15 Fun Things to Do in Denver with Kids

There’s plenty for families to love about a visit to the Mile High City. Think museums, a theme park, an abundance of natural beauty, and more. Family travel experts share their favorite attractions in Colorado’s capital city with this list of 16 fun things to do in Denver with kids.

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1. 16th Street Mall

This mile-long, pedestrian-only strip of stores and restaurants makes a fabulous starting point for your family’s Denver explorations. After strolling and shopping 16th Street Mall during the day, treat the kids to a horse-drawn carriage or pedicab ride in the evenings. Near the south end of the mall, look for Denver Pavilions, a shopping and entertainment complex with a 12-screen movie theater.

Parents will appreciate a dozen craft beers on tap and adult milkshakes at 5280 Burger Bar for family-friendly fare. Meanwhile, the kids will dig sundaes at the burger joint’s sister ice cream parlor next door.

To learn more about the 16th Street Mall and the rest of the city, book a Denver History and Architecture Tour via GetYourGuide.

2. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater

Renowned for being one of the world’s most impressive outdoor concert venues, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater must be seen (and heard!) to be believed. Located about 15 minutes outside the city, buy tickets in advance to experience a live performance or film at the amphitheater during your Denver family vacation.

Even if you don’t score tickets, come here for beautiful views and outdoor exploration. Take the kids for a hike on the Trading Post Trail, or hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride on the Red Rocks Trail. For even more fun, explore Red Rocks Amphitheater guided tour options.

3. Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Elitch Gardens has been entertaining families since 1890 with rides and carnival games galore. Thrill-seekers appreciate a dozen scream-inducing options with names like Brain Drain, Boomerang, and Mind Eraser. Grade schoolers enjoy the kid-sized Blazin’ Buckaroo kids’ roller coaster and the Goofy Gazebo, a play space with slides, nets, and ball pits. Meanwhile, tots love rides just their size, like a mini train called the E.G. Express.

The highlight for me was “Industrial Movement” — a high-energy live performance that reminded me of “Stomp,” with dancing and drumming on trash can lids and similar props. Live performances like this are almost hidden in the Trocadero Theater off the park’s main drag. Stop in for a fun show and a chance to get out of the heat or the cold, as the case may be.

The Elitch Water Park is typically open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day each year. It boasts water rides, splash areas, a river, and water slides aplenty. The dry side of the theme park typically remains open on weekends only through the beginning of November.

4. Denver Botanic Gardens

After the excitement of Elitch Gardens, your family may need some downtime in nature. Located just 10 minutes east of downtown, Denver Botanic Gardens features many peaceful paths to walk and plants to admire. Get your Denver Botanic Gardens admission tickets now.

While here, you must visit the 3-acre Mordecai Children’s Garden, where kids are encouraged to dig, explore, and play. Also, be sure to look for the remarkable permanent Dale Chihuly glass sculpture entitled Colorado, which was formed from over 1,000 hand-blown pieces of glass.

5. Denver Mint

Did you know Denver is home to one of America’s four active coin-producing mints? Yep! If you find a little “D” on the head side of your coin, then you know it was made in Denver.

Interested families should sign up for a 45-minute guided tour before their Colorado vacation. You’ll learn about the history of the United States Mint and discover how coins are produced for the American public. The best part? You can save your coins because visits are free!

6. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Located just minutes from the Denver International Airport, Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Plus, this animal refuge is free to the public.

Stephanie Taleghani with Consistently Curious says, “The highlight is the 11-mile wildlife drive loop that takes guests through the preserve to see bison, deer, hawks, coyotes, prairie dogs, and more. The Bison viewing area often yields incredible up-close encounters from the safety of the vehicle. The refuge also offers an interactive visitors center, miles of hiking trails, and fishing.“

7. Children’s Museum of Denver

Designed for kids ages 4 to 8, Shanna Schultz with There and Back Again Travel recommends the Children’s Museum of Denver for kids of all ages. Families could spend a whole day at this attractions, located right on the edge of downtown.

It is home to high-quality versions of the standard children’s museum exhibits, including water features and pretend-play spaces. Look for a make-believe grocery store, firehouse, and veterinary office. Meanwhile, young artists love the DIY Space and Art Studio, where they can create to their hearts’ content. Parents and children can even take real cooking workshops together in the Teaching Kitchen.

Shanna says, “What makes this museum stand out is its plethora of nature-focused exhibits, mirroring the extensive offerings of Denver itself. Joy Park is an outdoor space filled with dirt, rocks, straw bales, forts, and other elements that your kids will never want to leave.”

She continues, “The Big Backyard teaches kids about animals and their habitats through play. Kids also enjoy Altitude, where they can climb an impressive faux mountain. Children must be 40″ or taller to climb, but little ones should check out Box Canyon instead.”

8. City Park

Denver’s City Park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life without actually leaving the city. The park was built in the late 1800s and is one of Denver’s oldest public spaces. It is home to both the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, but it offers even more for families.

Trekaroo‘s Sharlene Earnshaw says, “Kids love frolicking on the lush lawn, playing on the park’s playgrounds, and renting surrey bikes to traverse the park. Families also enjoy renting swan-shaped pedal boats to explore and enjoy Ferril Lake. The lake features a fountain that dazzles guests with its colorful light and water displays. In summer, jazz music fills the air as bands play on a lakefront stage.” Sharlene recommends bringing a picnic or visiting nearby food trucks so you can dine while taking in views of the picturesque Colorado Rockies and city skyline.

9. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

“The interactive Denver Museum of Nature & Science is built for curious kids,” according to Diana Rowe with Traveling In Heels. Located in City Park near the Denver Zoo, the museum includes popular permanent exhibits: Discovery Zone, Expedition Health, Gems and Minerals, Prehistoric Journey, and Space Odyssey. This family-friendly Denver attraction also features a three-story-high IMAX theater with fascinating science-focused films and the Gates Planetarium for space exploration.

Diana says, “No matter how many times we visit, my family discovers something new, as the museum features rotating exhibits.”

10. Denver Zoo

Animal-loving families could happily spend a full day exploring the Denver Zoo. Allison Laypath, editor of Tips for Family Trips, says, “This large zoo in City Park is filled with many favorite animals, like elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, bears, tigers, sea lions, and more. It is similar to other major city zoos, making it a solid go-to activity for families in Denver. This zoo also features the miniature Denver Zoo Railroad and Conservation Carousel, perfect for a visit with kids.”

11. Downtown Aquarium

Kids and adults alike enjoy visiting Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, home to sharks, octopuses, otters, and fish of all stripes. A 4-D theater, Aquatic Carousel, and Aquarium Express train add to the fun.

Best of all? Mermaids! Kids will be fascinated by “real” mermaids who swim with and teach about sea life and conservation at Downtown Aquarium.

Plan to eat at the Downtown Aquarium’s Restaurant for a truly memorable meal. Diners are seated around a 50,000-gallon, floor-to-ceiling aquarium filled with over 100 species of colorful tropical fish.

12. Denver Art Museum

Located downtown, just three blocks from the Colorado State Capitol Building, Allison with Tips for Family Trips also recommends the Denver Art Museum. She says, “Filled with beautiful art and fun activities, look for hands-on activities and interactive art displays. Rotating exhibits ensure that you’ll see something new every time you go. What’s more, kids under age 18 get free general admission every day!”

13. Denver Firefighters Museum

A visit to the Denver Firefighters Museum will please kids who love fire engines. (And what kid doesn’t?!) Families learn about fire safety and the history of the Denver Fire Department via educational displays and artifacts. Children can even slide down a fire pole, play on a fire truck, and pretend to put out fires. Be sure to stop by the museum’s fun gift shop for firefighter-themed souvenirs and toys.

14. Paco Sanchez Park

Tucked away in a colorful neighborhood just west of downtown Denver along the iconic Colfax Ave., Christa Jiménez with Pura Vida Moms recommends Paco Sanchez Park. Christa explains, “As part of the ‘Re-Imagine Play’ program, the theme at this park is music. The main attraction is a 1950s-style microphone that’s multiple stories tall and overlooks the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains.”

Christa continues, “You’ll find plenty of shade for parents looking to picnic and relax while kids play. A pulley system, super-fast slides, and a climbing area make this a fun park for both young families and those with teens. My family loves this park because we can play for hours without any complaints.” Also look for a splash pad and community kiosk, complete with large, modern letters spelling Paco.

15. Colorado State Capitol

Families can visit the gold-domed Colorado State Capitol for free during their Denver vacation. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, but parties larger than 10 should make reservations in advance. Mr. Brown’s Attic exhibit area offers information about Colorado’s history and the Capitol’s construction, as well as a children’s play space.

Where to Stay in Colorado with Kids

Gaylord of the Rockies Resort

Located just a few miles from the Denver International Airport, Gaylord of the Rockies is the ultimate hotel for families with kids. It’s right on the light rail line to downtown Denver so you can explore the city without a car. There’s plenty to do on-site, including indoor and outdoor water parks, a virtual scavenger hunt, miniature golf, tennis, basketball courts, and complimentary bike rentals. Families also enjoy a train car in the grand lobby, sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, and gorgeous rooms.

Westin Westminster

Situated between Boulder and downtown Denver, Westin Westminster makes a good choice for families looking to explore both cities. Book a mountain view room to take in the hotel’s lovely pond with a fountain and the stunning Rocky Mountains in the distance. An indoor pool is sure to please the kiddies, no matter what time of year you visit.

At Westin Westminster, you will find Kachina, a southwestern restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There’s also a Starbucks on-site, as well as numerous dining and shopping options a short drive away.

Save Money on Your Denver Vacation

Do you want to save money on your Denver vacation? Of course, you do! Save up to 40 percent on popular Denver attractions when you buy a Denver City Pass. Choose three, four, or five of the following attractions:

• The Downtown Aquarium Denver – Admission to Aquarium Adventure Exhibit
• The Denver Museum of Nature and Science – General Admission
• The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus – General Admission
• The Denver Botanic Gardens – General Admission
• The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum – General Admission
• The Denver Art Museum – General Admission
• The History Colorado Center – General Admission
  

  

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Which of these things to do in Denver with kids would appeal most to your family? Let us know in the comments below!

A Note from Colleen: As a member of the media, Westin Westminster hosted my family, and we received complimentary Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park tickets during our Denver family vacation.

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