Denver offers a wealth of activities for families with children. From interactive museums to beautiful gardens and outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Denver with kids. This guide will help you plan a great family trip filled with exciting and educational experiences.
The Best Family-Friendly Things To Do With Kids in Denver
Whether you're interested in exploring nature or want to dive into history, the Mile High City offers a diverse range of family-friendly entertainment options.
Experience Creative Learning at the Children's Museum of Denver
The Children's Museum of Denver is an interactive museum offering hands-on exhibits that inspire learning through play. Children can explore various themed areas, including a mini fire station, an art studio that lets kids understand artwork through games, and a bubble-making station. One of the highlights of the museum is the Gallery Uno at the Children's Museum of Denver. This whimsical space encourages creativity and imagination, allowing kids to immerse themselves in a world of art and wonder.
Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
A visit to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a fascinating journey through the natural world. Kids can marvel at dinosaur fossils, explore species of animals, wonder at space in the planetarium, and learn about human anatomy in interactive exhibits. The museum's IMAX theater also showcases educational films that bring science to life.
Stroll Through the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens provide a serene escape from the city's busy life. Families can wander through themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a tropical conservatory. The Mordecai Children's Garden has hands-on activities and play areas designed specifically for young visitors, making it an ideal spot for kids to learn about plants and nature.
Learn About Marine Life at the Denver Downtown Aquarium
Dive into an underwater adventure with aquatic life at the Denver Downtown Aquarium. This unique aquarium has a full-service restaurant. Kids can observe various marine species, including sharks, stingrays, tropical fish, and a mermaid show. The aquarium also features interactive touch tanks where children can get up close to sea creatures.
Discover Ancient Tracks at Dinosaur Ridge
For young paleontologists, Dinosaur Ridge is an exciting destination. Located just outside Denver, this outdoor museum showcases real dinosaur footprints and fossils. You can take guided tours to learn about the area's prehistoric past and even touch genuine dinosaur tracks preserved in stone.
Spend a Day at Denver Skatepark
If you have older kids or teens who love action sports, the Denver Skatepark is a perfect spot. This 60,000-square-foot outdoor skate park is free to use and offers ramps, bowls, and obstacles for skateboarders and inline skaters of all skill levels. Even if your kids don't skate, it's a great place to watch skilled riders in action.
Denver's Climate: Perfect for Year-Round Family Fun
With an impressive 300 days of sunshine annually, the Mile High City is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families to enjoy picnics, hiking, and exploring attractions like the Denver Botanic Gardens or Dinosaur Ridge. However, remember that higher altitude means stronger UV rays, so pack sunscreen and hats for protection.
Denver's seasonal variations provide diverse experiences:
- Spring and fall offer mild temperatures for outdoor exploration.
- Summers are warm, which is great for summer experiences like water activities or enjoying the Denver Skatepark.
- Winters, though cold, often have sunny days ideal for both outdoor fun and indoor attractions like the Children's Museum of Denver.
How To Make the Most of a Family Trip to Denver
The key to a successful family trip is balancing structured activities with free time for spontaneous exploration. Denver's welcoming atmosphere and abundance of family-oriented attractions make it easy to create an itinerary that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
With these tips in hand, you're well-equipped to plan a wonderful family vacation filled with fun, learning, and cherished moments in the heart of Colorado.
- Plan ahead: Research attractions and check their websites for any special events or exhibits during your visit.
- Allow for downtime: While Denver offers many exciting activities, remember to include some relaxation time in your itinerary to prevent overwhelm.
- Pack for the weather: Denver's climate can be unpredictable, so bring layers and comfortable walking shoes.
- Use public transportation: Denver's light rail system is an efficient way to get around the city and can be an adventure in itself for kids.
- Take advantage of free attractions: Many of Denver's parks and some museums offer free admission, helping you stretch your vacation budget.
- Involve kids in planning: Let your children choose some activities to ensure they're engaged and excited about the trip.
- Set a gift shop budget: Let your kids know in advance how much they can spend in a gift shop to prevent impulse purchases.
- Stay hydrated: Denver's high altitude can cause dehydration, so make sure everyone drinks plenty of water throughout the day.
Enjoy Tons of Family Fun in Denver With CityPASS® Tickets
As you plan your family adventure in Denver, consider making the most of your trip with Denver CityPASS® tickets. These tickets offer a convenient and cost-effective way to experience some of Denver's top attractions. With Denver CityPASS® tickets, you can save money on admission prices and enjoy a streamlined entry process, allowing you more time to create lasting memories with your kids in the Mile High City.
Denver truly shines as a family-friendly destination, offering a perfect blend of educational experiences, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. From the hands-on exhibits at the Children's Museum to the natural wonders at the Botanic Gardens, there's no shortage of things to do in Denver with kids. By exploring these diverse attractions, your family will have a fantastic time and gain new knowledge and appreciation for science, nature, and art.
Denver Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Denver, we recommend finding lodging near Denver's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader image Courtesy of Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus