Denver Botanic Gardensa | Denver

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a premier horticultural destination located on 23 acres in Denver's Cheesman Park neighborhood. It serves as both a living museum and a center for environmental education, conservation, and botanical research, highlighting the rich plant diversity suited to the Rocky Mountain region and beyond.

History and Overview

Founded in 1951 as a small nonprofit garden, it has evolved into a world-renowned institution, combining beautiful garden displays, innovative architecture, and educational outreach. The Gardens focus on sustainable gardening practices and the preservation of native plant species, offering a unique blend of formal and naturalistic garden styles.

Major Areas and Features

1. Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory

This iconic glass conservatory, opened in 1966 and designated a Denver landmark, houses a vast collection of tropical and subtropical plants across multiple levels. Inside, visitors experience lush environments with towering palms, orchids, bromeliads, and a dramatic two-story fabricated banyan tree that creates a multi-layered canopy effect. The conservatory mimics tropical climates, providing an immersive experience that contrasts sharply with Denver’s dry environment outside.

2. Science Pyramid

The Science Pyramid is an interactive exhibit space designed to educate visitors about the interconnected relationships among plants, animals, humans, and the environment. Through innovative displays, digital media, and hands-on activities, this area engages visitors in understanding botanical science and environmental stewardship.

3. Xeriscape Demonstration Garden (Dryland Mesa)

This garden is the first of its kind globally, dedicated to xeriscaping-landscaping designed to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation. Established in 1986, the Xeriscape garden showcases a wide variety of drought-tolerant plants native to arid and semi-arid climates. It serves as an educational model, encouraging sustainable water use and landscaping practices suitable for Colorado’s climate.

4. Shofu-en Japanese Garden

Created by renowned landscape architect Koichi Kawana, this garden exemplifies traditional Japanese garden aesthetics blended with Rocky Mountain influences. It features carefully arranged stones, koi ponds, flowing water features, stone lanterns, and meticulously pruned plants. This tranquil garden offers visitors a contemplative space and a connection to Japanese culture and gardening philosophy.

5. Mordecai Children’s Garden

This interactive garden is designed to engage children and families in nature exploration. Through play and discovery, children learn about plant life, ecosystems, and the environment. The garden includes hands-on exhibits, sensory experiences, and seasonal programming, making it an educational highlight for younger visitors.

6. Rocky Mountain Native Plant Garden

Dedicated to showcasing flora indigenous to the Rocky Mountain region, this garden educates visitors on the natural heritage of Colorado. It emphasizes the importance of native plants in supporting local wildlife and ecosystem health.

7. Perennial Garden

The Perennial Garden features a rotating seasonal display of hardy perennial plants that thrive in Denver’s climate, demonstrating sustainable gardening techniques and seasonal beauty.

Additional Attractions

Chatfield Farms: Located about 15 miles southwest of downtown Denver, this 700-acre nature preserve and historic farm offers expansive meadows, riparian habitats, wildlife viewing, and hiking trails. It complements the main gardens by providing a more naturalistic outdoor experience, with a focus on native ecosystems.

Special Events and Classes: The Gardens host a wide variety of events year-round, including plant sales, art exhibits, concerts, horticulture classes, and seasonal festivals like the popular “Blossoms of Light” winter illumination display.

Visitor Amenities

Admission and Hours: The Gardens are open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission prices vary by age and membership status, with free entry for members and children under two.

Facilities: Visitors have access to a café offering locally sourced food, a gift shop specializing in gardening tools, books, and botanical-themed merchandise, and accessible pathways for all mobility levels.

Parking: There is free parking available in a garage adjacent to the York Street entrance, as well as limited street parking nearby.

Environmental and Educational Impact

The Denver Botanic Gardens plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable gardening, plant conservation, and environmental education. It partners with local schools, universities, and conservation organizations to support research, habitat restoration, and community outreach programs.

Through innovative garden design and a diverse plant collection, the Gardens demonstrate how landscapes can be both beautiful and ecologically responsible, offering inspiration for gardeners and nature lovers in Colorado and beyond.