Table of Contents:
- Summer Mountain Getaway
- Colorado Resort or Hotel for Families
- Family Fair or Festival
- Museum for Families
- Indoor Activity Space
- Parent-Tot Activity
- Water Park or Swim Center
- Winter Resort for Families
- Hike or Bike Trail with Kids
- Family Day Trip
Summer Mountain Getaway
Top Three
- Peak-A-Blue Cabin, Breckenridge
- The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley
- YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center
Winner
YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center
This top-rated haven is tucked in the mountains within a few miles of Rocky Mountain National Park. Outdoorsy families looking to unplug will love all the usual nature-related sports, plus something new like axe throwing (age eight and up) or an escape room experience in a historic cabin. A breathtaking view serves as a backdrop for all family activities.
Colorado Resort or Hotel for Families
Top Three
- Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs
- The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley
- YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center
Winner
YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center
Make home away from home at one of the YMCA’s cabins in a picturesque setting, several of which include fully-equipped kitchens. The program department keeps a full schedule of events and activities for visitors to participate in. The all-season getaway features mini golf, tons of sports, a roller rink, and even massage therapy.
Family Fair or Festival
Top Three
- Colorado Renaissance Festival
- Fall Flannel Fest at Dairy Block
- Parker Days Festival
Winner
Colorado Renaissance Festival
Entertainment, music, and tasty eats are to be had at the Renaissance Festival. Take in a comedy or jousting show, try your hand at medieval games, and browse many booths for the perfect souvenirs. Check the website to keep an eye on themed weekends that might fit the interests of your family.
Museum for Families
Top Three
- Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
- Denver Museum of Nature and Science
- History Colorado Center
Winner
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
This destination is known for both its detailed and whimsical, and often hands-on, exhibits. Find everything from ancient artifacts to virtual reality experiences. DMNS is also working on co-creating a new exhibit with input from people like you; look forward to the opening in a few years.
Indoor Activity Space
Top Three
- KidSpace
- Kids Wonder
- Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Winner
Kids Wonder
Drop in for imaginative play, celebrate a child’s birthday, or come for an educational class. Kids Wonder’s mission is to develop body and mind for kids and parents. The bounce castle, theater stage, and Lil’ Town are equipped to keep young ones entertained. Socks are required, but also available for purchase just in case.
Parent-Tot Activity
Top Three
- Kids Wonder
- Rocky Mountain Aardvarks
- Second Star to the Right
Winner
Kids Wonder
Enjoy soft play structures with climbers and slides in the toddler area, plus playhouses and a mini bounce house. Big & Lil’ Play Classes offer instruction in physical, intellectual, and social/emotional skill building through singing and games.
Water Park or Swim Center
Top Three
- Apex Center
- Pirates Cove
- Water World
Winner
Apex Center
Make it a water play day, any day of the year at Apex’s indoor park. All ages will find something they love in the 23,000 square feet of aquatic opportunities including a lap pool, spas, and playground. Young ones love splashing in the water features and zero-entry area, while older kids line up at the ropes and lily-pad challenge course.
Winter Resort for Families
Top Three
- Keystone Lodge and Spa
- The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley
- YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch
Winner
YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch
Gear up for favorite and familiar winter activities including skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, plus a few unique ones like dog sledding and sleigh rides. Fill out your stay with ongoing arts and crafts, game room play, archery, and more, until it’s time to settle in for the night in a yurt, cabin, or lodge room.
Hike or Bike Trail with Kids
Top Three
- Chautauqua Park
- Lair O’ the Bear Park
- Waterfall Trail at Snow Mountain Ranch
Winner
Waterfall Trail at Snow Mountain Ranch
Pack a picnic lunch and take a trip on a well-maintained path through shady trees and wildflowers (in summer) to a waterfall that’s worth the walk. The three-mile round-trip hike is considered easy and accessible for young kids. YMCA day pass fees apply.
Family Day Trip
Top Three
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Denver Zoo
- Estes Park
Winner
Denver Zoo
Swing by this expansive multi-habitat land in the city to wave at the monkeys, gawk at the size of the elephants, and waddle past penguins. Pack snacks or enjoy fare from one of many vendors. New features include the interactive Stingray Cove and the animal hospital’s Visitor and Education Center, which opened June 2021.
