With summer upon us and airline prices climbing ever higher, we will be sticking closer to Denver this year. Exploring the bike trails, the local neighborhood pool, visiting our favorite parks and playgrounds, and taking in the free outdoor concerts and movies are on the list, for sure, but long summer days lend themselves to being able to take advantage of other local venues too.
At the beginning of each summer break, we make a short list of attractions we would like to visit. These are places that make us feel like we got away to another area but without the expense and planning!
One of the prerequisites is that the venue must be outside. Since it is cold and snowy many months of the year, summer is all about the outdoors. Depending on the age of your kids and your sense of adventure, here are a few ideas for you and your family that are within a one-hour drive of Douglas County.
Let’s Get WET! - Water-Based Ideas
- H2O’Brien Pool (Parker) – H2O'Brien Pool features two 182' water slides, a waterworks play structure, a spray garden, geysers, a circulation and lap pool, a concession area, and a shade pavilion. Individuals of all ages will enjoy this spectacular pool!
- Pirates Cove (Englewood) – Enjoy fun in the sun! Pirates Cove offers a leisure pool with a large play structure, a 25-meter, 6-lane pool, a 35-foot slide tower with three slides, a lazy river, concessions, and more for your summer fun!
- Water World (Federal Heights) – Water World, one of America's largest family water parks, is located just 15 minutes north of downtown Denver on 64 beautifully landscaped acres. The park boasts over 46 water adventures including a dozen attractions suitable for little ones!
- For even more ideas, check out Our Top Pools, Waterparks, Beaches, & Spraygrounds!
Land Ahoy – Land-Based ideas
- Denver Zoo (Denver) – Denver Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals representing 650 species. What’s new? This spring, the Denver Zoo welcomed clouded leopard cubs and a Tamanuda baby.
- Heritage Square (Golden) – Heritage Square Amusement Park and Miners Maze Adventureland is a replica of a Western village. The park offers amusement rides, go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, arcade, zip lines, rope courses, magic shows, and pony rides.
- Elitch Gardens (Denver) – Elitch Gardens theme and water park is located on 63 acres, with thrilling rides and family entertainment from coasters, water slides, and pint-sized rides to live entertainment and an all-star summertime concert series. There is something for everyone to enjoy. What’s New? The Brain Drain is a 7-story steel looping thrill ride that sends riders forwards, backwards, and head-over-heels in an adrenaline-drenched 360° revolution.
This is by no means a comprehensive list but it is a good starting point for feeling like you are getting away – even if it is just for the day!
