Elitch Gardens, Denver Travel Guide

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Experience thrilling rides and cool water slides at America's only downtown theme and water park, a Denver landmark for over 130 years!

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Elitch Gardens

Elitch Gardens, a Denver institution since 1890, is America's only downtown theme and water park. Combining thrilling rides, a water park, and entertainment, it offers a unique experience in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to Elitch Gardens

2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, Auraria, Colorado, 80204, US
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Elitch Gardens.

Purchase tickets online in advance for potential discounts and to avoid lines at the gate.
Check the park's website for the most up-to-date operating hours and special events.
Consider a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times.
Note that Elitch Gardens is a cashless park; only electronic payments are accepted.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Denver Zoo

Molly Brown House Museum

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Art Museum

Denver Botanic Gardens

Explore Elitch Gardens on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Elitch Gardens, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Elitch Gardens is accessible via RTD (Regional Transportation District) bus and light rail. Several bus lines and light rail routes have stops near the park. Check the RTD website for schedules and routes. A single ride fare costs $3.
Walking

From Union Station, Elitch Gardens is approximately a 24-minute walk. Head southwest on Wynkoop Street, then turn right onto 16th Street Mall. Continue onto Wewatta Street, then turn left onto Auraria Parkway. Finally, turn right onto Elitch Circle. This is a free option.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Denver. A taxi ride from downtown Denver to Elitch Gardens typically costs between $10 and $13. Prices may vary depending on traffic and demand.
Driving

Elitch Gardens is located at 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver, CO 80204. From I-25, take the Speer Boulevard South exit and turn right onto Elitch Circle. Parking is available in the main lot, but Elitch Gardens only accepts electronic payments. Parking rates are $30 on Monday-Thursday and $35 on Friday-Sunday and holidays.

Discover more about Elitch Gardens

Elitch Gardens has been a Denver landmark for over 130 years. Originally opened as Elitch's Zoological Gardens in 1890, it was the first zoo west of Chicago. Founded by John and Mary Elitch, the park quickly became a cultural hub, featuring botanical gardens, a theater, and various forms of entertainment.In 1994, Elitch Gardens moved to its current downtown location, becoming the first amusement park built in an urban area in over 30 years. Today, it offers a wide array of attractions, including thrilling roller coasters like the Mind Eraser and Twister III: Storm Chaser, family rides, and the Island Kingdom Water Park. The park also hosts special events like Fright Fest in October and firework displays.Elitch Gardens has evolved from a zoological garden and theater to a modern amusement park while retaining its historical significance. It continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides and refreshing water attractions.