Thinking about moving to Denver? You’re in for a treat! With more than 200 parks spread across 5,000 acres, Denver is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you’re into walking, picnicking, or hitting the water, there’s always something fun to do year-round.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into some of Denver’s best parks for a perfect weekend adventure!
City Parks to Check Out
Denver’s city parks are perfect for relaxing, exercising, or enjoying fun outdoor activities. Here are some of the top picks:
Washington Park
Washington Park is a local favorite near popular neighborhoods. It’s perfect for volleyball games, picnics, and dog walks. Plus, there’s a 2.6-mile loop for runners and bikers.
Cheesman Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful, grassy spot to relax, Cheesman Park is the place to be. Its historic Pavilion, built in 1910, adds a unique charm. Don’t miss free summer movies or a stroll through the nearby Denver Botanic Gardens.
City Park
City Park is right next to the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science. It’s a great spot for fishing in the pond, playing sports, or enjoying live summer concerts.
Confluence Park
Where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, this park is part of the Riverfront Park trail system. It’s popular for kayaking, dog walking, and biking.
Sloan’s Lake Park
Sloan’s Lake is Denver’s largest lake, making it ideal for water sports like boating, fishing, and jet skiing. The paved trail around the lake is perfect for jogging and biking.
More Reasons to Visit Denver Parks
Denver’s parks offer more than just scenic beauty, they’re packed with fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re into sports, nature walks, or family picnics, there’s something for every interest. Many parks host seasonal events, community festivals, and even outdoor fitness classes. You can also find tranquil spots perfect for unwinding after a busy week.
Family-Friendly Fun: Parks like City Park and Sloan’s Lake have playgrounds, picnic areas, and family-friendly events all year round.
Outdoor Sports & Fitness: Stay active by running, biking, or kayaking at Washington Park and Cherry Creek State Park.
Picnic & BBQ Spots: Pack a picnic! Central Park and Berkeley Park offer tables, BBQ grills, and reservable shelters.
Camping & Weekend Escapes: Spend the night under the stars at Chatfield and Boyd Lake State Parks, with camping spots for tents and RVs.
Wildlife & Nature Watching: Nature lovers will enjoy Barr Lake State Park, home to over 350 bird species, including bald eagles.
Seasonal Adventures: Enjoy fall hikes at Roxborough or cool off in summer at Sloan’s Lake. There’s always something to do!
Photography Hotspots: Snap stunning photos at Castlewood Canyon’s rock formations and Central Park’s mountain views.
Food & Refreshments: Grab a bite from food trucks and nearby restaurants, especially at Civic Center Park and busy hotspots.
Must-Visit State Parks Near Denver
For even more outdoor adventures, check out these nearby state parks:
Castlewood Canyon State Park
- 45 minutes from downtown
- Dramatic canyon walls, hiking trails, and rock climbing
Roxborough State Park
- 40 minutes from downtown
- Known for striking red rock formations and extensive trails
Cherry Creek State Park
- 20 minutes from downtown
- 880-acre reservoir for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and camping
Chatfield State Park
- In the foothills with a 1,400-acre reservoir
- Great for water sports and dog-friendly areas
Barr Lake State Park
- 30 minutes from downtown
- Perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking a nine-mile trail
Boyd Lake State Park
- An hour from Denver
- Largest lake in the northern Front Range with camping, swimming, and boating
Plan Your Adventure Today!
We hope this guide inspires your next weekend adventure in Denver! Whether you’re in the mood for a quick trip to a nearby park or a full weekend escape, Denver’s parks have something for everyone.
Thinking about moving to Denver? Get a free moving quote from Moving Proz. We’ll help you settle in so you can start enjoying all the amazing parks the Denver area has to offer!