Hey there, families! Are you looking for fun weekend plans in Denver that your kids will love? Want to make memories that everyone will talk about for years? Denver is the perfect spot for a family adventure. It’s got museums, parks, and even some quirky places that kids and parents will enjoy. I remember taking my kids to the Denver Zoo one weekend, and their eyes lit up seeing the lions roar! In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Denver on weekends for families. We’ve got indoor and outdoor ideas, free activities, and tips to make your trip easy. Let’s dive in!
Why Denver is Great for Families
Denver is a city that loves families. It’s got big parks, cool museums, and tons of activities for kids of all ages. Whether you live here or you’re visiting, there’s always something to do. Why do families keep coming back to Denver? It’s because the city mixes city fun with nature. You can explore downtown one minute and be hiking near the mountains the next.
Denver’s weather can be a bit wild, though. One day it’s sunny, and the next it might snow! That’s why we’ve included both indoor and outdoor activities. The city also has great spots for kids, like playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants. Ready to plan a weekend your family will never forget? Let’s start with some indoor fun for those chilly or rainy days.
Indoor Activities for Fun Any Day 🏛️
When the weather isn’t cooperating, Denver has plenty of indoor activities to keep kids happy. These spots are perfect for curious minds and active bodies. What’s better than a cozy museum day with kids? Here are some top picks.
Museums That Spark Curiosity
Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a kid’s dream. It’s got dinosaur bones, space exhibits, and a planetarium that makes you feel like you’re among the stars. My family spent a snowy Saturday here once, and my daughter couldn’t stop talking about the gemstones! Tickets cost about $20 for adults and $15 for kids, but it’s worth it. They have a play area for younger kids, too. Pro tip: Book tickets online to skip the line.
The Children’s Museum of Denver is another gem. It’s designed for kids up to age 8, with hands-on exhibits like a pretend fire station and an art studio. My son loved “driving” the fire truck. Admission is around $15 per person, and they have a snack area for breaks. It’s stroller-friendly, which is a big plus for parents.
Unique Indoor Adventures
Want something a bit different? The Downtown Aquarium is like stepping into an underwater world. Kids can see sharks, stingrays, and even mermaids during special shows. There’s a restaurant inside, so you can eat while watching fish swim by. Tickets are about $25 for adults and $20 for kids. It’s great for all ages, but toddlers might need a nap afterward!
For older kids, try iFLY Indoor Skydiving. It’s a safe way to feel like you’re flying. Kids as young as 3 can do it, but my 10-year-old thought it was the coolest thing ever. A session costs about $70 per person, but check for family deals. Wear comfy clothes and arrive early for training.
Practical Tips: Most of these spots have cafes, but packing snacks saves money. Check websites for discounts, and book tickets early for popular places like the aquarium. Indoor spots are great for beating Denver’s unpredictable weather.
Outdoor Activities for Sunny Weekends 🌞
When the sun is shining, Denver’s outdoor spots are calling. From parks to zoos, there’s something for every family. Who doesn’t love a day in the sun with family? Here’s where to go.
Parks and Nature
City Park is a huge green space with playgrounds, a lake, and views of the mountains. It’s right next to the Denver Zoo, so you can combine visits. My family had a blast flying kites here one weekend. There’s free parking, and the paths are great for strollers. Bring a picnic to save on food.
Washington Park is another favorite. It’s got trails, flower gardens, and two lakes. Kids love the big playground, and there’s space for soccer or frisbee. We had a family picnic here last summer, and the kids made new friends at the park. It’s free to visit, but parking can be tricky on busy weekends. Arrive early to grab a spot.
Zoo and Gardens
The Denver Zoo in City Park is a must. It’s home to lions, elephants, and even penguins. They have special events like “Zoo Lights” in winter. Tickets are about $20 for adults and $15 for kids. My kids loved the train ride around the zoo—it’s only $3 extra. The zoo has shady spots and snack stands, but bring sunscreen.
The Denver Botanic Gardens is great for a calmer day. Kids can explore trails and a children’s garden with water features. It’s about $15 for adults and $10 for kids. They host family events like plant workshops. It’s stroller-friendly, and there’s a cafe for lunch.
Practical Tips: Wear sunscreen and hats, even on cloudy days. Bring water bottles to stay hydrated. Check park websites for free events like concerts or storytimes. If you’re driving, use apps like ParkMobile to find parking.
Free and Budget-Friendly Activities 💸
Fun doesn’t have to cost a lot. Denver has tons of free or cheap activities that families love. Who says fun has to cost a lot? Here are some ideas.
Free Events and Attractions
The 16th Street Mall is a lively spot downtown. It’s a long street with shops, restaurants, and street performers that kids love watching. The mall has a free shuttle to get around. We spent an afternoon here, and my kids were amazed by a juggler. It’s free to walk around, but bring cash for snacks or souvenirs.
Civic Center Park hosts free festivals, like food truck events or art fairs. Check Denver.gov for the event calendar. My family stumbled on a music festival here once, and we danced all afternoon for free. The park has open spaces for kids to run, and it’s near food trucks for cheap meals.
Low-Cost Fun
Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour is a sweet deal. It’s free to tour their candy-making factory, and kids get a tiny treat at the end. My daughter loved seeing how lollipops are made. The gift shop has candies starting at $1, so you don’t have to spend much. Book tours online, as spots fill up.
Local libraries like the Denver Public Library offer free storytimes, crafts, and movie nights. We went to a superhero craft day, and my son made a cape he still wears. Check library websites for schedules. Most events are free, and they’re great for kids ages 2–10.
Practical Tips: Pack snacks to avoid pricey food stands. Check event schedules on Denver.gov or library sites. Free spots can get crowded, so arrive early. Bring a reusable bag for souvenirs or crafts.
Cultural and Unique Experiences 🎨
Denver has some one-of-a-kind spots that make weekends special. From art to theme parks, these places create “wow” moments. Ready for a weekend of wow moments? Check these out.
Art and History
The Denver Art Museum is awesome for families. Kids under 18 get in free, and they have hands-on art stations. My kids loved making paper sculptures in the family area. Adult tickets are about $20. The museum has a cafe, and backpacks are allowed for snacks. It’s great for ages 5 and up.
The Denver Firefighters Museum is small but fun. Kids can try on firefighter gear and climb on an old fire truck. It’s about $10 for adults and $8 for kids. My son spent an hour “driving” the truck. It’s best for ages 3–10, and there’s parking nearby.
One-of-a-Kind Attractions
Meow Wolf Denver is like stepping into a colorful, weird dream. It’s an immersive art exhibit with secret rooms and lights. My family spent three hours exploring, and we still didn’t see it all! Tickets are about $45 for adults and $35 for kids. It’s best for ages 6 and up, as it can be overwhelming for toddlers. Book tickets early to avoid crowds.
Elitch Gardens Theme Park is perfect for thrill-seekers. It’s got roller coasters, water slides, and kiddie rides. Tickets start at $40 online. We went for their Halloween event, and the kids loved the spooky decorations. It’s great for all ages, but bring comfy shoes for walking.
Practical Tips: Check age recommendations for places like Meow Wolf. Book tickets online for Elitch Gardens to save money. Arrive early to beat crowds at popular spots. Pack light to move easily.
Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Weekend 🗺️
Planning a family weekend can feel like a big job, but a few tips make it easy. Want to keep your weekend smooth and fun? Here’s how.
Planning Your Trip
Check the weather before you go—Denver can surprise you! Book tickets for museums or Meow Wolf a few days early. Use Google Maps to plan driving routes and avoid traffic. If you’re using public transit, the RTD light rail is kid-friendly and has stops near downtown attractions.
Kid-Friendly Dining
Denver has great spots for family meals. Snooze A.M. Eatery has pancakes and waffles kids love, with meals around $10. Denver Biscuit Company serves giant biscuits with gravy—my kids always share one for $8. Both have high chairs and kids’ menus. Look for restaurants near your activities to save time.
Packing Essentials
Pack a backpack with snacks, water bottles, and extra clothes for spills. Bring a stroller for younger kids, especially at big places like the zoo. Sunscreen and hats are a must for outdoor days. I once forgot extra socks for my son after a splash pad, and he was grumpy all day—don’t make my mistake!
Practical Tips: Make a checklist before you leave home. Keep a small first-aid kit for scrapes. Save receipts for tax-free souvenirs like museum gift shop items.
Conclusion
Denver is a playground for families, with activities for every weekend. Whether you’re exploring museums, running through parks, or enjoying free festivals, there’s something for everyone. Which Denver adventure will your family try first? Mix and match these ideas to create your perfect weekend. For more inspiration, check out Denver.org or Colorado.com. Here’s to making memories with your kids in Denver—have a blast! 😊