Whether your child was glued to the screen watching Artemis II launch, their favorite toy is Buzz Lightyear, or they have a budding interest in the universe beyond, there are plenty of exciting places to take your space loving kiddos in the Denver Metro area.
Indoor Space Fun
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science – Space Odyssey
Space Odyssey is the ultimate space lover’s play space. The more science minded kids will enjoy the launch simulator, the programmable mars rover, the sphere that can show weather patterns, and all of the other incredible additions to the main exhibit room. For those that dream of a galaxy far far away, the interactive fantasy spaceship will be a hit. From the captain’s chair, to the warp speed simulator, and tons of buttons to push, kids can spend ages pretending they’re on an intergalactic mission. While you’re there, be sure to check out a show at the planetarium!
Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum
Though much of Wings over the Rockies is focused on flight within the stratosphere, there are some pretty fantastic exhibits that will excite any space loving child, especially those who appreciate the history of space travel. The Apollo Command Module Boilerplate and an Apollo moon rock are sure to delight any moon fanatics. Colorado’s Astronauts In Their Own Words will inspire any future astronauts, and the Star Wars space craft replicas are to be a hit with all ages.
Colorado Mills Mars Outpost
The Mars Outpost at the Colorado Mills mall in Lakewood is perfect for the littlest of space lovers. Made to look like the surface of mars, there’s tunnels to crawl through, hills to crawl over, fun puzzles and sensory play, and even a mars rover to climb on.
Outdoor Space Adeventures
Sloans Lake South Playground
On the south side of Sloans Lake is a fun space themed playground that will be a hit with any space lover. There are two rocket shaped play structures with slides, and beyond the space theme, there is a zip line, sandpit, swings, a pump track, and other fun features. While you’re there, you might want to check out the pirate ship themed playground on the other side of the lake as well!
Ralston Valley Park
Over in Arvada is another fun filled space themed playground. While Sloan’s playground is rocket ship themed, Ralston Valley is more geared towards the moon lovers, complete with a climbable moon rover! Kids of all ages will enjoy the slides and swings, and adults can have some fun with the exercise equipment!
Quail’s Crossing Park
In Westminster, you will find another fun rocket ship themed playground! Quail Crossing Park takes the space theme very seriously, with the play structure itself being in the shape of a rocket ship, to the flooring under the slides and swings, and even the fun mission control board! Though a smaller playground, it’s a must visit for any space loving kiddo.
Mission Viejo Park
Mission Viejo Park in Aurora has a more subtle space theme, but it is sure to delight any of your future astronauts. The play structures are adorned with images of planets and the solar system, and the planet facts will inspire any mini astronomer.
Star Meadows Park
Up north in Erie is Star Meadows Park, and if your kid aspires to be on a moon mission one day, this park will certainly be a hit. From “moon rocks” to climb on and explore, to the human sun dial feature, this park is a space explorer’s dream. It also has some fun spinning and climbing features, and misters for those hot days!
There is a lot of fun to be had in Denver for your junior space explorers. Whether they prefer to be indoors or outdoors, and no matter their age, you are sure to find the perfect activity for a fun, space-filled day.
