A Great Denver Location for Photos
Central Park, formerly Stapleton, is a neighborhood within the city limits of Denver, Colorado. Located east of downtown Denver, the neighborhood is at the former site of the decommissioned Stapleton International Airport that was closed in 1995 when Denver International Airport was being commercialized. It is the largest residential neighborhood within the city of Denver. Check out more Central Park Photos!
Denver Family Photo Session
This huge open space reigns king among Denver parks. The area includes Westerly Creek and the Stanley Marketplace and boasts gorgeous clear views all around. The Rockies are impossible to miss! Especially when a gorgeous sunset is painting the sky. This is a common spot for biking, hiking, playing ball, or just chilling.
Denver Highschool Senior Portraits
This accessible spot has tons of features to rev up your senior’s portrait! From ponds and lakes to lush grassy fields, you will be sure to find a part of this park that sparks interest! Check out the surrounding area, too. The neighborhood is full of colors, creeks, and standout murals to match the needs of your photo session. This park will entice you in and it is easy to get lost exploring this astonishing place!
Other Features of Note
Ever notice the old air traffic tower in the distance? It was once functioning for the Stapleton Internation Airport! It adds a buzz to the atmosphere, especially for those who aspire for a future career in flying. It’s a great location for any time of the year. With 46 miles of urban trails, the Central Park, Lowry, and Northfield neighborhoods offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Central Park is a haven for dogs, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers. Biking and hiking paths connect the area to the 17,000-acre Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, where the city gives way to the prairie.
If you’re looking for somewhere similar to this spot, check out City Park & Denver Museum of Nature and Science and Washington Park.
Central Park Denver: A Family Photo Haven
Central Park in Denver’s Stapleton neighborhood has become one of our favorite locations for family portraits and engagement photos. The park itself — anchored by the stunning Westerly Creek Pond — offers a diverse range of backdrops that feel both urban and peaceful. We love the contrast between the modern residential architecture surrounding the park and the natural water features and trails.
What makes Central Park so special is its accessibility and year-round appeal. The park features paved urban trails that wind through open green spaces, well-maintained landscaping, and multiple sight lines for creative composition. Whether it’s golden-hour light reflecting off the pond or the vibrant colors of seasonal foliage, there’s always something beautiful to work with here.
Families especially love this location because there’s plenty of space for kids to be natural and playful between shots, and the varied terrain means we can create dynamic, layered images that go beyond typical park portraits. It’s also convenient for most Denver residents — easy parking, accessible paths, and usually plenty of quiet spots even on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Central Park Denver?
Central Park is located in Denver’s Stapleton neighborhood, roughly bounded by 39th Avenue to the north, 35th Avenue to the south, Quebec Street to the east, and Park Avenue to the west. It’s easily accessible from I-25 and close to downtown Denver.
What are the best spots for photos within Central Park?
The Westerly Creek Pond and its surrounding landscaping offer beautiful reflections and natural framing. The open meadow areas provide clean backgrounds, while the tree-lined paths add depth and texture. The newer amphitheater area and constructed wetlands also offer unique urban-nature combinations that photograph beautifully.
What’s the best time of year to photograph at Central Park?
Spring and early summer (May-June) offer the most vibrant greenery, while fall (September-October) brings warm golden light and subtle color changes. Winter can be gorgeous for moody portraits if you don’t mind cooler temperatures. We generally avoid the peak heat of July-August and stick to early morning or late afternoon sessions.
What should we wear for a Central Park family photo session?
We recommend coordinating colors rather than matching outfits — think soft, complementary tones that work with the natural greens and blues of the park. Earth tones, pastels, and denim all photograph beautifully here. Avoid large logos or bright neons that can distract from faces and connections.
Is Central Park good for couples too, or just families?
Absolutely! The park is wonderful for engagement photos, couple portraits, and even anniversary sessions. The variety of backgrounds and the intimate pockets throughout the park make it ideal for capturing genuine connection and playfulness between couples of any age.
Want more tips on looking your best in portraits? Check out our guide to what to wear for a family photo session. Or if you’re considering other Denver locations, explore engagement photo locations around Denver. We also have some great natural photo prompts to help you feel confident and connected during your session.
Ready to book your Denver photo session? Get in touch and let’s create beautiful images together!
