Family-Friendly Adventures in Denver, Colorado!

Denver Mint

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Visiting the Denver Mint

Start an exciting day at the Denver Mint, a place brimming with history and the fascinating process of coin making. Here"s how to make the most of it:

Morning: Tour of the Denver Mint

- Getting There: Located at 320 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, the Mint is easily accessible by public transport or car. If you’re taking the RTD, get off at the Civic Center Station, which is just a short walk away.

- Tour Details: Free tours are available from Monday to Thursday, starting from 8 am to 3:30 pm. However, they"re very popular, so booking your tickets online well in advance is essential. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and is a thrilling opportunity for kids and adults alike to witness the art and science of coin-making.

- Interesting Fact: The Denver Mint is one of the few mints in the United States, and it can produce up to 50 million coins a day!

Lunch Break: Civic Center Eats

- After the tour, grab a bite at the Civic Center EATS, an outdoor food truck market (open seasonally), located in Civic Center Park, just a 5-minute walk from the Mint. It offers a variety of cuisine options perfect for a family lunch.

Afternoon: Colorado State Capitol

- Getting There: Just a 5-minute walk from Civic Center Park, head over to the Colorado State Capitol.

- Tour Details: Free public tours are available on weekdays. Check out the beautiful architecture and learn about Colorado"s history.

- Interesting Fact: Don’t miss the chance to stand on the 13th step of the Capitol’s west entrance, exactly one mile above sea level!

Wrap up the day by visiting the nearby Denver Art Museum or relaxing in the lush Civic Center Park, reflecting on a day well spent immersed in history and culture. This targeted, educational outing in Denver is sure to leave lasting memories for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Molly Brown House Museum

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: Molly Brown House Museum Visit

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Begin your day at the historic Molly Brown House Museum, located at 1340 Pennsylvania Street in Denver. For convenience, take the RTD Light Rail to the 16th Street Mall, then enjoy a short bus ride or a scenic walk to reach the museum. Arrive early to secure tickets for a guided tour, which typically start every 30 minutes. The museum opens at 10:00 AM, perfect for an engaging start to your day.

Tour Highlights

As you step into the world of the "unsinkable" Molly Brown, a survivor of the Titanic disaster and a noted social reformer, your family will be transported back to the early 20th century. The guided tour is both educational and entertaining, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. You"ll learn about Molly"s advocacy for women"s rights and workers" rights, and her role in helping to establish the first juvenile justice system in the United States.

Lunch Break

Post-tour, enjoy a picnic at Cheesman Park, just a 10-minute walk from the museum. Pack a lunch or grab some sandwiches from a nearby café. The park offers ample space for kids to play and adults to relax under the shade of old trees.

Afternoon: Capitol Hill Books

After lunch, head to Capitol Hill Books, a local gem packed with used and rare books, located just around the corner from the museum. It’s a wonderful spot to foster a love for reading and history in your children.

Evening Wrap-up

End your day with a casual dinner at City O" City, a family-friendly restaurant known for its creative menu that catifies to all, just a few blocks from the museum.

This itinerary not only enriches your family’s understanding of a pivotal figure in American history but also allows you to enjoy some of Denver’s charming neighborhoods and local culture.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lookout Mountain

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure at Lookout Mountain, a must-visit destination just a short drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee. This day-long itinerary is packed with scenic beauty, historical significance, and activities that will captivate the whole family.

Morning: Rock City Gardens

Start your day early by heading to Rock City Gardens, a true natural wonder located atop Lookhead Mountain. Accessible by car, Rock City is just 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga. Once there, wander through the 4,100-foot walking trail where you’ll encounter massive ancient rock formations, lush gardens, and the famous “See Seven States” panoramic view at Lover’s Leap. Kids will love navigating the whimsical Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, all while learning about the local folklore and geological history.

Noon: Lunch at Café 7

For lunch, dine at Café 7 located within Rock City, featuring stunning views of seven states. Enjoy their southern cuisine with options that cater to all ages, ensuring a delicious break between your explorations.

Afternoon: Ruby Falls

Next, drive down to Ruby Falls, a breathtaking 145-foot waterfall located inside Lookout Mountain. The site is just a 15-minute drive from Rock City. Delve deep into the mountain in an elevator and follow the guided tour along the cavern’s path to witness this magnificent underground waterfall. Learn about the discovery of Ruby Falls and the cave formations that make this spot a geological treasure.

Late Afternoon: Point Park - The Lookout Mountain Battlefield

Cap off the day with a visit to Point Park, a 10-minute drive from Ruby Falls. Managed by the National Park Service, this site offers a glimpse into the Civil War’s history with its preserved battlefield and the iconic New York Peace Memorial. The park’s visitor center provides educational exhibits, making it a perfect spot for history buffs in the family.

Whether it’s the allure of ancient rocks, the mystery of hidden waterfalls, or the echoes of history, Lookout Mountain offers a diverse range of attractions that promise a memorable family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Larimer Square

Why Visit?

Morning Exploration in Lariver Square

Start your day at Larimer Square, Denver"s most historic block. Arrive early to enjoy the beautiful morning ambiance. If you’re driving, park at the Larimer Square parking garage; otherwise, the RTD Light Rail has several stops nearby, making it easily accessible.

Kick off with a hearty breakfast at “The Market at Larimer Square,” a local café known for its fresh pastries and warm coffees. As you dine, share with your family that this area is where Denver was founded in the 1850s and has evolved from a pioneer camp to one of the city"s chicest streets.

Midday Activities and Lunch

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the Victorian buildings. Many shops in Larimer Square offer family-friendly activities like magic shows at the “Peek-a-Boo Toys,” which hosts enchanting performances that captivate children. Around noon, grab a bite at “Rioja,” known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with options that kids will love, like homemade pastas and pizzas.

Afternoon Delight

Post-lunch, explore the “Larimer Square Sidewalk Chalk Festival” if you’re visiting in the summer. The street transforms into a canvas of colorful chalk artwork, a perfect spot for kids to unleash their creativity.

Alternatively, take a guided walking tour available at the Discover Denver kiosk located at the square’s entrance. These tours delve into the rich history of the area, highlighting how it was almost demolished in the 1960s but saved by preservation efforts led by visionary Dana Crawford.

Evening Wind Down

End your day with dinner at “The Capital Grille” in the square, where you can enjoy a kid-friendly menu in a more relaxed setting. Post dinner, walk around to enjoy the beautifully lit lanterns that adorn the streets at night, offering a perfect backdrop for your family photos.

Larimer Square not only provides a peek into Denver’s past but also offers engaging activities for the whole family, ensuring a day full of fun and learning.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo), the vibrant heart of the city! Here"s a perfect one-day itinerary for a family-friendly adventure.

Morning: Union Station and Breakfast

Start your day at Denver"s Union Station, an iconic historic landmark that"s been transformed into a hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and public spaces. Grab a hearty breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery inside the station, known for its innovative pancakes and vibrant atmosphere. The building dates back to 1881 and serves as a great introduction to Denver"s rich history.

Mid-Morning: Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Next, catch the free 16th Street Mall shuttle from Union Station to the end of the line and hop on the RTD light rail to the Children’s Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of fun, with interactive exhibits like a mini fire station, a bubble room, and an assembly plant. It’s designed to inspire young minds through the power of play.

Lunch: Denver Milk Market

Head back to LoDo and visit the Denver Milk Market for lunch. This bustling food hall offers a variety of options sure to please everyone in the family. From pizza and burgers to ice cream, it’s a great spot to recharge and sample local flavors.

Afternoon: Tattered Cover Book Store and Confluence Park

Post-lunch, stroll over to the Tattered Cover Book Store on Wynkoop Street, a local favorite with a cozy children"s section perfect for story time. After picking out a book, walk a few blocks to Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet. It’s ideal for a leisurely walk or a bit of splashing around in the river.

Evening: Coors Field Tour

Wrap up your day with a tour of Coors Field, just a stone"s throw from Union Station. Even if you’re not catching a game, the behind-the-scenes tour of this iconic ballpark is fascinating, offering insights into its history and architecture, along with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.

This itinerary offers a mix of education, food, and fun, tailored to keep both kids and adults entertained while exploring LoDo Denver. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.