When my boys were little, our days were filled with storytimes, playdates, visits to the park, and outings to local zoos and museums. At home, we crafted and cooked and built LEGO towers together.
As they grew older, it became more challenging to find fun activities that the whole family enjoys doing together. Through trial and error, we've discovered a variety of local venues and activities that are perfect for spending time with your teen or tween. They could even earn you the "Best Mom of the Year" award!
Sky Zone
9851 S. Parker Rd., Parker
(720) 214-2000
| Featuring wall-to-wall trampolines for freestyle jumping, a "foam zone" where you can dive right in, and ultimate volleyball, dodgeball, and basketball! I think it's physically impossible to not smile when you are trying to jump higher than your kids!
Open Tuesday through Sunday; hours vary. Every Friday and Saturday night from 7:00–10:00 PM, they crank up the lasers, music, and black light for GLOW jump time. Visit the Price & Promos page to find special offers.
BONUS: Jumping on a trampoline burns 250-400 calories per hour!
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Epic Sky Trek Challenge
1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy., Castle Rock
(720) 733-9477
| This aerial ropes and obstacle course features four levels and over 100 challenges. It challenged me mentally, physically, and even emotionally (fear of heights, anyone?)... but it was so much FUN! The members of our family all have different skill and fitness levels, but because there is such a wide variety of obstacles, it worked for everyone.
Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from October through February. Open daily from March through September. Hours are 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Your ticket gives you four hours to tackle the course.
BONUS: Castle Rock Adventure Park also has zipline tours, an Adventure Tower, and a Ninja Warrior course, so you can have a full-day adventure if you want!
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K1 Speed
8034 Midway Dr., Littleton
(720) 726-1264
| Not your everyday go-karts! These all-electric high-performance karts can reach 40mph in a matter of seconds. The racetrack is indoors, so rainy or snowy weather doesn't mess up your plans. There's plenty of racing memorabilia to look at and a good snack bar to enjoy before or after your race.
Open daily; hours vary. Visit the Promos page for monthly specials.
BONUS: You're probably a better driver than your kid so there's a good chance you'll win the race!
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RUN
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Races, Runs, & Rides
All over Douglas County
Bicycle rides, 5Ks, obstacle races... we are so lucky that these events happen in our area year round! Entries usually come with much more than just the event, like a free t-shirt, pancake breakfast, or post-race festival. Sometimes all three!
Our Races, Runs, & Rides Guide is updated weekly so you can always find one near you!
BONUS: Many of these events benefit a worthwhile charitable organization so you can help your community while making memories with your family!
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Boondocks Parker
18706 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
(720) 842-1100
Main Event
64 Centennial Blvd., Highlands Ranch
(303) 209-3877
| Both of these indoor playgrounds offer a variety of attractions, an arcade, and a full menu.
Boondocks has both indoor and outdoor attractions, including bowling, a two-story laser tag arena, the XD Dark Ride (our personal favorite), go-karts, miniature golf, and bumper boats. Purchase by the attraction or buy an unlimited pass for the day so you can play on everything for the whole day. Take advantage of $14 Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as arcade credits for good grades.
Main Event has bowling, laser tag, billiards, gravity ropes (zipline), and miniature golf. The pricing can be a little confusing so be sure to get clarity before handing over your credit card or it can add up fast. Don't miss Monday Night Madness with unlimited access to activities and arcade games for $10.95 per person. Visit the Specials page for current offers.
BONUS: A full day of play plus good food and I can even enjoy a glass of wine... that's a great day in my book!
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Epic Escape Game
611 N. Wilcox St., Castle Rock
(720) 696-7968
Try'n Escape
19515 E. Parker Square, Parker
(303) 841-7018
| Although I haven't yet tried an escape room with my kids, I have done them with my husband and friends and I absolutely love them. A group session is on my wish list for Christmas so I'm hoping Santa delivers (I'm pretty sure she will! 😉)
BONUS: Escape rooms encourage teamwork and critical thinking, two things my boys could definitely use more of!
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