Top Denver Attractions For Kids

Gina I.:  Located in Denver's historic Lowry neighborhood, the museum is dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation to learn more about aviation and space exploration. Peruse their large collection of more than 50 historic aircraft, take part in an exciting flight simulator experience, and check out so many cool exhibits and events.

Gina I.:  One of the best Denver attractions for kids of all ages to enjoy is the Museum of Nature and Science. Explore our solar system, examine gems and minerals, and travel through time on a prehistoric journey. The museum offers 3 floors of interesting spaces to investigate, including mummies, Native American artifacts, and Expedition Health, giving kids an inside look at how their bodies work. They also have an IMAX theater and a great planetarium featuring awe-inspiring shows. The museum is small enough to see in a few hours, yet it’s engaging enough to keep kids around all day.

Gina I.:  Located in City Park on 80 sprawling acres, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 600 different animal species, including Western lowland Gorillas, Asian Elephants, African Lions, and Black Rhinos. With a focus on conservation, the zoo offers lots of great educational opportunities and presentations, perfect for curious young animal lovers.

Gina I.:  Explore 24 acres of diverse plant life and beautiful green spaces at the Botanic Gardens! While the gardens display plants from across the globe, they have a distinct focus on the unique plants that are native to Denver's high altitude climate. Pack a picnic lunch, and dine al fresco with the whole family!

Sue Krawitz Tandoc:  Hammond's Candies have been made by hand since 1920! Your family can take a complimentary 30-minute factory tour to see your favorite candy being made and learn the process as well as the history of Denver. Everyone can also take home a sweet treat!

Kristy Pepping:  If you are not familiar with Denver, you may think 16th Street Mall is an indoor shopping center. It actually refers to shopping along 16th Street. Our hotel was located on 16th Street so we walked this outdoor "Mall" each day. The nice part is there are no cars allowed on this stretch. However, buses do run up and down the sides of it.

You will find several restaurants, shops and convenience stores along this stretch. They also have street performers and some special events.

Gina I.:  Head over to Coors Field in the heart of Denver to see MLB's Rockies take the mound! Be sure to take the kids to visit the fun interactive area featuring speed pitch, a video batting cage, Tee-Ball, and and a free interactive video arcade. Coors Field Tours are also available.

Gina I.:  Denver's most historic block, Larimer Square is home to several incredible chef owned restaurants and boutique stores. Take a stroll by day and see the charming historic buildings or go at night and enjoy the warm glow from Larimer Square's thousands of strung lights. If you're there for the dining, you can't go wrong with any of the restaurants, but try The Market for more kid-friendly fare.

Sarah Calamita:  The Dairy Block has lots of cute shops and restaurants to check out!

Kristy Pepping:  Our hotel was located across the street from Denver Mint and my kids really wanted to take the free tour to see how money is made. On the 45-minute tour, you will learn the history of the US mint and how coins are produced. It is first come first serve so make sure you get tickets in advance! After the tour, check out the gift shop for a unique souvenir!

Gina I.:  Established in 1881 as the main railway hub in Denver, Union Station is now home to great restaurants, shops and the beautiful Crawford Hotel. Food offerings include breakfast restaurants, coffee shop, bars, ice cream, and delicious eateries. You likely won't spend a lot of time at Union Station, but its downtown location and beautiful architecture make it a great place to stop for a meal or snack while you're touring Denver with kids.

Gina I.:  A combination theme and water park, located in the heart of Denver, Elitch Gardens offers plenty of fun for the whole family! This is one of the memorable Denver attractions for kids.

The theme park features roller coasters & thrill rides, as well family rides and tot-friendly attractions. Their Island Kingdom water park offers an array of waterslides, an adventure river, wave pool, and more. If hunger strikes, there are plenty of eateries around the park serving up kid-friendly fare.

Gina I.:  It's hard to miss Little Man Ice Cream...just look for the giant milk pail! Arguably Denver's tastiest ice cream, Little Man serves up delicious homemade flavors like Salted Oreo, Banana Pudding, Oatmeal Cookie, Toffee Coffee, and Mexican Chocolate. They also have great vegan flavors to choose from. While visiting Denver with kids, get your scoops in their handmade waffle cones, or try an ice cream sammie, shake, sundae or split! Kid-friendly sizes are available, and they have a great outdoor seating area where you can sit back and relax.

Gina I.:  Experience a new side of Denver by taking an open air trolley ride throughout the city! The Denver Trolley runs on over 250 miles of city tracks, offering stops at Mile High Stadium, the Downtown Aquarium, Children's Museum, and other great local attractions. Trolley operators are knowledgeable about the local area and history, and often share interesting facts along the way.

Gina I.:  Explore, imagine, investigate and create at the Children's Museum of Denver! The Altitude and Box Canyon exhibits give kids the opportunity to climb, camp, and raft in an urban environment. They can also run their own vet clinic or fire station, learn about the science of bubbles, paint in the art studio and so much more.