Cheesman Park | Denver

Information

Landmark: Cheesman Park
City: Denver
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America

Cheesman Park, Denver, USA Colorado, North America

Cheesman Park is a 81.1 acre urban park located in Denver, Colorado. It is situated in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a large, open lawn area with mature trees providing shade. A prominent feature is the Cheesman Park Pavilion, a neoclassical structure with a domed roof and Doric columns, constructed from granite and marble. The park also contains a lake and walking paths.

Location & Access Logistics

Cheesman Park is located approximately 2 miles east of the Denver city center. Access is available from various points along its perimeter, including Franklin Street, Race Street, and 11th Avenue. Street parking is available on surrounding residential streets, though it can be limited during peak hours. Several Denver RTD bus routes serve the area, including routes 10, 12, and 20, with stops within a 0.5km radius of the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land was originally part of the Denver City Cemetery, established in 1858. In 1902, the city decided to relocate the cemetery's remains to make way for the park. The pavilion was constructed in 1908. The park's ecological setting is a temperate grassland biome, typical of the Denver metropolitan area.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include picnicking on the lawn, walking or jogging on the paved paths, and utilizing the open spaces for recreational sports. The Cheesman Park Pavilion is a popular spot for photography and small gatherings. The park is also used for community events.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the park. Shade is provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good throughout the park. No on-site food vendors are present, but numerous restaurants and cafes are located within a 1km radius.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal conditions for the pavilion and open areas. The best months for weather are typically May through October, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local legend claims that the remains of many individuals were not fully relocated from the former cemetery, leading to stories of hauntings. While the city officially states all remains were moved, the narrative persists.