·      Denver Zoo

o   Easily one of my favorite zoos, they are hyper focused on conservation and education and even have a new(ish) animal hospital viewing area where you can watch the animals be cared for while veternarians narrate what is taking place.

o   Our membership got it’s value, we found it very easy to use and the online reservation system was so simple. 

o   Parking is free and we never had an issue finding space, with the exception of going at the holidays.  Which, if you do, arrive before the zoo “closes” at 3:30, they don’t actually clear the zoo and lights turn on at 4:30, so you can enjoy them before the crowd of holiday light goers enter at 5 pm.

o   The exhibits are incredibly well-done and there is a lot of space so even when full it never felt overly crowded.  The areas are designed by geographic region and while all are well-done, my favorite is the Asia area with the elephants (they have a bridge that they can walk over as you go under), monkeys and very good food at the canteen in that section (it’s one of my favorites).

·      Botanic Gardens

o   Near the zoo and other museums, the gardens are immaculately well-kept and varied.  The Bonsai garden in the back is unique while the inside exhibits make it easy to enjoy year-round. Some of the paths are more stroller-friendly than others with steps in a few unexpected areas, but overall, we didn’t have any issue getting around and found it a fun way to spend some time. 

o   I’d prioritize it lower than some of the other kid destinations unless you love flowers or they are having a special event just because it’s less “run and play” than some other spaces in the area.

• Museum of Science and Nature

This museum is very kid-friendly and does a wonderful job of incorporating interactive and information exhibits across a range of topics.  Mummies, animal types, human health (you can measure your heart rate and kids can explore muscles and bone structures).

o   There is a TON to see, so likely your little ones will tap out before you get through it all but it can easily occupy 3-5 hours of your day.  Parking is free and adjacent to the building, making it easy to access.