The sensory garden is a natural space that engages the senses and explores the link between creativity and nature.
The Denver Art Museum’s Sensory Garden, nestled on the terrace beneath the Martin (Gio Ponti) building, invites visitors into a living, multi‑sensory installation composed of three distinct planting “fields” — water, wood, and sky.
A sensory garden is an accessible outdoor space for visitors of all ages and abilities to engage with and enjoy plants that evoke the five senses.
Each hub of DAM's sensory garden is a facet of the native steppe landscape through raised soil crates filled with fragrant, touchable grasses, soft‑leafed plants, and Mediterranean perennials like oregano and lamb’s ear, selected to engage sight, scent, and texture.
Designed to foster calm connection and creative inspiration, the garden is fully accessible and supports visitors of all abilities, offering an immersive space for sensory exploration, therapeutic gardening, and reflection amid the museum’s architecture and Colorado sky.
Learn more about the DAM Sensory Garden.
Information on visiting the garden
The entrance to the Sensory Garden can be accessed through the lower level of the Martin Building. From the main entrance, use the stairs or elevator to reach the Lower Level, then exit through the glass doors into the Kemper Courtyard. Once you get outside, follow the green signs to the north side of the building.
The best time to visit the garden is May through October. Please be aware the garden will close during inclement weather. Check the visitor services desk at either building for more information about accessing the garden.
Volunteers called Garden Guides are present from 10:30 am to 2 pm on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays now through October to answer questions and interact with visitors (weather permitting). Learn more.