Mordecai Children's Garden represents Denver Botanic Gardens' commitment to fostering a deep, lifelong connection between children and the natural world. This special space, dedicated to young explorers and their families, is a vibrant world where the wonders of Colorado's ecosystems come alive through interactive, hands-on experiences and imaginative play.
Where Is the Children's Garden Located?
Mordecai Children's Garden is located alongside the Denver Botanic Gardens and not far from Cheesman Park. Visitors will find the Mordecai Children's Garden entrance on the third floor of the underground parking garage bridging Josephine Street and York Street.
The journey to the Children's Garden itself is part of the experience, inviting guests to ascend to a space designed specifically for the youngest members of the family to engage with the natural world. As visitors make their way to this elevated garden, they can anticipate a shift from the hustle and bustle of city life to a more serene, natural environment where imagination and exploration are the orders of the day.
4 Things Kids Can Do at Mordecai Children's Garden
Mordecai Children's Garden is a treasure trove of activities designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love for nature in young hearts. Each corner of this garden is a new opportunity for discovery, offering children the chance to engage with the environment in a direct, hands-on manner. Here are four delight-filled experiences that await families at this enchanting part of the Denver Botanic Gardens.
1. Climb the Marmot Mountain
A highlight for many young adventurers, Marmot Mountain offers a chance to scale new heights and observe the garden from a bird's-eye view. This feature is an immersive experience that replicates the rocky alpine environments, complete with native flora. It's a fun physical activity for children, but it's also a lesson in ecology and the adaptations of alpine species.
2. Experience the Plant Life of Colorado
The Mordecai Children's Garden serves as a living classroom where children can experience the rich biodiversity of Colorado firsthand. Through exploration, they'll encounter a variety of ecosystems, such as the Alpine Tundra, Subalpine Habitat, Montane Forest, Pinon-Juniper Woodlands, Foothills, Grasslands, Wetlands, and Riparian Zones. Each ecosystem is represented, showcasing the types of plants that thrive in Colorado's diverse climates and terrains. This hands-on approach to learning allows children to touch, smell, and see the plants, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
3. Explore a 3-Acre Oasis With a Swinging Bridge
Spanning three acres, the Mordecai Children's Garden is a playground of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. One of the most thrilling features for many children is the swinging bridge that adds an element of adventure to their day. This expansive space is carefully designed to encourage exploration, imagination, and physical activity, all within the safety of the garden's confines.
4. Enjoy Water Features and Dirt Pits
Water features and dirt pits might seem simple, but they are among the most popular attractions within Mordecai Children's Garden. These elements tap into children's intrinsic desire to interact with their environment through sensory play. The water features allow kids to learn about the properties of water and its role in the ecosystem, while the dirt pits encourage digging, building, and planting, fostering a hands-on connection with the earth. These experiences are fun and educational, providing engaging lessons in physics, biology, and environmental science.
Is the Children's Garden Included in the Botanic Gardens Fee?
One of the most appealing aspects of Mordecai Children's Garden is its accessibility. Entrance to this haven for play and discovery is included with the general admission ticket to Denver Botanic Gardens. This means that families can enjoy the full spectrum of garden experiences, from the thematic gardens and exhibits that cater to a wide audience to Mordecai Children's Garden, which is tailored specifically for children and families.
Make Family Memories at Mordecai Garden With CityPASS® Tickets
Visiting Mordecai Children's Garden becomes an unforgettable family outing with Denver CityPASS® tickets, simplifying your exploration of Denver's top attractions. Enjoy the blend of educational content, interactive play, and the beauty of nature at a value that makes experiencing the best of the city more accessible. Make lasting memories as you discover the wonders of the natural world together at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
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