Dinos & tigers & candy, oh my! A perfect Denver family trip

This invertebrate-oriented zoo, located north of Denver just 15 minutes from downtown, is home to thousands of critters from all over the world. The Pavillion is home to butterflies, tarantulas, beetles, and many other animals. Spiders and beetles not your thing? Enter the Butterfly Pavillion to commune with over 1,600 free-flying butterflies. This zoo truly offers the chance of a lifetime for visitors of every age to learn about these special creatures and tap into their inner scientist. Whether you're into learning about each species or simply want to be in a beautiful environment, the tropical Butterfly Pavilion is a colorful place you're sure to love exploring.

Ever wonder how your favorite sweets and treats are made? Wonder no more, dear friends! Hammond's Candy Factory offers the chance to watch in awe as delectable treats are made right before your eyes... you know, without the risk of falling into a chocolate river or getting turned into a blueberry. Located near downtown Denver, this once small, family-owned business has now grown into an iconic brand that is sold internationally. Now over 100 years old, this factory has roots firmly planted in the Denver area, and it's apparent it isn't going to leave any time soon. No time for a tour? That's a-okay! Feel free to also pop into the factory to grab some candy, perfect for any special occasion (or the ride home). Tours typically last up to 30 minutes and can be scheduled ahead of time.

If you happen to wander into the heart of Denver and would love to see amazing aquatic species of all kinds, the Downtown Aquarium is the place to be. Denver's Downtown Aquarium is home to nearly 500 species of animals, contains an interactive stingray touch exhibit, and has a fully functioning restaurant that houses a 50,000-gallon centerpiece tank, floor to ceiling. In addition to the wonderful animals on display, the aquarium restaurant also serves fresh fish, other seafood and steaks. If you are also looking for a great family experience, the aquarium also offers the chance for your children to meet “real-life” mermaids that also teach about the importance of taking care of our ever-changing environment. This must-see attraction certainly has many great deals to offer.

While Denver’s many parks are unique, this particular park has even more to offer. The premier regional park also houses Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, IMAX, two lakes, historical monuments, picnic areas, and two playgrounds. Take your pick of things to do, whether it's seeing the Sumatran orangutans at the zoo, playing pick up baseball with your friends, educating yourself on the fascinating natural science of the Rocky Mountain region at the museum, taking pictures of the legendary historical monuments, or letting the kids play at one of the two amazing playgrounds. This massively action-packed park can be topped by no other in the area; there is always something to do with your friends, family, or even on your own.

Located at the former Lowry Air Force Base, Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is now Colorado's official air and space museum. This unique museum is housed within a 182,000-square-foot hangar that contains iconic aircraft, vehicles used in space, aviation artifacts, and even military uniforms. Located adjacent to the Lowry Sports Complex Park, this aviation history museum offers displays of many aircraft, various space and rocketry exhibits, and a simulator experience for those who think they need to try flying for themselves. And if your kids are pop culture buffs, there's a Star Wars™ X-Wing Starfighter on display, too!

Since its inception in 1993, the History Colorado Center has been a hub for learning and entertainment. This magnificent building is located just south of Civic Center Park and offers tons of interactive and engaging exhibits on the natural and cultural history of Colorado. Displays on Rocky Mountain National Park, the Living West, vintage postcards, baseball, even LEGO® displays of some of the state's iconic settings will keep kids and adults alike entertained as they learn. The 100 Items exhibit and the A to Z exhibit offer an in-depth and creative look at the history... plus, where else can you explore a mine and experience the Dust Bowl?!