Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Thornton, CO

Situated in the north-central region of Colorado, specifically within the boundaries of Adams and Weld counties, Thornton may not be as widely recognized as neighboring cities such as Boulder and Westminster. However, it stands as the sixth most populous city in the state and has witnessed significant growth in recent years.

Thornton boasts a strategic location between Interstates 25 and 76, providing visitors with a myriad of activities ranging from historical and cultural attractions to fine dining, family-friendly entertainment, and various annual festivals.

During the warmer months, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Below is a compilation of 15 noteworthy activities to explore in and around Thornton, Colorado.

1. Prairie Playhouse

Primarily catering to the communities of Brighton and Thornton, the Prairie Playhouse serves as a community-focused theater that has provided local entertainment to performance enthusiasts for nearly a decade.

Located on Garfield Way in Thornton, this venue is renowned for consistently delivering high-quality Broadway-style productions to a relatively small city.

Most performers and production staff are local volunteers, making it an excellent way to enjoy reasonably priced entertainment while supporting the community. Please check their website for the event calendar prior to your visit.

2. Maize in the City

Corn is one of Colorado’s key agricultural crops, referred to as Maize in Spanish. For nearly two decades, Thornton has hosted a popular fall corn maze, which opens at the end of September and operates until the end of October.

The renowned ‘maize maze’ meanders through over 20 picturesque acres. While it is easy to lose your way for some time, it remains a safe choice for families traveling with young children.

The maze coincides with various fall activities, including pumpkin carving competitions, corn cannons, animal rides, and a variety of delicious food options.

3. Hill’s Harvest

Hill’s Harvest is Thornton’s interpretation of a traditional farmer’s market and has been a popular community gathering and shopping venue for over 15 years.

During Colorado’s limited growing season, Hill’s Harvest is filled with fresh produce, including lettuce, carrots, peaches, and cherries, while the fall season brings pumpkins and gourds.

Located on East 124th Street in Thornton, the market operates from 10 AM to 6 PM Monday to Saturday, and until 5 PM on Sundays during the growing season, which runs from July through October.

4. Denver Premium Outlets

Despite its name, the Denver Premium Outlets are located on Grant Street in Thornton. For those seeking fashionable clothing or a break from the weather, it offers an excellent environment for a few hours.

The outlets feature renowned brands such as Under Armour, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade, presenting a comprehensive range of items including perfumes, athletic footwear, and jewelry.

While some brands can be expensive, discounts are frequently available, accompanied by diverse dining options such as sushi, soft pretzels, and gourmet salads.

5. State 38 Distilling

Golden, Colorado is home to an emblematic beer brand and serves as the operational base for a small-batch distillery that produces a variety of exceptional spirits.

From vodka and gin to whiskey and tequila, State 38 Distilling utilizes only fresh, natural ingredients, and their facility regularly hosts guided tours and tastings.

This opportunity is highly educational for those interested in understanding the spirit production process, and participants often remark on the superior quality of the samples provided during the visit.

6. Platte River Trail

According to national surveys, Colorado is recognized for having one of the fittest populations in the United States.

With an abundance of outdoor activities such as skiing, climbing, and mountain biking readily available, the Platte River Trail stands out as one of the most frequented amenities in the Thornton and Denver areas.

This multi-use trail extends nearly 30 miles and primarily follows the river’s course, presenting users with a diverse landscape that features both urban and natural views, including stunning vistas of the city and mountains.

Visitors can access the trail at Platte River Trailhead Park in town.

7. Springvale Park Disc Golf Course

While disc golf remains lesser-known compared to traditional golf, it continues to gain popularity. The sport is more affordable and less regulated, allowing players to enjoy a more relaxed experience without the stringent apparel requirements.

Situated along Holly Street in Thornton, the Springvale Park Disc Golf Course is an excellent choice for active travelers looking to engage in outdoor fun at little cost.

The course is bounded by beautiful Marshall Lake, offering breathtaking views and expansive open spaces. Many families enjoy the playground and picnic area after their game.

8. Broomfield Community Park

A quick glance at a map of Thornton will reveal an abundance of municipal parks of various sizes.

These parks are typically free attractions, offering a wide range of recreational options, perfect for keeping visitors engaged for hours.

Broomfield Community Park encompasses over 40 acres and features multiple playgrounds, lighted ball fields, and a seasonally open outdoor swimming pool.

With batting cages, an amphitheater, and an inline skate rink, plus paved walking trails and convenient parking, this park is a popular destination.

9. Legacy Ridge Golf Course

Located just a short drive from Thornton in Westminster, Legacy Ridge Golf Course is a premier championship facility noted for its high-quality amenities, challenging holes, and exceptional value.

The course stretches over 7,100 yards from the blue tees, making it significantly longer than many competitors, while also offering various tee box options suitable for children, seniors, and women.

Notable features include a Scottish-style target layout, expansive fairways, and well-maintained greens. The added benefit of mountain views and gentle, low-humidity breezes enriches the golfing experience. It is advisable to reserve your tee time in advance during busy periods.

10. Elitch Gardens Theme & Waterpark

Situated near downtown Denver on Elitch Circle, Elitch Gardens Theme & Waterpark is one of the region’s oldest attractions, typically open between May and October.

This expansive facility features amusement park rides alongside numerous water attractions, such as slides, pools, and tubing areas.

While predominantly family-oriented, adults often find enjoyment as well; abundant shaded seating areas are available for those wanting to observe from a distance.

Offering movies, live entertainment, and various supervised activities ensures a fun-filled experience at a surprisingly affordable admission price.

11. Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Although William Shakespeare never visited Colorado, his legacy persists through the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, an annual event that has been thriving for over sixty years.

This festival, which consistently attracts a loyal audience, is held at the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre on University Avenue in nearby Boulder.

Productions at the festival are the culmination of extensive efforts, and theater enthusiasts frequently conclude they are among the finest they’ve experienced. There are also opportunities to enjoy gourmet food, crafts, and additional live entertainment.

12. Wings over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

History enthusiasts, particularly those interested in military and aviation history, will appreciate a visit to the Wings over the Rockies Air & Space Museum in Thornton.

Located within a historic Air Corps hangar that is over eighty years old, the museum’s extensive exhibits encompass more than 100,000 square feet and feature a remarkable collection of both civilian and military aircraft from various eras.

Key highlights include F-14 fighter jets, B-52 bombers, and an F-4 fighter-bomber, with admission fees that are lower than most other attractions in the area.

Most guests typically spend several hours immersing themselves in the exhibits, making it an enjoyable experience for both children and adults.

13. Denver Botanic Gardens

Although Colorado is often characterized by its rocky terrain and limited growing season, it is home to several remarkable botanical gardens. The Denver Botanic Gardens serve as a natural respite for individuals seeking to escape the city’s more commercial venues.

Featuring distinct themed areas spread across more than 20 acres, the gardens include inspirations from regions such as Asia and the Mediterranean.

The facility boasts North America’s most comprehensive collection of flora, including various trees and flowers that flourish in temperate climates worldwide, alongside an assortment of native cacti in diverse shapes and sizes.

14. American Museum of Western Art

The western regions of the United States have a rich artistic heritage featuring themes encompassing cowboy culture, mountainous landscapes, and solitary life, which appeal to art aficionados across the nation.

The American Museum of Western Art showcases works ranging from the early 1800s to contemporary pieces, featuring notable artists such as Frederic Remington and Thomas Moran.

While most visitors prefer to explore the museum independently, guided tours led by knowledgeable locals are also available for those desiring a deeper understanding. It is important to note that children must be accompanied at all times during their visit.

15. Children’s Museum of Denver

While many children might articulate that botanical gardens and art galleries are tedious environments to avoid, families visiting the Thornton area can find various engaging alternatives; the Children’s Museum of Denver stands out among these options.

Established in the 1970s, the museum has evolved from humble beginnings into a dynamic facility brimming with interactive exhibits covering a broad range of topics, including science, animals, history, and technology.

An on-site snack bar and designated play areas for toddlers further enhance the experience for younger visitors.