Best locations for photos in Denver, Colorado
1. Chautauqua Park (Boulder)
Why it’s great:
The backdrop of the Flatirons gives instant visual “wow” to your family photos.
There’s a mix of open meadow, trails, rock outcroppings, and wooded edges to vary your compositions.
Lots of open space for little ones to run around!
Tips:
Weekdays or early times are ideal to avoid crowds.
Because it’s technically in Boulder, plan extra drive time if coming from Denver.
2. South Valley Park
Why it’s great:
You get striking red‑rock formations plus foothills and open sky—looks rugged and dramatic.
It’s often less crowded than better-known spots (especially outside prime hours).
It’s beloved by locals for family portraits and casual outings.
3. Denver Botanical Gardens
Why it’s great:
The Gardens (York Street location) have many themed garden rooms, structured paths, seasonal flowers, and the iconic Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory.
You can shift styles in one session—formal garden, intimate corners, architectural elements, water features.
For families, the Garden’s layout offers spots for kids to explore, which often helps with natural, candid moments.
Tips:
There’s an admission fee, as well as an additional $100 photo pass required.
4. Cheesman Park
Why it’s great:
Cheesman Park sits adjacent to the Botanic Gardens and provides a more open, urban‑park style setting.
The large lawn, pavilion, and tree‑lined walkways give classic portrait backdrops.
Tips:
Because Cheesman is centrally located, traffic and parking can be a factor—plan some buffer time.
5. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs area)
Why it’s great:
Although it’s a drive from Denver, the Garden of the Gods is iconic with towering red rock spires, dramatic geology, and incredible light at sunrise or sunset.
The contrast between formations and sky makes for bold, cinematic family images.
It’s especially good for families wanting a “destination” feel, or for combining with a weekend trip.
6. Civic Center Park
Why it’s great:
This is a centrally located park with lots of variety for photos.
Civic The park’s grand fountains, historic monuments, and seasonal flower displays provide beautiful backdrops,
while its central location captures the energy of downtown Denver.
Final Thoughts
Each of these seven locations offers something special:
Chautauqua gives mountain drama with a nature‑meets-trail feel
South Valley Park offers red‑rock flair and open sky
Botanic Gardens brings structured beauty, florals, and micro‑scenes
Cheesman Park balances urban grace with natural portrait space
Garden of the Gods offers epic scale and jaw-dropping rock formations
Civic Center Park offers a central, urban backdrop of downtown Denver
