I LOVE Denver and am a rare native in this wonderful city. Since becoming a mom, I realized that many places that I have fond memories of as a child still exist today, three decades later.
Below are my top five places (in alphabetical order) that I loved and love taking my kids to now. If you haven’t already, make sure these places are on your “to visit” list:
Casa Bonita
Although I can’t say that I bring my kiddos here often, I did have the chance to take them here in February. It was as though I walked in to a time warp as this place is exactly as I remembered it (including the building aroma and the paint on the wall). My daughter refused to eat her dinner because she was so amused by the divers (she did save room though for the sopapillas). I went here growing up on both summer day camp trips and with my family.
The Children’s Museum
Opened in the 70’s, the Children’s Museum in Denver has been a landmark anytime you drive up the central I-25 corridor. For anyone that hasn’t been recently, I highly suggest that you go! The museum just underwent a major renovation ($16 million to be exact) and it now includes hands-on activities, a multi-floor climbing structure, water area, and a complete outdoor adventure area. My daughter loves the painting room, where she can create masterpieces that we take home and display. Seriously, take your kids NOW, the renovation is amazing!
Coors Field
I was in second grade when the Colorado Rockies came to Denver. It was such a huge deal, we even made signs for the team during art time. Regardless of how you feel about the team today, you have to admit that Coors Field is a great, family friendly ballpark. Coors Field offers a playground out in Left Field for the younger kids, which is conveniently located next to a frozen yogurt stand. And if you walk down the concourse a bit, you can take your kids to Dinger’s autograph session, which is between the top of the third and bottom of the fourth inning, on the main concourse underneath the rock pile. Also, don’t forget to stop by Customer Service to get your kids a pin commemorating their first game. Not a baseball fan? Consider attending a game for the spectacular fireworks or movie night, both in July.
The Denver Zoo
I have so many memories here from my childhood; seeing the baby polar bears Klondike and Snow in the 90’s, field trips, and summer trips. While the zoo had undergone some renovations since my childhood, such as the Toyota Elephant Passage or feeding the giraffes, many of the amenities are still the same. From the carousel to the gift shop at the entrance, so many things remain intact.
Wash Park
Wash Park (officially Washington Park) is one of the best, most well-known parks in Denver. Growing up we used to walk in the Furry Scurry, a fundraiser for the Denver Dumb Friends League that happens each May. From the amount of open space to play volleyball or enjoy a picnic with friends, to the playground and trails for roller bladders, this park offers something for everyone. I encourage you to head out to this lovely park this summer for a picnic and play time with the kids.
There are so many more places that I just think are fabulous, that I attended as a child. Some honorable mentions I’d like to give a shout-out to include:
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Whether you are new to Denver or have been here for many years, I encourage you to go on an adventure and take your family to these places. We are so fortunate to have so many great places to visit, from the mountains to the plains. I hope you enjoy taking your family to these places as much as I have.
