There are many reasons why Boulder is a wonderful place for children and families, including its investment in education and dedication to health and fitness. The city also provides a fun environment in which to raise kids, with easy access to both cultural events and outdoor activities. While Boulder and its surrounding cities are an exciting place year-round, there are several excursions that are perfect for the summertime. Here are 10 awesome, local, and kid-friendly adventures for this upcoming season:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Boulder’s vicinity to several mountain parks lets residents and visitors of all ages take in Colorado’s stunning natural terrain. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best recreational destinations for families with children. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the park is offering special events and giveaways throughout the summer, including free walking tours lead by Rangers and complimentary coloring maps for all young visitors. Rocky Mountain also has many kid-friendly hiking paths, including the Moraine Park Nature Trail and Bear Lake Trail, where they can explore the park’s incredible wildlife.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Children also have the opportunity to interact with local flora and fauna by visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens. Kids and parents alike can learn basic gardening techniques at Mordecai Children’s Garden, or discover how to enjoy seasonal produce at the Plant to Plate cooking classes, currently open for registration. As vibrant plants and flowers grow in the summer, a trip to the Gardens will be a pleasant and educational experience, regardless of age. Denver Botanic Gardens is free for children 3 and under, but $9 for those 3-15 or with student identification. Admission is free for all Colorado residents on July 21st, August 31st, and September 9th.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Another exciting place to visit with the whole family, which also offers community admission-waived days, is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The museum is free to Colorado residents on June 29th, July 26th, and August 17th, but tickets are generally $9.95 for children ages 3-18 and $14.95 for adults.
From scientific exhibits to planetarium shows, everyone can enjoy their time at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Kids can also sign up for summer day camps, which are offered for three different grade groups: kindergarten and first, second and third, and grades four through six.
Denver Art Museum
In addition to learning about the natural world, kids in the Boulder-Denver area also have the opportunity to explore the fine arts and their own creative side. The Denver Art Museum offers day classes, where children ages 4-11 can tour the galleries and create artwork. DAM has many crafting stations scattered throughout, which are available to all visitors of who feel inspired to create their own art. Admission to the museum has recently become free for anyone under the age of 18.
The Cherry Creek Art Festival
Outside of the city’s museums, Denver’s vibrant art scene will also be on display at the 25th annual Cherry Creek Art Festival. Located in Cherry Creek’s North Shopping District, the free event is a large celebration of the visual, performing, and culinary arts. The festival takes place on July 3rd through the 5th, with special activities for kids throughout the weekend.
Young attendees can help paint a community mural, hang out at an art playground called “Creation Station”, and enjoy tasty treats like an Italian Ice or gourmet pizza. CCAF is still adding activities to its schedule, so check for updates on more things to do with the whole family.
WOW! Children’s Museum
Kids can also participate in imaginative pursuits at the World of Wonder Children’s Museum (WOW!). Located in Lafayette, the museum hosts various art, science, and cultural exhibits that are suited for curious children ages 1-11. From sculpture design to puppetry, World of Wonder gives young visitors a hands-on approach to learning. Museum tickets are $9 for kids, but free for adults.
Gateway Park Fun Center
From interactive learning to fun games, Boulder County has many places where children can play. Gateway Park in North Boulder is a large family entertainment center, which features miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, an arcade, and a food court. The indoor-outdoor recreational spot also makes for a great birthday party venue, with event rooms and picnic areas available for reservation.
Hammond’s Candies Factory Tours
While playing all day at an amusement park is most kids’ ideal activity during summer vacation, touring a candy factory will also be a major event for them. Located in Uptown Denver, Hammond’s Candies has free tours perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth and a curiosity for how confectionaries are made. Visitors can view Hammond’s lollipops and candy canes being handcrafted and packaged on a daily basis, which is a delightful learning experience for kids and adults.
Celestial Seasonings Factory Tour
Located in the North Boulder neighborhood of Gunbarrel, Celestial Seasonings also offers an eventful and free factory tour. The company allows visitors the chance to see, smell, and taste their products, as they walk through the tea blending and packaging facilities. The 45-minute tour is reserved for those 5 and up, but children of all ages are allowed in the Tea Shop and Café.
Boulder County Farmers Market
Learning about food production at a young age can spark a lifelong interest in being a conscious shopper and eater. In a foodie and locavore city like Boulder, kids have a fantastic opportunity to eat well and care about where their food comes from. From now until mid-November, children can engage with local farmers and vendors at the Longmont and Boulder markets, every Saturday morning, as well as Wednesday evenings at the Boulder location. The markets allow young residents to get involved with the community and acquire a taste for healthy eating.
From culinary and art events to outdoor recreation, Boulder’s kids have access to a variety of playful and educational activities in and around the city. Children can enjoy a dynamic and rich summer vacation here, alongside their entire family.