Things To Do With Kids in Boulder, CO

Colorado Adventure Center delivers heart-pumping aerial adventure through zipline courses and challenging ropes elements set against Boulder's stunning mountain backdrop. With age-appropriate courses designed for different skill levels, families can soar through the treetops together while building confidence and creating unforgettable memories in a professionally supervised environment.

Bounce Empire is an adrenaline-pumping indoor trampoline park that transforms rainy days and restless energy into hours of active fun. With dedicated foam pits for safe aerial tricks, competitive dodgeball courts, and expansive open jump areas, this Lafayette location (just outside Boulder) offers the perfect outlet for kids who need to bounce off the walls,literally.

Perched high above Boulder at 7,000 feet, Flagstaff Nature Center offers families an accessible introduction to Colorado's mountain ecosystems without the need for strenuous hiking. Kids can meet live raptors and small mammals, explore gentle trails through ponderosa pine forests, and engage with hands-on exhibits that bring the Rocky Mountain environment to life in an intimate, educational setting.

Scott Carpenter Park is a beloved Boulder destination that combines water play, swimming, and classic playground fun all in one location. Named after the Mercury astronaut, this multi-use park offers families everything from a refreshing splash pad and outdoor swimming pool to expansive grassy fields perfect for picnics and games, making it an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor adventure.

Arapaho Bend Natural Area offers families an easy introduction to Colorado's prairie ecosystem with flat, stroller-friendly trails perfect for little legs. Kids can spot deer, rabbits, and dozens of bird species while exploring the restored grasslands and wetlands, making it an ideal spot for young nature lovers and budding wildlife watchers.

Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat offers families a serene escape into nature right in Boulder, featuring scenic walking trails around beautiful ponds where kids can spot turtles, birds, and other local wildlife. The easy, stroller-friendly paths and peaceful setting make it ideal for introducing young children to nature observation and outdoor exploration without the intensity of a full hiking trail.

Fiske Planetarium offers an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos that will captivate curious young minds and space enthusiasts alike. With state-of-the-art fulldome shows projected across a massive domed ceiling, hands-on astronomy exhibits, and educational programs designed to make complex space concepts accessible, this University of Colorado Boulder gem transforms abstract astronomy into tangible wonder that families can explore together.

This beautifully restored nature preserve offers families an easy introduction to Colorado's wetland ecosystems with flat, stroller-friendly trails perfect for little explorers. Kids will love spotting birds, turtles, and other wildlife around the ponds and streams, while the open meadows provide plenty of space for nature scavenger hunts and outdoor discovery.

The University of Colorado Museum of Natural History offers an impressive collection that brings science to life for young explorers. Kids can get up close with towering dinosaur skeletons, marvel at authentic Egyptian mummies, and engage with hands-on interactive displays that make learning about natural history exciting and accessible.

The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games is a Boulder favorite for families seeking classic entertainment with a modern twist. With kid-friendly bumpers, lightweight balls perfect for little hands, and an arcade packed with games, this venue offers hours of nostalgic fun where everyone from preschoolers to grandparents can join in the action.

Boulder Reservoir is a fantastic summer destination where families can enjoy sandy beaches, designated swimming areas, and calm waters perfect for introducing kids to water activities. With kayak rentals, expansive picnic areas, and plenty of space to spread out, it's an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor recreation without the crowds of ocean beaches.

The Ritz in Boulder offers families an intimate theater experience with year-round children's productions, musicals, and family-friendly performances in a charming historic setting. This cozy venue creates the perfect introduction to live theater for young audiences, with shows that capture kids' imaginations while keeping parents entertained too.