All Wet: Make a Splash at These Five Denver Attractions

Sun-soaked days and sizzling temps are here. Fortunately, this city is full of ways to beat the heat; don’t let its landlocked location fool you! From thrilling waterslides to lazy river floats and luxurious rooftop pools, there’s something for every summer lover looking to stay cool.

Wiggle into your swimmies, slide on your flip-flops and make a splash at these five Denver-area attractions:

Chatfield State Park
11500 North Roxborough Park Road, Littleton
cpw.state.co.us
With gravel ponds and a giant reservoir spanning 1,355 surface acres, Chatfield State Park ranks among the best local places for paddleboarding, kayaking and other water sports. While motorized boats are permitted on the water, there are large no-wake zones at the southwest and southeast ends of the reservoir — calm areas that overlap, respectively, with the swim beach and Roxborough Cove, where you’ll find hourly equipment rentals including SUPs for $25 and single kayaks for $30 through September 28. Note that a $12 vehicle day pass is required to access the park, which also features more than thirty miles of hiking trails, tent and RV campsites, a massive dog park, a horse stable offering trail rides and much more.

Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
245 Columbine Street
halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
Love the idea of a staycation but struggle to justify the cost? Through ResortPass, you can enjoy the amenities at several of Denver’s most luxurious hotels at a far more affordable day rate. For example, the $59 pass at the Halcyon in Cherry Creek grants access to its sparkling rooftop pool, soothing hot tub and lounge chairs with mountain views. Those with a group may want to consider the upgraded package that includes a private cabana or full guest room for up to four guests. On Friday evenings through July 25, the fun continues with Halcyon's Cinema in the Sky series. Catch poolside films under the stars and snack on complimentary popcorn, plus wood-fired fare and refreshing cocktails from Rare Bird, one of the city’s best rooftop bars.

South Platte River
2920 Brewery Lane, Littleton
adventurewestco.com
There are several thrilling tubing spots near Denver, from the whitewater park in Golden to busy Boulder Creek. But for a lazy river float that goes for miles, there’s no better place than the South Platte. You could catch a ride or coordinate with friends, parking one vehicle at the put-in and another at your exit. But to make the experience easy, book a shuttle and tube rental ($37 to $40) through Adventure West; this local outfitter will be posted up outside Breckenridge Brewery in Littleton through August 3. After a quick safety talk, you’ll be transported down to the Blackrock Lake access point, then enjoy a mellow float through the scenic Carson Nature Center. Hop out at Reynolds Landing and follow a paved trail a short distance back to the brewery, which offers cold craft beer, American fare and live music from its large grassy lawn.
City Park
2001 Steele Street
Washington Park
701 South Franklin Street
denvergov.org
Wheel Fun Rentals has operated along Ferril Lake in City Park and Smith Lake in Wash Park for years, but not until last summer did the latter receive its most popular offering: swan boats. Though the boats are available during daylight hours through October 26, many pedalers opt for evening rides, when the floating fowl glow with LED string lights. Priced hourly at $12 per adult and $7 per child under thirteen, this leisurely experience is perfect for a date night or entertaining the entire family. When booking, consider the company’s other rental options, including bikes and four-wheeled Surrey cycles that allow visitors to explore either park’s extensive paved trails with ease.

Water World
8801 Pecos Street, Federal Heights
waterworldcolorado.com
With more than thirty attractions, Water World offers aquatic amusement for all ages. But crowds are to be expected on summer weekends, especially when the temperatures near triple digits. To make the most of your visit, plan to go on a weekday; not only will wait times for rides be less, but day tickets come at a cheaper rate ($35.99 to $40.99). With those savings, splurge on a $84.99 tube valet wristband that will grant even shorter lines for up to four people. Plus, it’ll save your group the sweaty effort of lugging heavy inner tubes around the hilly park. Last pro tip: Stock picnic supplies in a cooler to bring into the park, but don’t miss out on Dippin’ Dots between lazy river floats, races down speed slides, spins around big bowls and wave pool fun.