It’s hard to stay indoors in Denver. People here want to be outdoors all year round. And why not when there is plenty of sunshine, blue sky, beautiful mountain views, and a great outdoor culture? Denver boasts over 200,000 parks and open areas, making it easy for people to get outside. You’ll find something for everyone here, including walking paths, playgrounds, skate parks, and kayaking spots.
The following are the most spectacular and unique city parks in Denver. The best part is that every park in this listicle is free:
1. Confluence Park
Confluence park combines with other city parks in Denver such as Crescent Commons, Commons, or the City of Cuernavaca for a vast array of lush green areas perfect for relaxing and stimulating activities. Cherry Creek and South Platte River join right in the park. This is part of Riverfront Park’s Trail System and provides a beautiful backdrop.
One of the best trails, Cherry Creek, can be ridden on a bike. There is a separate bike lane, so cyclists don’t have to worry about hitting pedestrians. You can also rent a kayak to explore South Platte by water for an entirely different experience. Many parks along with the river offer opportunities for fun and recreation. There are soccer fields, baseball fields, and dog parks, too.
2. City Park
The park’s size is comparable to New York City’s Central Park. It boasts 314 landscaped areas, including a golf course and vibrant flower gardens, and also features lakes and green spaces to picnic. Denver’s most famous attractions include the Denver Museum of Nature & Science (in City Park) and the Denver Zoo (in City Park). This park is the most spectacular and exciting town, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline.
3. Cheeseman Park
Cheeseman Park, situated in its namesake neighborhood, is a historic park that is LGBTIQ + friendly. PrideFest, the city’s annual parade, starts here. The event sees thousands of rainbow flags and bedazzled people fill the park. Cheeseman is a popular spot for its long jogging routes and large grassy areas, ideal for picnicking, snoozing, and even epic volleyball games.
This park sits on an old 19th-century cemetery known for its paranormal activity. Many ghost hunters come here all year-round. There may be two thousand bodies still undiscovered.
4. Washington Park
Washington Park is the heart of one of Denver’s most coveted neighborhoods. Wash Park is known for its vast grassy field that can be used for almost any activity. The park is packed with avid volleyball players and hobbyists on weekends.
The two ponds provide a stunning view of the city and the opportunity to fish and rent paddle boats. There is a 2.6-mile loop for running that is entirely bike-free, and there are plenty of other runners. You can even ride your bike on the park’s roads.
5. Sloan’s Lake Park
Sloan’s Lake is Denver’s biggest Lake, covering 177 acres. This area has two playgrounds and multiple athletic fields. It also has boating, basketball courts, multipurpose trails, and picnic areas. It’s also a great place to catch a sunset with breathtaking views of the Denver skyline, Rocky Mountains, and more. Sloan’s Lake hosts the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival every July. It is considered one of the best in the state.
Sloan’s Lake is the ideal spot for water sports, the largest Lake in the entire city. You can go jet skiing, boating, and fishing in the summer. You can also cruise in your car here. You can circle the Lake and get amazing views of the Front Range and the Denver skyline. The Lake’s paved path allows for walking, running, and biking. Additional amenities include tennis courts, soccer fields, picnic tables, and plenty of grass.
6. Berkeley Park
Berkeley is a lovely park with a huge lake and beautiful mountain views, even though it’s less famous than Sloan’s Lake to its south. Berkeley offers many excellent amenities, including open fields, a lakeside trail, and a dog park.
7. Civic Center Park
Civic Center Park is one of the best city parks in Denver. It is an area surrounded by history and art. Every side is fascinating, including the Capitol and Art Museum, the City Building, and the downtown skyscrapers.
While it is not a great place to pick up a game, some green spaces are perfect for relaxing in the city’s heart. Many free events, such as Taste of Colorado and Cinco De Mayo, are held annually at the Civic Center.