Ultimate Guide to Family Fun: Top Activities for Kids in Colorado!

Fun Activities for Kids in Colorado: Ages 6-13

Colorado, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, offers a plethora of activities to keep kids aged 6-13 entertained and engaged. Whether you’re visiting during summer or winter, here are some fantastic activities that the whole family can enjoy:

1. Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

• Take a hike on kid-friendly trails like Bear Lake or Emerald Lake Trail, where the scenery is breathtaking and the trails are manageable for younger hikers.
• Look out for wildlife such as elk, mule deer, and maybe even a bighorn sheep! The park is a great place for kids to learn about animals in their natural habitat.
• Join a ranger-led program tailored for children to learn about the park’s natural wonders, from wildflowers to geological formations.

2. Explore Denver Museum of Nature & Science

• Engage in hands-on exhibits exploring dinosaurs, space, and wildlife. Kids can touch real fossils and see life-size dinosaur skeletons up close.
• Watch educational films at the IMAX theater, where the giant screen and immersive sound make learning fun and exciting.
• Visit Discovery Zone, a dedicated space for younger kids to learn through play with water tables, building blocks, and other interactive exhibits.

3. Experience the Denver Zoo

• Discover animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. The zoo’s exhibits are designed to mimic natural habitats, providing an educational experience about wildlife conservation.
• Participate in interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations, where kids can learn about animal behaviors and adaptations.
• Don’t miss the Toyota Elephant Passage, an immersive experience about Asian elephants, featuring a walk-through habitat and educational displays.

4. Skiing and Snowboarding in Winter Park

• Hit the slopes at Winter Park Resort, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels.
• Enroll kids in skiing or snowboarding lessons suitable for beginners, where experienced instructors make learning fun and safe.
• Enjoy tubing or snowshoeing for a different snowy adventure, offering a break from downhill skiing while still enjoying the winter wonderland.

5. Visit Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs

• Explore unique rock formations on easy hiking trails, where kids can climb rocks and explore caves formed millions of years ago.
• Attend Junior Ranger programs to learn about geology and nature conservation, earning badges and certificates for completing activities.
• Capture stunning views and take memorable family photos against the backdrop of towering red rock formations and Pikes Peak in the distance.

6. Take a Ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway

• Ride a historic cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s famous 14ers. The journey offers breathtaking views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains.
• Enjoy educational exhibits and learn about the railway’s history and the ecosystem of Pikes Peak, from alpine tundra to wildlife adapted to high-altitude environments.
• Experience the thrill of reaching the summit, where kids can see for miles and learn about the geological forces that shaped the Rocky Mountains.

7. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River

• Experience thrilling whitewater rafting suitable for kids on the Arkansas River, with sections offering a mix of calm waters and exciting rapids.
• Choose from various sections with different levels of difficulty, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for families with children.
• Safety equipment and experienced guides ensure a fun and safe adventure, where kids can learn teamwork and river safety while enjoying the natural beauty of Colorado.

8. Visit the Children’s Museum of Denver

• Engage in hands-on exhibits promoting creativity and learning, from building structures to exploring the inner workings of machines.
• Explore interactive playscapes like the Art Studio, where kids can unleash their creativity through painting, drawing, and sculpture.
• Participate in daily programs and special events designed for young children, including storytime, music classes, and science experiments that make learning fun and engaging.

9. Attend a Rockies Baseball Game at Coors Field

• Cheer for the Colorado Rockies at a family-friendly Major League Baseball game, where kids can experience the excitement of live sports and root for their favorite players.
• Enjoy classic ballpark food and snacks, from hot dogs to nachos, creating a traditional American experience for kids of all ages.
• Take in views of the Rocky Mountains from the stadium, where the backdrop of snow-capped peaks adds to the atmosphere of outdoor fun and entertainment.

10. Discover Mesa Verde National Park

• Explore ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans, where kids can step back in time and imagine life centuries ago.
• Take guided tours suitable for families to learn about Native American history and culture, with opportunities to enter restored dwellings and see original artifacts.
• Hike on trails offering views of the park’s unique landscape and wildlife, from desert canyons to forested mesas, providing a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Southwest.

Colorado offers endless opportunities for adventure and learning, making it a perfect destination for families with children aged 6-13. Whether your kids enjoy outdoor activities, educational experiences, or simply having fun, there’s something here for everyone. Plan your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime!