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Botanical Gardens in Colorado

8 botanical gardens in Colorado with photography planning data — sunrise and sunset azimuths, golden hour by month, Milky Way windows and estimated sky darkness. Denver County has the most (2). The darkest skies are at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens (Bortle 5).

Top botanical gardens

Denver Botanic GardensBotanical Garden
Denver Botanic GardensDenver County
Betty Ford Alpine GardensBotanical Garden
Betty Ford Alpine GardensEagle County
Elitch GardensBotanical Garden
Elitch GardensJefferson County
Andrews ArboretumBotanical Garden
Andrews ArboretumBoulder County
Hudson GardensBotanical Garden
Hudson GardensArapahoe County
Yampa River Botanic ParkBotanical Garden
Yampa River Botanic ParkRoutt County
Boettcher Memorial Tropical ConservatoryBotanical Garden
Boettcher Memorial Tropical ConservatoryDenver County
Botanical Garden
Montrose Botanic GardensMontrose County

Map

How to photograph botanical gardens

Gardens are best on bright overcast days or early mornings when dew is fresh and the wind is calm.

  • A macro lens or close-up filter opens a world of detail — try a shallow aperture against a soft background.
  • Many gardens restrict tripods or charge for photography; check the rules before you go.
  • Backlit petals glow; position yourself so the sun is behind the flower.
  • Seasonal exhibits (orchids, tulips, cherry blossoms) draw crowds — arrive at opening.
  • Kaleidoscopic and abstract images are great for flower close-ups — try the online kaleidoscope tool.

Season: Spring bulbs and blossoms, summer perennials and autumn color; glasshouses offer winter subjects.