Denver Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Denver
This weekend itinerary balances engaging ticketed attractions with fantastic free activities, ensuring a fun and budget-conscious experience for Denver families. We've included popular kid-friendly spots, opportunities for active play, and cultural exploration, all while keeping young children's energy levels and bedtimes in mind. Expect a mix of indoor and outdoor fun, perfect for creating lasting family memories.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, January 2Story Time
Kick off the weekend with a cozy story time at a local Denver Public Library branch.
Many branches offer free children's programming, including story times for various age groups, which are perfect for winding down after a busy week. These events often include singing, rhymes, and interactive elements.
Ideal for children aged 3-8. Libraries are generally stroller-accessible and have restrooms. Check the specific branch's schedule closer to the date for exact story time themes and age recommendations. Duration is typically 30-45 minutes.
Street parking is available around the branch, and it's accessible via several RTD bus routes. Consider carpooling if meeting friends.
Dinner & Play
Enjoy an early, casual dinner at Beau Jo's Colorado Style Pizza in Olde Town Arvada.
This iconic Colorado pizzeria offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and delicious 'Colorado Style' pizzas with a unique crust. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a hearty meal that pleases everyone.
Kids will love the fun atmosphere and choosing their own pizza toppings. High chairs are available, and the restaurant is very accustomed to families. Restrooms are on-site. Dining here is a classic Denver-area experience. Consider sharing a large pizza to manage costs. Arrive a bit earlier to avoid peak dinner crowds.
Ample parking is available in Olde Town Arvada's public lots and street parking. Olde Town Arvada is also accessible by RTD's G Line commuter rail.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3Denver Zoo Fun
Spend the morning exploring the incredible Denver Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals across 250 species.
Kids will love seeing elephants, giraffes, lions, and bears, as well as engaging in interactive exhibits. The zoo provides an excellent outdoor and educational experience, perfect for energetic kids.
Great for all ages, especially 3-12. The zoo is very stroller-friendly with paved paths and numerous restrooms with changing facilities. Allow 3-4 hours to see a good portion of the exhibits. Don't miss the Toyota Elephant Passage and Predator Ridge. There are often animal demonstrations and feeding times; check the daily schedule upon arrival.
Paid parking lots are available on-site. Public transportation via RTD bus routes 20 and 32 drops you near the main entrance.
Park Picnic & Play
After the zoo, enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch at City Park, located right next to the Denver Zoo.
City Park offers vast green spaces, playgrounds, and beautiful views of the Denver skyline and the mountains. It’s the perfect spot for kids to run around and burn off some energy.
Pack sandwiches, snacks, and drinks for a cost-effective and relaxed meal. There are several playgrounds suitable for different age groups, so kids can choose their adventure. Public restrooms are available throughout the park. Bring a blanket and some outdoor toys (ball, frisbee) for extra fun.
If you parked at the zoo, you can easily walk to picnic spots within City Park. Free street parking is generally available around the perimeter of the park if you drive directly there.
Museum of Nature & Science
Continue your educational adventure at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, also located within City Park.
The museum offers engaging exhibits on dinosaurs, space, wildlife, and Egyptian mummies. The 'Discovery Zone' is specifically designed for younger children (ages 3-5) with hands-on activities, while older kids will love the various halls.
Suitable for ages 3-12+. The museum is fully accessible for strollers and has family restrooms. Dedicate 2-3 hours to explore. The Discovery Zone offers interactive play, while other exhibits like the Prehistoric Journey are awe-inspiring. Check for any special temporary exhibits or IMAX shows, which may have an additional cost.
The museum has a large parking garage with an hourly fee. If you're coming from the zoo, it's a short walk across City Park. RTD bus routes also serve the museum.
Dessert Treat
Wind down your adventurous Saturday with a sweet treat at Little Man Ice Cream in the Highland neighborhood.
Known for its unique 'milk can' architecture and delicious homemade ice cream, it’s a fun and quirky spot that kids will adore.
A perfect reward after a day of exploration. Kids will love the novelty of the building and choosing from a wide array of creative flavors. There's often a line, but it moves quickly and is part of the experience. Outdoor seating is available, weather permitting.
Street parking can be found in the surrounding Highland neighborhood. It's also accessible by RTD bus routes.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Botanical Gardens Stroll
Enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Explore diverse gardens, conservatories, and art installations. The Gardens often have specific children's programs or areas, like the Mordecai Children's Garden, which is an interactive space designed for kids to explore nature.
Excellent for all ages. The Children's Garden offers hands-on water play, climbing structures, and sensory experiences. Paths are stroller-friendly, and restrooms are readily available. Allow 2-3 hours. Check their website for any specific family events or workshops scheduled for that day.
Paid parking garage on-site. Several RTD bus routes stop near the Gardens.
Interactive Art Museum
Head to the Denver Art Museum (DAM) for an afternoon of creative exploration.
The DAM is known for its family-friendly approach, often featuring interactive exhibits and dedicated spaces for children to engage with art. Check for their 'Free for Kids' program, which often allows youth 18 and under free general admission.
Excellent for introducing kids to art. Look for the 'Kids Corner' or other family activity stations. The museum is stroller-friendly and has restrooms. A visit can last 1.5-2 hours, depending on your family's pace. Confirm the 'Free for Kids' program details and any specific family workshops for January 2026.
Paid parking is available in the museum's garage or nearby public lots. The museum is easily accessible via RTD Light Rail (Civic Center Station) and numerous bus routes.
Playground Fun
Wrap up your weekend with some free, active play at Washington Park.
This large urban park features multiple playgrounds, open fields for running, and a beautiful lake. It’s a perfect spot for kids to get their last bursts of energy out before heading home.
Washington Park has several excellent playgrounds suitable for various ages, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. It's a great place to let kids play freely. Restrooms are available in the park. Bring a ball or frisbee for extra fun.
Free street parking is available around the perimeter of the park. It's also accessible by several RTD bus routes.
This weekend itinerary for Denver can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.