Globeville Landing Park

River's Edge Retreat

Located along the South Platte River in Denver, Globeville Landing Park has undergone a significant transformation since its renovation. Following a major facelift completed in December 2019, this park now pulls double duty - it's both a lovely spot to spend an afternoon and a clever solution to the area's flooding challenges.

The park contains the outfall for Denver's largest drainage basin, Montclair. To tackle those flooding issues that once plagued the area, engineers installed a 4,500-foot concrete conduit system that manages stormwater during those heavy Colorado downpours.

Nature-Forward Design

The stormwater system ends in a natural-looking outfall that benefits the environment - creating wildlife habitat, restoring the ecosystem, and improving water quality.

You'll notice large sections of the park feature native grasses rather than traditional bluegrass, a thoughtful choice that reduces water usage. The stormwater channel has an impermeable lining hidden beneath it - a smart design that keeps surface water flows separated from any contaminated groundwater below.

Places to Play and Pause

If you're looking to get active or just unwind, the park offers plenty of options. There are wide open lawns excellent for frisbee or picnics, multiple bike and pedestrian paths to explore, and plenty of places to sit and relax.

The park offers great access to the South Platte River, including a plaza right at the river's edge that's fantastic for small get-togethers. If you're looking for a quiet moment, several benches along the riverfront provide perfect spots to watch the water flow by.

Not Your Average Playground

The playground is one of the park's highlights, with separate areas designed for both younger and older kids. Little ones will love the water and sand play elements, while everyone can enjoy the custom nature play area with features designed for different age groups.

The playground features a rope swing built for three users at once, a triple tight rope, and a climbing wall that offers various challenges. The natural elements throughout the play areas add variety to the playground experience.

Gather and Feast

Planning a get-together? The park's covered picnic areas come equipped with barbecue grills, making this a go-to spot for family reunions or birthday celebrations. There's a water fountain conveniently located near the picnic area when you need to refill your bottle.

The open grassy spaces surrounding these picnic shelters offer plenty of room to spread out for games or just lounging on a blanket.

Getting There

The park sits near the Denver Coliseum and the National Western Center, which provides an unexpected bonus for train enthusiasts - you can watch the activity at the nearby Burlington Northern train yards and spot commuter trains passing by.

Just note that parking isn't the park's strong suit. Most visitors end up using street parking along the road to the Denver Coliseum lot or finding spots in unpaved areas near the park entrance.

Community Hub

Globeville Landing Park functions as both a gateway to the National Western Center and a neighborhood park for the Globeville community and surrounding areas.

The park balances practical flood control with environmental protection and recreational spaces. Despite the urban surroundings, the river, trees, and open spaces provide a welcome break from city life.