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 Paved open space trail |
County Line Road & C-470 (along South Platte River) Denver, CO 80123 United States +1 303 798 5131 |
Roughly six and a half miles long, this paved trail runs north and south along the South Platte River. Beginning at Denver's southern city limit, the ride meanders past several industrial sites before spilling into the Centennial Golf & Tennis Club. From there the trail winds past historic downtown Littleton and passes by the Riverfront Festival Center and the famed Hudson Gardens. As the path proceeds south, it tours the South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center. The trail ends at County Line Road where it connects with the C-470 Trail just outside Chatfield State Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bird and mammal observation |
13401 Picadilly Road Denver, CO 80601 United States +1 303 659 6005 |
Home to the Colorado Bird Observatory, this park is an ornithologist's dream. More than 330 species of birds have been seen in the park including white pelicans, great blue herons, owls and eagles. Guided nature hikes and evening astronomy classes are some of the many interpretive programs featured at the nature center. Considering the big boats cannot come here (10 horsepower maximum), it is the perfect place to bring the canoe. Make use of the trails, picnic areas, and boardwalks as you soak up nature. Fees: USD4 daily vehicle pass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dana Beaton |
 Photo: Paul Gana |
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Open space recreation |
15600 West Morrison Road Denver, CO 80028 United States +1 303 697 6159 http://www.ci.lakewood.co.us |
Here, you can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, fishing, picnicking and camping on 2600 acres of open space. Sailboats, sailboards, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and bikes are available to rent Memorial Day to Labor Day at the Soda Lake Marina. Park rangers offer a variety of interpretive programs including nature guided hikes and weekly campfire programs in the summertime. Public golfing is also available. 50 campsites are available at the Indian Paintbrush Campground. Check website for pass prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kelly Tomlinson |
 Creatures of beauty |
6252 West 104th Avenue (At US 36) Denver, CO 80020 United States +1 303 469 5441 http://www.butterflies.org |
This is your chance to get up close with the likes of tarantulas, scorpions, giant cockroaches and mammoth centipedes. There is also a glass enclosed bee factory, which allows you to safely watch worker bees, and a 7,000-square-foot conservatory complete with a small tropical forest and 1,200 butterflies. The sight is impressive and makes for a great outing with the kids. If you prefer the outdoors, wind your way through the cactus gardens. A gift shop is available. Admission for adults is USD7.95 and children is USD4.95. For seniors it is USD5.95 and all Outdoor activities are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: D. Daniel |
 Photo: Sammi Massner |
 Photo: That Will Guy |
 Photo: That Will Guy |
 Photo: Frank Harris  |
 Photo: Tom Hewett |
 Photo: Jason Paul Roberts |
 Photo: Michelle |
 Photo: Jessica Payne |
 Photo: Jim McDaniel |
 Photo: Tabitha Carroll |
 Photo: dickedydog |
 Photo: Tim Sarnacki |
 Photo: George Roch |
 Photo: Blah Blah Blog |
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Denver's famous city trail |
2200 15th St (Confluence Park access point) (access at various points throught the city) Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 698 4903 |
Beginning at Confluence Park and traveling east to the Cherry Creek reservoir, this trail follows wanders approximately 15 miles. Along the way, it meanders through some of Denver's most popular neighborhoods including Lodo, Capital Hill and Cherry Creek. Perfect for walking, biking, and inline skating, the paved path is a great way to experience the city like a local. But be careful on weekends, the trail is packed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Masoner |
 Photo: Rob! |
 Photo: Kamal H. |
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Recreation haven in the city |
4201 South Parker Road Denver, CO 80014 United States +1 303 699 3860 |
If you need a temporary reprieve from the city bustle, take in a bit of nature at this local state park. The Cherry Creek Reservoir is the focal point of the park and is a haven for fishing, sailing, swimming and skiing. Numerous nature trails snake through the park offering hikers a chance to see wildlife, while bikers, runners and roller bladers utilize the paved trails and roads. Camping and horse back riding are available. The nature center offers various classes in subjects like aquatic entomology and falconry. Fees: USD5 daily vehicle pass, USD43 for annual vehicle pass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Celebrating Local Art |
City Park Esplanade Denver, CO 80205 United States +1 720 205 6506 http://cityparkfestival.org/ |
An attempt to encourage art in the neighborhood is the reason behind the City Park Festival of the Arts. The local first-timers get to showcase their work alongside the best artists of the city. The rates of the art-work here are definitely cheaper. If you are a foodie, you won't be disappointed as you get to munch on a variety at reasonable prices. There are many fun-events organized for children. There is also live music performed here. This event is perfect for people of all age groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lorien! |
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Where Denver began |
2200 15th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 720 913 0696 (Denver Parks and Recreation) http://www.denvergov.org/South... |
This park surrounds the convergence of the Platte River and Cherry Creek. Here, the discovery of gold led to a wild influx of people, bringing about the formation the city of Denver. Besides its fame as a great kayaking run, the park boasts a nice beach for swimming. It also provides places for picnicking and games, as well as plenty of areas for skating and walking. The park is also where the Cherry Creek Bike Trail meets with the Platte River Bike Trail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: George In Denver |
 Photo: George In Denver |
 Photo: shellyd |
 Photo: Jessie |
 Photo: Jessie |
 Photo: Marc Wren |
 Photo: Kathleen H Fenton |
 Photo: Jon Krueger |
 Photo: Cindy L. Barnes |
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The pride of baseball |
2001 Blake Street Denver, CO 80205 United States +1 303 762 5437 / +1 303 292 0200 http://www.coloradorockies.com |
Baseball is an essential part of the American culture and a vibrant component of Denver, all of which makes Coors Field such a hub of activity during the summer. It seats more than 50,000 and is regarded as one of most fan-friendly parks in the country. For a few dollars you can take a guided walking tour and learn about the history of the field while taking in all the sights, including the Colorado Rockies dugout and the visiting team's clubhouse. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charles Crabtree |
 Photo: Brian LoBue |
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 Photo: Brian Lewis |
 Photo: Ryan Swift (www.splo |
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 Photo: Bobbi L. Newman |
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 Photo: Charles Crabtree |
 Photo: Adam Heckler |
 Photo: Molly E. Gillette |
 Photo: Ryan Swift (www.splo |
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Open space and wildlife |
Castle Pines Parkway Denver, CO 80126 United States +1 303 697 4545 (Mountain Parks Headquarters) http://www.denvergov.org/mount... |
Over 1,000 acres of land can become your exploring grounds for the day when you visit this park, only 20 miles south of Denver. Take route I-25 to the Castle Pines exit and drive three miles to the park. Once there, drive on the road that cuts through the park to experience the preservation area for 50 buffalo. You might also see elk, deer, antelope and coyotes. The views of the mountains are magnificent. Park the car when the mood moves you, enjoy the views, and picnic at one of the designated locations. This is a perfect place for a quiet day trip. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kristal Kraft |
 Photo: anne shaffer |
 Photo: blue.monkey |
 Quick city escape |
Grizzly Dr Denver, CO 80127 United States +1 303 271 5925 http://www.co.jefferson.co.us |
This diverse park, which includes over nine miles of hiking trails, can satisfy any outdoor fix without requiring a drive far out of the city. The area was once a favorite hunting ground of Ute and Arapahoe Indians. Even Jesse James was a frequent visitor in his later years. The trails are open for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Take C-470 south and exit at Wadsworth. Turn right on Wadsworth then turn right on Deer Creek Canyon road. The park is five minutes on your left. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eric Lessard |
 Photo: Brionne Lafner |
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Oasis in the City |
1005 York Street Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 720 865 3500 http://www.botanicgardens.org/ |
These gardens encompass an impressive 21 acres. Specialized gardens offer visitors a variety of botanical experiences. Seek solitude in the sanctuary of the Japanese Garden, overlooking a pond with goldfish and bonsai trees. Reminisce on your childhood with Dr. Suess, Winnie-the-Pooh and other favorite characters in the Storybook Gardens. The Xeriscape Demo Garden and the Rock Alpine Garden are the places to gather ideas for your own backyard. In all there are more than 30 gardens to explore. Admission: May 1-Sept 15: USD8.50 Adults, USD5.50 Seniors (65+), USD5 Students and Youth (4-15). Sep 16-Apr 30: USD7.50 Adults, USD4.50 Seniors, USD4 Students and Youth. Children under 4 are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vern Southern |
 Photo: Elijah Grayson |
 Photo: Sandra Leidholdt |
 Photo: flowercat |
 Photo: Austin Scott |
 Photo: Sandra Leidholdt |
 Photo: Cheri Utsler |
 Photo: Vern Southern |
 Photo: Jay Volak |
 Photo: Karen Rasmussen |
 Photo: Cindi MillerHerleman |
 Photo: Lynn Philp |
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 Photo: Tom Kotsines |
 Photo: Rob Glazebrook |
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 Photo: Elijah Grayson |
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 Photo: Julie Ann Kanics |
 Photo: Jeff Rodgers |
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 Photo: Roberta Lott-Holmes |
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Museum in the Rough |
16831 West Alameda Parkway Denver, CO 80465 United States +1 303 697 3466 http://www.dinoridge.org |
Travel "into the field" to dinosaur bones from Jurassic period and more than 300 dinosaur footprints from the Cretaceous period. Plus, discover the secrets of how the Rocky Mountains were formed more than 70-million years ago. This mile long excursion into the past is a perfect outing for the entire family. If you hike out on a Dinosaur Discovery Day (usually one weekend day a month seasonally) the road is closed to traffic. Free maps for self guided tours are available at the Visitor Center. Guided tours are also available and admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wr9b |
 Photo: Yerin Kay |
 Photo: Eric Cohen |
 Photo: Stefanie C. |
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Four Mile Historic Park |
715 South Forest Street Denver, CO 80246 United States (720) 865-0800 http://www.fourmilepark.org/ |
This preserved park features three barns complete with chicken coops and root cellars on 12 acres of land. Children can pan for gold or pick a pumpkin in season. Carriage rides are available for the entire family on weekends. The park provides guided tours of an original the Four Mile House, the oldest standing home in the city. Admission: USD3.50 Adults; USD2 for seniors and children ages 6-15; free for children under six. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ariel Brandt |
 Photo: Manisha |
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Outdoor beauty and hiking trails |
Exit 254 off Interstate 70 Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 526 1550 http://www.denvergov.org/mount... |
Although this park is only 20 miles west of Denver, its outdoor beauty and hiking trails create the false sense you have traveled deep into the mountains. There are three good hiking trails for children and adults to look for wildlife such as buffalo, elk and deer. There are also wide-open spaces for playing Frisbee or a game of catch. Picnic tables are available, so be sure to pack a lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jamey Turner |
 Photo: Stacie Lewis |
 Photo: J Ted Bell |
 Photo: beeckily |
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Nature getaway just outside the city |
92 Crawford Gulch Rd Denver, CO 80403 United States +1 303 582 3707 http://parks.state.co.us |
A mere 30 miles west of Denver, this 14,000-acre park is a haven for extreme outdoor enthusiasts, weekend frolickers, and leaf peepers alike. Unpaved hiking trails range from easy to difficult and can also be used for both mountain biking and horseback riding. Plan a romantic picnic in a wildflower meadow or make it a weekend and camp. Photo buffs will want to stop by Panorama Point for an amazing shot of more than 100 miles of snow capped continental divide. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Hamilton |
 Photo: Andy McElwain |
 Photo: Becky White |
 Photo: Michael Pielow |
 Photo: Sam Garland-Renn |
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Old-fashioned family fun |
18301 West Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80401 United States +1 303 279 2789 http://www.heritagesquare.info |
This park is a throwback to the days when theme parks were more than corporate carnivals seeking to build the biggest roller coaster. It is set in the guise of an old Victorian town and provides old-fashioned fun for the whole family. Rides abound, including the merry-go-round and alpine slide. Numerous shops carry everything from candy to souvenirs. The acclaimed Music Hall offers a variety of entertainment ranging from vaudeville to mystery plays. There is even a wedding chapel. General admission is free, but the rides and the Music Hall have separate fees. Outdoor rides are only open during the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eugenia GA |
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Frolic through Colorado's past |
801 S Yarrow St (Ohio & Wadsworth) Denver, CO 80226 United States +1 303 987 7850 http://www.lakewood.org/comres... |
This center consists of 15 acres of barns, buildings and exhibits from the turn of the century. Once the property of May Bonfils Stanton, the center hosts educational events and public programs such as luncheons, nature walks and workshops. The kids can explore an old country school, as well as participate in special summer programs. Tours take place regularly in the Ralston Crossing School, dating back to the 1920s, and the Streer-Peterson House, dating from 1872. Tours: USD3 adults; USD2 youth; 3 and under free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Learning by nature |
910 Colorow Road Denver, CO 80401 United States 720-497-7600 http://jeffco.us/openspace/ope... |
If you are heading up to Golden with the kids to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum, be sure to pack a lunch and stop by the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. Located just down the road from the museum, the nature center is 110 acres of open space. Meandering trails wander through Ponderosa pine forests filled with wildlife, and into colorful meadows perfect for picnics. A stunning new facility features a wildlife observation deck and interactive exhibits, and is available for group functions. The Boettcher Mansion is also on-site. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mountain Meadow Hike |
Stagecoach Boulevard Office: 700 Jefferson Country Parkway Suite 100 Denver, CO 80401 United States +1 303 271 5925 http://www.co.jefferson.co.us/... |
This trail, in Evergreen's Elk Meadow Park, is camera-snapping proof that moderate hikes can be fun and interesting. Located just 20 minutes west of Denver, this five-mile hike offers a surprising diversity of both flora and wildlife. In between tall stands of aspens are vast meadows that explode each summer with a variety of colorful wildflowers. The elk are numerous and easy to spot, especially during the fall rutting season. Take I-70 west into the foothills and get off at exit 242, which blends into route 74 south. Follow this for six miles and then make a right on Stagecoach Boulevard. Follow it for about a mile to the trailhead parking lot on the right. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Jones |
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Amusement park |
2000 Elitch Circle (at I-25 and Speer) Denver, CO 80204 United States +1 303 595 4386 http://sixflags.com/elitchgardens |
After spending 104 years tucked away in northwest Denver, Elitch Gardens abandoned its home for a more spacious downtown site, which allowed it to add state-of-the-art rides, such as the free falling 'Tower of Doom' and the 'Sidewinder.' Besides the more than 100 rides, there are numerous shows, shopping outlets and eateries to keep the family entertained. In addition, in the summer you can alternate between the numerous roller coasters and the neighboring mammoth water park. Admission is USD32.99 for adults and USD19.99 seniors (55-69) and kids under 48"; Ages 70+ and under 3 enter free. Hours fluctuate during May so call ahead for the schedule. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Lee |
 Photo: nowake92 |
 Photo: Jill Ormond Whitaker |
 Photo: Evan V. Nix |
 Photo: kajvin |
 Photo: Stefanie Daun |
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Wildlife wonderland |
7301 South Platte River Parkway Denver, CO 80120 United States +1 303 730 1022 |
This park encompasses 650 acres of natural area, including a section of the South Platte River. Ecosystems along the flood plain include riparian woodlands, grasslands and wetlands. As a result of this diversity, the area is teeming with an assortment of wildlife. The Theo L. Carson Nature Center, located in the park, offers interactive displays, which detail the history of the South Platte River and its plants and animals. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beat the summer heat |
1800 West 89th Avenue Federal Heights Denver, CO 80260 United States +1 303 427 7873 http://www.waterworldcolorado.... |
This amusement park offers rides that range from steep slippery slides to raft rides down the "Lazy River." The wave pool is ideal for wading, and Wally World, with geysers and shallow water slides, is a perfect water introduction for young ones. Although an array of food is available here, personal picnics are allowed in the park. Pets, glass, and alcohol are not allowed anywhere within the park premises. Admission: Adults USD24.95, USD20.95 kids (4-12) Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ishmael Orendain |
 Photo: Ishmael Orendain |
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Challenging trail system |
West 56th Avenue & Colorado 93 Denver, CO 80441 United States +1 303 271 5925 (Jefferson County Open Space) |
This local's favorite is considered by many to be the best and most difficult single-track mountain biking terrain along the Front Range. From the notorious, heart-pounding climb up rocky Belcher Hill Trail to the thrilling descents down the Maverick or Longhorn Trails, it offers 18 miles of multi-use trails. Hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing are also popular activities. The park also maintains two campsites for backpackers and horse packers. Most riders begin at the east entrance to the park. Take US 6 west to Colorado 93. Go north to West 56th Avenue. Turn left and drive approximately .5 to the entrance on the right side. To get to the west entrance take US 6 to Colorado 93. Go north 1.4 miles and turn left on Golden Gate Canyon. Follow the road 3.8 miles to Crawford Gulch Road and turn right. Continue for four miles to the park entrance on the right. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karlan |
 Photo: treehuggin1 |
 Photo: TG |