Are you planning a family trip to Denver and wondering what are the best kids activities Denver can offer? Look no further!
Denver, known for its vibrant culture and family-friendly atmosphere, offers a wide range of activities that cater to children of all ages and interests. From educational museums and interactive exhibits to outdoor adventures and thrilling amusement parks, this city has something for everyone.
We’ll go through the top 10 suitable for children’s activities in Denver in this blog post, all of which are guaranteed to thrill and amuse the kids.
Join us as we explore the most popular and highly recommended kids activities in Denver, ensuring your children have a memorable and enjoyable experience in the Mile High City.
Let’s dive in and discover the best opportunities for fun and learning that await your family in Denver in 2024!
Why Kids Activities?
By engaging in kids’ activities, children can have fun while also developing important skills and qualities that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Engaging in a kid’s activities is important for a child’s overall development. These activities not only provide entertainment and fun for kids but also offer a range of benefits that can help them grow and learn.
Here are some reasons why kid’s activities are important:
- Physical development: Many kids’ activities involve physical movements that can improve a child’s motor skills, coordination, balance, and strength.
- Cognitive development: Kids activities can enhance a child’s cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making.
- Social development: Kids activities can promote social skills and emotional intelligence, such as communication, teamwork, empathy, and respect for others.
- Creativity and imagination: Kids activities can stimulate a child’s creativity and imagination, allowing them to express themselves in different ways and explore new ideas.
- Self-confidence and self-esteem: Kids activities can boost a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem, giving them a sense of accomplishment and pride in their achievements.
Is Denver A Great Destination?
Denver is a great destination for kids’ activities because it offers a diverse range of options that can cater to the different interests of kids. From science museums and aquariums to amusement parks and sports arenas, Denver has something for every kid.
Many of these activities are designed to be interactive and engaging, allowing kids to learn and have fun at the same time.
For instance, the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus offers hands-on exhibits and activities that promote creative play, exploration, and learning.
Why Parents Should Consider Denver For Their Kids’ Activities
Denver is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for families with kids.
Denver is a great destination for families who want to combine outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and fun activities in a vibrant and welcoming city.
Here are some of them:
- Natural beauty: Denver is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rafting.
- Mild climate: Denver has a mild climate with plenty of sunny days, making it a great place to visit year-round.
- Family-friendly attractions: Denver offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, from museums and zoos to amusement parks and sports events.
- Walkability: Denver is a walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and parks, making it easy to explore on foot with kids.
- Food and culture: Denver is known for its diverse food scene and cultural offerings, with many festivals, events, and markets that showcase the city’s unique character and history.
Denver is a safe and welcoming city that values family-friendly experiences. It is also easy to navigate and accessible, with many public transportation options and family-friendly accommodations.
All of these factors make Denver a great destination for families who want to create lasting memories and have a fun and educational vacation with their kids.
Top 10 Best Kids Activities In Denver In 2024
Here are the top 10 kids’ activities Denver has to offer that are sure to delight and entertain your little ones:
1. Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is a must-visit attraction for families with kids. Located in City Park, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from 600 different species.
Kids can see everything from lions and tigers to polar bears and penguins, and learn about conservation efforts to protect these animals and their habitats.
The Denver Zoo offers a range of experiences for kids, including animal encounters, shows, and feeding opportunities.
There are also several themed areas throughout the zoo, such as Predator Ridge, Tropical Discovery, and the Primate Panorama, which offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors, the Denver Zoo is a great destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience.
2. Children’s Museum of Denver
The Children’s Museum of Denver is a must-visit destination for families with kids.
Located in the heart of the city, this hands-on museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage kids of all ages.
The museum features a variety of themed exhibits that encourage learning and exploration.
Kids can pretend to be doctors, firefighters, or chefs in the “Altitude” exhibit, explore the science of water in the “Water” exhibit, or learn about the natural world in the “Joy Park” outdoor exhibit.
The Children’s Museum of Denver also offers a range of programs and events throughout the year, such as workshops, performances, and story times. There is even a designated area for babies and toddlers, where little ones can safely explore and play.
With its emphasis on learning through play and hands-on experiences, the Children’s Museum of Denver is a great destination for families looking to spark their kids’ creativity and imagination.
3. Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a stunning oasis in the heart of the city. This beautiful garden spans over 24 acres and features a variety of seasonal displays, themed gardens, and numerous outdoor activities for kids.
Kids will love exploring the themed gardens, which include a fragrant herb garden, a Japanese garden, and a water garden. The Mordecai Children’s Garden is a particular highlight, with its interactive exhibits and play areas that encourage kids to explore the natural world.
Also, it offers a range of events and programs throughout the year. Kids can participate in hands-on workshops, nature walks, and story times, and families can enjoy outdoor concerts and movies during the summer months.
With its beautiful scenery, educational exhibits, and fun outdoor activities, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a great destination for families looking to connect with nature and learn about the environment.
4. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a creative space that offers a range of art classes and workshops designed specifically for kids. Located in downtown Denver, this museum is home to over 70,000 works of art from around the world.
Kids can explore the museum’s collection through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The “Just for Fun” center offers a space for kids to create their own art projects inspired by the museum’s exhibits. The “Family Backpacks” program provides families with self-guided tours that include interactive activities and games.
In addition to the exhibits, the Denver Art Museum also offers a range of art classes and workshops for kids of all ages. These programs are designed to inspire creativity and encourage self-expression. Kids can participate in classes such as drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture.
With its emphasis on creativity and imagination, the Denver Art Museum is a great destination for families looking to explore the world of art and learn about different cultures.
5. Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum
The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for families with kids who are interested in aviation and space exploration.
Located in Denver, this museum features a collection of over 50 aircraft, including military planes, helicopters, and commercial jets.
Kids can experience the thrill of flight through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
The museum’s flight simulator gives kids the opportunity to fly a virtual airplane, while the “Destination Colorado” exhibit explores the history of aviation in Colorado.
The museum also features a range of educational programs and workshops for kids.
These programs cover topics such as aerodynamics, space exploration, and the science of flight. Kids can participate in hands-on activities, experiments, and demonstrations that teach them about the principles of flight and space travel.
With its impressive collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits, the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum offers an exciting learning experience for kids of all ages.
6. Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
Located in downtown Denver, the Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is a popular destination for families with kids looking for a fun day out. This amusement park features a variety of thrilling rides, shows, and water attractions that are sure to keep kids entertained for hours.
Kids can ride the park’s roller coasters and other thrill rides, such as the Brain Drain and the Tower of Doom. There are also plenty of rides designed for younger kids, including the KiddieLand Carousel and the Blazin’ Buckaroo.
In addition to the rides, the park also features a water park with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Kids can cool off on hot summer days while splashing around in the water.
The park also offers a variety of shows and entertainment, such as live performances by acrobats and magicians. There are also several food and beverage options available, including snacks, meals, and treats.
With its wide range of attractions and activities, the Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is a great destination for families with kids of all ages looking for a fun and exciting day out.
7. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a unique and beautiful destination located just outside of Denver. This natural amphitheater is surrounded by towering red sandstone rock formations, providing a breathtaking backdrop for music concerts and other events.
The park also offers numerous hiking trails that wind through the surrounding foothills, offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area. Kids can hike with their families, spotting local wildlife and taking in the awe-inspiring views of the nearby mountains.
For those who are interested in learning more about the area’s natural history, there is a visitor center that offers educational exhibits and displays. Kids can learn about the geology, ecology, and history of the park and the surrounding region.
The park also hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as outdoor yoga sessions, movie nights, and guided nature walks. Additionally, there is a summer concert series that features popular musicians and bands from around the world.
Overall, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a great destination for families with kids who are looking to explore the outdoors and experience the natural beauty of Colorado.
8. History Colorado Center
The History Colorado Center is a museum located in downtown Denver that offers an immersive and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. The museum tells the story of Colorado’s rich history, from its Native American roots to the present day.
One of the highlights of the museum is the “Colorado Stories” exhibit, which takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing the various cultures and communities that have shaped the state.
Kids can engage with interactive exhibits that allow them to experience life as pioneers, ride a ski lift, and even participate in a simulated cattle drive.
9. Denver Aquarium
The Denver Aquarium is a popular attraction that offers a unique and interactive experience for kids to learn about the underwater world. The aquarium features over a million gallons of water, filled with a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and more.
One of the highlights of the aquarium is the interactive exhibits, where kids can touch and learn about marine animals up close. There’s a touch tank where kids can touch and feed stingrays, as well as a tide pool exhibit where they can touch and learn about creatures like sea stars and crabs.
Another popular exhibit is the “Under the Sea” tunnel, where visitors can walk through an acrylic tunnel surrounded by water and see a variety of marine life swimming around them.
In addition to the exhibits and shows, the aquarium also offers educational programs for kids of all ages. These include behind-the-scenes tours, overnight stays, and even scuba diving lessons for older kids.
10. Denver Public Library
The Denver Public Library is a wonderful resource for families with kids, offering a wide range of programs and events designed to promote reading, learning, and creativity.
The library has numerous branches throughout the city, each with its own unique programs and offerings.
One of the most popular programs for kids is the library’s storytime sessions, which are held regularly and feature stories, songs, and activities that are engaging and fun for young children.
The library also offers craft activities and workshops that allow kids to explore their creativity and develop new skills.
For older kids, the library hosts reading challenges and book clubs, where they can read and discuss books with their peers and earn rewards for their reading achievements.
The library also has a vast collection of books, audiobooks, and other materials that kids can borrow and explore.
In addition to the programs and resources, the Denver Public Library is a safe and welcoming space for families with kids.
The libraries are designed to be comfortable and accessible, with areas for kids to read, study, and play.
Overall, the Denver Public Library is a fantastic resource for families with kids who want to promote reading, learning, and creativity in a safe and welcoming environment.
Conclusion
Denver is an ideal destination for families with kids who are looking for a fun and enriching vacation.
With its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and wide range of family-friendly attractions, Denver offers endless possibilities for kids of all ages.
Whether your child is interested in science, art, sports, or nature, Denver has something to offer.
From interactive museums and aquariums to amusement parks and outdoor adventures, kids will be entertained and educated at the same time.
With Denver’s welcoming and safe atmosphere, parents can relax and enjoy the trip knowing that their kids are having a great time.
So, if you’re planning a family vacation and want to make it a memorable experience for your kids, consider Denver as your next destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Denver offers a range of outdoor activities for kids, including hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, skiing at one of the many nearby ski resorts, exploring the Denver Zoo or Botanic Gardens, and rafting or kayaking on one of the nearby rivers.
Indoor activities in Denver include visiting museums such as the Children’s Museum of Denver or the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, going to the aquarium at the Downtown Aquarium, or visiting one of the many indoor play spaces throughout the city.
Yes.
There are many free kid’s activities in Denver, such as visiting City Park or Cheesman Park, exploring the Cherry Creek Bike Path, or attending one of the many free outdoor concerts or events that take place throughout the city.
Some family-friendly neighborhoods to stay in Denver include LoDo (Lower Downtown), Cherry Creek, Highlands, and Capitol Hill. These neighborhoods are easily accessible, offer plenty of dining and entertainment options, and have a range of family-friendly accommodations.
Some tips for traveling to Denver with kids include packing for different weather conditions, bringing snacks and water for hikes or outdoor activities, researching family-friendly activities in advance, and planning for downtime or rest periods in between activities.
Additionally, it can be helpful to bring a stroller or carrier for younger children and to use public transportation or ride-share services for convenience.
Reference
- https://www.denver.org/things-to-do/family-friendly/kid-friendly-denver/
- https://denver.kidsoutandabout.com/content/top-20-places-take-kids-denver-co
- https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=kids+activities+outdoor&find_loc=Denver%2C+CO
