Sloan's Lake Park Guide: Things to Do and Where to Eat

Located on Denver’s western edge, Sloan’s Lake Park is the city’s second-largest park and home to its largest body of water, offering a refreshing escape within city limits. Spanning 290 acres, the park is a favorite for both locals and visitors thanks to its scenic lake views, ample space and laid-back family-friendly vibe.

Legend has it that the lake was created accidentally when homesteader Thomas Sloan struck an aquifer while digging an irrigation well. Soon, his land was flooded with water, and Sloan’s Lake was formed. Originally the site of an amusement park (Ferris wheel included), it became a public park in 1923.

The body of water is bordered by the Sloan Lake neighborhood, a mix of charming early 20th-century homes and modern townhomes. Nearby hotspots like West Highland, Jefferson Park and Edgewater’s Historic 25th Avenue offer coffee shops, dining establishments and local boutiques. Here is a guide to things to do in and around the park and where to eat and drink in the area, too.

Things to Do in Sloan’s Lake Park

A 2.6-mile paved path wraps around the lake, attracting runners, walkers and cyclists, while the water welcomes stand-up paddleboarders and kayakers in warmer months. On land, you’ll find tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas and plenty of green space perfect for relaxing or tossing a frisbee.

The park is also known for its birdwatching. Canada geese have a constant presence, but you can also spot northern shovelers, white pelicans and the occasional bald eagle. Anglers can also try their luck at catching largemouth bass, channel catfish and carp — but be sure to bring a Colorado fishing license.

One of Sloan’s Lake’s biggest annual highlights is the free Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, typically held each July. The two-day celebration draws thousands for its colorful dragon boat races, where elaborately decorated boats glide across the lake in fast-paced competition. Beyond the races, the festival showcases live music and cultural dance performances, a bustling Taste of Asia marketplace and food court and interactive activities for all ages — making it one of Denver’s most vibrant celebrations of Asian and Asian American heritage.

Things to Do Near Sloan’s Lake Park

When you’re ready to venture beyond the water, Sloan’s Lake’s central location makes it easy to turn an afternoon in the park into a full-day affair. For a laid-back stroll, wander through Edgewater’s Historic 25th Avenue, a charming stretch filled with local boutiques, coffee shops and neighborhood eateries. Just steps away, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Sloan’s Lake pairs first-run films with craft cocktails and elevated theater snacks.

Head west along West Colfax Avenue into Lakewood for a meal at Casa Bonita, the legendary Mexican restaurant known for its cliff divers, colorful décor and “South Park” fame. To the east, dive into immersive art at Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station, where interactive installations blur the line between exhibit and adventure.

Restaurants Near Sloan’s Lake Park

Just across Sheridan Boulevard and a few blocks to the west, you’ll find the Edgewater Public Market, a collection of local food and drink stalls, from Black Box Bakery (inventive croissants and pastries) to Saigon Noodle Club by Pho King Rapidos (modern Vietnamese fare). The building also houses a bar and a variety of boutiques selling craft chocolate, plants and other locally made goods.

Grab a seat at Edgewater Beer Garden, a kid- and dog-friendly spot for craft brews and casual pub fare, including nachos, wings and pizza. Or pop by the Edgewater Inn, which has been serving scratch-made pizzas and goblets of beer since 1953.

Edgewater also boasts an impressive roster of Thai restaurants. US Thai Café is a locals’ favorite for fiery noodle dishes and curries, while La Mai Thai Kitchen offers a more modern atmosphere, complete with craft cocktails. For Pan Asian cuisine nearby, ChoLon Modern Asian serves small plates in a stylish setting across from the lake. If you’re craving Italian, the adjacent Gusto, known for its handmade pastas and seasonal Italian dishes, is also worth a stop.

Bars, Breweries and Coffee Shops Near Sloan’s Lake Park

Odell Brewing Sloan's Lake Brewhouse & Pizzeria has 16 beers on tap, including flagship sippers and experimental creations, and a rooftop patio overlooking the lake and the Rocky Mountains. Or order a kölsch, hazy IPA or seltzer cocktail at Joyride Brewing, which also had a sun-soaked rooftop patio overlooking the lake.

Rum lovers should mosey over to the Electric Cure, a kitschy watering hole serving tiki cocktails. Or venture to Side Pony, a bar and coffee shop off West Colfax known for its well-made lattes and margaritas. SloHi Coffee Co. also has a popular menu of pick-me-ups, plus vegan pastries and plentiful outdoor seating.