Photo: Chris Chanson
Photo: Andy Yoder-Horst
Photo: Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
★4.5(1,595 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 0-8, with exhibits specifically designed for this age range. Babies and toddlers have dedicated safe play spaces, while preschoolers and early elementary kids love the climbing structures, water play, and pretend play areas. Children over 8 may find the activities too young for their interests.🧡 Saved by 36 families
About
The Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is a hands-on wonderland designed specifically for young children ages 0-8, featuring immersive exhibits that encourage learning through play. From splashing in water play areas to cooking in a kid-sized kitchen, climbing aerial adventures, and exploring interactive environments, this museum keeps little ones engaged for hours with activities that spark creativity and imagination.
Highlights
- ✓The Joy Park outdoor rooftop play space with climbing structures and slides
- ✓Water-themed play area with streams, pumps, and splash zones
- ✓Teaching Kitchen where kids can pretend cook and learn about nutrition
- ✓Adventure Forest with climbing ropes and aerial challenges
- ✓Box Canyon for creative building and construction play
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when doors open at 9:00 AM to beat the crowds and have the most popular exhibits to yourselves, especially the water play area.
- 2.Bring a complete change of clothes for each child,the water play area is irresistible and kids will get soaked.
- 3.The museum can get packed on weekends and rainy days, so visit on a weekday morning if possible for a more relaxed experience.
- 4.Check their website for special toddler time sessions and sensory-friendly hours if you have children who need a quieter environment.
- 5.Pack snacks and take advantage of the designated eating areas, though there's also a small café on-site for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:00-11:00 AM offer the least crowded experience before school groups and afternoon visitors arrive. Avoid rainy weekends when the museum becomes packed with families looking for indoor activities.
What to Know
Admission prices vary by age with discounts for members and Denver residents. On-site parking is available in the museum lot. While there's a small café, many families bring their own snacks to enjoy in designated eating areas.
Seasonal Notes
The rooftop Joy Park is a major highlight during spring and summer months but may be closed during harsh winter weather. The museum hosts special holiday events and themed activities during winter break, spring break, and summer that require advance registration.
Nearby Eats
Linger, about 5 minutes away, offers elevated comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere with a diverse menu. For casual dining, Highland Tavern nearby has a solid kids menu, mac and cheese favorites, and a relaxed vibe perfect for post-museum hungry kids.
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