Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the middle of the Mile High City.

Dedicated in 1954, it has grown into a preeminent horticultural venue, displaying more than 36,000 plants across 50 curated gardens, with a focus on native plants that thrive in Colorado. It’s also become a leader in environmentally responsible practices such as water conservation.

While wandering its meandering paths without a destination in mind is a great way to explore the living museum, to simply look at the plants is to overlook how much the destination has to offer. Take in all the lushness with this handy guide.

All about the flora

Travel the world without leaving Cheesman Park.

The Gardens display a global array of plants, pulling inspiration from Japan, various steppe climates and the tropics, among other regions. Some sections are devoted to specific plants (lilacs or irises, for example) or themes (see: the Romantic and Fragrance gardens). Of course, it might be most beneficial to examine the 18 Gardens of the West, which highlight plants that are particularly suited to the Centennial State; you might just walk away with ideas for your own home garden.

Two of the most photo-worthy spots are the water gardens: the Monet Pool is covered in water lilies (peak bloom is June through September) while the Four Towers Pool is named after the fountains that create a stark geometric contrast to the organic shapes of the swamp hibiscus, papyrus and other water plants growing below.

Bird-watching for all

More than 150 species have been spotted in this birding hot spot. As you walk through the Gardens, keep your eyes peeled for hummingbirds, black-capped chickadees, robins and hawks, among other species.

Get cultured

Visit the Freyer–Newman Center to explore the art galleries (Anna Kaye’s charcoal explorations of wildfire’s impact will be on display through late May); to peruse around 25,000 titles at Helen Fowler Library; to watch nature-themed films in Sturm Family Auditorium; and to refuel at Copper Door Coffee Roasters.

Inspired by Colorado’s vibrant sunsets, famed glass artist Dale Chihuly crafted a tall, spiky sculpture that bursts in yellow and orange in the Ellipse Garden.

Grab a bite

The Gardens encompass two restaurants along with the coffee shop. Offshoots Café in the main building serves breakfast standbys, including a burrito, and a lunch menu of salads, sandwiches and flatbreads. Hive Garden Bistro is open seasonally next to the Monet Pool; the seasonal lineup incorporates produce grown at the Gardens’ Chatfield Farms location.

Special events

There are three annual events you won’t want to miss: the Spring Plant Sale in May; the al fresco Summer Concert Series, which kicks off in June and always sells out; and the holiday celebration Blossoms of Light, which begins in late November.

Expand your mind

A wide variety of classes are featured each month. Recent offerings have included flower arranging, herbal remedies for the skin, plant propagation 101, how to preserve citrus and photography instruction.

The Science Pyramid’s “Welcome Home: Meet Your Habitat” exhibition is another opportunity for learning. It explores Colorado’s habitat and the interconnectedness of humans and nature.

Be well

From vinyasa yoga classes throughout the day to Chi Kung (an ancient Chinese exercise system), the Gardens offer a beautiful setting to get your blood pumping. Other wellness activities also are available, such as singing bowl meditation workshops and women’s retreats.

Therapeutic horticulture programs ensure people of all abilities can experience the Gardens. These include low-sensory mornings between May and August and special sessions open to visitors dealing with dementia, Parkinson’s and other health concerns.

For the kids

Smaller green thumbs are more than welcome to visit the Gardens. Start at the 3-acre Mordecai Children’s Garden, a sensory playground built atop the parking garage. Kids can smell, touch and explore a collection of plants that thrive in Colorado. And some classes — such as building a fairy garden or painting with plants — are geared toward children. Weeklong camps are offered for 6- to 12-year-olds.