The Hudson Gardens & Event Center has 30 acres of classic regional display gardens, showcasing plant life that grows well in the Rocky Mountain Region. Gardens include a rose garden, ornamental grasses, a wildflower meadow, and much more. Garden admission is FREE every day of the year!
For kids, there are a few "must-see" features:
- The Chocolate Garden is filled with plants cultivated to look or smell like chocolate
- The Herb Garden features 115 varieties that will delight your sense of smell
- The Plant Zoo showcases Porcupine Grass, Ostrich Fern, and other plants with animal names
- The Garden Railroad runs on select days from mid-May through September, and features two miniature trains running through an elaborate landscape of bridges, waterfalls, and a variety of plants matching the scale of the trains
- At the Wetlands and you may spot koi, turtles, ducks, and geese (especially if you and the kiddos can sit quietly for a few minutes)
- The Water Gardens — our personal favorite — has hundreds of gigantic lily pads at the end of it with scores of frogs jumping, swimming, or resting on a lily pad
 Looking for frogs at the Water Gardens |
Before you begin your exploration of the gardens, rent a Family Explorer Pack from the front desk for $5. There are different themed packs, each with enough materials (binoculars, games, guides, and more) for several children.
The staff and volunteers at Hudson Gardens are very helpful and knowledgeable and will take the time to answer any questions you may have. The walking path through the gardens is a 1.25-mile loop. Paths are wide and stroller-friendly, although an umbrella stroller would be difficult to maneuver through some sections.
There's always something happening at Hudson Gardens! Fun and educational programs take place throughout the year (fees and advance registration may apply). From community drum circles to bird walks to family nature programs, there is something for nearly every age and interest.
Please Note: Some sections of Hudson Gardens may be closed for summer concerts, private events, and educational programs. Visit their calendar or call before you visit.
Annual Events:
- The popular Summer Concert Series features a wide variety of music from well-known artists. The 2016 season includes Gladys Knight, Little River Band, Travis Tritt, The B-52s, and so many more.
- Choose from over 40 local craft beers, enjoy live music, and play lawn games at the annual Brews & Views Beer Fest, presented in partnership with the City of Littleton.
- FestiFall is a fun harvest event for the whole family with a hay bale maze, wagon rides, pumpkin patch, games, and more.
- See holiday lights in a whole new way at A Hudson Christmas, spend time with Santa, sip hot chocolate, and sing carols.
 The Garden Railroad mimics the Colorado landscape |
