Denver for Families

Denver, Colorado isn't just for adventurous types and aficionados of craft beer. Surprisingly enough, it is a great destination to take families with kids of all ages! Ditch the "Mile High City" nickname for a second-smile high city, because your kids are going to be grinning from ear to ear with just the pure variety of fun things to do. So pack up the kids, toss a few bags in the car, and get ready for one heck of a family adventure right in the heart of the Rockies.

Roaring Animal Encounters

Let us get started with the animals that go "rawr" and "meow". First up on the list of stops should be the Denver Zoo, which calls more than 4,000 animals from around the world its home. Meet sun-kissed lions, and comical penguins, and even find yourself dazzled by the Amur leopard-one of the world's most rare animals. The hands-on exhibits and educational programs make learning about wildlife a fun day for the entire family. For a slightly wilder experience, head just outside Denver to the Wild Animal Sanctuary. This amazing nonprofit organization rescues abused and neglected animals, giving them a haven to roam free. Take to the elevated walkway and marvel at rescued lions, tigers, and bears! And other amazing animals in their naturalistic habitats.
 

Science & Discovery to Inspire Wonder

Denver is a dream for budding scientists and those too curious for their good. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is an utter gem that features interactive exhibits from dinosaurs all the way to space exploration. They can excavate for fossils, walk into a model of an ancient Egyptian tomb, and even catch a show at the planetarium. The more curious make a trip to the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. This great museum is especially for younger kids, with hands-on exhibits inviting investigation and play. Kids can splash in a water play area, build their creations in the workshop, and even climb through a three-story jungle gym.

Awesome Outdoor Activities

Denver sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, which translates to outdoor family-friendly activities galore. A concert might be scheduled or it might not regardless, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a natural wonder and must-see. Kids especially will be amazed by the many bizarre cuts of the rocks and spectacular views. For families seeking a higher level of activity, there are several hiking trails within a short drive. Lookout Mountain offers great views of the city and surrounding mountains. A real workout can be found on the trail at nearby Red Rocks Trail through spectacular red rock canyons. For something in a completely different vein, the Peak to Peak Highway beckons one twisted visual wonderland through mountains with breathtaking views around every turn.

Creative Expressions to Spark the Imagination

Denver's vibrant art scene makes fun accessible for all ages the youngest among them. The Denver Art Museum has a great collection of art from around the world. Exhibits are extremely interactive; this is an excellent place where children can learn something new and express their creativity. The Clyfford Still Museum features works by the abstract expressionist painter Clyfford Still. It sounds like an odd choice for kids, but the museum offers several family-friendly programs and activities aimed at introducing kids to the world of abstract art. For something a little more hands-on, the Kirkland Museum of Decorative & Fine Arts lets kids get up close and personal with an intriguing collection of decorative arts and design.

Treats Sweet & Delicious Eats

No family vacation would be complete without indulging in some delicious treats. Little Man Ice Cream is a Denver institution, that serves up giant scoops of homemade ice cream in a whimsical milk jug-shaped building. To sample the hot food scene in Denver, try one of the innumerable family-friendly restaurants in town. From farm-to-table cuisine to behemoth burger joints, there's something to satiate every palate.

Beyond the City Limits

If you have a little extra time, consider taking a day trip to one of the many charming towns that surround Denver. Golden is where one finds Coors Brewery. Golden has historic landscapes of Colorado, along with brewing heritage. Boulder is a very lively college town that sits at the foot of Flatirons and enjoys every form of arts to outdoor adventures. To make it all unforgettable, enjoy North America's highest paved road on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway via an unforgettable scenery with views across the surrounding peaks.