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Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Denver, Colorado

Thursday, December 14: Arrival and Downtown Denver

Start your family adventure in Denver by exploring the vibrant downtown area. In the morning, visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where you can immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and learn about the wonders of the natural world. Afterward, head to the 16th Street Mall for lunch and enjoy a leisurely stroll along this pedestrian-friendly stretch lined with shops and restaurants. In the evening, catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts or visit the Denver Union Station, a beautifully restored transportation hub with dining and shopping options.

  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science: $25 per adult, $18 per child | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • 16th Street Mall: Free | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Ticket prices vary | Estimated time: Evening activity
  • Denver Union Station: Free | Estimated time: Evening activity
Friday, December 15: Denver Zoo and Botanic Gardens

Start your second day by visiting the Denver Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Spend the morning exploring exhibits, attending animal demonstrations, and even feeding giraffes. Afterward, head to the Denver Botanic Gardens, where you can wander through beautiful gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere. In the evening, consider visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens' Trail of Lights for a magical holiday experience.

  • Denver Zoo: $25 per adult, $20 per child | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Denver Botanic Gardens: $15 per adult, $12 per child | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Denver Botanic Gardens' Trail of Lights: $10 per adult, $8 per child | Estimated time: Evening activity
Saturday, December 16: Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Embark on an aviation adventure at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Spend the morning exploring an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft exhibits. Kids will love the interactive displays and flight simulators. In the afternoon, head to City Park, a beautiful urban park nearby, where you can enjoy a picnic, rent paddleboats, or simply relax amidst nature. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, offering a diverse range of art collections.

  • Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: $16 per adult, $10 per child | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • City Park: Free (activities may incur additional costs) | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Denver Art Museum: $15 per adult, free for ages 18 and under | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 17: Outdoor Adventure at Red Rocks Park and Cherry Creek State Park

Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at Red Rocks Park. Start the day by exploring the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning rock formations. Take a hike along the park's trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area. In the afternoon, head to Cherry Creek State Park, where you can engage in various outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and fishing. Enjoy a relaxing picnic before returning to the city.

  • Red Rocks Park: Free | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Cherry Creek State Park: $10 per vehicle | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Monday, December 18: Denver Aquarium and Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

On your final day, visit the Downtown Aquarium, where you can explore fascinating underwater exhibits and even touch stingrays. Enjoy a late morning at this family-friendly attraction. In the afternoon, head to Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, located in downtown Denver. With a slew of exciting rides and thrilling water slides, this amusement park is sure to provide the perfect ending to your family adventure in Denver.

  • Downtown Aquarium: $24 per adult, $18 per child | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park: Ticket prices vary | Estimated time: 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Denver, don't miss out on these family-friendly hidden gems loved by locals:

1. Butterfly Pavilion: Get up close to stunning butterflies and explore interactive exhibits.

2. Children's Museum of Denver: Engage in hands-on play and learning activities.

3. Denver Public Library: Visit the Children's Library for storytime sessions and educational resources.

4. Denver Mint: Take a tour and learn about the fascinating process of coin production.

5. Washington Park: Enjoy playgrounds, picnic spots, and beautiful gardens in this urban oasis.

For the best hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.com.

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