Free Things to Do with the Family in Denver

The major Denver museums and zoos typically have free days throughout the year, but this information is not widely publicized. With a little research, you can plan family activities around these free days and have a memorable and educational experience that will fit within your budget.

The Denver Zoo free days are the most popular with the kids. Zoo free days are held during the fall and winter. In addition to watching the animals as you wander through the expansive Denver zoo, there are also fun activities for the kids at various locations. For instance, kids love to play the drums at Congo Basin. There are places to step inside to warm up, such as the indoor rainforest at Tropical Discovery. But much of the zoo is outdoors, so be sure to dress warmly.

The Children's Museum of Denver is another great place to enjoy a free day. This hands-on museum has a free day on the first Tuesday of every month, and younger children love the interactive and play nature of the museum. It's often difficult to get them away from full-size fire truck in the main lobby, but there are fun things to do throughout the museum. There are several large play areas as well as smaller rooms for constructive activities such as music and crafts.

For the older kids and even curious adults, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science has free days that will not disappoint. There is sufficient variety to attract the interest of everyone in the family, with a large variety of hands-on exhibits. There are about a dozen free Sundays and Mondays throughout the year, providing plenty of opportunities to experience this museum on a tight budget. If you can manage to go on a Monday you can expect light crowds and more time to spend at each exhibit.

The Colorado Railroad Museum free days are a big hit with the boys in the family. This museum in Golden contains a huge collection of full size train engines and cars, many of which are open to the public. And don't miss the indoor train history museum and miniature train display downstairs. The Colorado Railroad Museum has several free days each year, usually in the winter and fall, so be sure to dress warm as the full size trains are outdoors.

For the girls in the family, the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys features a historic collection of dolls, dollhouses, and miniature toy exhibits. The museum features a free day for the whole family on the first Sunday of every month, and children under 5 are always free. There are always free crafts or other events taking place.

There are a variety of free parks that provide an educational experience. Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison is a perfect example. Dinosaur footprints are embedded in the rocks at the stops along the roadside, and an easy scenic hiking trail winds its way across the top of the ridge.

Another interesting park is Bluff Lake Nature Center in Aurora. This nature preserve allows wildlife to flourish while visitors quietly watch from a distance. The kids will surely see a variety of animals in their natural habitat.