Family-Friendly Day Trips from Denver: Fun That’s Under An Hour Away or an Hour-Plus For a Full Day Adventure

Summer is the perfect time for family-friendly day trips from Denver. From scenic parks to hands-on museums, there are endless ways to enjoy sunny days with your little ones.

Denver Preschool Program put together a list of family-friendly adventures that are big on fun and easy to drive to from Denver. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or a spur-of-the-moment day trip, these destinations are perfect for making summer memories close to home.

Day Trips From Denver: An Hour or Less Away

• Carousel of Happiness – Nederland: Just an hour’s drive from Denver, families will love a visit to Nederland’s historic Carousel of Happiness. The restored 1910 Looff carousel, completed in 1917, features 56 hand-carved, one-of-a-kind animals that twirl to the tunes of a 1913 Wurlitzer band organ. Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, rides are just $3 per person, making it a magical, budget-friendly outing the whole family can enjoy.
• Dinosaur Ridge – Morrison: Spend the day discovering the wonders of prehistoric life at Dinosaur Ridge outdoor museum, located just 20 minutes from Denver. Little ones will love strolling through ancient rock formations, digging for souvenir fossils, and even getting to touch the bones of iconic dinosaurs like the Allosaurus and Stegosaurus. Enjoy a self-guided tour with stunning views of the Front Range and finish the day at the Exhibit Hall and gift shop located in the Main Visitor Center.
• Tiny Town – Morrison: Discover endless fun at Morrison’s Tiny Town, a charming miniature city that’s perfect for summer adventures. Climb aboard the miniature railway for a ride through the child-sized town, explore the playground, and relax with a picnic while taking in stunning views of the foothills. Before you go, stop by the gift shop for train-themed souvenirs and tasty treats for the family.
• The Splash at Fossil Trace – Golden: Operated by the City of Golden Parks & Recreation Department, The Splash at Fossil Trace is a great spot for the whole family to beat the heat on a hot summer day. Young children can cool off in the zero-depth leisure pool, make a splash at the interactive splash pad, and let their imaginations run wild in Jefferson County’s largest sandbox. Golden and Jefferson County residents also receive discounted admission rates, making this fun-filled destination even more affordable.

Day Trips from Denver: More Than an Hour Away

• Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Colorado Springs: Home to more than 750 animals, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is a must-visit for families this summer. Recently ranked the #2 best zoo in North America by USA Today, the zoo offers interactive exhibits that bring visitors closer than ever to the animals. Your preschooler will love the multiple play areas, a ride on the historic 1925 carousel, and the chance to cool off with a sweet treat along the way. With something for everyone, this  wild adventure is just a short drive from Denver.
• Frisco Historic Park & Museum – Frisco: Enjoy free admission while traveling back in time at the Frisco Historical Park & Museum in downtown Frisco. This attraction is a little over an hour from Denver and is full of artifacts and exhibits to showcase the rich history of the Frisco area. Be sure to check out Frisco’s Main Street for fun shops and great places to grab a bite to eat before heading home.
• North Lake Park – Loveland: Pack a picnic and head north to North Lake Park in Loveland. This expansive park has something for everyone, from multiple playgrounds and picnic areas to an amphitheater and even a miniature train that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. North Lake Park also hosts a variety of city-sponsored events, including the Art in the Park arts and crafts show and the Loveland Fishing Derby, making it a perfect destination to enjoy all year long.
• Pikes Peak Cog Railway – Manitou: Hop aboard the world’s highest cog railroad at the Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Manitou Springs, a thrilling ride that has been delighting visitors since 1891. This scenic, family-friendly journey takes you from Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering breathtaking views along the way. Once at the top, treat yourself to a world-famous Pikes Peak Summit House doughnut, freshly made at 14,000 feet, a unique experience for all members of the family.

Gear Up for Fall with DPP Tuition Support

While you are out enjoying family-friendly day trips from Denver, don’t forget to apply for Denver Preschool tuition credits online. We’ve made the application quick and easy for families to complete, which means you can spend more time creating family memories while saving money. Learn more about how your family can lower the cost of preschool with our step-by-step guide to applying for preschool tuition assistance.