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Washington Park: Denver's Urban Oasis

Escape to Denver's iconic Washington Park: a blend of recreation, history, and natural beauty in the heart of the city.

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Washington Park, or 'Wash Park' as locals call it, is a sprawling 165-acre green space in Denver, Colorado, blending historic charm with modern recreation. Developed in the late 1890s, the park boasts two lakes, vibrant flower gardens, and ample space for activities, making it a beloved destination for both tourists and residents.

A brief summary to Washington Park

  • Monday 6 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-9 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Rent a paddle boat on Smith Lake for a relaxing way to enjoy the park's scenery.
  • Explore the flower gardens, especially during the summer months when they are in full bloom.
  • Take advantage of the park's multi-use trails for walking, running, or biking.
  • Check the park's event calendar for summer concerts, festivals, and other community gatherings.
  • Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the park's many picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Denver Union Station, take the RTD Light Rail D Line to the Louisiana/Pearl Station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk east to the park. A single ride fare on the light rail is $3. Alternatively, several bus routes connect the neighborhood to key locations across the city. Check the RTD website or app for specific routes and schedules.

  • Walking

    From the South Gaylord Street shopping district, walk south on Gaylord Street until you reach the park's northern edge. Enter the park and follow the paved path towards Smith Lake and the Boathouse. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and offers views of the surrounding neighborhood.

  • Ride Share

    From anywhere in downtown Denver, a ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Washington Park will typically cost between $12-$20, depending on traffic and demand. The drop-off location can be specified as 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209, or near one of the park's main attractions like the Boathouse or flower gardens.

Unlock the Best of Washington Park

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Discover more about Washington Park

Washington Park offers a serene escape within the bustling city of Denver. Designed in the late 19th century by landscape architects Reinhard Schuetze and Saco DeBoer, the park's design was influenced by city planner Kessler, the Olmsted Brothers and philanthropist Margaret Brown. The park was named in 1899 to mark the centennial of George Washington's death. The park features two lakes: Smith Lake, which is used for recreation, and Grasmere Lake, a wildlife retreat. Visitors can rent paddle boats on Smith Lake or simply relax by the shore. A replica of Martha Washington's garden at Mount Vernon adds a touch of history and horticultural beauty. The park also includes the largest flower garden in Denver, showcasing 15,000 flower varieties in a Victorian-style perennial garden. Beyond its natural beauty, Washington Park provides various recreational opportunities. A 2.6-mile loop encircles the park, offering separate lanes for walkers/runners and cyclists/rollerbladers. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis, basketball, volleyball, and croquet. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, including summer concerts and holiday celebrations. Several historic structures dot the landscape, including a 1913 boathouse designed by Jules Jacques Benois Benedict, which hosts weddings and other events. The Eugene Field Cottage, moved to the park in 1930, adds to the park's historical charm. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance, Washington Park offers something for everyone.

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