Is the world collapsing, or does it just feel that way? Either way, we’ve all been there. The endless stream of bad news, coupled with everyday frustrations, can push anyone to the edge, and it’s okay to cry it out. Therapy’s expensive, and sometimes you need to get creative. Whether you need to cry, sit in silence or be the main character in your own indie melodrama, here are some of the best parks, parking garages and corners of Denver fit for when the days feel heavy and you just need a pocket of peace.
South Broadway
Broadway Station Park N Ride
Where to go: 8875 Broadway, Denver
Found on Denver Cry Map, nothing speaks of reflection more like a parking lot–a landscape not bound by its painted lines, but by the chance that someone might ding your car with their door. When you enter, find a spot that faces the mountains so you at least know someone won’t park in front of you. Bonus points if it’s at sunset or raining.
City of Kunming Park
Where to go: 200 E Harvard Ave., Denver
Lesser known than its northern counterpart, Kunming Park sits at the southern end of Harvard and Rosedale parks. Named after its sister city, you could imagine you’re crying in Kunming, China, rather than Denver. Grab a blanket, your favorite to-go cup with warm tea and find yourself on top of the hill with great sunset views and, hopefully, fewer crowds to enjoy your time of solitude.
Cap Hill
Little Cheesman Park
Where to go: 701-799 High Street, Denver
Cheesman Park’s little sibling, Little Cheesman, sits on a one-block plot between E 7th Avenue and E 8th Avenue. Filled with trees and plenty of privacy in case you need to crash out or take a moment away from the noise, but across the street from Cheesman if it gets too close for comfort.
LoHi
Sloan’s Lake Park Playground North
Where to go: 4410 W 26th Ave., Denver
Located on the northeast side of Denver’s largest lake, this area of the park always seems to be less crowded than other parts of the lake, but there’s plenty of green space to go around. With trees surrounding the perimeter and a view of the mountains, it’s no wonder this is one of Denver’s favorite parks.
RiNo
Lot C (Coors Field)
Where to go: Coors Field Public Parking, Denver
Depending on how the moment finds you, there might be a home game happening at the same time. However, on non-game days, this parking lot offers shade and privacy from the bustling streets of RiNo.
Berkeley
Inspiration Point Park
Where to go: 4901 Sheridan Ave., Denver
If the name doesn’t sound encouraging enough, maybe the view, which is just a short walk away from the parking lot, might change your mind. Take in the view of the mountains and stroll along its .7-mile trail, which loops through trees, sculptures and gravel path.
Wash Park
Wash Park
Where to go: Meadow Loop; 39.698399, -104.965202
Located in the center of the Wash Park, Meadow Loop is a 0.9-mile trail that’s nestled between the Smith and Grasmere Lakes. With trees and plenty of places to stop along the way, the path feels like a community within a community.
Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek Trail
Where to go: The world is your oyster; Cherry Creek Trail stretches from Confluence Park to Franktown Forty-five miles of paved asphalt trail is enough to make a grown man cry. With multiple entrances spanning across Denver to Douglas County, there’s no shortage of trail to go around. Enter on foot, with your 4-legged friend or a stray Lime scooter, where you could experience the modern-day Marina Abramović and Ulay’s: The Great Wall Walk. Our recent edition of “Our 10 Favorite (Mostly Free) Things to Do in Denver” features the Platte River Trail if you’re looking for another way to walk the city in peace.
West Colfax
Crown Hill Park
Where to go: 9357 W 26th Ave., Wheat Ridge
A little outside of the city, but still carrying the same vibes, Crown Hill Park is home to two natural ponds and is noted for its abundant birdlife. One of its ponds, Kestrel, has been a designated wildlife sanctuary since 1990. There are benches and no shortage of scenic views of the mountains while you reminisce.
Honorable Mentions Include:
Any Chick-fil-A parking lot on a Sunday. Guaranteed to be empty and free of God’s judgment.
Red Rocks. Because it’s the best place on Earth.
Top floor of any parking garage, but specifically the Sie FilmCenter, Tivoli and 7th Street garages for the views and fresh air.
Any alleyway, just be sure no one else is in there with you, and check the reverb if you feel like yelling.
City Park, Ruby Hill Park, Great Lawn Park, Alamo Placita Park–all offering a ton of green room and plenty of space for you to clear your head.
In true Colorado fashion, the top of any 14er or hike should do. Just watch out for other people and the wildlife of course.
The Mother Cabrini Shine.
Hogan Park at Highlands Creek. Features “The Only Way Out Is Through” by Olivia Steele and Snyder, “Umi” by Daniel Popper and “Broken but Together” by Michael Benisty–perfect for reflecting and also gets you away from the city. DIA is not too far from there, so if you really need to get away, the airport is just a short drive.
Any cemetery, but if you really want to make it Colorado-esque, visit Buffalo Bill’s grave. If that area is busy, you have all of lookout mountain to wander around.
Have any suggestions for your favorite places to crash out? Let us know and tag your favorite crybaby.
