Denver Botanic Gardens
Just a short drive from downtown Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens offers an immersive escape into the beauty and wisdom of plants, culture, and community. This 24-acre urban garden isn’t just a picturesque retreat—it’s a living lab where art, science, and sustainability intersect. Known for its pioneering water-smart landscaping and dedication to conserving Colorado’s native plants, the Gardens are a model for climate-conscious stewardship. From curated global gardens to community-rooted education programs, Denver Botanic Gardens is a vibrant reflection of what it means to cultivate connection with nature, with place, and with one another.
Things To Do
Wander Through Global and Native Gardens Explore over 50 curated gardens that showcase plants from Colorado’s alpine peaks to the high deserts of South Africa and the bamboo forests of Japan. Favorites include the Rock Alpine Garden, the Sensory Garden, and the romantic Water Garden.
Experience the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory Step into this architectural marvel—an indoor tropical paradise filled with exotic plants, vibrant orchids, and cascading waterfalls. A must-see, year-round.
Seasonal Events and Art Exhibits Enjoy immersive experiences like the Summer Concert Series, Glow at the Gardens in autumn, or Blossoms of Light during the holidays. Rotating indoor and outdoor art exhibitions highlight local and international artists.
Family-Friendly Fun & Learning Families can engage in interactive nature play areas, attend weekend discovery days, or explore the Mordecai Children’s Garden—designed especially for young explorers.
Dine with a View Enjoy a locally sourced meal at Hive Garden Bistro, located within the Gardens and perfect for a midday break surrounded by serene scenery.
Our Impact
The key for the Gardens is to take our interactions and understandings of plants and use them to break open a world of wonder for the countless people we reach.
Denver Botanic Gardens’ mission of connecting people with plants takes many forms. Sometimes the connection is found through something universal like food. Sometimes it’s found through something particular like art. Other times it’s a connection through the elements that sustain plants – water and soil.
Through establishing and expanding connections between varied audiences and plants – be it at our York Street or Chatfield Farms locations or elsewhere – the Gardens seeks to educate, entertain and even transform the way people think about and engage with the environment.
Learn more about our impact here:
Plan Your Visit
When to Visit The Gardens are stunning year-round:
- Spring bursts with tulips, daffodils, and awakening perennials.
- Summer offers shade, blooms, and evening concerts.
- Fall is rich in color and crisp air.
- Winter is peaceful, with tropical escapes indoors and magical light installations outdoors.
How to Visit Reserve tickets online in advance for timed entry, especially during weekends or special events. Memberships are available and support ongoing conservation efforts.
Getting Here Located at 1007 York Street, the Gardens are easily accessible:
- By Bus: RTD lines stop within walking distance.
- By Bike: Bike racks are available at both entrances.
- By Car: On-site parking garage and street parking are available, but can fill during busy times—plan accordingly.
Where to Stay Denver’s Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek, and City Park neighborhoods offer eco-conscious boutique hotels, hostels, and B&Bs that align with GoGood values of community, conservation, and culture.
Food & Drink After your visit, explore nearby sustainable eateries like Potager, a farm-to-table gem, or City O’ City, a plant-forward café with strong local roots. You’ll also find vibrant food trucks and patios scattered around the area.
Get Involved
Volunteer Volunteers are essential to fulfilling the Gardens' mission of connecting people with plants. Every year, more than 2,000 volunteers donate their time in every area of the Gardens. View volunteer opportunities here.
Donate There are many ways to help the Gardens! View all opportunities here.
For more details, visit Denver Botanic Gardens