Those of us lucky enough to live in Colorado can’t wait to give tips to vacationers. There’s so much to do and see that will capture the interest of the entire family. Here are just five of my favorite family attractions in Denver – and must-do-recommendations I always give when visitors come to town:
The Denver Zoo
www.denverzoo.org
2300 Steel St., Denver, inside City Park
What’s so special: It’s a huge and attractive zoo, making it not only an interesting place to walk around but also an attractive one. Be sure to visit the Toyota Elephant Passage section with Asian elephants, Indian one-horned rhinos, Malayan tapirs and many other animals.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
www.dmns.org
2001 Colorado Blvd., inside City Park
What’s so special: There’s so much to see and do at this museum, your kids won’t even realize it’s one big educational experience. Younger kids will love the newly expanded Discovery Zone but there’s also a planetarium, IMAX theater, two-level dinosaur area, space exploration exhibit and so much more. There’s something of interest to every age.
City Park
http://www.bing.com/
Colorado Boulevard and 18th Avenue.
What’s so special: One of the city’s largest parks, it is home to the two destinations mentioned above but the park is also it’s own, wonderful destination. With a lake to paddleboat on, multiple playgrounds, beautiful and impressive statues and flower displays, not to mention lots of geese and ducks to feed, plan to make a whole day of it between all that the park has to offer, plus its two anchor venues.
Denver Botanic Gardens
www.botanicgardens.org
1007 York St.
What’s so special: Head inside to the misty Conservatory and meander paths pretending you’re in the rainforest. Then head outside and explore and explore this vast oasis in the city. Outdoor art exhibits in and amongst the plants (such as the current Chihuly glass exhibit) make strolling the beautiful gardens even more special.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
www.fws.gov/rockymountainarsenal
6550 Gateway Rd., Commerce City
What’s so special: What used to be the place bombs were housed has been transformed into a thriving refuge. Go on mild walking hikes to become immersed in nature. You never know what kind of animal you might see from deer to eagles to the growing herd of bison that call the Refuge home. Get around on foot or take one of their guided tram tours.
