The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, providing opportunities for education, entertainment, and outdoor exploration. While there isn’t a specific event called ‘Family Fun Night’, the gardens host numerous activities that cater to families looking for evening entertainment and educational experiences. These events range from musical performances to nature walks and seasonal activities, all designed to engage visitors of all ages in the beauty and wonder of the botanical world.
What Are the Best Evening Events for Families at Denver Botanic Gardens?
Evenings al Fresco
One of the most popular family-friendly evening events at the Denver Botanic Gardens is Evenings al Fresco. This event series takes place on various dates in June and July from 4:30-7:30 PM. Here’s what you need to know:
- Entertainment: Local musicians perform, creating a relaxing atmosphere for families to enjoy.
- Dining Options:
- Offshoots Café and The Hive are open during the event
- A hot dog cart is available for quick bites
- Weather Contingency: The event moves indoors in case of inclement weather
- Ticket Prices:
- Non-members: $32
- Members: $22
- Children 2 and younger: Free admission
- Booking: Tickets must be purchased in advance; no onsite sales available
Night at the Museums
Another exciting event for families is the Night at the Museums, which typically occurs in November. Key details include:
- Date and Time: Saturday, November 2, from 5-10 PM
- Cost: Free admission, no registration required
- Activities:
- Art exhibitions
- Cooking classes
- Science labs
- Note: This event does not include garden access
What Types of Family Activities Are Available at Denver Botanic Gardens?
The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a range of activities suitable for families with children of various ages:
- Seedlings: Harvest Treasures
- Nature walks
- Seasonal color and shape exploration
- Craft creation
-
Suitable for children and families
-
Family Workshop at Plains Conservation Center: Cooking in the 1800s
- Learn to cook on a wood-burning stove
- Historical education experience
-
Family-oriented activity
-
Prairie Pup Adventures
- Designed for preschool-aged children
- Interactive learning about animals and plants
- Exploration of the prairie environment
How Much Do Family Events Cost at Denver Botanic Gardens?
Event pricing at Denver Botanic Gardens varies depending on the specific activity and membership status:
| Event | Member Price | Non-Member Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evenings al Fresco | $22 | $32 | Children under 2 free |
| Night at the Museums | Free | Free | No registration required |
| Seedlings | Varies | Varies | Pricing not specified in sources |
| Prairie Pup Adventures | Varies | Varies | Pricing not specified in sources |
It’s important to note that group pricing is generally not available for special events.
What Amenities and Facilities Are Available for Families?
Denver Botanic Gardens provides various amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for families:
- Dining Options:
- Offshoots Café
- The Hive
-
Food carts during special events
-
Accessibility:
- Parking available
-
Shuttle services for some events (e.g., Night at the Museums)
-
Indoor Spaces:
- Classrooms
- Helen Fowler Library
- Research laboratories (accessible during specific events)
How Can Families Make the Most of Their Visit to Denver Botanic Gardens?
To maximize your family’s experience at Denver Botanic Gardens, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead:
- Check the event calendar regularly
-
Book tickets in advance for popular events like Evenings al Fresco
-
Dress Appropriately:
- Many events are outdoors, so check the weather forecast
-
Bring layers for evening events when temperatures may drop
-
Bring Supplies:
- Water bottles
- Snacks (if permitted)
-
Camera for capturing memories
-
Explore Educational Opportunities:
- Participate in workshops and classes
-
Engage with staff and volunteers to learn more about the plants and ecosystems
-
Take Advantage of Member Benefits:
- Consider a membership for discounted event tickets and other perks
By following these guidelines and exploring the various family-friendly offerings, you can create memorable experiences at Denver Botanic Gardens. Whether you’re enjoying live music under the stars, learning about historical cooking methods, or introducing your preschooler to the wonders of nature, the gardens provide a rich environment for family fun and education.