Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens: Denver's Downtown Thrill Hub
Elitch Gardens: Denver's Thrill & Splash Destination
Experience thrilling rides, refreshing water slides, and captivating entertainment at Denver's iconic downtown theme and water park.
Elitch Gardens, located in the heart of Denver, is a combination theme and water park offering a wide array of attractions from thrilling roller coasters to refreshing water slides. With a history dating back to 1890, it provides a unique entertainment experience for all ages.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Elitch Gardens
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, Auraria, Colorado, 80204, US
Monday
10:30 am-8 pm
Tuesday
10:30 am-8 pm
Wednesday
10:30 am-8 pm
Thursday
10:30 am-8 pm
Friday
10:30 am-9 pm
Saturday
10:30 am-9 pm
Sunday
10:30 am-8 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Denver Union Station, take the RTD Light Rail E or W line to the Ball Arena/Elitch Gardens station. The park is a short walk from the station. A single ride fare is $3. Alternatively, several bus routes serve the area. Check the RTD website for schedules and routes.
Walking
Elitch Gardens is located in downtown Denver and is easily accessible by foot from many nearby hotels and attractions. From the 16th Street Mall, walk west towards the South Platte River and follow the signs to the park. The walk is approximately 2 miles and should take around 40 minutes.
Driving
From I-25, take exit 212A for Speer Boulevard South and turn right onto Elitch Circle. Parking is available in the main lot, but it's cashless; only electronic payments are accepted. Parking costs $30 per day Monday through Thursday and $35 Friday through Sunday and all holidays. RV parking is $40, and motorcycle parking is $5. Be aware that during Ball Arena events, parking prices may increase.
Local tips
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Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and skip the ticket lines.
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Check the park's website for the operating schedule, as hours vary throughout the season.
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Consider a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times, as it includes perks like free parking.
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The water park is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day; plan accordingly if you want to enjoy the water attractions.
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Take advantage of the park's central location and explore other downtown Denver attractions.
Discover more about Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens is more than just an amusement park; it's a piece of Denver's history. Originally opened in 1890 as Elitch Zoological Gardens, it was the first zoo west of Chicago. Over the years, it evolved into a multifaceted entertainment destination, featuring a renowned summer stock theater, beautiful botanical gardens, and a Trocadero Ballroom that hosted big bands.
In 1994, Elitch Gardens moved to its current downtown location, becoming the first amusement park to be built in an urban area in over 30 years. Today, it offers a mix of thrill rides like the Twister III: Storm Chaser and Half Pipe, family-friendly attractions, and a water park with exciting slides. The park also hosts special events throughout the season, including fireworks and character meet-and-greets.
Elitch Gardens has something for everyone, from adrenaline junkies to families with young children. Its convenient downtown location and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Elitch Gardens
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