The Mile High City (and its metro area!) has so much to offer for families looking for fun. With its food scene, miles of walking paths, endless shopping options, and less than half an hour drive from the foothills, Denver was made to be explored. Here are some of the can’t-miss things to do.
Try Your Hand at Being a Foodie
Denver boasts nearly 1,700 restaurants, and the cuisine choices are a foodie’s dream. Green chile, handcrafted beer, bison burgers, family-run Italian spots, authentic pho… Is your mouth watering yet? For a taste of Denver’s oldest and best, stop by Cherry Cricket for a burger and shake. If you’re needing a sweet treat, the Little Man Ice Cream Milk Jug location is the place to be. And for a special date night? Try Linger for a city view and shareables.
Get in Touch with Nature
Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens on York Street. There you’ll find stunning flowers and exotic plants. Afterward, head to Washington Park Lake for a ride in the Swan Boats. Trust me, you’ll feel like you’re starring in a perfect summer movie. And with the mountains just 30 minutes away, you have to get some hiking in! I don’t make the rules. Colorado’s nature demands to be seen.
Catch a Show, or a Dozen.
Denver’s performing arts scene offers something for everyone. For an evening of culture, check out the Colorado Symphony. If you want to hear an up-and-coming band, the Mission Ballroom or the Gothic Theatre is the perfect choice. And for an incredible view with a side of music, check out Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Go on a Shopping Spree
The Cherry Creek Shopping Center is a dream for anyone who loves to shop. With over 160 stores, it truly has everything you could ever need.
Wander Through a Museum
Denver’s museums are pretty impressive. Our personal favorites? The Denver Museum of Nature and Science, The Denver Art Museum, and the Children’s Museum at Marsico Campus. This trifecta of learning will give every member of your family something to ooh and aah over.
Enjoy an Animal Encounter
The Denver Zoo is one of Denver’s best family-friendly attractions. Spanning over 80 acres and showcasing over 4,000 animals, the Denver Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in the U.S. On a hot summer day, nothing beats some Dippin Dots and chilling at Penguin Point.
Cheer on Colorado’s Teams
Spend an afternoon at Coors Field watching the Rockies play, and eating (if you’re brave enough) some Rocky Mountain Oysters. Or, catch a basketball game at Ball Arena and see the Nuggets on their way to the playoffs. And of course, we can’t forget the Empower Field at Mile High Stadium, where the Broncos play. Take a tour of the stadium to see the famous “Altitude Sickness is Real” signs in the locker rooms and decide for yourself: Are they a friendly reminder to opposing teams, or there to psyche them out?
Get That Adrenaline Pumping
For those looking to catch some thrills, Denver has two amusement parks to choose from. Elitch Gardens is a summer staple in Denver, drawing over a million visitors each year with its thrilling rollercoasters and exhilarating water slides. Across town, you’ll find Lakeside Amusement Park, a smaller park with abundant charm. This park is better suited for families with younger children, as it’s slower-paced and has lots of rides for kiddos.
Enjoy a Blast From the Past
For the perfect retro-inspired day, grab a burger and shake at Jim’s Burger Haven in Thornton and then head over to the 88 Drive-In Theatre in Henderson. The drive-in theatre has been in business since 1972 and shows blockbuster movies all summer long. You can get cozy in your car or set up folding chairs outside to watch the movie, and you can pick up popcorn and refreshments at the snack shack.
Make a Deal at the Flea Market
The Mile High Flea Market in Henderson is absolutely massive and deserves a whole day to itself. There are over 3,000 sellers at this outdoor market, selling everything from fresh produce to old comic books to estate sale gems. Bring cash and an eagle eye; there are treasures hiding everywhere! And if your kids need a break from walking the aisles, there are kiddie rides and food stands near the back to enjoy.
