Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens began life in City Park, but in more recent times it has grown to encompass three separate locations: York Street, the banks of Deer Creek in Chatfield, Jefferson County, and Mount Goliath nature reserve on Mount Evans.Escape from Denver’s urban life into the York Street gardens. These include a range of 42 beautifully landscaped areas, showing wonderful creativity and imagination. Stroll through the intricate Japanese Garden, enjoy the exotic plants of the South African Plaza, and soak up the different hues of the Woodland Mosaic. There are also a number of enclosed gardens to enjoy during the winter, as well as two genteel cafés: Offshoots at the Gardens and the Monet Deck Café.A real, functional farm awaits in Chatfield, a short drive from the city centre. Hildebrand Ranch has been returned to its original best, and you can also visit Deer Creek Schoolhouse, built in 1874. Take your time walking around four kilometres of paths and admire the attractive flora. If the young ones still have lots of energy after that, there's also a playground on site, with a tree house and a small climbing wall.Mount Goliath is found 80 kilometres from central Denver. Rare mountain plants abound, such as chiming bells, fairy primrose and alpine forget-me-nots – many of these only flower for 40 days per annum. Fascinating wildflower walks are provided during the summer months check the website for details. Surrounding Arapaho National Forest also offers hiking and fabulous views.The price of entry to each of the Denver Botanic Garden Sites is reasonable, and includes parking. A range of workshops and other events are held at York Street and Chatfield, catering to all age groups.