Planning a family vacation to Colorado? You’ve chosen an amazing destination! With its stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor adventures, and countless family-friendly activities, Colorado offers something special for every member of your family.
From outdoor activities and adventure parks to historical sites and educational museums, Colorado offers something for every family. Here are five exciting ideas for creating unforgettable memories in Colorado:
A tour we think you'll love
1) Let The Fun Begin – Family Vacation In Colorado
Get ready to kick off your unforgettable family vacation with Pagosa Outside Adventures. Whether your family is prepared for a self-guided river adventure or looking to try a new activity, we are ready to assist you.
We provide all necessary equipment for your water adventure—including life jackets and paddles—plus expert guidance to ensure safety and fun for everyone.
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Deluxe Whitewater Tubing Trip – Glide along the scenic San Juan River on a tubing adventure tailored for families. With gentle rapids and all equipment provided—including life vests and helmets—it’s an exciting way to experience Colorado’s natural beauty.
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Kayak Rentals – For families seeking flexibility, Pagosa Outside’s kayak rentals let you explore at your own pace. Paddle through calm stretches or test your skills in more active waters without the pressure of a full tour.
Cool off with a water adventure ideal for your family. Whether you are new to water activities or your family members are seasoned pros, at Pagosa Outside Adventures, we have a trip for you. Trips tend to book quickly, so visit our website to find the perfect water outing for your family today.
Don’t miss out on making unforgettable memories—reserve your spot now and dive into the adventure that awaits your Colorado family vacation!
2) Explore Colorado’s Breathtaking National Parks That Wow Kids And Parents
No family vacation to Colorado is complete without spending time in the national parks. Two standout favorites—Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park—offer beautiful landscapes, wildlife, hiking trails, and one-of-a-kind experiences for all ages.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Outside Estes Park, the Rocky Mountains provide scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and family-friendly hikes. Drive the iconic Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America, for breathtaking views and elk and marmot sightings. During the summer months, ranger-led programs, wildflower walks, horseback riding tours, and picnic spots are available for the whole family.
Mesa Verde National Park
Travel back in time at Mesa Verde, home to centuries-old cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans. Families can explore the structures on guided tours, take easy hikes through desert landscapes, and learn about Native history through hands-on exhibits.
Pro Tip: Mesa Verde is home to over 600 cliff dwellings, but only a few are open for guided tours. Reserve tours early in the summer because they fill up fast.
3) Weird And Wonderful – Colorado’s Most Unique Family Experiences
Colorado is full of unexpected adventures, and these experiences are a must-add on your list of things to do in Colorado with kids. From sledding on sand dunes to sipping fizzy spring water, your whole family will find plenty of fun things that spark laughter and curiosity:
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Sand Sledding at Great Sand Dunes National Park – The park features massive sand dunes perfect for sledding adventures.
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Glenwood Springs – The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is one of the world’s largest mineral hot springs pools, stretching over two city blocks. Kids love playing in the Sopris Splash Zone.
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Manitou Springs Mineral Fountains – Take a self-guided tasting tour of naturally carbonated spring water from historic fountains scattered around town. Each has a unique flavor, and some are very fizzy.
Fun Fact: The Great Sand Dunes are taller than any building in downtown Denver. Some dunes reach over 700 feet high.
4) Thrilling Colorado Adventures For The Entire Family To Enjoy
For families craving excitement, Colorado offers mountaintop theme parks, historic railways, and snowy slopes perfect for beginners. These adventures combine thrills with family-friendly fun, ideal for kids and parents to spend time together:
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Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park – Perched atop Iron Mountain, this is America’s only mountaintop theme park. Families can ride the Alpine Coaster, explore underground caverns, and brave the Giant Canyon Swing. With panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and kid-friendly attractions, it’s a fun way to spend the day.
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Pikes Peak Cog Railway – The world’s highest cog railway takes you to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak on a scenic ride from Manitou Springs. The ride offers sweeping views, wildlife sightings, and the famous Pike’s Peak summit donuts.
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Georgetown Loop Railroad – Take a scenic ride on this historic narrow-gauge train and step back in time. Winding through Clear Creek Canyon, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers views of the Rocky Mountains and optional mine tours.
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Ski Schools – The ski schools provide expert instruction in a fun, supportive environment. Resorts like Steamboat Springs specialize in family-friendly programs that build confidence and skills.
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Family Fishing – For a quieter thrill, consider a family fishing outing along the Arkansas River. Known for its clear currents and abundant trout, the river offers accessible spots for casting lines near towns like Salida and Buena Vista.
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Santa’s Workshop, Colorado Springs – Did you know Santa’s Workshop is actually located in Colorado Springs? The park is great for kids under 12, where you can ride the Candy Cane Roller Coaster and other rides, enjoy a magic show, shop, eat, and of course, meet Santa.
Fun Fact: Santa’s Workshop was designed by a former Disney artist and has been in operation since 1956, making it one of Colorado’s most magical gems.
5) Dive Into Colorado’s Rich History And Vibrant Culture
Colorado’s rich heritage shines through in its museums, monuments, and historic towns, offering families a chance to explore the past in engaging, hands-on ways.
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Colorado Railroad Museum – Step into a 15-acre rail yard filled with vintage locomotives, cabooses, and interactive exhibits. Kids can climb aboard trains, explore model railways, and even ride the rails on select days. It’s a tribute to rail history, especially popular with train-loving families.
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Denver Museum of Nature & Science – From dinosaur skeletons to space exploration, this museum delivers big on curiosity. The Discovery Zone and planetarium are a hit with all kids.
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Colorado National Monument – A landscape of towering monoliths and red rock canyons offers scenic drives and short hikes perfect for families. Stop at the visitor center for geology exhibits and Junior Ranger activities.
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Cripple Creek – Historic Mining Town – Wander through restored buildings, visit the Jail Museum, or hop aboard the narrow-gauge railroad. This gold rush town offers immersive history with a playful twist.
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Garden of the Gods – Explore ancient rock formations and Native American lore at this free public park. Visit the visitor center for cultural exhibits and hands-on learning.
Fun Fact: The historic Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad still offers scenic rides through old mining country. It’s one of the few remaining railroads of its kind in the United States.
Your Family Vacation In Colorado Awaits – Start Making Memories Today!
From snow-capped peaks to whimsical adventures, Colorado delivers experiences that will interest every member of the family. Whether you’re sledding down dunes, splashing in mineral springs, or hopping aboard historic railroads, this state offers adventures in every corner.
When you’re ready to kick off your trip, Pagosa Outside Adventures is here to make your river adventures unforgettable. Secure your spot now to gear up for thrilling adventures, expert guidance, and gentle rapids that everyone will enjoy. Don’t miss out—create memories that will last a lifetime!
