City Park Playground
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
45 min-1.5 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 2-10
About
City Park Playground is the play structure located within Denver's sprawling 330-acre City Park, one of the city's most beloved green spaces. At 4.5 stars from 140 reviews, it is a reliable and well-maintained neighborhood playground, but its real value is the context it sits in.
City Park is home to the Denver Zoo on its northern edge, Ferril Lake with summer paddle boat rentals in the center, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science on the park's east side. A visit to City Park Playground can easily be the opening act of a full family day — playground first to burn energy, then the zoo, then a picnic by the lake.
The playground equipment is appropriate for ages 2-10 and is well-kept by Denver Parks and Recreation. Shade is limited at the playground itself, so bring sunscreen. One important practical note: City Park Playground closes at 7PM, earlier than most Denver parks that remain open until 10PM or 11PM.
Parking is available along York St and within City Park's lot system. The surrounding neighborhood — Congress Park on the south, City Park West on the west — offers excellent post-park dining on Colorado Blvd and 17th Ave.
For families visiting Denver, City Park is a foundational stop. The playground makes it child-friendly from the moment you arrive.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings; closes at 7PM daily
Wait Times
No wait — free public playground
Nearby Food
City Park has a food stand near the boathouse in summer. Colorado Blvd and the Congress Park neighborhood have numerous restaurants and coffee shops nearby.
Why Kids Love It
City Park Playground sits within Denver's massive City Park, home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Kids love that a playground trip here naturally connects to an entire day of activities — the zoo is visible from parts of the park, paddle boats are available at Ferril Lake, and the surrounding green space is ideal for running and picnicking.
Pro Tips from Parents
- City Park Playground closes at 7PM — earlier than most Denver parks that run until 10PM or 11PM
- The Denver Zoo is immediately adjacent to City Park — a playground visit pairs naturally with a zoo day
- Ferril Lake has a boathouse with paddle boat rentals in summer
- City Park is one of the largest urban parks in Denver — plan more than just the playground
- Open parking is available in City Park off York St and along Colorado Blvd
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and hats
- Water and snacks
- Picnic blanket
- Zoo day bag if combining visits
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$0 (free public playground within City Park)
Tips to Save
- Completely free.
- Closes at 7PM — earlier than most Denver parks.
- Combine with a walk around Ferril Lake or a visit to the Denver Zoo next door.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 7AM-7PM
- Monday
- 7AM-7PM
- Sunday
- 7AM-7PM
- Tuesday
- 7AM-7PM
- Saturday
- 7AM-7PM
- Thursday
- 7AM-7PM
- Wednesday
- 7AM-7PM