Washington Park 🇺🇸

Located in south-central Denver, Washington Park is a historic 165-acre urban public park covering one mile by a quarter-mile. A blend of historic and contemporary architecture, its development began in 1899 under German landscape architect Reinhard Schuetze, with later design influences from George Kessler, the Olmsted Brothers, Saco Rienk DeBoer, and Margaret "Molly" Brown. Named one of the "Great Public Spaces in America" in 2012, it is often compared to New York City's Central Park.

When you visit, you will find a wealth of scenic features and historic sites. The park houses two lakes (Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake), the Lily Pond, and a historic 1913 Italian-style boating pavilion. It features Denver's largest flower garden, including a Victorian-style Perennial Garden built in 1917 and a Mt.

Vernon Garden that is an exact replica of Martha Washington's garden. Explore the rolling Evergreen Hill, the preserved Field House of poet Eugene Field, and notable sculptures like Mabel Landrum Torrey's "Wynken, Blynken and Nod" and George Carlson's "Early Day Miner." Active visitors can enjoy ten tennis courts, a lawn bowling green, two playgrounds, a large meadow for soccer or volleyball, and the city's busiest recreation center, complete with an indoor pool. Paths throughout the park provide stunning views of the Front Range mountains.

What to see at Washington Park

• Stroll through Denver's largest flower garden, featuring an exact replica of Martha Washington's Mt. Vernon garden.
• Relax by Smith Lake, Grasmere Lake, or the historic 1913 Italian-style boating pavilion.
• View historic sculptures like Mabel Landrum Torrey's "Wynken, Blynken and Nod" and George Carlson's "Early Day Miner."
• Enjoy outdoor sports across ten tennis courts, a lawn bowling green, and a large meadow for volleyball and soccer.
• Explore the historic Field House, the former residence of poet Eugene Field moved to the park by Molly Brown.

Visiting tips

Use the system of asphalt and gravel paths to easily navigate the park by walking, biking, or using rented surreys.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Spring through early fall

How to get there & what’s nearby

Washington Park is easy to reach on Denver’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Denver Art Museum and Denver Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Denver travel guide.