Denver Local Highlights
Published on February 10, 2022 - Updated on February 24, 2022
Denver is a wonderful place to spend time with your kiddos! With 300 days of sun a year, it’s likely that good weather will accompany your visit and you’ll be able to spend lots of time outside! Check out a few of our ambassador-recommended spots below!
Local Highlights
2001 Colorado BlvdDenver, CO 80205
You could spend a whole day in City Park! Its two playgrounds and splash pad have reopened, making it a great place for your kids to cool down and there is plenty of space to run around (the park is 330 acres). There are multiple paved paths winding around the large park, making it a great place to walk or run with a stroller or to ride bikes with your kids. You can even rent swan boats to ride around in the pond in the center of the park.
2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205
One of the best parts of the Denver Zoo is that it is located right next to City Park, so you can easily make this an add-on for a full day out! The zoo is very fun and features a tram that you can ride around the whole zoo. That means that if it’s too hot or if the kids get tired from all the walking you can still see all the animals while taking a break from walking. Make sure to reserve a ticket online and bring a mask.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is also located in this area, meaning the area has more things to do than you could fit into one day! It features ten permanent exhibitions as well as temporary ones, and has a section for young children in each exhibition! Be sure to reserve a timed ticket for entry in advance!
S. Downing St. & E. Louisiana Ave.Denver, CO 80210
Washington Park (known as Wash Park) is another favorite for families. It has a new playground, paved paths for scootering and biking, and a great sandbox.
700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211
The Denver Aquarium is also worth a visit! It not only has your usual fish and sharks but also has a tiger and some snakes!
Sweet Treats
1882 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Visit Sweet Treats for a delicious snack! Their 60’s style decor is super cute and your kids will love it.
1535 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202
Inside Scoop Creamery is yummy and made locally. They even have cookies and sandwiches, just in case anyone in your group isn’t in the mood for ice cream.
215 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80246
If you’re looking for flavors that are out of the box, try High Point Creamery. They feature flavors like basil blackberry swirl and cornbread with strawberry jam.
A Bit Further Out!
Bear Creek Trail at Lair o’ the Bear Park
22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453
This park and trail is conveniently located only 30 minutes from downtown Denver, but you will feel like you’re far from the city. It’s especially good for little kids, it’s super shady and you can stop and put your feet in the water!
Lumpy Ridge Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517
If you want to get further from the city, make a stop at Gem Lake. It’s an hour and a half drive from Denver and a 3.5-mile hike that ends at a gorgeous clear lake.
1000 US Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517
Rocky Mountain National Park is near Gem Lake and is definitely worth a visit, especially in the warmer months. Its high mountain peaks and beautiful valleys are easily driveable, with lots of places to stop and look at the views with little kids.
Want to read up more on a few great Colorado spots to visit? Check out our blog post on Rocky Mountain National Park or read about river rafting in Salida, Colorado! Or check out some local favorites by our partner Campspot with their favorite destinations all over Colorado!
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