There's just something about getting outdoors and spending some time in a more natural setting that's just good for the soul. Lucky for us, there are plenty of spots in the Denver area where you can enjoy the great outdoors. These 7 scenic destinations are some of the best parks around Denver that allow you to surround yourself with nature:

1. Denver Botanic Gardens (Denver Cheesman Park)

Now you knew we couldn't begin our list of the best parks around Denver without mentioning the jaw-dropping Denver Botanic Gardens, which is open year-round and houses an incredible 23 acres worth of various shrubs, flowers, trees, and more. (Psst... Take our advice and visit this city gem at least once every season!)

2. Confluence Park (Denver LoDo)

For a tranquil oasis smack dab in the middle of the city, check out Confluence Park; a beautiful park in Denver that is hidden by nearby buildings and warehouses, and boasts a small beach plus opportunities to swim and kayak.

3. Washington Park (Denver)

When it comes to beautiful parks in Denver, you'll have a hard time beating what you'll see at

Washington Park. Boasting 160-acre natural oasis. If you time your visit right, you'll get to see all of the enchanting blooms at the Perennial Garden off Downing Street, home to over 50 flower beds and 15,000 flowers!

4. Cherry Creek State Park (Aurora)

Who says you have to travel south to visit the beach?! The Denver area is home to a sandy beach of its own, thanks to the popular Cherry Creek State Park & Reservoir. In addition to splashing the day away, Cherry Creek is home to a number of other outdoor activities -- like hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

5. Roxborough State Park (Littleton)

Arguably the best hiking in and around the city can be found at Littleton's Roxborough State Park, one of the best state parks near Denver. This scenic state park features not only epic wildlife sightings (pictured), but colorful and dramatic red-rock formations as well.

6. Red Rocks (Morrison)

Another iconic set of Denver-area red-rock formations is that of the beautiful Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, which -- unlike Roxborough -- also offers one of the best concert venues in the country (pictured).

7. City Park (Denver)

For the best of both worlds in terms of both nature and cityscape, there is no beating Denver's gorgeous City Park, which comes complete with this stunning skyline backdrop! If you think this picture looks cool, you gotta experience this place for yourself.

For even more epic outdoor spots around Denver, check out These 5 Trails Around Denver Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ancient Ruins.