Ultimate Things to Do in Denver: 25+ Family Activities, Attractions & Hidden Gems
Quick Answer: What are the best things to do in Denver with families?
Denver offers unforgettable family-friendly activities including the Denver Zoo, Children’s Museum, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, and Denver Art Museum. Seasonal gems like downtown ice skating and scenic mountain hikes make Denver one of the top U.S. destinations for kids, teens, and parents alike.
🎯 Top 5 Must-Do Denver Activities for Families
- Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – Iconic outdoor venue with hiking trails & family photo spots
- Denver Zoo – 4,000+ animals, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events
- Children’s Museum of Denver – Best hands-on learning for kids under 8
- Denver Art Museum – Stunning exhibits with free family weekends
- 16th Street Mall – Free shuttle rides, street performers & local dining
Nicknamed the Mile High City, Denver is a playground for families who love culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities in Denver like mountain hiking or indoor attractions for kids such as interactive museums, this guide covers the best things to do in Denver with families, teens, and children of all ages.
🌲 Outdoor Adventures: Things to Do in Denver in Nature
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Marvel at massive red sandstone formations that create world-famous acoustics. Families can hike the Trading Post Trail, explore the visitor center, or enjoy an open-air concert under the stars.
- 👟 Best for: Families who love hiking
- 📍 Location: Morrison, 20 minutes from downtown Denver
- 💡 Tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds
City Park
This 330-acre urban oasis houses the Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science. The park features playgrounds, paddle boats, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
Washington Park
Perfect for picnics and outdoor recreation, this park offers tennis courts, flower gardens, and two lakes ideal for family walks and bike rides.
Hiking Trails Perfect for Families
- Cherry Creek Trail – Paved path perfect for strollers and bikes
- High Line Canal Trail – Easy walking with wildlife viewing opportunities
- Bear Creek Lake Park – Swimming, fishing, and gentle hiking trails
- Chatfield State Park – Water activities combined with nature trails
Educational Attractions: Learning-Focused Things to Do Denver
Denver excels at combining education with entertainment, offering numerous venues where learning becomes an adventure.
🏛️ Museum Must-Visits
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science features an IMAX theater, planetarium, and hands-on exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus provides interactive learning experiences specifically designed for younger visitors.
Top Educational Venues
- Denver Art Museum – Contemporary art in stunning architecture
- History Colorado Center – Interactive Colorado history exhibits
- Molly Brown House Museum – Historic home of the Titanic survivor
- Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum – Aviation history and aircraft displays
Entertainment Districts: Urban Things to Do Denver
Downtown Denver pulses with energy, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options that appeal to all ages.
16th Street Mall Experience
The pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall stretches over a mile through downtown Denver. Free shuttle buses transport visitors while street performers provide entertainment. The mall connects major attractions and offers diverse dining options suitable for families.
LoDo (Lower Downtown) Attractions
- Coors Field – Home of the Colorado Rockies baseball team
- Union Station – Historic transportation hub with shops and restaurants
- Larimer Square – Historic block with boutique shopping and dining
- Confluence Park – Where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River
Perfect Comfort for Denver Adventures: Butterfly Shorts for Teens
Exploring Denver requires comfortable, stylish clothing that moves with active teenagers. These butterfly shorts combine fashion with functionality, perfect for museum visits, hiking trails, or downtown shopping adventures.
These butterfly shorts provide the perfect combination of style and comfort for teenagers exploring Denver’s many attractions. Whether hiking Red Rocks or strolling through museums, comfort matters!
Seasonal Activities: Year-Round Things to Do Denver
Spring & Summer Adventures
Denver Botanic Gardens
Explore themed gardens, tropical conservatory, and seasonal exhibitions across 24 acres of horticultural displays.
Elitch Gardens Theme Park
Thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions in downtown Denver’s amusement park.
Denver Zoo
Home to over 4,000 animals representing 613 species, featuring interactive exhibits and conservation programs.
Fall & Winter Experiences
- Ice Skating at Skyline Park – Outdoor rink with city skyline views
- Holiday Lights at Denver Botanic Gardens – Spectacular winter illumination
- Rocky Mountain Lake Park – Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
- Denver Christkindl Market – Traditional German holiday market
Budget-Friendly Things to Do Denver
Families can enjoy numerous free and low-cost activities throughout Denver, making memorable experiences accessible to all budgets.
Free Family Activities
- Confluence Park – River confluence with walking trails and picnic areas
- Civic Center Park – Historic buildings, monuments, and seasonal events
- RiNo Art District – Street art tours and gallery walks
- Cherry Creek Bike Path – Scenic cycling and walking route
- Highlands Bridge – Pedestrian bridge with panoramic city views
💰 Money-Saving Tips
Many Denver museums offer free days for residents and discounted family passes. The Denver Public Library system provides free museum passes that can be reserved online. Additionally, numerous parks and trails offer free parking and activities year-round.
Teen-Friendly Things to Do Denver
Teenagers find plenty of engaging activities in Denver, from shopping districts to adventure sports and cultural experiences.
Popular Teen Destinations
- Cherry Creek Shopping Center – Upscale mall with popular teen brands
- Escape Rooms Downtown – Challenging puzzle experiences
- TopGolf Denver – Interactive golf entertainment venue
- Dave & Buster’s – Arcade games and dining combination
- iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Simulated skydiving experience
Cultural Experiences for Teens
The Denver Performing Arts Complex hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and theatrical performances. The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver features cutting-edge exhibitions that resonate with younger audiences. Additionally, the First Friday Art Walk in the Santa Fe Arts District provides exposure to local artists and galleries.
Day Trip Ideas: Extended Things to Do Denver Area
Rocky Mountain National Park
Located 90 minutes from Denver, this national park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives suitable for families. The park provides ranger-led programs and junior ranger activities for children.
Golden, Colorado
- Coors Brewery Tour – Free tours with tastings for adults
- Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum – Mineral and fossil displays
- Clear Creek History Park – Historic buildings and gold panning
- Lookout Mountain – Buffalo Bill’s grave and panoramic views
Boulder Day Trip
The Pearl Street Mall offers street performers, unique shops, and outdoor dining. The Boulder Creek Path provides easy walking and biking opportunities. Chautauqua Park features hiking trails with Flatirons views and historic cottages.
Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Do Denver
Planning Your Denver Adventure
Successfully experiencing the best things to do Denver requires strategic planning. Consider purchasing the Denver CityPASS for discounted admission to multiple attractions. The RTD light rail system connects downtown Denver to the airport and surrounding areas, providing convenient transportation for families.
Transportation Tips
- RTD Day Pass – Unlimited public transportation access
- B-Cycle Bike Share – Short-term bicycle rentals throughout the city
- Free Mall Ride – Shuttle service along 16th Street Mall
- Park & Ride Lots – Convenient parking with light rail access
🎒 Packing Essentials for Denver
Denver’s high altitude and variable weather require preparation. Pack layers, sunscreen (UV rays are stronger at altitude), comfortable walking shoes, and water bottles. The city’s 300+ days of sunshine make sunglasses essential year-round.
Conclusion: Endless Things to Do Denver
Denver masterfully combines urban sophistication with outdoor adventure, creating an ideal destination for families seeking diverse experiences. From world-class museums and cultural attractions to breathtaking natural landscapes and recreational opportunities, the Mile High City delivers memorable moments for visitors of all ages.
The extensive variety of things to do Denver ensures that every family member finds activities that spark interest and create lasting memories. Whether exploring interactive museums, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying downtown entertainment, Denver provides the perfect backdrop for family adventures that educate, inspire, and delight.
Start planning the Denver adventure today and discover why this remarkable city continues to captivate families from around the world with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless possibilities for exploration and fun.