Are you planning a family vacation to Denver? Look no further than the Denver Aquarium for a day of aquatic adventure! But why stop there? Denver has so much more to offer for families looking for a fun-filled getaway.
From museums to zoos to parks, there’s something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 best family-friendly activities near Denver Aquarium that will keep your family entertained and engaged throughout your trip. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Denver!
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Here are the 5 Best Accommodations Close to Denver Aquarium You Can Consider
Before you head to the Denver Aquarium, it’s important to find the perfect place to stay. We’ll explore the top 5 best places to stay near the Denver Aquarium that will make your trip a memorable one.
- The Crawford Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located just 200 meters away from Union Station and offers a fitness center, private parking, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can enjoy cycling and popular points of interest like Colorado Convention Center, Coors Field, and Larimer Square.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center: This 4-star hotel is a contemporary and modern convention venue, perfect for business or pleasure. Enjoy comfortable, home-like amenities in a classic two-room suite and kick off your day with a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of downtown Denver and offers a fitness center, free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as the Colorado Convention Center, Coors Field, and the Denver Art Museum.
- Hyatt House Denver/Downtown: This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of downtown Denver and offers a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as the Colorado Convention Center, Coors Field, and the Denver Art Museum.
- The Maven Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of downtown Denver and offers a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as the Colorado Convention Center, Coors Field, and the Denver Art Museum.
Discover Fun-Filled Attractions and Adventures Close to Denver Aquarium
Denver has a lot to offer for families looking for a fun-filled getaway. Let’s explore the top 10 best family-friendly activities near Denver Aquarium that will keep your family entertained and engaged.
1. Denver Zoo
Where the city meets the wild! If you’re up for a fun adventure, you’re in the right place. Denver zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, including rare and exotic ones. From awesome elephants to playful penguins, we’ve got them all!
Good for: Families with children of all ages, animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.
Pro-tip: If you want to save some money and avoid the crowds, visit the zoo on a weekday or during the off-season (November through March). You can also get discounts for seniors, military, and SNAP card holders.
Open: The zoo is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with entry gates closing at 4:00 p.m. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Website: Denver Zoo
2. Children’s Museum of Denver
If you’re seeking a fantastic family adventure near Denver, make sure to visit the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, especially if you’re planning a trip to the Denver Aquarium. This amazing museum isn’t just for learning and playing – it’s a place to have a great time and explore things in your own way.
Good for: Families with children newborn to age 8, but everyone can have a good time at the museum.
Pro-tip: Save up to 45% on admission to multiple Denver attractions, including the Children’s Museum of Denver and the Denver Aquarium, with CityPASS.
Location: 2121 Children’s Museum Drive, Denver, CO 80211.
Open: 7 days a week from 9 am – 4 pm. Closed certain holidays.
Website: Children’s Museum of Denver
3. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a great place to have fun and learn in Denver. It has more than 70,000 artworks from different times and places. You can see old and new art from many cultures at the museum.
The museum is also close to other fun things to do in Denver. You can also enjoy nature at the Cherry Creek Trail, where you can bike, hike, or kayak.
Good for: Art lovers, families, history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and thrill seekers.
Pro-tip: Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions, events, and discounts. You can also download the museum’s app for a self-guided tour and interactive features.
Location: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Friday until 8 p.m.)
Website: Denver Art Museum
4. Elitch Gardens Theme
Do you love roller coasters, water slides, and live shows? If so, you should visit the Elitch Gardens Theme, the only theme and water park in downtown Denver. Elitch Gardens Theme has over 130 years of history and fun, with more than 40 rides and attractions for all ages.
You can experience the thrill of the Mind Eraser, the Tower of Doom, and Twister II, or enjoy the family-friendly Carousel, Ferris Wheel, and KiddieLand. You can also cool off at the water park, which has a wave pool, a lazy river, and several slides.
Good for: Thrill seekers, families, water lovers, sports fans.
Pro-tip: Buy your tickets online to save time and money. You can also get a season pass if you plan to visit more than once. Check the park’s website for special events and discounts.
Location: 2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204
Open: April-October (theme park), Memorial Day-Labor Day (water park)
Website: Elitch Gardens Theme
5. Molly Brown House Museum
If you are interested in the history and culture of Denver, you should visit the Molly Brown House Museum. This museum is the former home of Margaret Brown, also known as “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”.
She was a famous and fascinating woman who survived the Titanic and fought for many causes. You can see her beautiful Victorian house and learn about her life and achievements.
The Molly Brown House Museum is a historic treasure in Denver. You can see the original furniture, clothing, and artifacts that tell the story of her remarkable journey from rags to riches. You can also learn about her involvement in causes such as women’s suffrage, labour rights, and education.
Good for: Families and history buffs
Pro-tip: Buy your tickets online to save time and money. You can also get a combo ticket that includes admission to the Molly Brown House Museum and the Denver Aquarium.
Location: 1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80204
Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Friday until 8 p.m.)
Website: Molly Brown House Museum
6. Denver Botanic Gardens
If you love plants, flowers, and nature, you should visit the Denver Botanic Gardens. This is one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the West, with over 24 acres of gardens and collections. You can see plants from all over the world, from the tropics to the alpine, from the desert to the wetlands.
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Good for: Plant lovers, families, nature enthusiasts, art fans.
Pro-tip: Check the gardens’ website for special exhibitions, events, and discounts. You can also download the gardens’ app for a self-guided tour and interactive features.
Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80204
Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Friday until 8 p.m.)
Website: Denver Botanic Garden
7. Colorado Railroad Museum
If you love trains, history, and a bit of adventure, you must visit the Colorado Railroad Museum. It’s in Golden, Colorado, on 15 acres near the South Platte River, and it’s the biggest and coolest railroad museum in the West.
You’ll see over 100 super old train cars and engines, some from way back in the 1800s. And the best part? You can even ride a narrow-gauge steam train for a taste of the Wild West excitement!
Good for: Train lovers, families, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
Pro-tip: Buy your tickets online to save time and money. You can also get a combo ticket that includes admission to the Colorado Railroad Museum and the Denver Aquarium. Check the museum’s website for special events and discounts.
Location: 17155 W 44th Ave, Golden, CO 80403
Open: Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Website: Colorado Railroad Museum
8. Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is a cultural and historic attraction that is sure to leave you spellbound. Located on top of Lookout Mountain, this museum offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The museum is dedicated to the life and times of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, one of the most famous people of his time, and his Wild West show.
Good for: History lovers, families, culture enthusiasts, Titanic fans.
Pro-tip: Don’t miss the interactive Kids’ Cowboy Corral exhibit at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where kids can design a brand and try lassoing a calf.
Location: 987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401, USA 1
Open: The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m1
Website: Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
9. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
It’s more than just a concert spot; it’s an 800-acre park. Hike, bike, or drive through scenic trails and rock formations. Explore the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, the Trading Post, and the Visitor Center to dive into Red Rocks’ history and culture.
Red Rocks is where Denver’s fun, thrill, and enrichment meet. Experience the best of music, nature, and art in this unique and captivating venue.
Good for: Music lovers, families, nature enthusiasts, art fans.
Pro-tip: Bring a jacket, sunscreen, and water when you visit Red Rocks. The weather can change quickly, and the sun can be intense at high altitudes. You can also download the venue’s app for a self-guided tour and interactive features.
Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80204
Open: Daily, one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset (park), varies by event (amphitheater)
Website: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
10. Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
Are you curious about butterflies, insects, and sea creatures? Explore the Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center, the first non-profit insect zoo in the United States, located in Westminster, Colorado. This place isn’t just a zoo; it’s also a research and conservation center.
You can discover the fascinating world of invertebrates and how they impact our lives. Witness over 5,000 animals, including butterflies, beetles, spiders, scorpions, crabs, and starfish. You can even touch a live tarantula, hold a giant millipede, or get up close with a horseshoe crab.
Good for: Butterfly lovers, families, nature enthusiasts, and science fans.
Pro-tip: Wear bright colours to attract butterflies and avoid touching their wings. Check the center’s website for special exhibitions, events, and discounts.
Location: 6252 W 104th Ave, Westminster, CO 80020
Open: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Website: Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
Denver’s Top Restaurant Near the Aquarium
If you are looking for a delicious and memorable dining experience near the Denver Aquarium, you should try the Aquarium Restaurant. This restaurant is located inside the aquarium and offers a unique and spectacular underwater setting.
- Aquarium Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the aquarium and offers a unique and spectacular underwater setting. You can enjoy fresh seafood, steak, chicken, and desserts while watching colourful fish and marine life swim around you.
- Linger: This restaurant is housed in a former mortuary and features chic and macabre decor. The menu highlights street food from all over the world, including bao bun trio, spicy pork potstickers, scallion & five spice short rib pancake, lamb burger and ramen noodles.
- El Five: This restaurant is located on the fifth floor of a building and boasts spectacular views of the downtown Denver skyline and the mountains. The menu is inspired by the Mediterranean, and features small plates with bold flavors from Spain, North Africa, and the Middle East.
- Sushi Sasa: This restaurant specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine and offers a diverse menu with sushi, sashimi, tempura, and noodles. The sushi is highly rated by customers, who also appreciate the availability of same-day reservations.
These are some of the best restaurants near the Denver Aquarium that you can choose from.
FAQs
What are some kid-friendly things to do in Denver this weekend?
You can visit the Denver Zoo, the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, or Slick City Denver West for some fun and educational activities.
How much does it cost to visit the Denver Aquarium and the museum?
The admission fee for the Denver Aquarium is $32.99 for adults, $26.99 for children (3-11), and $31.99 for seniors (65+). These prices may vary depending on the time of entry, the type of ticket, and the additional attractions you choose.
Can we find any family-friendly restaurants near the Denver Aquarium?
Yes, explore the Downtown Aquarium itself for a unique dining experience. They offer a family-friendly restaurant with a variety of cuisines and a fascinating underwater atmosphere.
Are there any indoor dog parks or play areas in Denver?
Yes, there are indoor dog parks like the Pet Palace Indoor Dog Park, providing a safe and climate-controlled environment for your pup to play and exercise.
