Top Family-Friendly Activities in Denver, Colorado

Denver is a welcoming place for kids of all ages. And it’s no wonder – with outdoorsy recreation of all sorts, family-friendly museums and activities, plus sunshine 300 days a year, Colorado’s capital seems made for kids and families.

The city is becoming increasingly expensive, but a visit is tough to resist. Here are the best things to do in the Mile High City when you’re traveling with kids – and how to save money while you’re at it.

Is Denver Good for Kids?

Yes! From sprawling green spaces where kids can blow off steam to interactive exhibits that stimulate their imaginations, Denver offers plenty of opportunities for youth-oriented fun.

However, the 5280ft elevation can be challenging; it’s not called the Mile High City for nothing. If anyone starts feeling sick, headachey or unusually tired, it may be altitude sickness. Therefore, take it easy and stay hydrated; it often takes a few days to acclimate to the elevation.

Best Things to Do in Denver with Kids

Spend Time in City Park

City Park is the largest of Denver’s many open spaces, a 330-acre leafy park with lakes for fishing and paddle boating. Sprawling playgrounds and a splash pad keep the young entertained while free summer jazz concerts beckon listeners of all ages.

Make Science Fun at Denver Museum of Nature & Science

On the north side of City Park, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science makes science fun through exhibits incorporating everything from traditional dioramas to state-of-the-art technology. Shows at the IMAX theater and planetarium make for a welcome break, especially on a hot day.

See an Animal Feeding at the Denver Zoo

Next door, the Denver Zoo has expansive habitats and up-close views of animals from around the world, even tigers and elephants passing overhead. Be sure to catch an animal feeding; staff members often share interesting facts and answer audience questions too.

Check Out the Interactive Exhibits at History Colorado Center

Learn all about the Centennial State’s people and places, from ancient to modern times, at History Colorado Center. Thoughtfully presented exhibits are ever-changing, many of them interactive to keep kids engaged. Parents can also explore programs such as city walking tours and archaeological digs during their visit.

Spark Your Imagination at the Children’s Museum Denver Marsico Campus

Happy children can be found in every corner of the indoor-outdoor Children’s Museum Denver Marsico Campus. With engaging displays and loads of activities, it’s tough not to have fun. Hands-on exhibits range from a kids’ kitchen to craft spaces, water play to aerial adventures.

Have an Underwater Adventure at the Downtown Aquarium

Next door to the Children’s Museum, the Downtown Aquarium showcases creatures from mountain rivers, coral reefs, and rainforests in more than one million gallons of water. You can eat lunch in the aquarium restaurant without paying admission to the aquarium itself, enjoying views of the giant tank filled with sharks and other sea creatures.

Explore Denver Botanic Gardens

A 24-acre oasis in the middle of town, Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and soothing place for families to wander and explore. It features a diverse collection of gardens with plants from around the world, water features, and large-scale art. Outdoor summer concerts and an annual holiday light extravaganza are especially popular.

Enjoy Interactive and Creative Sections at Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum houses Old Master paintings, modern contemporary works, and one of the richest collections of Native American art in the world. The museum integrates creative games, activities, and art stations into many of the exhibits, ensuring children engage with art in a fun way.

Go to Confluence Park to Ride Bikes and Hit the Water

Confluence Park in downtown Denver is a hopping spot for families, especially in the summer. Located at the meeting of Cherry Creek and South Platte River, it’s perfect for romping in the water and playing on the small beach. Families on bikes can easily access the Cherry Creek Trail as well.

Catch Some of Denver’s Best Spectator Sports as a Family

With 81 home games between April and September, catching a Colorado Rockies baseball game is easy and affordable, especially with special pricing for young children. Many other professional sports teams, including the Broncos, Nuggets, Avalanche, Mammoth, and Rapids, make it simple to watch elite athletes in action.

Wander the Easy Trails at Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge

On the outskirts of Denver, Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge offers more than 10 miles of easy hiking trails – perfect for little legs and strollers. Visitors can spot bison, mule deer, and bald eagles along the way. The Visitor Center features an interactive exhibit hall and a Discovery Room with hands-on displays for family engagement.

Planning Tips

• Many attractions offer reduced or free admission for young people. A prepaid ticket package can also save money.
• Traffic and parking can be challenging in Denver, especially downtown. Public transportation is a convenient alternative, with discounted fares for young people.
• Scooter and bike shares provide a fun option for kids who can navigate city streets.

This article was first published Jun 14, 2021 and updated Jun 26, 2023.