KidPaths

One Day in Denver with Kids

The perfect family day in Denver, morning to evening. 4 stops picked from 61 kid-tested activities based on ratings, variety, and parent tips. 2 stops are free.

9 AM
MorningStart the day with energy
Denver Museum of Nature and Science Park

Denver Museum of Nature and Science Park

The nature play area outside DMNS features a bighorn sheep-themed adventure playground designed by Earthscape, with boulders to climb, tunnels to crawl through,

Best for ages 2-10Free45 min-1.5 hours4.9 stars

Tip: This outdoor playground is free and does not require museum admission — a great budget option

12 PM
LunchRefuel the family
Adventure Forest at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Adventure Forest at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Adventure Forest is an outdoor nature-inspired play space at the Children's Museum of Denver that features climbing structures designed to mimic a real forest e

Best for ages 2-10$55-80 (included with Children's Museum of Denver admission: ~$16 per person, children under 1 free)1-2 hours (standalone); 3-4 hours combined with the museum4.8 stars

Tip: Adventure Forest is included with Children's Museum admission — you can move freely between indoor and outdoor areas

2 PM
AfternoonThe main event
Activate Westminster

Activate Westminster

Activate is a technology-driven active game experience where kids physically run, jump, and compete through digitally-enhanced game rooms — think video game com

Best for ages 8-16$80-130 (approximately $20-32 per person per session; check playactivate1.5-2.5 hours5 stars

Tip: Book online ahead of time — sessions fill up, especially on weekends

4 PM
Late AfternoonWind down
Central Park Playground

Central Park Playground

Central Park Playground in Denver's Central Park neighborhood (formerly Stapleton) is a neighborhood playground serving one of Denver's most family-dense commun

Best for ages 2-10Free45 min-1.5 hours4.8 stars

Tip: Central Park (the neighborhood) is one of Denver's most family-oriented planned communities — the area is full of young families

Tips for Your Day

  • → Start outdoor activities in the morning before it gets hot.
  • → Pack snacks and water — saves money and avoids meltdowns.
  • → Check hours before you go. Museum hours change seasonally.
  • → Denver Museum of Nature and Science Park is stroller-friendly — bring it for little ones.

Common Questions

What should I do with kids in Denver for one day?
A great one-day itinerary: start at Denver Museum of Nature and Science Park in the morning, grab lunch at Adventure Forest at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, then visit Activate Westminster in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.
How much does a day in Denver with kids cost?
A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + $55-80 (included with Children's Museum of Denver admission: ~$16 per person, children under 1 free) + $80-130 (approximately $20-32 per person per session; check playactivate + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.
What order should I visit Denver attractions with kids?
Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

More Ways to Explore Denver

Free ActivitiesRainy Day ActivitiesIndoor ActivitiesOutdoor ActivitiesStroller-FriendlyToddlerInfantLittle KidsBig KidsTweensTeen

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