Housed in Denver’s original Firehouse Number 1, the Denver Firefighters Museum—with its historic artifacts, exhibits and hands-on activities—is paradise for boys and girls who adore firefighters and their shiny trucks.
The main gallery follows the process of fire, and includes permanent exhibits surrounding themes such as communicating fire—pulling alarms; dialing 911—and fire suppression and safety. There is also a display on fire apparatus, featuring hand-pulled, horse-pulled and motorized fire trucks. Guests are invited to follow firefighters” boot prints through the room as they experiment.
The real crowd pleaser, though, is the first-floor fire engine that kiddos can navigate while dressed up as firefighters. Adventurous spirits might even try sliding down the station’s fire poll. “A lot of people focus on the fire engine, and that’s great,” says Education Coordinator Sarah Crocker. But, she adds, “Don’t miss out on the second floor.”
Upstairs, guests tour firefighters” living quarters and gain insight into the rigorous process of becoming a firefighter. There’s also a training center, where folks can jump inside a mock home and practice crawling to safety. At the stop-drop-roll space, children learn a valuable skill while expelling energy. There’s also a children’s gallery for youngsters, with crafts, kiosks, a reading nook and puppet theater.
This month, don’t miss Fire Awareness Day on Saturday, February 6. Admission is free, and the museum will host special activities and guests until 2 p.m. Wee firefighters can visit the teddy bear burn clinic and take their new pals home. “We”ll also have a trailer people can walk inside and learn about escaping from fires at home,” says Crocker, noting that there will be fake smoke inside this interactive exhibit.
Tales for Tots—free with general admission—happens the first Wednesday of every month at 11 a.m. It includes a story and craft, and is best suited for children ages 3 to 5.
After a visit, if your kiddos can’t get enough, consider enrolling them in Junior Firefighters Summer Camp.
- Check it Out:
- Located at 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver
- Need to Know:
- Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, 303-892-1436 or denverfirefightersmuseum.org. Metered street parking is available at $1 per hour with a two-hour limit. Paid lots nearby range from $5-$12 for the day. Leave food, drinks and big bags in the car: You can’t bring them inside this national historic building.
- Cost:
- $6 for adults; $4 for children ages 2 to 12; $5 seniors and students with valid I.D.
- See It Now:
- A special Black Firefighters exhibit comes out in February for Black History Month, featuring Captain Nathan Biffle, who worked at Station 3 in Five Points when the department was segregated.
