Garden offers a more traditional, manicured landscape, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The sheer variety ensures there's something to captivate every visitor, whether you're a seasoned botanist or a casual admirer of nature's beauty. Reddit

These themed areas are not just visually stunning but also educational, providing insights into plant adaptation, conservation, and the importance of biodiversity. The gardens are meticulously maintained, ensuring that each visit offers a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for the plant kingdom. TikTok

Blossoms of Light: A Winter Spectacle

During the holiday season, the Denver Botanic Gardens transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland with its annual Blossoms of Light event. This popular attraction features millions of sparkling lights choreographed to festive music, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the grounds. TikTokInstagram

This event is a major draw and consistently sells out, so booking tickets well in advance is absolutely essential. TikTok Visitors often describe the experience as enchanting and a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit. The pathways are illuminated, and familiar garden features are reimagined with dazzling light displays, making it a unique and memorable experience for all ages. Instagram

Plan your visit for the evening to fully immerse yourself in the glowing spectacle. It's a fantastic opportunity to see the gardens in a completely different light, quite literally, and enjoy a truly festive Colorado tradition. TikTok

Photography Opportunities

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a photographer's dream, offering a multitude of picturesque scenes. Many visitors are impressed by the giant picture frames strategically placed throughout the gardens, which help frame specific landscapes and create stunning photographic compositions. Reddit The dark, still waters of the ponds also provide perfect reflections, enhancing the visual appeal of the plants and structures. Reddit

Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, you'll find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the diverse flora and meticulously designed landscapes. TikTokReddit Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic and flattering light. Early mornings also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots. Instagram

Remember to check the gardens' photography policy, especially if you plan on conducting professional shoots, as permits may be required. However, for personal memories and social media sharing, the gardens offer an abundance of visually captivating subjects. Reddit

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