Alternatives to Halloween Trick-or-Treating in Denver, Colorado

Whether you're searching for alternatives to Trick or Treating in Denver because of the danger of vehicles on the road late at night, the threat of poisoned candy from less-than-normal humans, or the kids just wanting to do something different this year, you'll have a wide array of options available to you. From theme parks to corn mazes and everything in between, Denver is alive with ghoulish Halloween fun.

One of the best activities for children of all ages -- yes, mom, that means you too -- is at Elitch Gardens Amusement Park in Downtown Denver for Fright Fest 2007. In addition to all of the rides and attractions Elitch Gardens is known for, every weekend in October you can check out "Screams," a traditional haunted house with a minimum of blood and gore so that it's okay for the kiddies. During the day, "Screams" will be open for a "Monster-less Matinee," so even the younger members of your group can enjoy the fun.

Of course, kids still love candy, and they've taken that into consideration at Fright Fest '07, adding a "Trick Or Treat Trail" for the kids to pick up their sweet loot in a safe, well-lit environment.

At dusk each day, the "Haunted Processional" starts making its way through the park. The processional features zombies, ghosts, demons and ghouls, and indicates when the park changes from fun to scary. After dusk, it's no holds barred, so if you're easily spooked you should probably make your way to the car and head home. For more information on Fright Fest 2007, check out www.ElitchGardens.com.

Fat City Entertainment Center (9670 Coal Mine Ave. in Littleton) is adding to the Denver-area fun with Treat Street, which is free and open to the public. For fun, there are costume contests and Trick or Treating activities for families with kids 12 and under. Treat Street is Saturday, October 27th, from 11am to 4pm. www.FatCity.com

My personal favorite for Halloween fun is the Corn Maze put on by the Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield. This huge 8.5 acre Corn Maze is one of the most-attended mazes in the country, and features 12-foot tall stalks of corn. This year's maze promises to be one of the most challenging ever! For those who need a hand, there is a 15-foot high observation bridge overlooking the maze, where you can get a better view and find your way out. Also included: a "mini-maze" for those want to practice their skills before taking on the mammoth main attraction. This maze is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through October 28. Visit www.botanicgardens.org for more information.

Enjoy the season, and be safe!