Covering approximately 130 hectares, City Park is Denver’s largest and most popular urban green space. It is located in the east-central area of the city, in a neighbourhood that bears the same name. You’ll find a multitude of attractions and features within the park itself, and the surrounding area is buzzing with cafés, restaurants and boutiques.
Both the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo are to be found within the park grounds, but there are also many outdoor attractions and landmarks to discover. In the centre of Ferril Lake, you’ll see the Prismatic Fountain. Originally constructed in 1908 by the engineer Frederic W. Darlington, it now features an LED light show. In line with its English-inspired design, the park also boasts the Shakespeare Elm, which was grown from a cutting from a tree at the site of the Bard’s grave. It was planted in 1916 to mark the third centenary of his death.
During the warm summer months, the park hosts a series of free open-air jazz concerts on Sunday evenings, attracting thousands of local residents and visitors alike. Check the park’s official website for exact details of the schedule.
When the weather is good, you can simply spread out a blanket and join the many families and groups relaxing with a picnic. Should you feel more energetic, you can hire novelty paddle boats from the boathouse and explore the lake, or take to the many trails for a walk, a jog or a cycle ride. The park also caters for organised sports, with facilities for tennis, baseball and American football. Close by, there is the City Park Golf Course, a top-quality 18-hole course dating back to 1913.
Round off your day with a stop on Colfax Avenue for a cool drink and a bite to eat in one of the many bars and restaurants.
