Plains Conservation Center

This Aurora-based center helps students and adults grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural history of Colorado through a variety of educational programs managed by Denver Botanic Gardens in cooperation with the City of Aurora.

Today’s Hours:

Thursday: 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Hours:

Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Monday: 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday: 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Thursday: 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Friday: 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

View upcoming early closures

Plains Conservation Center Location

21901 E. Hampden Avenue

Aurora, CO 80013 Map

303-326-8380

The Gardens manages programming at Plains Conservation Center (PCC) in Aurora.

It's free to come in, hike the trails, explore the visitor center and check out the tipis and homestead village.
There is a fee to attend any guided programs.
PCC is designated as a birding hotspot on the Cornell University's worldwide eBird community science website.

Visitor Center Hours
Wednesday-Friday, noon – 4:30 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Monday & Tuesday – Closed
(hours subject to change)

Land acknowledgment statement

Homeschool & Scout Programs

Children & Family Programs

School Programs

All PCC Programs

Group Tours

Children's Birthday Parties

Calling all Colorado artists!

2025 3rd Annual Prairie Art Celebration

The Plains Conservation Center (PCC) seeks submissions from Colorado artists for the Prairie Art Celebration. This celebration showcases the diverse and vibrant culture of the state of Colorado by showcasing art depicting scenes and activities related to life on Colorado’s eastern prairie.

We welcome all Colorado artists to submit their work for consideration. Pieces could include landscapes, portraits, abstracts or other subject matter that represents the spirit and essence of Colorado’s eastern prairie now and in days gone by.

Selected work will be featured in the Plains Conservation Center gallery June 27 – July 2.
Join us for a free reception on Friday, June 27, 4-7 p.m.
Food truck, live music, s’mores, crafts, face painting and more.

Submission Requirements

Submission deadline: Tuesday, June 10
Submit up to 3 entries (3 MB max each) to: julie.reiske@botanicgardens.org
Categories: Painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, 3D artwork less than 2’ x 2’
Eligibility: Colorado residents. All entries must be the artist’s original design and execution.