Elitch Gardens, located in downtown Denver, is a top spot for thrill rides and water attractions. Open from April to October, the park features exciting coasters, fun activities for kids, and seasonal events. Whether you’re spending time with family or friends in Denver, you won’t want to miss all that Elitch Gardens has to offer. Read on to find out more.
Elitch Gardens Quick Overview:
- Elitch Gardens is a historic theme park and water park in Downtown Denver, attracting visitors since 1890 with a range of rides and attractions.
- The park features a variety of thrill rides and family-friendly attractions, including the Mind Eraser Coaster and a dedicated area for younger children.
- Elitch Gardens is accessible via public transportation and offers accommodations for visitors with disabilities. For those who want to drive themselves, there is onsite parking.
Discover Elitch Gardens
Our recent visit to Elitch Gardens made for an exciting and fun-filled day for our family of 5. We visited this family-fun attraction, located right in Downtown Denver. Seasonally, there is a water park (we were too early in the season in April to enjoy it) but there was plenty for us to do to fill our day without any water attractions.
Open to the public from April through June and October, the park is easily accessible via major highways, making it a convenient home destination for locals and tourists alike. We visited during their opening weekend, in the spring, while we were petsitting in the Denver area. The waterpark was not open for the season, so we spent our day riding the rides.
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The Story of Elitch Gardens:
Did you know that Elitch Gardens is one of the earliest amusement parks in the United States? The origins of this park date back to 1890 when John and Mary Elitch transformed their farm into a public amusement park and zoo. The Elitch Theatre, opened in 1892, quickly became a cornerstone of the park, offering quality entertainment that helped build the park’s reputation. This storied past has left a lasting legacy, making Elitch Gardens more than just a park, but a piece of Denver’s history.
Elitch Gardens has evolved over the years while retaining the charm and appeal that first attracted visitors over a century ago. Despite numerous changes and upgrades, the spirit of fun and entertainment envisioned by the Elitchs remains a constant, drawing generations of families and thrill-seekers to its gates year after year, all within the old Elitch Gardens theme. Elitch’s legacy continues to thrive.
Premier Parks Era
In October 1996, Premier Parks acquired Elitch Gardens. The park was rebranded as Six Flags Elitch Gardens, bringing significant investments and new attractions. A $90 million investment was funnelled into relocating rides and constructing a new park, while an additional $28 million was spent on new attractions during the park’s third season in 1997.
Thrill Rides at Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens offers a variety of thrill rides designed to deliver high-speed excitement for adrenaline junkies. From gravity-defying roller coasters to heart-stopping drop towers, there’s no shortage of thrills at this theme park.
Tower of Doom
Another highlight of our day at Elitch was the Tower of Doom, a drop tower that provides a dramatic free-fall experience from a height of 210 feet. As we were going up our boys enjoyed the opportunity to see the entire park from the air, but the real excitement begins as you plummet back to the ground, experiencing a heart-pounding freefall.
This ride is not for the faint of heart but is sure to be a memorable part of any visit to Elitch Gardens.
Family Fun for All Ages
Elitch Gardens is not just about thrill rides; it also offers a variety of attractions that cater to different age control group, ensuring that everyone in the family can join in the fun.
From classic rides that evoke nostalgia to kid-specific attractions, there’s something for everyone at this amusement park.
Classic Family Rides
Among the classic family rides, the giant Ferris wheel and the beautifully restored carousel stand out. The Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the park, while the carousel, with its beautifully crafted horses, provides timeless enjoyment for visitors of all ages. This is where family fun and work come together.
These rides are perfect for creating family memories and enjoying a more relaxed pace at times.
Kid-Specific Attractions
Younger visitors will love KiddieLand, a dedicated area featuring safe and engaging rides tailored for their kind enjoyment. Gentle rides like the Tea Cups and beginner coasters like Blazin’ Buckaroo ensure that even the littlest guests have a great time.
Other kid-specific attractions include the ‘Jumping Jack’ ride, which offers a gentle free-fall experience, and the ‘Crazy Bus,’ named where kids can ride in miniature buses that go round and round. These are just a few of the fun things available for children.
The water park also has several attractions designed for younger people, enhancing the family-friendly atmosphere of life.
Water Rides at Elitch Gardens
When the summer heat rolls in, the water park at Elitch Gardens becomes the perfect escape. Included with theme park admission during the summer season, the water park offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various age groups and preferences. (We’re hoping to visit again when the water park is open, but for now, here’s what we learned about the water park at Elitch Gardens).
Island Kingdom Family Water Park
Spanning 20 acres, the Island Kingdom Family Water Park features Colorado’s first water coaster and a variety of other attractions. Guests can enjoy a tube slide tower, body slide tower, water playground, raft ride, and a half pipe attraction.
The lazy river provides a relaxing experience, allowing visitors to float and unwind. Open during the summer season, Island Kingdom offers a refreshing retreat for park-goers.
Popular Water Rides
Among the popular water rides, ‘Shipwreck Falls’ stands out with its massive drop and memorable splashes. ‘The Big Slide’ offers steep slopes and exhilarating turns, while ‘Tornado’ spirals riders down a massive funnel into a splash pool.
The ‘Lazy River’ offers a relaxing experience for those seeking a more laid-back attraction. Visitors are advised to start with the most popular rides to maximize their fun and excitement throughout the day.
Fright Fest
Fright Fest, a staple of Elitch Gardens since 1998, transforms the park into a Halloween-themed wonderland. With a range of spooky attractions and activities suitable for all ages, Fright Fest adds a thrilling twist to the fall season at Elitch Gardens.
Luminova Holidays
During the winter months, Elitch Gardens is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland for Luminova Holidays. With over four million lights, festive displays, and attractions like a 65-foot tree and candy cane tunnels, Luminova Holidays offers a magical holiday experience for visitors of all ages.
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
Planning a visit to Elitch Gardens is made easy with various accommodations and tips to enhance your experience.
Disability Accommodations
The park offers wheelchair rentals, accessible entrances, and a calming room for those needing a quiet space. Guests requiring assistance for rides can visit Guest Relations to receive a Ride Access Pass, ensuring easier access to attractions.
Additionally, accessible parking is available directly next to the entrance.
Planning Your Visit
Take advantage of various transportation options to make the most of your visit. The RTD light rail lines C, E, and W stop next to Elitch Gardens, providing convenient access. The park offers on-site parking with electronic payment options, including credit cards and mobile payments for those driving.
Season Passes and a Pre-K Pass offer great value for frequent visitors. Remember to store loose items in lockers near the Main Gate for a hassle-free experience.
Getting There and Parking
Elitch Gardens’ central location in Downtown Denver ensures that visitors have multiple transportation options to choose from.
Public Transportation
RTD light rail and bus services provide direct access to Elitch Gardens, making it easy for visitors to reach the park without the hassle of driving. The convenience of public transportation means you can enjoy your day at the park without worrying about parking or traffic.
On-Site Parking
Elitch Gardens offers a conveniently located main lot for on-site parking for those who prefer to drive. Parking fees are $30 on weekdays and $35 on weekends and holidays, with RV parking available for $40.
Motorcycle parking is also available at a reduced fee of $5. Remember to use electronic payment methods for a smooth parking experience.
Summary: Our Review of Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens continues to be a beloved destination in Denver, offering a mix of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and refreshing water adventures. From its storied past to its exciting future, Elitch Gardens promises memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re planning a summer outing or a holiday visit, this theme and water park remains a must-visit destination.
Check the schedule ahead of time. When we visited in April, the water park wasn’t open, and park hours can change from day to day. We didn’t mind that the water park wasn’t open since it was a cool day, but be sure that you’re setting clear expecations for what to expect that day with your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Elitch Gardens open to the public?
Elitch Gardens is open to the public from April through October, with the water park opening on Memorial Day weekend. Plan your visit accordingly to enjoy all the attractions.
Are there any discounts available for groups?
Yes, group discounts are available for parties of 8 or more, and special rates apply for school field trips with 15 or more students.
What are some of the popular thrill rides at Elitch Gardens?
Popular thrill rides at Elitch Gardens include the Mind Eraser Coaster, a suspended looping coaster, and the Tower of Doom, an Intamin drop tower. These attractions are sure to provide an exhilarating experience.
How can I get to Elitch Gardens using public transportation?
Reach Elitch Gardens by taking the RTD light rail lines C, E, or W, or by using the bus services that stop directly at the park. This makes public transportation a viable option for your visit.
What special events does Elitch Gardens offer?
Elitch Gardens offers special events such as Fright Fest in the fall and Luminova Holidays in the winter, creating immersive themed experiences for guests.
