Denver

Denver is a great city for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. Here's an ideal itinerary for 5 days in Denver:

Day 1: Explore Downtown Denver

Start your trip by exploring the heart of the city. Begin with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, which has a great collection of art from around the world. After that, head to the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district that's perfect for families. Take a stroll down the mall and stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants or food trucks. In the afternoon, visit the Colorado State Capitol Building and take a tour to learn about the state's history and government.

Day 2: Visit the Denver Zoo and Botanic Gardens

Spend the day at the Denver Zoo and Botanic Gardens, which are located right next to each other. The zoo has over 4,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. The Botanic Gardens has a variety of gardens and exhibits, including a children's garden and a tropical rainforest. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in one of the many beautiful outdoor spaces.

Day 3: Explore the Rocky Mountains

Take a day trip to the Rocky Mountains, which are just a short drive from Denver. Start by driving up to Mount Evans, which has the highest paved road in North America. The views from the top are breathtaking! After that, head to the town of Idaho Springs for lunch and a soak in the hot springs. On the way back to Denver, stop at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, which has stunning rock formations and is a popular spot for concerts.

Day 4: Visit the Children's Museum and Aquarium

Spend the morning at the Children's Museum of Denver, which has interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. After that, head to the Downtown Aquarium, which has over 500 species of marine life. Kids will love the touch tanks and the underwater tunnel. In the evening, catch a Colorado Rockies baseball game at Coors Field.

Day 5: Shop and Dine in Cherry Creek

Spend your last day in Denver shopping and dining in the Cherry Creek neighborhood. Start with breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, which has delicious pancakes and breakfast burritos. After that, explore the many shops and boutiques in the area, which range from high-end fashion to local artisans. For lunch, try True Food Kitchen, which has healthy and delicious options for the whole family. In the afternoon, relax in one of the many parks in the area, such as Cherry Creek State Park or Washington Park.