Honest Denver Botanic Gardens Review (from a local!)
Whether you’re a Denver local or visiting from out-of-state, the Denver Botanic Gardens really captures the Colorado spirit, from the diverse plant life to the unique garden landscapes that sprinkle the property, there’s a reason this destination is a hotspot for many travelers and locals alike!
To be honest, this was almost an attraction that I skipped because I felt that I had already “been there and done that” when it came to botanical gardens, but let me tell you, the Denver Botanic Gardens is well worth the visit!
So if you’re visiting Denver and wondering if you should make a trip to the Gardens, this honest Denver Botanic Gardens review is for you!
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Table of Contents
Where are the Denver Botanic Gardens Located?
The Denver Botanic Gardens are located at 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206. It’s actually conveniently located super close to both Cheeseman Park and Congress Park — both great parks to explore after you’re done exploring the Botanic Gardens!
Insider tip! If planning to spend more time in Denver, be sure to check out the Denver City Pass to save up to 43%!
Things to Know Before You Go to the Denver Botanic Gardens
Before you head out, here are a few practical things you should know about your visit!
- Plan to spend at least 2 hours at the Denver Botanic Gardens. With so many exhibits and nature to take in, you can easily spend over 3 hours here!
- Admission rates: $15.75 Adults, $12 Seniors (65+) & Military & Veterans (w/ID), $11.50 Children (3-15) & Students (w/ID), Children 2 & Under Free.
- They do offer “Free Days“, but be sure to check their website to plan your trip accordingly!
- The gardens are open every day of the week from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Limited free parking is available in the parking complex. If you can’t find parking there, street parking is also available in Cheesman Park — that’s where we ended up parking during our visit on a Sunday afternoon!
- No admission is required for the first floor of the Freyer–Newman Center.
Book your Denver Botanic Gardens Tickets here!
Denver Botanic Gardens History
Established in 1951, the Denver Botanic Gardens has become a beloved Denver institution, thanks to the passion of its founders and the dedication of its staff. With over 750 acres of stunning plants and flowers, the Denver Botanic Gardens is considered one of the nation’s most-visited botanical gardens, and it’s easy to see why!
Beyond just being a beautiful garden oasis, it’s also a place of research! At the Gardens, scientists and horticultural groups use the collections of plants to learn more about biodiversity, conservation, and sustainability.
Atmosphere and Experience (My Favorite Stops)
Once you enter the Gardens, you’ll immediately be blown away by the vastness and variety it has to offer! The Gardens features a lot of signage and maps so you’ll be able to find your your way around fairly easily, but you can also map out the exhibits you want to catch beforehand by checking out the map on their website!
As I mentioned, there’s a lot to do and see here, but I wanted to spend some time highlighting some of the standout exhibits that stuck with me during my visit:
1. The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory
You can’t miss The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory exhibit when you get there — the unique glass dome structure stands out! This was one of my favorite exhibits because it felt like you were actually in a rainforest! While wandering around this exhibit you can check out a variety of tropical plants such as palm trees, banana plants, chocolate, and coffee.
2. Science Pyramid Exhibition
Another exhibit I enjoyed was the Science Pyramid, which is another landmark you can’t miss with its unique structure — just head towards the glass pyramid!
There was a variety of interactive displays inside that showed how plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms coexist amongst the Colorado wildlife. I suspect this would also be a great place to get some AC in those hotter Colorado months, and a fun place for little ones to explore.
3. Water Gardens
What I loved most about this area of the Gardens was how serene and peaceful everything was. All of the ponds were sprinkled with lily pads and some even had sculptures in them. According to the Denver Botanic Gardens website, this area is home to over 450 aquatic plant species and varieties!
This would also be a great place to stop and have a picnic! There is no shortage of benches and sitting spots in this area.
4. Ellipse Garden
I think I saved the best part for last! This sculpture was created specifically for the Gardens. According to the artist, Dale Chihuly, the vibrant orange and yellow colors were inspired by the beauty of the Colorado sunsets.
This beautiful garden is also covered in iris, daylilies, and hydrangeas among other plants — definitely an area you cannot skip during your visit!
Book your Denver Botanic Gardens Tickets here!
Other Denver Botanic Gardens Highlights
Here are some other notable areas around the Gardens that you should check out during your trip!
- The Mordecai Children’s Garden: This is the perfect spot if you’re bringing little ones on your trip! This immersive and interactive area has plenty of hands-on experiences and opportunities to keep kids entertained.
- Offshoots Café: Located in the main building by the Water-Smart Garden, Offshoots Café offers delicious breakfast and lunch items such as fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
- Hive Garden Bistro: Located near the Monet Pool, this Bistro offers a seasonal menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
- Copper Door Coffee Roasters: Located at the northeast corner of the Freyer, this full-service specialty coffee bar has a wide variety of delicious coffee drinks! Bonus Perk: You don’t need an admission ticket to enjoy this coffee shop — I’ve seen many Denver locals use this spot as a unique remote work setting.
- Summer Concert Series: If you end up visiting during the summer time, be sure to check their Summer Concert Series calendar to enjoy some live music in a beautiful and serene setting.
- Blossoms of Light: A popular winter activity amongst locals during select nights in November-January. During this event, you can wander through a mile-long path filled with immersive, luminous LED holiday displays. Plus, festive treats and warm drinks are also available for purchase to add some extra holiday cheer to your experience!
Are the Denver Botanic Gardens Worth Visiting?!
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to take a trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens, I hope this review made you consider checking it out. With so much to see and do, a trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens will be an unforgettable Denver adventure for travelers and locals of all ages!
Book your Denver Botanic Gardens Tickets here!
More Things to do in Denver
If you’re looking for even more Denver fun, check out more travel guides listed below! Happy planning!
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