10 Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas in Colorado: Fun for Everyone!
Colorado is a playground for families with near-endless options for outdoor activities, museums, and adventures. Here are ten family-friendly vacation ideas that will allow everyone in your family to have fun and make memories.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for families. With over 415 square miles of spectacular terrain and awe-inspiring views, your family can spend a few days here exploring and discovering the park’s hidden gems. Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, try out fishing, horseback riding, or hiking on some of the park’s many trails.
2. The Colorado Railroad Museum
If you’re traveling with train enthusiasts, this museum in Golden, Colorado, is a must-see. You can climb aboard and explore a number of restored locomotives and railcars, including a real, life-sized Steam-powered locomotive. Your kids will love the interactive exhibits and engaging activities that make learning about trains fun.
3. Mesa Verde National Park
Venture a bit further down the state and visit Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park, located in the southwestern corner of Colorado, is known for its impressive cliff dwellings, which were once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people. It’s a fascinating and unique way to learn about American history and show your children how our ancestors lived.
4. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
If you’re more of a city family, Colorado Springs is the perfect vacation spot. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is situated in the old El Paso County Courthouse, and it’s packed with interactive exhibits and artifacts that explore the history and culture of the Pikes Peak region. See how the pioneers lived and understand how they built the city.
5. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Take your family to the world’s highest suspension bridge, the Royal Gorge Bridge. Located just outside of Cañon City, the bridge is 956 feet high and spans 1,260 feet across the canyon. The park offers exciting zip-lining, skycoaster rides, and VR experiences, making it a real thrill for the whole family.
6. Vail Ski Resort
With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is great for families who love to ski. During winter, the resort offers a variety of activities, including skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and a weekly family-friendly game night.
7. Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is an iconic mountain in Colorado, and a trip to the summit offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to learn about the history and geology of the area. Take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a scenic ride to the summit. During summer, you can hike, bike or enjoy the views from the top.
8. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
Just a few miles east of Glenwood Springs lies the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. This park is home to the Iron Mountain Tramway, the highest-elevation rollercoaster in the country, and other thrilling attractions such as cave tours, laser tag, and a giant canyon swing. It’s an excellent destination for families with older kids.
9. Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge Ski Resort offers an array of skiing and snowboarding options for families, with many trails that cater to beginners and intermediates. In summer, families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and taking the gondola to the mountain for stunning mountain views.
10. Bishop Castle
Located between Colorado City and Rye, Bishop Castle is a unique place that you must visit. The castle is a one-man project, and it’s still in progress. Children and adults alike will be amazed by the castle’s impressive towers, bridges, and overall architecture.
Colorado is an excellent family vacation destination, with something exciting and entertaining for everyone in the family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or anything in between, Colorado has it all.
