Denver’s premier theme park destination is set to open the gates for its 135th season, ushering in what is anticipated to be the longest operating season in Elitch Gardens’ illustrious history, according to park officials.

Downtown Denver’s Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park plans to offer early access for season-pass holders, opening the park starting Saturday and Sunday. The theme park opens to all guests Saturday, April 19.

Elitch’s will operate on a part-time basis until May 22, when the park plans to open full-time. The water park portion of the park opens Memorial Day weekend and closes after Labor Day.

The park concludes its season Jan. 4 after Luminova Holidays, marking the latest it has closed in a season, according to Cindy Hann, Elitch’s director of marketing and sales.

“It’s just a place where everyone can find something fun to do,” Hann said.

“I think the historical fact of it, and that people can come and that they can enjoy it with their family. They can enjoy it with their friends,” she said. “We are excited about having something to do every weekend.”

From surprise character appearances, an increased number of fireworks shows, movie nights at the pool and adult water park parties – Elitch’s anticipates a full schedule in 2025.

Only four events are currently posted on Elitch’s website, including a Memorial Day fireworks show May 25.

All 54 rides and water attractions at Elitch’s expect to be open this season, according to Operations Director Andrew Miller.

One roller coaster, however, continues to undergo extensive maintenance, he said.

The Sidewinder, with a forward and backwards cable push launched into a drop and vertical loop, must receive a new drive motor and control system before operating again, according to Miller.

It is unclear when Sidewinder will open, as mechanics continue to work on the old 1980 relocated coaster built by defunct manufacturer Arrow Dynamics.

Instead of a standard chain lift, Sidewinder is the first-ever invented model for a launched roller coaster. There are only two of its kind left operating in the world — one in Oklahoma City and one in Blackpool, England, according to a roller coaster database.

Among other Elitch’s attractions is the popular “Mind Eraser” suspended looping coaster, “Twister lll: Storm Chaser,” “Boomerang” and “Halfpipe.”

Daily ride closures are posted outside of the park each day.

A brief history

In 1890, John and Mary Elitch transformed their farm at 38th Avenue and Tennyson Street into a garden, picnic area and zoo. Premier Parks, a major theme park operator, took over Elitch Gardens in 1996, ending its long run as a family-owned business.

Denver remains one of North America’s major cities to have a major theme park in its downtown urban area, joining the famous Coney Island in Brooklyn, N.Y. The planned Mile High River Project, housing and commercial, is slated to replace Denver’s downtown theme park in the future.

Know Before You Go

Elitch Gardens offers accommodations for guests with disabilities, including wheelchairs for rent, and there are options for people with dietary restrictions, according to posted park policies.

The park offers its own accessible entrance area with wheelchairs and strollers, allowing for an easier process in entering the park. Wheelchairs may be rented on a first-come, first-served basis.

For people who use other medical devices, such as an insulin pump or oxygen tank, it is best to consult with the park’s guest relations unit about the most suitable rides. A “calming room” is also available for guests who may experience sensory overload and need a place to rest for a while.

Service animals are permitted throughout the park, though not on most rides, and they must be under the control of the handler and on a leash or harness at all times.

For more information about disability accessibility, the park urged the public to check its guide.

Plenty of parking is available at Elitch’s and adjacent to the park for those without accessibility needs. For individuals who need accessible parking, it will be on a first-come, first-served basis and only be available to those with a valid placard. The accessible parking lot is right next to the accessible entrance.

In spring, people should be aware of increased traffic because of potential Nuggets and Avalanche playoff games next door at Ball Arena.

For the best experience, the park recommends going on a weekday and planning around the weather.

People should also hydrate and bring a reusable water bottle on hot days, including sun protection.

It is strictly prohibited to bring loose objects, notably phones to take video, on rides, without park permission.