Let it snow!
Denver transforms into a winter wonderland when snow blankets the city, and there’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to make the most of it. Whether you’re bundling up for outdoor adventures or keeping cozy indoors, here’s your ultimate guide to a snow day in Denver with kids.
Also, be sure to check out Denver Snow Day: 80+ activities for playing inside and outside.
Denver’s Best Snow Day Activities for Families
Outdoor Adventures
- Sledding Hills
Denver is full of sledding spots that kids love. Check out Ruby Hill Park for its wide slopes and free snow-tubing opportunities or head to Sloan’s Lake Park for gentle hills perfect for younger children. Don’t miss the 30 best places to go sledding in Colorado. - Ice Skating
Glide across the ice at Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park (free if you bring your own skates!) or head to the Big Bear Ice Arena for an indoor option. Be sure to check-out the Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Skating in Colorado. - Snow Play at City Park
Build snowmen, make snow angels, or host a family-friendly snowball fight in Denver’s largest park. The wide-open spaces make it ideal for letting the kids run off some energy. - Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing
For adventurous families, nearby parks like Cherry Creek State Park or Genesee Park offer trails perfect for snowshoeing or skiing, with rentals available in town. Be sure to use our guide to the best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails for families in Colorado.
Indoor Escapes
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Let kids explore fascinating exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and ancient Egypt. The Discovery Zone offers hands-on fun tailored for little ones. - Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
From climbing adventures to interactive art and science exhibits, this museum is perfect for curious young minds. The Joy Park outside even has Snow Days, where there’s always snow play with sock skating, a snow maze, firepits and a snow hill. - Downtown Aquarium
Dive into the aquatic world with interactive exhibits and mesmerizing tanks. Don’t miss the mermaid show or feeding opportunities for stingrays and sharks. - Denver Botanic Gardens’ Conservatory
Escape the chill in the warm tropical gardens, where vibrant plants offer a sensory delight. The Children’s Garden at York Street often has seasonal activities, even in winter.
Winter Eats & Treats
- Warm Up with Hot Chocolate
Stop by Union Station for a cup of decadent hot chocolate at Pigtrain Coffee Co. or visit The Chocolate Lab, which specializes in rich, homemade chocolate drinks. - Kid-Friendly Dining
Try Steuben’s for comforting mac and cheese or Punch Bowl Social for kid-approved meals paired with bowling and arcade games. - Sweet Treats
Head to Little Man Ice Cream for their seasonal flavors or stop by Nuggs Ice Cream for a waffle cone filled with winter-inspired scoops.
Special Winter Events
- Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo
Bundle up for a magical evening exploring the illuminated animal displays. Kids will love spotting their favorite creatures lit up in holiday-themed lights. - Winter Festivals
Check out local calendars for events like Winter on the Rocks or snow-themed family festivals in nearby neighborhoods like Olde Town Arvada.
Day Trips for Snow Fun
- Evergreen Lake
Just a short drive from Denver, Evergreen Lake offers ice skating in a picturesque mountain setting. Rentals are available on-site. - Echo Mountain
A family-friendly ski area just 50 minutes from Denver, Echo Mountain is perfect for beginner skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. - Frisco Adventure Park
About an hour away, Frisco offers tubing hills, sleigh rides, and a cozy day lodge to warm up.
Snow days in Denver are an opportunity for family fun and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re braving the cold for outdoor adventures or staying warm indoors, Denver offers endless ways to keep kids entertained. Bundle up, grab your mittens, and let the snowy fun begin!
Author: Mile High Mamas
