Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park

The basics

An admission ticket to Elitch Gardens includes unlimited rides at both the theme and water park. To make the most out of your day, upgrade your ticket to the “Rapid Ride” and receive fast-track admission to the park’s most thrilling, in-demand rides, like the Boomerang, Disaster Canyon, and the Mind Eraser. In addition to rides, the park also features magic shows, concerts, and “Dive-In” movies at the Wave Pool.

Things to know before you go

• Elitch Gardens is a fun, family-friendly amusement park with rides and activities for all ages.

• Purchase tickets ahead of time online to find discounts, and plan for a full day at the park.

• Don’t miss the panoramic views of downtown Denver from the Observation Tower.

• Many of the rides at Elitch Gardens are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for rent at the entrance gate.

How to get there

Elitch Gardens is in the northwestern corner of downtown Denver near the Mile High Stadium. It is easily reached by car via Interstate 25, and pay parking is available at the park. You can also take the bus or light rail to the park from downtown Denver and surrounding areas.

When to get there

The park is open seasonally from early April through the end of October, and hours vary based on the month; it's open daily during the summer, and weekends only for the rest of the season. Arrive first thing in the morning to avoid long lines at the major attractions.

Elitch Gardens Fright Fest

Elitch Gardens is transformed into a haunted theme park during the month of October. Younger children can enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, and creepy crafts during the day, but by nightfall the park is overrun with zombies, monsters, and mayhem. Fright By Night events feature attractions such as haunted houses, "scare zones," and a carnival graveyard designed for thrills and chills, and are only suitable for kids 12 and up.