If the recent snowy and frigid weather in Denver has you longing for a tropical vacation in warmer temperatures, you don't actually have to travel far at all. There is a wonderful place for locals to escape the cold right here in the Mile High City. Make your way to the Denver Botanic Gardens to experience an indoor tropical forest that is always a balmy 70 degrees.

The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory is an 11,500 square foot space that is filled with more than 600 species and varieties of exotic plants from tropical and subtropical regions.

You will truly feel as if you have been transported to a tropical location when you enter the lush gardens complete with pools, waterfalls, and even resident ducks.

Denver Botanic Garden's tropical conservatory is one-of-a-kind and took nearly two years to build. It officially opened to the public in 1966.

The unusual structure was designed by local architects Victor Hornbein and Ed White. The conservatory, which was awarded Denver Landmark status just 7 years after it opened, is constructed with high, interlaced concrete arches that are inset with Plexiglass panels.

During renovations in 1998, a second level mezzanine, tree house, and elevator were added.

This provided guests with a multi-layered view of the unique displays that will make it difficult for you to leave this local paradise and go back out into the cold.

So, go ahead and peel off your coat, scarf, hat, and gloves and take the opportunity to bask in the warmth as you stroll around the winding paths that lead to new discoveries of beauty everywhere you turn.

The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory can be found at the York Street location of Denver Botanic Gardens: 1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206.

Their winter hours (Sept. 25 - May 12) are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Check out Denver Botanic Garden's website for more details about the conservatory and other areas of the garden you'll want to explore. Do you love warming up and taking in the unique displays at the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory? Please share your experience in the comments below.

Denver Botanic Gardens is known for their expansive and beautiful landscapes, but do you know about its haunted history? Read all about it here: This Denver Legend Will Send Chills Down Your Spine.