16 Fun Things to Do in Denver with Kids of All Ages

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 here. 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 eats. Meanwhile, the kids will dig sundaes at 5280 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 Trading Post Trail or go hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding on Red Rocks Trail. For even more fun, explore Red Rocks Amphitheater guided tour options.

3. Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Elitch Gardens serves up plenty of rides and water fun for vacationers and locals. Of course, there are plenty of carnival games to please all ages, too. 

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 à la “Stomp” with dancing and drum beating on trash can lids and the like. 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 waterslides 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 overstimulation 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 heads-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 State Mint and discover how coins are produced for the American public. The best part? You can save your coins because visits are free of charge!

6. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

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

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.
— Stephanie Taleghani, Consistently Curious

7. Children’s Museum of Denver

Designed for kids ages 4 to 8, the Children’s Museum of Denver is a great place to take kids of all ages. It is home to stellar versions of the standard children’s museum fare like water features and pretend play spaces including 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.

What makes this museum stand out, however, 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.

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″+ to climb, but little ones should check out Box Canyon instead.

Plan for a whole day here! The Children’s Museum of Denver is located right on the edge of downtown.
— Shanna Schultz, There And Back Again Travel

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 the oldest public spaces in Denver. It is known for being the home of both the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, but it offers so much more to families.

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, which dazzles guests with its colorful light and water displays.

In summer, jazz music fills the air as bands play on a lakefront stage. Don’t forget to bring a picnic or visit a nearby food truck so you can dine while taking in views of the picturesque Colorado Rockies and city skyline.
— Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo

9. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The interactive Denver Museum of Nature & Science is built for curious kids. It includes popular permanent exhibits: Discovery Zone, Expedition Health, Gems and Minerals, Prehistoric Journey, and Space Odyssey. The museum also features a three-story-high IMAX theater with fascinating science-focused films and the Gates Planetarium for space exploration.

No matter how many times we visit, my family discovers something new, as the museum features rotating exhibits. This museum is located in City Park near the Denver Zoo.
— Diana Rowe, Traveling In Heels

10. Denver Zoo

This large zoo in City Park is filled with many favorite animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, bears, tigers, sea lions, and more. Denver Zoo is similar to other big city zoos, which makes 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.
— Allison Laypath, Tips for Family Trips

11. Downtown Aquarium

Animal lovers will also enjoy a visit to 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.

Plan to eat at Downtown Aquarium’s Restaurant for a special dining experience while seated around a 50,000-gallon, floor-to-ceiling aquarium filled with over 100 species of colorful tropical fish.

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

12. Denver Art Museum

Filled with beautiful art and fun activities, look for hands-on activities and interactive art displays at the Denver Art Museum that will appeal to kids and adults alike. 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! This museum is located downtown, just three blocks from the Colorado State Capital Building.
— Allison Laypath, Tips for Family Trips

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

Just West of downtown Denver along the iconic Colfax Ave., you’ll find Paco Sanchez Park tucked away in a colorful neighborhood. Plus, the views of the Broncos stadium and downtown Denver aren’t too shabby either.

As part of the “Re-Imagine Play” program, the theme at this park is music. The main attraction is a 1950’s style microphone that’s multiple stories tall and looks out over the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains.

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.

Paco Sanchez Park is growing, too. Phase Two of the park will feature a splash pad and community kiosk, complete with large modern letters spelling “Paco.” It’s sure to become one of Denver’s most Instagrammable spots.
— Christa Jiménez, Pura Vida Moms

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 capital’s construction as well as a children’s play space.

State Capitol of Colorado (Photo credit: volgariver, Depositphotos.com)

16. Golden, Where the West Lives

If you’re looking for Colorado small-town charm, then look no further than Golden. Located in the foothills about 20 minutes west of downtown Denver, Golden welcomes families with a wide range of year-round activities. Think hiking, biking, tubing, cultural attractions, museums, and Old West history.

Explore the downtown with a free Golden Public Art Walking Tour, seeing 30+ bronze statues and murals. Then, take in a show at the family-friendly children’s matinee at Miners Alley Playhouse. Admission is free at the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, the second most visited university gem museum (after Harvard’s). Another fun thing to do in Golden is a road trip to the top of Lookout Mountain, where you’ll also discover the Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum, one of metro Denver’s most popular attractions.

Additionally, train fans shouldn’t miss a visit to Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden. It’s home to fifty models of old trains. Kids can also ride a miniature train around the museum. With over 200 locomotives, passenger cars, cabooses and more, your family could spend hours here.
— Diana Rowe, Traveling In Heels

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, and you don’t even need a car. Families with young kids will love to run around the indoor lake, while parents of teens will appreciate the free Wi-Fi and coffee shop/bar in the main lobby.

With both indoor and outdoor waterparks, sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, and gorgeous rooms, there’s plenty to love about this resort. Virtual scavenger hunt? Check. Mini golf, tennis, basketball courts and free bike rental? Check, check, check, check. Train car in the grand lobby? Of course!
— Christa Jiménez, Pura Vida Moms

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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Adventurous families will especially love these amazing things to do in Cañon City and Colorado Springs.

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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 The Travel Mama: As a member of the media, my family was hosted by Westin Westminster and we received complimentary Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park tickets during our Denver family vacation.

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