Denver's Top Five Free, Family Friendly Venues

There are plenty of free days at Denver venues. Likely your family is tired of the same old zoo and museum runs. How about changing things up a bit with some other free Denver area venues? Don't know of any? I can help you with that. Here's some of the ones I intend to see this summer with my family.

Buffalo Herd Overlook - According to the website, they're actually called bison. Buffalo live in Africa or Asia. So give us a home where the bison roam? Anyway, if your kids have never seen these mammoth creatures, head up the mountains on I-70 (take exit 254). I have to warn you, the Buffalo aren't always there, it depends on where they've decided to roam that day. So, if they aren't, don't let the kids be disappointed, just head for nearby Dinosaur Ridge.

Dinosaur Ridge - OK, you may have heard of this one, but did you know it's free? That's right, a free education for your kids and a good time along with it. Special events and tours will cost you, but walking the trails on your own is absolutely cost free. Bring the dinosaur lovers in your family to see prehistoric tracks and more along a myriad of trails.

The National Center for Atmospheric Research - This Boulder venue has a fancy name, but it's free to the general public. As the name implies, this is a weather research center. See how weather is born, take a tour of the facilities and visitor center, all for free. Field trips are available for students and other groups. Call ahead for reservations.

Denver Skate Park - This isn't just your ordinary cement sidewalk. Denver Skate Park is 60,000 square feet of pure fun. The park welcomes bikers, roller bladers and skaters of all skill levels. Mom and Dad should give it a go too, if only for your kids amusement. Wear your elbow and knee pads and bring the first aid kit.

Annual Arvada Kite Festival- Better clear your calendar quickly. The date for this is April 9, 2011. The kite festival is held in Olde Town Arvada at Robby Ferrufino Park. Join kite enthusiasts from 10 am to 4pm. There will be contests, activities for the kids and multiple community booths. Don't be offended if someone tells you to go fly a kite. That's the whole point of this free festival.
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Source:

Personal Experience