Civic Center Park: Denver's Urban Oasis
Discover Denver's heart: a historic park with stunning architecture, vibrant events, and cultural attractions in the city's center.
Civic Center Park, Denver's most prominent green space, is a National Historic Landmark bordered by the State Capitol, the Denver Art Museum, and the City and County Building. Conceived by Mayor Robert W. Speer and inspired by the City Beautiful movement, the park's design was influenced by architects and landscape architects such as George Kessler, Frederick MacMonnies, and Edward H. Bennett. Opened in 1919, the Beaux-Arts design features symmetrical paved walks, formal flower beds, and numerous memorials. The park's east-west axis connects the Colorado State Capitol with the City and County Building, while the north-south axis terminates in apses that force the realignment of Colfax and 14th avenues. Notable features include the Greek Amphitheater, backed by an Ionic-order colonnade, and the Voorhies Memorial. Civic Center Park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and the Civic Center EATS food truck event. Visitors can explore the park's history, architecture, and public art, including the "Broncho Buster" statue by Alexander Phimister Proctor. The park also offers amenities such as picnic tables, benches, and restrooms. Civic Center Park is easily accessible via public transportation, with the RTD Civic Center Station nearby.
Local tips
- Explore the park's public art, including the "Broncho Buster" statue and the Colonnade of Civic Benefactors, which features murals by local artist Allen Tupper True.
- Attend one of the many events held in the park throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts, and the Civic Center EATS food truck event.
- Take advantage of the park's central location and visit nearby attractions such as the Colorado State Capitol, the Denver Art Museum, and the 16th Street Mall.
- Use public transportation to get to the park, as it is easily accessible via RTD light rail and bus lines.
A brief summary to Civic Center Park
- 101 14th Ave, Denver, Central, Colorado, 80204, US
- +1720-913-1311
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
- Thursday 5 am-11 pm
- Friday 5 am-11 pm
- Saturday 5 am-11 pm
- Sunday 5 am-11 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
Civic Center Park is conveniently accessible via Denver's Regional Transportation District (RTD). From Denver Union Station, take the free 16th Street MallRide to the Civic Center Station. Several RTD bus routes, including the 0, 15, 15L, 16, and 52, also stop near the park. A single ride on the bus or light rail costs $3. Alternatively, the A Line from Denver International Airport (DIA) will take you to Union Station for $10.50.
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Walking
Civic Center Park is located in downtown Denver and is easily walkable from many nearby attractions. From the 16th Street Mall, walk south towards Colfax Avenue and you'll find the park. From the Colorado State Capitol, walk west along Colfax Avenue for a few blocks to reach the park.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach Civic Center Park. Specify 'Civic Center Park' as your destination, and the driver will drop you off at a convenient entrance. Typical fares from Union Station or other downtown locations range from $7 to $15, depending on traffic and distance.
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Driving
If driving, several parking garages and lots are available near Civic Center Park. Street parking is limited. Consider parking at the Denver Post Building Garage (101 W Colfax Ave) or the Cultural Center Complex Garage (12th & Broadway). Parking rates typically range from $6 to $20 per hour. Several parking facilities are also available through online reservation services like SpotHero and Parkwell.
