Top 10 Things to Do When Visiting Denver with Kids

Thinking about a family getaway to Denver? From toddlers to teens, these nearby adventures promise unforgettable moments for every age.

Although Denver and surrounding areas offer endless museums, parks and attractions, here are our top 10 Can’t Go Wrong stops you should consider when planning out your trip.

If you’re traveling with young children, toddlers through early elementary, it’s tough to beat this museum for a rainy morning or indoor blast. The Children’s Museum of Denver is designed specifically for little ones up to about age 8, with hands-on galleries, climbing features, water play, and art zones.

Anticipate spending at least 2-3 hours here as your little one explores the 15+ different exhibits, with everything from a bubble room and assembly plant to a craft filled art room and real hands-on teaching kitchen. Lunch can be purchased in the food court or you are welcome to bring your own lunch or snacks.

A perfect pick for older kids and teens who are looking for something out of the ordinary. Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station in Denver is an immersive, surreal art and adventure space with interactive rooms, hidden passages and story elements.

If your teen wants something that doesn’t feel like a typical museum, this is exactly what they’re looking for. With a café and bar conveniently located within the museum, you could spend several hours here experiencing non-stop fun.

If you’re coming during the warmer months, there’s no better time to get up to the mountains and surround yourself in nature, but with an epic twist.

For the older teen (or parents) who wants “extreme” but safe, this zipline located just 35 minutes from Denver offers an adventure to remember. You will have the opportunity to ride 6 different ziplines ranging from 850 ft – 1,900 ft (259 m - 579 m) in length.

Just north of Denver in Westminster, this unique venue allows you to walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies, explore invertebrate and insect exhibits, and even enter outdoor gardens.

It’s ideal for younger kids (and up to early teens) who love nature but may not be ready for more extreme adventure options. They have rotating exhibits throughout the year, so make sure you check out what’s going on during your visit!

The Butterfly Pavillion is also located near the Westminster Promenade and Shops at Walnut Creek which offer various food and other entertainment options for an extended stay in the area.

Another warm weather option, you can take to the sky with the Sky Trek ropes course or zip line tour. Or you can challenge yourself physically by taking on the Adventure Tower or Ninja Course.

With bundle options, multiple levels, harnesses and ziplines, this is perfect for anyone who is confident with heights and physically active.

Tip: book ahead and check height/weight/age requirements.

This is a classic: dinosaurs, space, natural history, hands-on science; something for all ages. With rotating exhibits, you will never run out of something new to see, even if you’ve been here before. The museum also includes a café and gift shop.

For families with a wide age range of kids (2-17), it offers something for the youngest and the teens alike.

If you’re planning your visit around the holidays, this could be an excellent activity to add to your itinerary. The annual Christkindlmarket is a festive holiday market in downtown Denver with vendors, food, music, crafts and seasonal magic.

Even if you’re not travelling in the deep winter, it’s worthwhile to check whether the market is active during your visit, or at least plan for holiday-themed stops.

This year they will be celebrating their 25 year anniversary, so you can anticipate extra magic! The market will run from November 21 – December 23, 2025.

Indoor skydiving is another great option for adrenaline-seeking older kids/teens. iFLY Denver offers the experience of free-falling in a vertical wind tunnel, no plane required. It’s especially nice when the weather is unpredictable and you want something thrilling but controlled.

Flyers must be at least 40” tall, and reservations are required for this event.

For older kids (pre-teens through teens) who are comfortable in the water and ready for a thrilling, outdoor activity: tubing down Clear Creek in Golden is a summer highlight. The creek has man-made features to add interest and adventure.

This is a great mid-summer activity, as long as the water levels are safe. You will want to rent a tube beforehand, from local places like Adventure West. Then take a stroll upstream, or ride a shuttle, and choose from several great starting points that are clearly marked. Tubing itself generally takes about an hour, so be sure to wear your sunscreen!

Make sure you check flow conditions, current age/ability recommendations, and be sure to bring water-friendly shoes, proper sun protection, and life vests.

Located just outside Denver in Morrison, this is a gem for any dinosaur- or fossil-loving kid (and adult). The museum features real fossils, touchable exhibits, and a lab where you can watch scientists at work. At the end of your tour, browse the gift shop, or spend some time doing your own excavation in the dino dig out space outside.

Because it’s smaller and more intimate, it’s a nice choice when you want something educational and away from the crowds of Denver.

No matter what type of adventure/activity draws you and your child in, Denver will have something that is perfect for everyone. Keep in mind, this list is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the fun Denver has to offer.