The Denver Botanic Gardens Maze is a captivating 7-acre corn maze that offers visitors a unique and challenging experience. Located at the Denver Botanic Gardens, this annual attraction features a theme that changes each year, with the current season showcasing Colorado wildlife. The maze is designed with numerous twists, turns, and dead ends, making it an exciting adventure for all ages. A notable feature is the 15-foot-tall bridge that provides a bird’s-eye view of the entire maze.
What Makes the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze Unique?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Maze stands out for several reasons:
- Annual Theme Changes: Each year, the maze adopts a new theme, keeping the experience fresh for returning visitors.
- Expansive Size: Covering 7 acres, it offers a substantial challenge that takes about an hour to complete.
- Scenic Views: The 15-foot-tall bridge allows visitors to appreciate the maze’s intricate design from above.
- Family-Friendly: With attractions for all ages, it’s an ideal destination for families and groups.
How is the Maze Designed?
The design of the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze is a carefully planned process:
- Theme Selection: The theme is chosen annually, often reflecting Colorado’s natural heritage.
- Layout Planning: Designers create a complex pattern of paths, dead ends, and the central bridge.
- Corn Planting: The maze is grown using corn plants, which are carefully tended throughout the season.
- Path Creation: Once the corn reaches a certain height, paths are cut according to the design.
What Are the Operating Hours and Admission Costs?
Operating Hours:
- Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
- Last entry: 5 p.m.
- Maze closes: 6 p.m.
Admission Costs:
| Category | General Admission | Members/Military/Students |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $18 | $16 |
| Seniors (65+) | $16 | $14 |
| Children (3-15) | $12 | $10 |
| Children (2 and under) | Free | Free |
Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific time slot. No onsite ticket sales are available.
What Additional Attractions Are Available?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Maze offers more than just the main corn maze:
- Mini-Maze: A smaller maze for children 10 and younger, open on weekends.
- Barrel Train Rides: Included with child maze tickets.
- Escape Rooms: Available for an additional fee, featuring a pirate ship theme.
- Food Vendors: Offering fall favorites like funnel cakes and roasted nuts.
- Deer Creek Discovery: A wildlife observation area.
- Barnyard Friends: An opportunity to visit farm animals.
How Long Does It Take to Complete the Maze?
The average time to complete the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze is approximately one hour. However, this can vary depending on:
- Your navigation skills
- The complexity of the current year’s design
- Whether you take breaks to enjoy the view from the bridge
- Time spent at additional attractions
What Should Visitors Bring to the Maze?
To make the most of your visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze, consider bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen and hats
- Light jackets for cooler evenings
- Cameras to capture the experience
- Cash for food vendors (though many accept cards)
How Can Visitors Prepare for the Maze Experience?
To enhance your visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze:
- Purchase tickets in advance for your preferred time slot.
- Arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.
- Review the maze rules and guidelines before entering.
- Consider visiting on a weekday if possible, as weekends can be busier.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to enjoy all the attractions.
What Makes the Denver Botanic Gardens Maze a Must-Visit Attraction?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Maze offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, problem-solving, and family-friendly fun. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
- Challenging Experience: The maze provides a mental and physical challenge suitable for all ages.
- Scenic Beauty: Set against the backdrop of Colorado’s natural landscape, it offers stunning views.
- Educational Value: The changing themes often highlight local wildlife and ecosystems.
- Family Bonding: It’s an excellent opportunity for families to work together and create lasting memories.
- Seasonal Fun: As a fall attraction, it captures the essence of the harvest season.
The Denver Botanic Gardens Maze is more than just a corn maze; it’s a comprehensive autumn experience that combines nature, adventure, and education. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Denver, this attraction offers a unique way to enjoy the outdoors and challenge yourself in a fun, family-friendly environment.
References:
– https://www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/corn-maze
– https://www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/pumpkin-festival
– https://www.westword.com/arts/how-to-build-a-corn-maze-will-jones-reveals-the-denver-botanic-gardens-secrets-5786857