Things To Do

The 700-acre Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is best known as a native plant refuge and working farm located along the banks of Deer Creek in southern Jefferson County. This expansive site includes historic Hildebrand Ranch and its restored 1918 dairy barn. The aromatic lavender garden showcases 14 species, while the unique flower-filled butterfly house is habitat to native species of these “painted ladies.”

Facilities include the Earl J. Sinnamon Visitor Center, the historical Hildebrand Ranch, a restored 1918 dairy barn and silo, the 1874 Deer Creek Schoolhouse, 2.5 miles of nature trails, the Deer Creek Discovery children’s play area and numerous wildflower gardens.

Bring your binoculars and wander the many trails. The area is known for exceptional bird watching.

The Natural Dye Study Group of the Rocky Mountain Weavers Guild approached the Gardens to establish a habitat for plants used in dyeing. The result is the Janice Ford Dye Garden, one of the few such gardens in the country. The entire complex is a bucolic refuge near the city and its fast-growing suburbs.

Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton, 720-865-4346

Hours

Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Last admission is at 4 p.m.)

Admission Prices

$14 adults

$7 children ages 3 to 15

$11 seniors (65+)

$11 military and veterans (with ID)

FREE children 2 and under

Members: Free

To learn more about Chatfield Farms FREE DAYS and to reserve tickets go here.

We love a good factory or “insiders” tour, not only because they’re usually FREE, but because you walk away with a little more knowledge…and possibly some samples. (Yes, we’re talking about you, MillerCoors, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey and Celestial Seasonings!) They’re a great way for visitors to spend a few hours getting to know the Mile High City, but can also be just as enjoyable for locals. The days and hours of tour schedules vary, so check first before making plans. Unless noted, no reservations are required. Remember, tours are very popular during the spring and summer months, so be prepared to wait. Walk this way and review our 14 Free & Cheap Fun Tours in Denver page for more details.

Take a trip back to the 1800s when the Plains Conservation Center offers Wagon Tours most Saturdays. Get to know the prairie in a whole new way. On a ride across the plains, participants watch for wildlife in the landscape, from prairie dogs to pronghorn antelope and birds of prey, beneath the great stretching sky while learning about the short grass prairie ecosystem along the way. [Read more…] about Fun, Yet Educational Wagon Tours at Plains Conservation Center

CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE! No matter your musical taste, Swallow Hill Music has a FREE jam session or performance group opportunity for you. These monthly events are a great way to learn new music styles, refine your techniques and expand your repertoire. They are FREE and open to everyone (members and non-members) alike ages 18 and older. Here’s what’s on the schedule: [Read more…] about CLOSED! Sit In On Free Jam Sessions at Swallow Hill Music