Ultimate Colorado Summer Bucket List for Families
Fun in the sun for the youngest, oldest and everyone in between…
We are all blessed to call Colorado home, where the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities and boundless outdoor adventures await us in summer. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to relax and rejuvenate, Colorado summer has something special in store for everyone. With so many opportunities to celebrate summer, it is hard to narrow a list down to 20 but we managed to do it!
From sand dunes to exploring hidden hikes, attending captivating festivals to visiting the most majestic animals, this list is designed to make your family’s summer in Colorado truly exceptional.
1. Attend a movie or concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater: Red Rocks Amphitheater witnessed a different kind of "rock concert" that unfolded over millions of years. These transformative forces sculpted the majestic megaliths that now cradle the iconic amphitheater where concerts, films, fitness and more bring your family together under the summer stars!
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs displays breathtaking beauty for the public with hiking, climbing and walking experiences for everyone.
2. Visit the Royal Gorge: Prepare for a day filled with excitement and adventure at the Royal Gorge Park, where countless thrilling activities await. Experience the adrenaline rush of the Cloudscraper ZipRider, soaring through the skies, or opt for a more relaxed yet awe-inspiring gondola ride across the magnificent canyon. Younger visitors can explore the Tommy Knocker Playland, featuring climbing structures to unleash their inner mountain goat, along with a delightful carousel to spin away all their worries.
3. Hike through Garden of the Gods: Explore the natural beauty through hiking, climbing tours and more. Dedicated to the Colorado in 1909, Garden of the Gods remains free for the public to enjoy. See our full list of hikes to enjoy this summer.
4. Get Sandy at The Great Sand Dunes: Immerse yourself in captivating wetlands, grasslands, forrest and alpine lakes where the grandeur of North Americas tallest sand dunes take center stage.
5. Discover (or re-discover) wildlife at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Here you will engage in more than mere observation. Enjoy up-close encounters and delightful demonstrations at one of the nations top zoos.
6. Go back in time at St. Elmo’s Ghost Town: This well preserved ghost town just outside Buena Vista boasts 43 scattered buildings including a general store open during the summer months.
7. Pay a visit to Isak Hearthstone AKA the Breckenridge Troll: a 15-foot tall wooden troll sculpture located on the Trollstigen Trail in Breckenridge, Colorado. The trailhead is located in the southeast corner of the Stephen C. West Ice Arena parking lot, next to Illinois Gulch Trailhead. From the lot to Isak is approximately a 400 foot walk, an easy adventure for all to enjoy! One of the most popular destinations in Breckenridge, if you want one on one time with Isak visit before 10 am or after 5pm.
Medieval fun for the whole family at the annual Colorado Renaissance Festival.
8. Thrill your adrenaline seekers at Elitch Gardens: This Denver landmark theme and water park has entertainment for all. Rich in history and full of memories for all Coloradans a day at Elitch Gardens never disappoints. With multiple passes and activities everyone is all smiles at Elitch Gardens.
9. Visit the Renaissance Festival: If you have a longing to journey back to the enchanting era of the 16th century be sure to add the Colorado Renaissance Festival to your summer line up! This captivating event happens every year in Larkspur most Saturdays and Sundays mid June to early August.
10. Float the Platte River: Relax as you leisurely float down the Platte River enjoying all the scenery only Colorado can provide. Could be an hour float or a three hour adventure based on water levels and speed. A great way to spend a summer day with your loved ones.
11. Ride the Alpine slide at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: Plunge into a thrilling adventure aboard the Alpine Coaster as it propels you down an exhilarating 3,400-foot track, gradually bringing you to a gentle halt. Then, prepare to be effortlessly pulled back up 1,000 feet to the starting point. During the return journey, take a moment to unwind, appreciate the vibrant wildflowers surrounding you, and contemplate your next thrilling expedition down the mountain!
12. Paddle board, boat or swim at Chatfield Reservoir: Chatfield Reservoir in Colorado offers a multitude of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer paddle boarding, boating, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach, there's something for everyone. With its expansive waters and scenic surroundings, Chatfield Reservoir provides the perfect setting to indulge in outdoor adventures and soak up the sun.
13. Slip and side at Pirates Cove: Come aboard and bask in the sunshine at Pirates Cove, the exclusive waterpark in Englewood! Prepare for an exciting aquatic experience, complete with a leisure pool featuring a magnificent play structure, a 25-meter pool with six lanes, a towering slide tower with three thrilling slides, a lazy river, delectable concessions, and an abundance of summer delights to make your visit unforgettable.
14. Enjoy first responder family fun at Buckaroo Days: Once again this summer, The Shelter Foundation is thrilled to collaborate with Eagle's Nest Ranch in hosting The First Responder Families' Buckaroo Days! This exhilarating event invites local law enforcement officers and firefighters, along with their children aged 5-17, for a day filled with exciting adventures at the Ranch. As a token of appreciation for their dedicated service to the community, attendees are invited to bring their families, don their hats and sunscreen, and enjoy a day of fun with complimentary lunch, drinks, and snacks. Three dates available on a first come first serve basis.
Buckaroo Days at Eagle’s Nest Ranch creates loads of fun for First Responders and their families.
15. See majestic creatures take flight at the Butterfly Pavilion: Captivating exhibits offer guests the chance to delve into the marvels of nature's unsung heroes through engaging, interactive experiences designed for visitors of all ages. Immerse yourself in a world of wonder and embark on a journey of exploration at Butterfly Pavilion.This week was established by President Gerald Ford in 1974 to recognize the valuable contributions of EMS practitioners in the communities of our nation. These individuals respond to emergencies and provide life-saving care to those in need. This week is an opportunity to thank EMS professionals for their dedication and service.
16. Learn the wonders of flight at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: Embark on a captivating journey to a different era and destination as our exhibits transport you through time and space. Delve into the rich history of aviation and space exploration as you get up close and personal with remarkable aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia. Additionally, experience the future of aviation and space through immersive events and lifelike flight simulators that will leave you in awe.
State of the art water feature at H2O’Brien pool in parker provides hours of water fun!
17. Be amazed by real Dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Ridge: Discover the unparalleled wonders of Dinosaur Ridge, located in Morrison, Colorado, which stands as the top track site in the entire nation. With expert-guided tours, a visitor center, and a plethora of engaging programs, this destination is sure to astound any dinosaur enthusiast. If guided tours aren't your preference, you can opt for a self-guided adventure and even enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the picturesque grounds.
18. Fly on the water slides at H2O’Brien Pool in Parker: Immerse yourself in endless aquatic fun at H2O'Brien Outdoor Pool, nestled in the heart of downtown Parker. This fantastic destination boasts two exhilarating 182-foot water slides, a zero-depth entry with a remarkable state-of-the-art water feature structure, a lap pool, a convenient concession area, and a spacious deck with ample seating, refreshing shade, and even a game area. Whether you're young or young at heart, H2O'Brien Outdoor Pool guarantees an enjoyable experience for individuals of all ages.
19. Visit the big guy at Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole: Step into the magical world of The North Pole-Santa's Workshop, a charming vintage amusement park nestled at the base of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Delight in the enchanting atmosphere of Santa's Village, where the spirit of Christmas thrives throughout the year. Immerse yourself in the wonderment as you encounter the jolly man himself, ensuring that the magic of Christmas is forever alive at The North Pole. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
20. Get close to nature and your family with a weekend camping trip: Whether you tent, trailer or glamp there is no place that offers camping like Colorado. Mountains, lakes, reservoirs and more connect you and your family with nature in a way that only camping can. Unplug from the chaos of the world and tap into all the possibilities camping in Colorado can provide.
Unplug and refresh with nature during Colorado Summer - no state does camping better!
This summer, Colorado invites you to create memories that will last a lifetime - and this list is the perfect place to start! So grab your hiking boots, pack your sunscreen, and embark on a remarkable adventure through our spectacular state. Let the journey begin!
The Shelter Foundation is committed to honoring first responders and supporting their families during National Police Week and all throughout the year. We are grateful for your support, helping to provide tangible hope for first responder families, wives and widows.
There are multiple ways you can join us in support:
Pray for our first responder families. You can sign up for our email list here for monthly updates.
Spread the word. Follow us on social media and engage with and share our posts and content to your friends.
Make a one-time or recurring tax-deductible here.
More from The Shelter Foundation:
2023 Buckaroo Days: Loads of Fun for First Responders and their Families
How to Effectively Communicate in your First Responder Marriage
Spectacular Hikes for Colorado Couples to Enjoy this Spring and Summer
The Shelter Foundation Looks to 2023: A Message from Gracie Parrish Miller
Military and First Responder Widows Gather in Nashville for Never Alone: Widows of Heroes Retreat
Gear Up for the Holiday Season with These Special Discounts for First Responders
Update: What’s Going on with The Shelter Foundation This Summer?
Nothing is Wasted Podcast Episode 202: Gracie Parrish Miller
