Denver may be most famous for its mountains, natural parks, and breweries, but the Mile High City offers a diverse range of activities that will keep everyone entertained.
To help you plan your trip, we’ll explore the 10 best family-friendly activities in Denver, ensuring your visit is filled with adventure, culture, and plenty of memories.
Visit the Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world. Get up close to its inhabitants through exhibits like Predator Ridge, where the big cats roam, or the Primate Panorama, where the kids will love spotting monkeys playing in the trees.
The Tropical Discovery exhibit is an experience in itself with a bat cave, all kinds of snakes, tiny tree frogs, and Komodo dragons. Don’t miss the new penguin enclosure, where you can watch the residents waddle their way to the water for a swim.
Explore the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Science comes to life at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, where the kids can discover the world around them through fun, hands-on activities. Explore the universe, genetics lab, gems, minerals, and dinosaur exhibits.
The museum also features a state-of-the-art planetarium and the Infinity Theater, offering immersive shows and educational films.
Fuel Their Imaginations at the Children’s Museum of Denver Marsico Campus
Geared toward children up to the age of 8, the Children’s Museum of Denver Marsico Campus encourages kids to explore the world around them through play. Little ones can dress up and engage in role-play in the vet’s office, fire station, or supermarket.
From the outdoor adventure area to water play and bubble-making, there’s plenty of opportunity for messy play. The museum has daily programs and workshops, so there’s always something new to enjoy.
Experience the Thrill of Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Located right in the heart of Denver, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park will satisfy everyone from the most fearless adventure junkie to those with a more delicate constitution. Thrill seekers will love rides like the Mind Eraser and Brain Drain, while you’ll find plenty of family-friendly options, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and teacup ride.
In hot weather, the water park is the perfect place to cool down. It’s home to a variety of tube rides—from beginner to daredevil—and family slides to suit all ages.
Relax at the Denver Botanic Gardens on York Street
If the bustle of the city gets too much, escape to the tranquil surroundings of the Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street. Discover diverse plant species from Colorado and worldwide in the various gardens, including ornamental, water, and shady ones.
The Mordecai Children’s Garden lets kids explore nature and have fun with interactive exhibits. Denver Botanic Gardens holds flower festivals, concerts, and holiday events.
Visit the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys
Step into the enchanting world of the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys. The permanent collection includes intricate dollhouses, miniature furniture and toys, and a wide variety of vintage toys from different eras.
The treasure of the doll collection is Miss Yokohama, Colorado’s own Japanese Friendship Doll with human hair and inset glass eyes. Kids of all ages will appreciate the artisan miniatures made from wood, ivory, silver, and gold.
Explore the Downtown Aquarium
An underwater adventure awaits you at the Downtown Aquarium, where you can get up close with sea creatures from around the globe. Get ready to see sharks up close, watch playful sea otters, and admire colorful tropical fish in the coral reef exhibit.
Kids will love the chance to feed the stingrays. You can even book a one-on-one encounter with an animal ambassador to meet a sloth, snake, tortoise, or parrot. Despite celebrating all things underwater, the Downtown Aquarium is also home to several Sumatran tigers. For something different, enjoy the live Mermaid Show from the restaurant.
Unleash Your Inner Artist at the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum showcases a vast collection dating from ancient civilizations to contemporary art. You’ll find almost every corner of the world represented here. Exhibits include indigenous art, photography, textiles, and fashion.
Kids can get creative through various art-making workshops, and there are special interactive tours tailored for younger visitors. Under-18s go free, and the museum hosts sensory-friendly mornings.
Visit the United States Mint in Denver
The United States Mint at Denver is one of four active coin-producing mints in the United States. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of money and the coin-making process. Kids will be fascinated to witness the live making of some of the millions of coins produced daily.
This is a unique opportunity to learn about the world of currency and the importance of monetary systems. Tours are free, but be sure to request tickets before your visit.
Discover Fossils at Dinosaur Ridge
Just a short drive outside the city is the United States’ number-one dinosaur attraction, Dinosaur Ridge. With over 250 Cretaceous dinosaur tracks, Jurassic dinosaur bones, and many more fossils, it’s an unforgettable family experience.
Explore the two-mile Ridge Trail—home to the world’s first Stegosaurus fossil discovery—by foot or bike. Afterward, it’s a good idea to unwind at the Visitor Center. Additionally, the children can have fun playing in the dig areas and discovering both genuine and imitation exhibits.
The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Denver in Summary
Whatever the time of year, there’s plenty to do in Denver. Whether you’re looking to enhance your children’s learning, escape to the outdoors, or enjoy a day of pure fun, the Mile High City has you covered. So, get packed, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable family adventure.
