DENVER — A new outdoor play area has opened at Denver's City Park.
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS) opened Nature Play, a four-acre natural play experience outside the southwest corner of the museum, on Tuesday.
The play area brings the museum's dioramas to life through interactive and immersive natural play experiences. Nature Play offers swings, slides and climbing structures, as well as seating and gathering spaces.
DMNS said a highlight is a 20-foot-tall Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep sculptural play structure. Sculptural play elements featuring animals native to Colorado’s diverse habitats are embedded throughout the park.
The $7.9 million project will be free, open and accessible to the public year-round.
The natural play experience was designed with more than five years of input from thousands of Colorado community members, DMNS said.
"From the very beginning, Nature Play has been shaped by the hopes and dreams of the Denver community," said DMNS President and CEO George Sparks. "Today, we’re so excited to open Nature Play, a new unique and iconic play area where community members of all ages and abilities will be able to celebrate Colorado's dynamic ecosystems and play together."
"Nature Play represents more than just a space for children to play," said Denver Parks & Recreation Executive Director Jolon Clark. "This area embodies our dedication to creating spaces that foster a deep connection with the natural world. We hope this playground will not only inspire wonder and creativity but also encourage our community to explore and celebrate the beauty of nature right here in Denver."
