Set in the heart of Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens stands out as one of America’s premier public gardens. Spread across 24 acres on York Street and an additional 750-acre site at Chatfield Farms, the Gardens offer a stunning range of plant life, peaceful landscapes, and immersive learning experiences. With a strong focus on semi-arid plants native to Colorado and other steppe regions, this urban oasis is perfect for relaxation, exploration, and inspiration—whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or a visitor seeking serenity within the city.
Recommended For
Denver Botanic Gardens is perfect for:
- Nature lovers who appreciate carefully curated gardens from around the world.
- Families looking for seasonal activities, garden tours, and wide-open spaces to explore.
- Botany and horticulture enthusiasts interested in native and drought-resistant plants.
- History buffs curious about the site’s unique past and cultural significance.
- Art and wellness seekers drawn to outdoor installations, workshops, and calm retreats.
Location and Sites
- The Gardens are split between two locations: York Street in central Denver and Chatfield Farms, a 750-acre refuge on the city’s southwestern edge.
York Street Gardens Overview
- The York Street campus is divided into five themed areas:
- Gardens of the West – Celebrating Colorado’s native and arid-adapted plants
- Internationally Inspired Gardens – Modeled after designs from around the world
- Ornamental Gardens – Best enjoyed in springtime with vibrant floral displays
- Shady Gardens – A cooling summer retreat rich with pollinators
- Water Gardens – Focused on aquatic plant life, open from June to September
Highlights of the Gardens of the West
- Includes 18 unique gardens showcasing year-round beauty in dry climates.
- Must-see features:
- Promenade Garden – Low-water plants on steep Colorado slopes
- Conservation Garden – Home to endangered and rare species
- Cactus and succulent greenhouse – Featuring 20 species
- Dryland Mesa – A no-irrigation garden with yucca and agave
- Plants sacred to the Native Americans of the Four Corners
Internationally Inspired Gardens
- These gardens mirror plant communities from similar steppe climates around the world.
- Featured highlights:
- Ella Mullen Weckbaugh Tea House Garden – Authentic Japanese architecture and ambiance
- Shofu-en – “Garden of Pine and Wind” with 130 shaped pines
- Bill Hosokawa Bonsai Pavilion – Global bonsai collection
- South African Plaza – Celebrates floral diversity
- PlantAsia – Home to Himalayan pines and rare steppe flora
Ornamental Gardens
- Open year-round but most colorful in spring.
- Notable spaces include:
- Fragrance Garden – Aromatic blooms
- Herb and Rose Gardens – Ideal for leisurely strolls
- Elegant gazebos, pavilions, arches, and floral walkways
Shady Gardens
- A popular summer retreat, full of birds, butterflies, and quiet corners.
- Birds and Bees Walk – Attracts pollinators all season long
- Oak Grove – Features sturdy oak species
- Woodland Mosaic – A fairy garden-like setting
- Shady Lane – A tranquil trail with spring blooms
Water Gardens
- Open from June through September.
- Over 450 aquatic plant species on display
- Four Towers Pool – Rotating aquatic exhibits
- Monet Pool – Filled with lilies, iris, cattails, and more
Exploring Chatfield Farms
- A 750-acre sanctuary of native plants and open farmland.
- Top features include:
- Wildflower Garden – Displays 150 rare native blooms
- Lavender Garden – Grows 14 lavender varieties
- Hildebrand Ranch – Preserved 1860s homestead
- Working blacksmith shop – Adds historical depth
Historical Significance
- The York Street site was formerly Mount Prospect Cemetery.
- Graves were removed in 1893, though occasional remains still surface today.
Innovative Projects
- Dryland Mesa was the world’s first Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, launched in 1986.
- Shofu-en, built in 1979 by Koichi Kawana, is one of the most unique gardens in the U.S.
Educational Opportunities
- Programs for all ages and interests:
- School of Botanical Art and Illustration
- Family, youth, and adult classes
- Mount Goliath wildflower hikes and outreach events
- Therapeutic horticulture sessions available year-round
Nearby Attractions
- Conveniently surrounded by some of Denver’s best parks and museums:
- Cheesman Park – Right behind the gardens
- Congress Park – One block west
- Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature and Science – Just to the north
- Country Club Historic Neighborhood – Five blocks south
Planning Your Visit
- Address: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
- Phone: 720-865-3501
- Website: botanicgardens.org
Plan your visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens
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