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Family-Friendly Itinerary: Denver, Sioux Falls, Des Moines

Sunday, May 19: Arrival in Denver

Welcome to Denver, the Mile High City! Begin your trip by exploring the Denver Zoo in the morning, where you can see a variety of animal species. In the afternoon, head to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. For a fun evening, visit Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, offering thrilling rides and water attractions.

  • Denver Zoo: Cost: $20 (Estimated); Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Cost: $18 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park: Cost: $45 (Estimated); Time Spent: 4-5 hours
Monday, May 20: Exploring Denver

Discover the wonders of downtown Denver. Start your morning at the Downtown Aquarium, where you can observe marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, visit the Children's Museum of Denver, offering hands-on activities for kids of all ages. End the day by taking a leisurely stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens.

  • Downtown Aquarium: Cost: $20 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Children's Museum of Denver: Cost: $14 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Denver Botanic Gardens: Cost: $15 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, May 21: Journey to Sioux Falls

Depart from Denver and head to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Upon arrival, explore Falls Park, known for its beautiful waterfalls and picturesque landscapes. Take a scenic walk along the Big Sioux River Greenway Trail in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Falls Park: Cost: Free; Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Big Sioux River Greenway Trail: Cost: Free; Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant: Cost: $20-30 per person (Estimated); Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, May 22: Exploring Sioux Falls

Start your day by visiting the Butterfly House & Aquarium, where you can observe colorful butterflies and fascinating marine creatures. In the afternoon, enjoy the Great Plains Zoo, home to various animal exhibits. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the SculptureWalk, showcasing an array of outdoor sculptures.

  • Butterfly House & Aquarium: Cost: $10 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Great Plains Zoo: Cost: $15 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • SculptureWalk: Cost: Free; Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, May 23: Journey to Des Moines

Leave Sioux Falls and head to Des Moines, Iowa. Upon arrival, explore the Science Center of Iowa in the morning, offering interactive exhibits and educational activities. In the afternoon, discover the Blank Park Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals. In the evening, enjoy a family-friendly movie night at the Fleur Cinema and Cafe.

  • Science Center of Iowa: Cost: $12 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Blank Park Zoo: Cost: $15 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Fleur Cinema and Cafe: Cost: $10 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, May 24: Exploring Des Moines

Spend your morning exploring the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, known for its stunning plant collections. In the afternoon, visit the Iowa State Capitol, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the state's history. Wrap up your day by having a family-friendly picnic at Gray's Lake Park.

  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: Cost: $10 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Iowa State Capitol: Cost: Free; Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gray's Lake Park: Cost: Free; Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, May 25: Departure

Enjoy your last morning in Des Moines by visiting the Science Center of Iowa again or exploring the Principal Park, home to the Iowa Cubs baseball team. Afterward, bid farewell to Des Moines as you head back home.

  • Science Center of Iowa (Optional revisit): Cost: $12 (Estimated); Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Principal Park: Cost: Varies (Depends on game); Time Spent: Varies

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Denver, be sure to check out the Denver Central Library, a beautiful architectural landmark with an impressive collection of books and resources for all ages. In Sioux Falls, take a day trip to Palisades State Park, known for its unique rock formations and hiking trails. In Des Moines, don't miss out on the Adventureland Park, offering thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment for the whole family.

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