Denver Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover the family adventures in Denver, where fun blooms for all ages.

19 July 2023

A trip to Denver, United States promises an exciting and family-friendly experience. Explore the stunning Rocky Mountain views and indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Visit attractions like the Denver Zoo, Children's Museum, and Denver Botanic Gardens for an enriching and entertaining trip that the whole family will enjoy.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to the Mile High City!

  • Check into The Curtis Hotel, a quirky and fun-filled hotel with themed floors like "Sci-Fi" and "TV Mania."
  • Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, where you can try their decadent pancakes and colorful morning cocktails.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Denver Botanic Gardens, filled with vibrant flowers, serene ponds, and even a Japanese garden.
  • Treat the kids to an afternoon of excitement and education at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where they can explore fossils, dig for dinosaur bones, and even view the night sky in the planetarium.
  • End the day with a tasty dinner at Linger, a former mortuary turned hip eatery, offering small plates from around the world and stunning rooftop views of the city.
Day 2

Art, Nature, and Craft Beer Delights

  • Start the morning with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of Native American, Western, and contemporary art.
  • Head to Confluence Park for a scenic walk along the South Platte River, where you can rent bikes, kayaks, or simply enjoy a picnic by the water.
  • Discover the hip RiNo (River North) neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art, trendy breweries, and eclectic shops.
  • Grab lunch at The Source, a repurposed 1880s foundry turned artisan food market, featuring local vendors and a variety of delicious eats.
  • Indulge in some beer tasting at Great Divide Brewing Co., one of Denver's best-known breweries, with a wide range of craft beers to suit all tastes.
Day 3

Explore the Rocky Mountains

  • Embark on an exciting day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from Denver, and revel in the majestic beauty of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
  • Enjoy a scenic hike along one of the park's many trails, such as the popular Bear Lake Loop or the challenging Sky Pond Trail.
  • Pack a picnic and find a cozy spot to savor the fresh mountain air and breathtaking views.
  • Don't miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the adorable and elusive pika, a small furry mammal that inhabits the higher elevations of the park.
  • Head back to Denver and unwind with a hearty dinner at Buckhorn Exchange, Denver's oldest steakhouse, known for its wild game dishes and Old West charm.
Day 4

Immerse in Denver's History and Food Scene

  • Start the day with a visit to the iconic Denver Union Station, a beautifully restored historic train station that now serves as a lively gathering spot with shops, restaurants, and even a hotel.
  • Embark on a guided tour of the Denver Mint to learn about the fascinating process of coin production and snag a shiny souvenir or two.
  • Take a food tour through the trendy LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood, stopping at local eateries to sample Denver's culinary delights, from gourmet tacos to artisanal ice cream.
  • Visit the History Colorado Center to delve into the state's rich history through interactive exhibits and immersive storytelling.
  • Round off the day with a dinner at Vesta, a contemporary eatery offering globally inspired dishes crafted with local ingredients in a sleek and lively atmosphere.
Day 5

Outdoors and Family Fun

  • Spend the morning exploring the picturesque Washington Park, a sprawling urban oasis with two lakes, flower gardens, and plenty of playgrounds for the little ones.
  • Take a bike ride along the Cherry Creek Trail, a scenic path that winds through the city and offers stunning views of the Denver skyline.
  • Head to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park for an afternoon of thrill rides, water slides, and family entertainment.
  • Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Root Down, a farm-to-table restaurant housed in a converted gas station, serving up creative and sustainably sourced cuisine.
  • End your Denver adventure with a sweet treat from Sweet Cow, a local ice cream parlor known for its wide range of unique and delicious flavors.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Denver, United States is by plane. Denver International Airport is the main airport serving the city and is located approximately 25 miles from downtown Denver. Many major airlines operate direct flights to Denver from cities across the world.

Car

If you're looking to drive to Denver, Interstate 25 runs directly through the city from north to south, making it easily accessible from surrounding areas. There are also several car rental companies located at Denver International Airport if you need to rent a car upon arrival.

Train

Although there are no direct trains to Denver, the Amtrak California Zephyr stops at the Denver Union Station, which is located in the heart of downtown Denver. The train runs from Emeryville, California to Chicago, Illinois and passes through some stunning landscapes along the way.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Denver as it is a landlocked city, but the closest port is the Port of Colorado, located in Aurora, Colorado. From there, you could rent a car or take public transportation to reach Denver.

Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, Greyhound and other bus companies offer regular services to Denver from cities across the United States. The Greyhound station is located in downtown Denver, making it easy to access local amenities.

More travel plans

Denver in 2 Days: Budget-Friendly Adventure

Exploring Denver on a limited budget is possible with many frugal options available. Enjoying the outdoors is an excellent option with numerous free parks, walking and bike trails while also strolling around downtown's historical sites and charming shops. When it comes to dining, sampling food trucks and affordable cafes will help to keep expenses in check.

A 5-Day Rocky Mountain Romantic Getaway in Denver

A romantic trip to Denver, United States promises a delightful experience for couples. You can take a stroll hand in hand through the city's charming streets, visit scenic spots such as the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, and indulge in sumptuous cuisine at the city's many fine-dining restaurants. A visit to the spectacular Rockies West Elk Loop will also make your trip a memorable one.

Denver: A One-Day Feast for the Senses

Denver is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning mountain views and numerous hiking trails. It is also known for its vibrant music and arts scene, with a variety of museums and galleries to explore. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and craft beer at local restaurants and breweries throughout the city.

Denver Delights: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!

A family friendly trip to Denver, United States offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities for everyone. Explore the Denver Zoo to see an array of animals up close, visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for interactive exhibits, and take a scenic hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. With its family-friendly vibe and numerous outdoor adventures, Denver promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.