Oh boy, Denver was a hoot and a half! I recently visited this spunky city in Colorado with my family and we had an absolute blast exploring the local attractions. If you’re planning a trip with your kiddos anytime soon, make sure to check out these top 8 family activities in Denver!
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Denver Botanic Gardens
My little ones absolutely adored wandering around the Denver Botanic Gardens! We spent hours exploring the diverse plant life, smelling the sweet fragrances, and admiring the stunning colors. There were plenty of benches to rest on, fun events and workshops, and even a playground for the kiddos. Plus, the gardens have several indoor rooms and greenhouses which is great for visiting on a rainy day.
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Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science was hands down one of the coolest museums we’ve ever been to! They have everything from dinosaur fossils to interactive science exhibits, and even a planetarium. The kiddos were ecstatic to learn about the history of the world, explore different ecosystems, and check out the marvelous space exhibits.
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Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is a must-visit destination for any animal-loving family! We enjoyed seeing a wide variety of animals, including kangaroos, monkeys, lions, and even komodo dragons. The zookeepers were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing fun facts and insights about the animals throughout our visit. The rideable safari tram was also a super fun experience!
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Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
What child doesn’t love a good amusement park? Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is a perfect destination for a thrilling family adventure. From the massive roller coasters to the refreshing water rides, there’s something for everybody here. We were particularly impressed by the old-fashioned carousel – my kiddos wouldn’t stop asking to ride it again and again!
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Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
The Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center offered a unique and fascinating learning experience for the entire family. We loved getting up close and personal with all sorts of bugs, including tarantulas, centipedes, and of course, lots of beautiful butterflies. They even have a ‘Rosie’ the tarantula that you can hold in your hands if you’re brave enough!
Find out more about the Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
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Washington Park
Washington Park is a stunning green oasis in the middle of Denver. We spent several hours walking and biking around the park, admiring the beautiful flowers, fountains, and lake. There’s even a playground for the kiddos and plenty of open space for a family picnic. It’s a great way to recharge and enjoy some fresh air during your trip.
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Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium is a truly unique destination for families. We loved checking out all the marine life, including stingrays, tiger sharks, and even a Sumatran tiger. The aquarium also has several exciting exhibits, including an interactive 4D theater and a mermaid show. Plus, there’s even a restaurant inside the aquarium that offers incredible views of the fish tank while you dine.
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Molly Brown House Museum
The Molly Brown House Museum offers a fascinating peek into the life and times of one of Denver’s most famous residents. We enjoyed touring the historic mansion, learning about Molly’s incredible life, and exploring the intricate details of the house. The museum also offers several fun and educational events throughout the year, including period-themed tea parties and historic walking tours.
We all left the gardens feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!
We left feeling incredibly awestruck and inspired!
We had such a wild time at the Denver Zoo!
We left the park with full bellies, flushed cheeks, and a whole lot of laughter!
We left the pavilion with a newfound appreciation and curiosity for the insect world!
We left the park feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and inspired by the beauty of nature!
We left the aquarium feeling like we had explored an entirely different world!
We left the museum feeling like we had taken a step back in time!
I hope these top 8 family activities in Denver inspire you to plan an exciting and memorable trip with your loved ones. Denver truly offers something for everybody, so prepare to fall in love with this charming city in the heart of Colorado.