Best Things to Do in Denver with Kids

Day 3 in Denver with Kids: A Playful Itinerary Full of Discovery

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On Day 3 of our family adventure, we zipped through Central Park’s playful trampoline pods, explored pioneer life at the History Colorado Center, and tasted nostalgia at Hammond’s Candy Factory. Add brunch at a gluten-free gem and evening pool wind-downs—and you’ve got a Denver itinerary packed with hands-on fun, sensory highlights, and practical tips for traveling with littles.

Morning Fun at Central Park

We started Day Three bright and early with a visit to Central Park in Denver—a new-to-us green space that quickly won over the kids. The play structure reminded us of Paco Sánchez Park’s giant microphone centerpiece, just on a smaller scale. Still, there was plenty to love:

• Zipline

• Small splash pad
• Sandpit
• Lots of swings
But the biggest hit? The built-in trampoline pods! My kids took turns running, leaping, and showing off their “tricks” as they bounced. Add in ample parking (a rare treat downtown), and this spot easily earned a revisit on our travel list.

The Surprisingly Awesome History Colorado Center

I’ll admit—I wasn’t expecting much from the History Colorado Center, even with glowing reviews. But this place absolutely delivered, especially for young learners.

We arrived right at opening and made a beeline for the kids’ exhibit, which was set up to replicate early Colorado life. The hands-on exhibits included:

• A one-room schoolhouse
• General store setup
• Egg-collecting coop & pretend cow milking
• Vintage car to “drive”

My kids were fully immersed, running a pretend classroom and gathering eggs like pioneer pros. We stayed nearly an hour just in this section—proof that it was a huge win.

If your kids love energy exhibits and kinetic play as much as mine do, they’ll be obsessed with MEL Science. Their monthly kits turn STEM into hands-on magic- perfect for curious minds who love to build, test, and explore.

Parking Pro Tips

Driving through downtown was a bit chaotic: tiny lanes, distracted pedestrians, and confusing signs. I got lucky snagging a metered spot, but the one-hour time limits were frustrating (and had me checking my watch more than I liked). Next time, I’d go straight for a paid lot nearby. The Denver Art Museum is right across the street, so you could easily make a full day of museums!

90s Throwbacks & Museum Favorites

The upper floors were hit-or-miss for us, but we did enjoy:

• Pretend mining explosions
• Ski simulator
• A fantastic 1990s exhibit downstairs—complete with a Blockbuster setup, beanbags, a chunky computer monitor, and a Nintendo 64. Total nostalgia bliss.

Brunch at Snooze AM Eatery

Afterwards, we tried to stop at Snooze AM Eatery (just down the street) for lunch, but parking was impossible. We ended up at a different, less crowded location where we were able to sit outside—briefly, before a storm rolled in!

The food was worth it:

• I had the Ham Benedict III on gluten-free bread
• The kids shared French toast, bacon, and fruit

This place is a gem for anyone navigating food sensitivities: almost everything can be made gluten-free. Service was fantastic, and we left full and happy.

Candy Tour at Hammond’s

In the afternoon, we headed to Hammond’s Candies for a free factory tour (just be sure to schedule it 24 hours in advance). The tour started in a theater room with a short video, then moved to a viewing area where we watched workers handcraft old-fashioned candy.

While a little gimmicky (they definitely want you to shop afterward!), the behind-the-scenes peek and free sample made it a fun and quick field trip-style stop for the kids.

Evening Wind-Down

Finally, after a sugar-fueled day, we headed back to the hotel for some pool time—one of the kids’ favorite ways to recharge after a busy city day.

 Denver with Kids – FAQ Guide for Family Traveler

Is Denver a good place for a family vacation?

Yes! Denver offers a mix of outdoor adventure, hands-on museums, and kid-friendly dining. Whether your crew loves nature, science, animals, or quirky bookstores, the Mile High City has something for every age.

What are the best things to do in Denver with kids?

Some top picks include:

•  Denver Zoo – Over 3,000 animals and interactive exhibits
•  Museum of Nature & Science – Dinosaurs, space, and hands-on learning
•  Botanic Gardens – Especially the Mordecai Children’s Garden for nature play
•  Children’s Museum of Denver – Water features, art studios, and outdoor adventure zones
•  Dinosaur Ridge – Real fossil footprints and outdoor trails
•  Butterfly Pavilion – Indoor rainforest with 1,600+ butterflies

Is Denver CityPASS worth it for families?

Absolutely—especially if you’re planning to visit several attractions. Denver CityPASS lets you bundle 3–5 top spots at a discounted rate, which means more memories and more budgeting ease.

Families can mix and match from local favorites like:

• Downtown Aquarium
• Museum of Nature & Science
• Botanic Gardens
• Children’s Museum of Denver
• Wings Over the Rockies
• Denver Art Museum
• History Colorado Center

Passes are valid for 7 consecutive days, so you have plenty of time to wander at your own pace. We loved how it made planning simpler—one less thing to think about between playground hunts and lunch pivots. For a week of adventure, it was a gentle win.

What’s the best time to visit Denver with kids?

Spring and fall (April–May or September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. Summer is great for splash pads and outdoor festivals, but it can get busy.

How many days should we spend in Denver?

Plan for 3–5 days to explore the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace. If you want to add day trips to places like Red Rocks or Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a full week.

Are there free or discounted activities for kids?

Yes! Many museums offer free days, and parks like City Park and Confluence Park are always free. The Denver Art Museum and History Colorado Center also have kid-friendly exhibits and occasional discounts.

What’s the best way to get around Denver with kids?

•  Driving is easiest for families—especially with strollers or gear
•  Light rail and buses are affordable and fun for transit-loving kids
•  Walking works well downtown, especially near Union Station and City Park

Where should we eat with kids in Denver?

•  Oblio’s Pizza – Gluten-free options and casual vibes
•  Hammond’s Candy Factory – Free tours and sweet treats
•  Sweet Cow – Dairy-free scoops and patio seating
•  Stanley Marketplace – Tons of choices, easy parking, and kid-friendly seating

Travel Tips + Takeaways

• Pair the History Colorado Center with the Denver Art Museum
• Plan ahead for downtown parking
• Don’t skip Snooze if you need great gluten-free options
• Book your Hammond’s Candy Factory tour ahead of time

Catch Up on Our Denver Family Adventures – Days 1 and 2 (and Beyond!)

• • Exploring Denver with Kids: Day 1 at the Zoo, Gluten-Free Fried Chicken, and One Epic Park
  • Day Two in Colorado: Dinosaurs, Donuts & a Splash of Science

  • Day 4 in Denver with Kids: Museum Magic & Gluten-Free Bites

  • Botanic Gardens and Bookish Butts: A Perfectly Silly Denver Send-Off