The Best Free Things You Can Do in Denver with Kids

Traveling as a family doesn’t always mean spending lots of money. If you are visiting Denver with kids, you’ll be happy to know that the city offers plenty of free attractions and activities. From beautiful parks to interactive museums and fun local spots, there are endless ways to explore without paying a dime.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best free things you can do in Denver with kids. You’ll find family-friendly ideas, helpful tips, and even travel advice on how to plan your visit. And if you’re flying into Denver, we’ll also show you how to find affordable flights and plan stress-free travel.

Why Denver is a Great Family Destination

Denver is known as the “Mile High City,” and it’s a place where outdoor fun meets family-friendly attractions. The city is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and plenty of space for kids to play.

Here’s why families love Denver:

• Free outdoor activities are everywhere. 
• It has museums and attractions perfect for curious kids. 
• Many neighborhoods host free festivals and events. 
• The city is easy to reach with cheap round-trip flights from Boston to Denver 

Traveling with kids can sometimes be expensive, but Denver makes it easy to enjoy quality time without breaking the bank.

Top Free Things to Do in Denver with Kids

Here are some of the best activities your whole family can enjoy:

1. Visit the Denver U.S. Mint

Kids are often fascinated by coins and money. At the Denver Mint, you can take a free guided tour and learn how U.S. coins are made. It’s fun, educational, and gives kids a behind-the-scenes look at something they use every day.

Tip: Tours book quickly, so reserve your spot in advance online.

2. Explore City Park

City Park is one of Denver’s largest green spaces. It’s perfect for family picnics, kite flying, or simply letting kids run around. The park has playgrounds, lakes, and even free outdoor concerts during summer evenings.

• Pack snacks and drinks to make it a day-long adventure. 
• Don’t forget a blanket for lounging under the trees. 
• The Denver Zoo is right nearby if you want to add a paid stop later. 

If you’re coming from out of state, consider booking affordable flights from Chicago to Colorado for a budget-friendly trip.

3. Take a Walk Down the 16th Street Mall

This mile-long pedestrian street is free to visit and always buzzing with energy. Kids love the street performers, colorful artwork, and window shopping. Parents enjoy the relaxed vibe and easy walking routes.

Tip for parents: Keep a few dollars handy for street performers. Even though the walk is free, kids often want to tip their favorite acts.

Flying in? You can book flights from Houston to Denver and land right in the heart of the action.

4. Visit the Colorado State Capitol

The State Capitol is free to enter, and the building itself is fascinating. Kids will enjoy standing on the 13th step, which is exactly one mile above sea level. Inside, families can take guided tours to learn about Colorado’s history.

Don’t miss:

• The golden dome, which shines in the sunlight. 
• Views of the Rocky Mountains from the balcony. 
• Free exhibits about the state’s heritage. 

5. Play at Confluence Park

This downtown park is where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River. In summer, kids love splashing in the shallow waters while parents relax nearby. It’s also a popular spot for kayaking and biking.

Flying into Denver is easy with discounts on flights from Miami to Denver. You’ll be close to all the downtown attractions, including Confluence Park.

6. Discover the Denver Art Museum (Free Days)

Art may not always sound exciting for kids, but the Denver Art Museum offers hands-on activities and family-friendly programs. On select days each month, entry is completely free.

Kids can:

• Join art-making workshops. 
• Explore galleries with scavenger hunts. 
• See unique exhibits that spark creativity. 

7. Check Out Red Rocks Park

Red Rocks is world-famous for concerts, but the park itself is free to visit during the day. Families can hike the trails, climb the massive rocks, and enjoy incredible views.

If you’re traveling from the East Coast, consider booking cheap flight tickets from New York to Denver for a quick getaway.

8. Enjoy Free Festivals and Events

Denver is home to free events all year round. From summer music festivals to holiday parades, there’s always something happening. Families can check local calendars to plan around these events.

Popular free family events include:

• The Cherry Blossom Festival.
• The Cinco de Mayo Parade.
• Civic Center Eats (with free entry and affordable food trucks).

9. Go Hiking at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

This wildlife refuge is just minutes from downtown Denver, yet it feels like another world. Families can hike trails, spot bison, deer, and hundreds of bird species. Kids will love the adventure of exploring nature for free.

10. Visit Local Libraries

Denver Public Library branches often host free story times, craft events, and family programs. It’s a great way to entertain kids indoors, especially on rainy or cold days.

Tips for Families Visiting Denver

To make your trip even smoother, here are some useful tips:

1. Pack for changing weather – Denver can be sunny one moment and rainy the next. Bring jackets and sunscreen. 
2. Use public transportation – The free MallRide bus makes it easy to get around downtown with kids. 
3. Plan flights early – Look for the lowest airfares from Dallas to Denver  to save money on your trip. 
4. Bring snacks – Having food handy helps keep kids happy while exploring. 
5. Take breaks – Plan for downtime between activities to avoid exhaustion.

Why Flying to Denver is Easy for Families

One of the best parts about visiting Denver with kids is how accessible the city is. With major airlines flying in daily, families can find plenty of options. Whether you’re looking for cheap round-trip flights from Detroit to Denver or direct flights from Los Angeles to Denver, you’ll find affordable choices year-round.

Booking ahead also means you can grab the best flight deals from Atlanta to Denver and avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion

Traveling to Denver with kids doesn’t have to be expensive. The city is full of fun, free things to do, from exploring parks and museums to enjoying festivals and hiking trails. With a little planning, you can create unforgettable memories without stretching your budget.

So pack your bags, grab your family, and start planning your trip today. And remember, you can always find cheap flight tickets to Denver that make your journey as smooth as your stay.

Denver is waiting to welcome you with free adventures and family fun!