Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens is a popular amusement and water park located in downtown Denver, Colorado.
Elitch Gardens in Denver, CO
Elitch Gardens is an amusement and water park that offers a variety of attractions, from high-speed roller coasters to kid-friendly rides and a sprawling water park with slides, wave pools, and splash zones. The park, open seasonally from late spring through early fall, is one of the few amusement parks in the U.S. located in the heart of a major city. The park’s downtown location provides views of the Denver skyline and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Known for its thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and refreshing water park, Elitch Gardens is a fun-filled destination that combines adrenaline and relaxation for all ages. As a historic park that dates back over a century, it holds a special place in Denver’s entertainment history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Elitch Gardens?
Elitch Gardens is divided into two main sections: the amusement park and the water park, each packed with activities and attractions:
- Thrill Rides: The park’s main thrill rides include Mind Eraser, an inverted roller coaster, Twister II, a classic wooden coaster, and the Brain Drain, a 7-story looping coaster. These rides are designed for adrenaline seekers.
- Family and Kid-Friendly Rides: Elitch Gardens offers plenty of family-friendly attractions like the Carousel, Tea Cups, and DragonWing. Kiddieland is an area with smaller rides geared toward young children.
- Water Park: Known as Island Kingdom, this water park within Elitch Gardens features a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of water slides, including Cannonball Falls and RipQurl. Admission to the water park is included with a general ticket.
- Games and Entertainment: Elitch Gardens has arcade games, carnival-style games, and live entertainment, including character meet-and-greets, magic shows, and seasonal events.
- Seasonal Events: The park hosts popular seasonal events such as Fright Fest during Halloween, featuring haunted houses and spooky mazes, and Holiday in the Gardens, a winter festival with holiday lights and themed entertainment.
What is nearby Elitch Gardens?
Elitch Gardens is conveniently located in downtown Denver, close to various attractions and landmarks:
- Ball Arena: Just a short walk from Elitch Gardens, Ball Arena hosts concerts, sports games, and events, home to the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche.
- Denver Aquarium: This family-friendly aquarium is nearby, featuring a wide array of marine life, interactive exhibits, and a mermaid show.
- Coors Field: Less than a mile away, Coors Field is the home stadium of the Colorado Rockies baseball team, with regular games and ballpark tours.
- Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus: A short drive or walk away, this museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive play areas for children of all ages.
- Union Station: Denver’s historic Union Station has cafes, restaurants, shops, and easy access to Denver’s light rail system, making it an ideal stop before or after a day at Elitch Gardens.
When was Elitch Gardens built?
Elitch Gardens holds a unique place in Denver’s history as one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. Originally opened in 1890 in a different location, it was initially a botanical garden and theater operated by John and Mary Elitch. Over time, it grew to include amusement rides and became known as “The Garden,” a favorite destination for Denver residents. In 1995, the park relocated to its current downtown Denver location to accommodate urban expansion and redevelopment. Today, it stands as a modernized version of the original, preserving the spirit of the past while offering new thrills. Elitch Gardens is a cherished institution, known for generations as a place for fun, adventure, and family outings.
Do I need separate tickets for the amusement park and water park?
No, a single admission ticket grants access to both the amusement park and the water park, so you can enjoy both areas without paying extra.
Are there height or age restrictions for rides?
Yes, height and age restrictions vary by ride. Thrill rides have minimum height requirements, while the Kiddieland rides are designed for smaller children. Ride requirements are posted at each attraction.