Photo: Graham Stiver
Photo: Dustin Fox
Photo: Todd Strickland
Elitch Gardens
★4.0(14,663 reviews)$$$Amusement Park
🕑 6-8 hours for a full day👶 Best for ages 3-17. Toddlers and preschoolers have dedicated Kiddieland rides, elementary-aged kids enjoy moderate thrill rides and water attractions, while teens gravitate toward the intense roller coasters and high-speed water slides. The variety ensures every age group stays entertained all day.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Elitch Gardens offers the ultimate two-in-one experience with over 50 thrilling rides ranging from kiddie carousels to heart-pounding roller coasters, plus a sprawling 10-acre water park complete with slides, a lazy river, and wave pool. Located right in downtown Denver, this amusement park delivers a full day of family entertainment without leaving the city, making it perfect for vacation or staycation adventures.
Highlights
- ✓Island Kingdom Water Park with towering slides, lazy river, and family raft rides
- ✓Kiddieland area featuring 10+ gentle rides perfect for little ones
- ✓Mind Eraser inverted roller coaster and other major thrill rides
- ✓Wave pool where kids can body surf and splash for hours
- ✓Brain Drain water slide with trap-door drop for brave teens
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive at opening time to hit popular rides like Mind Eraser and Tower of Doom before lines get long, then head to the water park during peak afternoon heat when dry ride lines are shortest
- 2.Bring water shoes for the kids,the pavement in the water park gets extremely hot in summer, and they're essential for comfort
- 3.Purchase a souvenir cup on arrival for discounted refills throughout the day, saving significantly on drinks
- 4.Download the Elitch Gardens app to check real-time wait times and plan your route efficiently between attractions
- 5.Consider visiting on weekday evenings after 4pm for shorter lines and lower ticket prices with their twilight admission deals
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays from May to early June or late August through September offer the best combination of warm weather, shorter lines, and fewer crowds. Arrive right at opening (10:30am most days) to maximize ride time, or come after 4pm for discounted twilight tickets and cooler temperatures.
What to Know
Parking is available in adjacent lots for an additional fee (cash and card accepted). Outside food and drinks aren't permitted, but there are multiple dining options throughout the park ranging from quick-service to sit-down restaurants, plus allergy-friendly menus available.
Seasonal Notes
Open daily from late May through early August, then weekends only through October. The park hosts special Halloween events (Fright Fest) in October with kid-friendly and scary zones. Water park typically closes for the season in mid-August. Holiday in the Park runs November-December with festive lights and winter activities.
Nearby Eats
Walk to Avanti Food & Beverage (5 minutes away) for diverse counter-service options from multiple vendors that please picky eaters, or try Denver Central Market for fresh, casual dining with kid-friendly choices like pizza and ice cream.
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