Many people have heard references to a place called Meow Wolf but aren’t too sure what it is or if it’s worth taking the family. That is in large part because there are only six locations in the entire country! Basically, Meow Wolf is an immersive art exhibit with each location creating an experience of its own with a unique theme. Denver is lucky enough to be one of the chosen cities.
Denver’s Meow Wolf location is called Convergence Station and takes visitors through four floors of immersive art as if four alien worlds combined in a rare cosmic event, creating a new city and culture. Once you are transported by the Quantum Department of Transportation from the lobby to the beginning of the experience, you will pass through a busy main street, explore a cosmic cathedral, meander a mysterious labyrinth and find various optical illusions throughout.
It can be a bit overwhelming and confusing at first if you are unaware of the theme and backstory, so it’s a good idea to spend a minute reading their website to familiarize yourself with the story. Then, when you begin, just relax and go along for the ride, allowing yourself to simply feel transported to another world and enjoy immersing yourself in that culture for a couple of hours. There are many different vehicles you may get inside as well as other options to physically interact with the art, which is great for kids! No need to tell them “Don’t Touch” like in many museums.
Mom Tip
There is an optional purchase called the Q-Pass. This is a card programmed to be tapped at various “currency exchange” stations throughout the experience. It will then have a citizen of Convergence give you bits and pieces of more insight as to what happened to create Convergence long ago. Throughout your tour, you learn more and more as if putting together a mystery. This may add to the experience for some and help it make more sense. For families with young kids, though, they might not have the patience to stop at each station and listen. Consider your group and what might work best based on age and interest. Families can share one pass for $3.
Arrival and Parking
Meow Wolf is located at 1338 1st St., Denver, CO 80204 next to Empower Field. Whichever direction you are approaching from, there are many paid parking lot options. If you are arriving before noon, there is a good chance that you will find a spot in the $15 lot immediately outside of Meow Wolf itself. Once that lot is full, there are several lots and garages in walking distance. If you purchase tickets ahead of time, you will receive a “Need to Know” email that will list several options, so be sure to read that email.
Mom Tip
Being in the shadow of Empower Field, be sure you are aware of the Broncos home game schedule. Parking will be in much higher demand and prices increase if there is a football game happening during your visit.
Upon arrival, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member if you need clarification about where to start or what to do. Asking questions will make your experience more enjoyable. Also be sure to use the restroom in the lobby before beginning! You can get a bit turned around in the experience and forget where you last saw a bathroom if a kiddo has an emergency. However, should it be necessary, it should be pretty easy to spot a staff member to ask for direction.
Dining at Meow Wolf
No outside food and drink are allowed into Meow Wolf. In fact, large backpacks are also not allowed so it will be hard to pack snacks anyway. If your crew cannot make it until you leave and are needing to eat, there is a restaurant on the premises. Again, Meow Wolf is credit card only. Be on the lookout during your experience for water fountains if you are thirsty. As the theme is so immersive, bathrooms and water fountains can feel camouflaged, but they are there if you need a drink!
Tickets and Schedule
Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on the website, and I would suggest the opening time slot, if possible, to increase your chances at ideal parking and lower crowds. The schedule varies but can also be found on the website where you purchase tickets. Simply choose the day you would like on the calendar and the available time slots will appear.
We are lucky in Denver to have so many entertainment options right at our doorstep. Meow Wolf is no exception. Whether you’re looking for one last fun summer outing or have visitors and you’re looking to show them a good time, a trip to Meow Wolf is a great bet.
