Updated November, 2023
They say Colorado has 300 days of sunshine and they might be right. So what are the best things to do while visiting Colorado? It can snow 2 feet one day and the next day it is sunny, beautiful, and the snow is melting. The things to do in Colorado with kids are endless. Snow or sun, you can have all the fun. If you are only visiting for a minute, here is my list of 5 Things to Do in Colorado.
1. Hike a 14er
If it is warm enough, wake up early and climb a mountain. Not just any mountain, but a 14er. There are over 50 of these tall mountains in the state of Colorado. They range in difficulty level, so even if you think you can’t climb one, know that you can. I climbed an easy one, Mount Bierstadt in the peak of my pregnancy sickness and it was amazing. Plan to dress in layers, pack snacks, bring plenty of water, and have a blast.
The best part about hiking is it doesn’t have to be impossible. If you are willing to go early enough it wouldn’t be unreasonable for your child to join you. Given food, water, and the right clothes your child can climb a 14er right along with you. It might take most of the day, and some carrying might need to happen, but this could be a great way to spend a day!
2. Visit the Denver Zoo
I have been all around the United States and by far the Denver Zoo is one of my favorite zoos. The education, habitats, and interaction with the animals is above and beyond. Taking a day to walk through this zoo is more than worth your time. And do plan to spend the whole day because the zoo is large and there is a lot to see. They have numerous animal encounter options as well.
I feel individuals of any age can enjoy the zoo. I used to go all the time even before I had kids. The Denver zoo is also remarkably accessible so if you need a stroller or a wagon to enjoy this day with your children, it is easy to get around. They are always working on improving their exhibits as well, so there is a lot of information about the importance of habitats.
3. Ski
You can’t visit Colorado and not go skiing! If it’s the right time of year, look up a spot and hit the slopes. I will warn you that a ski pass can become expensive, plus rentals and all that, so be sure you are committed for a little bit of time.
I took my kids skiing for the first time when they were 2 and 4. Seeing young kids on the slopes is not uncommon in Colorado. I would definitely say to rent and not buy their gear though, since they grow so fast.
4. Attend a Red Rocks Concert
A concert at Red Rocks is an experience in and of itself. It’s a beautiful, unique venue to see some great music. If there isn’t a concert you love happening while you are there, go walk up them anyway. It’s worth seeing the place. Or there is a regular yoga on the rocks you can attend as well. Reserve your tickets early for this one though because it fills up fast.
If you have kiddos, you might skip the concert and just enjoy the view. Concerts here can fill up plenty, so not necessarily a kid friendly place. Still, a walk, a view, and a nice day can combine to make this a perfect spot to visit.
5. Go to Mission Wolf
This center remains one of my favorite ever experiences in Colorado. You can go in and actually pet some of the wolves. You can camp out and volunteer to help out throughout the year as well. Most of all, it’s a good cause with great education about wolves and other animals.
For your children, Mission Wolf suggests ages 8 and over in order to visit this location. Because you get to go in and see the wolves up close, this is not a great place for young ones. The wolves see young children as pups and want to play with them but can’t. This can make the animals restless. So better for older kids.
