Things to do with kids in Denver

Many families struggle to find fun and safe things to do with kids in Denver. Denver offers more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and family activities.

This guide will show you the best kidfriendly attractions, parks, museums for children, and great places to eat. Start planning your next family outing today!

Key Takeaways

• Denver gets over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it perfect for family outings and outdoor adventures.
• Top attractions include the Denver Zoo (with 3,500+ animals), Denver Museum of Nature & Science (hands-on exhibits), Children’s Museum at Marsico Campus, and Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.
• Families can explore unique spots like Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station (immersive art) and Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour for sweet fun.
• Popular outdoor activities are found in City Park, Washington Park, Sloan’s Lake Park, and along Cherry Creek Trail. Activities include paddle boating, kayaking, biking, and playgrounds.
• Family-friendly hotels such as Hyatt Place and Residence Inn offer spacious rooms. Kid-approved restaurants like Pizzeria Locale and Little Man Ice Cream provide tasty meals for children.

Popular Family-Friendly Attractions in Denver:

Denver offers many exciting attractions for families. From discovering wildlife to exploring interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo offers a fun and educational experience for families. This 80-acre zoo houses over 3,500 animals from around the world. Kids can see lions, elephants, and penguins up close.

Interactive exhibits engage young visitors as they learn about wildlife experiences.

Many family activities take place throughout the year at the zoo. Seasonal events create excitement during holidays. Special programs educate children about animal care and conservation efforts.

The zoo is perfect for outdoor adventures as well; kids enjoy walking through beautiful habitats while exploring nature exploration opportunities together with their parents.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Museum of Nature & Science offers interactive exhibits for kids and families. This museum features a dinosaur skeleton that captures attention right away. Children can engage with hands-on activities throughout the various galleries.

Explore the space exhibit where you can touch real meteorites and see model rockets.

The museum hosts educational experiences focused on wildlife, health, and Earth sciences. Families can enjoy shows at the IMAX theater too. Kids learn about nature in fun ways here.

From ancient fossils to outer space, this attraction is perfect for curious minds looking for adventure in Denver.

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus offers a vibrant space for kids to explore and learn. Kids can engage in hands-on exhibits and interactive activities that spark their curiosity.

They can build structures, create art, or play in the outdoor space. The museum features various themes, such as water exploration and imaginative play areas.

Families will find educational programs designed to inspire learning through play. Special events often take place here, ensuring something new each visit. This destination ranks among the top attractions for families visiting Denver.

After enjoying the Children’s Museum, check out Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum for more fun with your children.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

After visiting the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, head over to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This museum stands out with its impressive collection of aircraft and aerospace exhibits.

Families can admire more than 50 aircraft on display, including fighter jets and historic planes.

Interactive exhibits engage children and adults alike. Visitors can explore flight simulations or learn about space travel. The museum also hosts events focused on science education.

Kids will love discovering aviation history while having fun in this educational setting. Plan a visit for an unforgettable experience filled with learning and adventure in Denver’s fascinating hub of aerospace activities.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens spans 23 acres. It offers a stunning variety of plants from around the world. Families will find beautiful flowers, trees, and gardens to explore. Kids can learn about nature through interactive exhibits.

The Children’s Garden provides hands-on activities for young visitors.

Seasonal events often take place at the gardens. These kid-friendly events engage children in fun learning experiences. Families can enjoy picnics amidst the vibrant landscapes as well.

Visiting this cultural site adds to the list of things to do with kids in Denver.

Unique Activities for Families:

Denver offers some exciting and unique activities for families. You can explore immersive art installations at Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station or take a sweet journey with the Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour.

Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station

Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station offers a unique and colorful experience for families. This immersive art installation features interactive exhibits that captivate both kids and adults.

Each room presents different themes, making exploration exciting at every turn. Families can enjoy vibrant displays while engaging in imaginative play.

Kids love to touch, crawl, and explore this creative space. The attraction encourages curiosity and creativity through its whimsical designs. Visitors can expect unforgettable wildlife experiences alongside artistic wonder.

Meow Wolf attracts tourists seeking new adventures in Denver with countless fun outings for the whole family.

Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour

Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour offers a sweet adventure for families in Denver. Kids can explore the candy-making process and see how their favorite treats come to life. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and showcases handmade chocolates, lollipops, and other delightful confections.

Visitors of all ages enjoy watching skilled workers create colorful candies. Interactive exhibits allow kids to learn while having fun. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for some tasty souvenirs before leaving this unique family-friendly attraction in Denver.

Outdoor Fun with Kids:

Outdoor fun in Denver offers many great ways to engage kids. Families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, and scenic walks at local parks and trails.

City Park

City Park offers a perfect blend of fun and exploration for families. Kids can run freely on the expansive lawns or enjoy a game at one of the playgrounds. The park features two beautiful lakes that provide stunning views and opportunities for picnics.

Families often take advantage of paddle boating, which adds excitement to their day.

The Denver Zoo sits right within City Park. It is home to more than 3,500 animals from all over the world, making it an exciting destination for wildlife experiences. Nearby, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science captivates children with its interactive exhibits and educational activities.

This vibrant park feels like a hub for family-friendly adventures in Denver.

Washington Park

Washington Park offers a perfect blend of fun and nature for families. Kids can enjoy two large lakes, playgrounds, and spacious fields. Families often stroll along the scenic paths or relax on the grassy areas.

Rent paddle boats in warm months for added excitement. The park also features sports facilities like tennis courts and soccer fields.

Wildlife experiences await at Washington Park too. Children can spot different birds while walking through the gardens. This park is an oasis for outdoor adventures in Denver, making it a top choice among kid-friendly attractions.

Pack a picnic to enhance your visit and savor tasty treats from nearby kid-approved restaurants once you finish exploring.

Sloan’s Lake Park

Sloan’s Lake Park offers plenty of outdoor fun with kids. Families can enjoy walking and biking along the scenic trails. The park features a large lake, perfect for picnicking and relaxing.

Children love playing in the playgrounds or flying kites on sunny days. For those who appreciate wildlife experiences, the park is home to various birds and other animals.

Kayaking is an exciting activity available at Sloan’s Lake Park during warmer months. Parents can rent kayaks for some family fun on the water. Nearby parks enhance your outdoor adventures as well; you can visit nearby spots like City Park or Cherry Creek Trail for even more kid-friendly attractions in Denver.

Cherry Creek Trail

Cherry Creek Trail offers fun for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. This scenic trail stretches over 40 miles through Denver, providing beautiful views and plenty of space to explore nature.

Kids can ride bikes, walk, or rollerblade along the paved path. The trail runs alongside Cherry Creek, making it a lovely spot for picnics.

Parks and playgrounds line the route, perfect for taking breaks with little ones. Families can stop at various points to enjoy wildlife experiences and interactive exhibits nearby.

Cherry Creek Trail connects to other parks like Washington Park and City Park; these areas offer even more kid-friendly activities. Enjoy a day out in nature while discovering all that this vibrant trail has to offer!

Where to Stay and Eat with Kids:

When traveling with kids, parents often seek family-friendly hotels and fun dining options. Several hotels in Denver cater to families with spacious rooms and kid amenities. Many restaurants also welcome children and provide menus just for them.

Finding the right place to stay and eat makes your trip enjoyable. Explore various accommodations and eateries that make family adventures easier!

Family-friendly hotels and accommodations

Families will find many family-friendly hotels and accommodations in Denver. The city offers options that cater to both comfort and fun. Many hotels have spacious rooms, pools, and kid-friendly amenities.

Visitors can choose popular spots like the Hyatt Place or the Residence Inn, which provide family suites.

Several accommodations also offer easy access to parks and attractions. Families can explore nearby museums, zoos, or outdoor adventures with ease. Kid-approved restaurants are often located close by for convenient dining options.

These features make staying in Denver a pleasant experience for parents and children alike.

Kid-approved restaurants and eateries

Denver offers many kid-approved restaurants and eateries. Parents will find something for everyone. Choose from pizza joints, burger spots, or taco stands. These places cater to young diners with fun menus and tasty food.

Pizzeria Locale serves delicious wood-fired pizzas that kids love. For a sweet treat, visit Little Man Ice Cream; their flavors are unique and exciting. The Cherry Cricket is famous for its burgers and laid-back atmosphere.

Families can enjoy quality meals while experiencing the vibrant dining scene in Denver.

Conclusion

Denver offers many fun experiences for families. Kids will love the zoo and interactive museums. Parks like City Park and Washington Park provide great outdoor activities. Delicious meals await in kid-friendly restaurants.

Explore Denver with your family and create lasting memories together.

FAQs

1. What are the best family attractions in Denver for children?

Denver offers many family attractions. You can visit museums for children, amusement parks, and interactive museums. These places have educational exhibits and hands-on activities.

2. Where can we find outdoor adventures with kids in Denver?

Outdoor adventures include exploring local parks and playgrounds or hiking in nature areas around the city. Many spots offer wildlife experiences and nature exploration suitable for all ages.

3. Are there kidfriendly events or cultural sites to enjoy as a family?

Yes, Denver hosts several kidfriendly events throughout the year at cultural sites like art centers and historic landmarks. These locations often provide childfriendly activities such as workshops and games.

4. Which museums for kids feature interactive exhibits in Denver?

Several museums designed for young visitors include interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. Popular choices are science centers and children’s discovery spaces featuring engaging displays.

5. Can families find good restaurants near major Denver attractions?

Many kidfriendly restaurants are close to popular Denver attractions like theme parks or family activity venues, making it easy to plan meals during your day out with children’s attractions nearby.