Children's Museum of Denver - Van Gogh museum🇳🇱
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Children's Museum of Denver

4.5
·2k reviews·Denver, United States

A vibrant, interactive museum sparking curiosity with hands-on exhibits, outdoor adventures, and creative play for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
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Children's Museum of Denver - Van Gogh museum🇳🇱

Children's Museum of Denver

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, interactive museum sparking curiosity with hands-on exhibits, outdoor adventures, and creative play for all ages.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"This place is everything you want in a kid-friendly adventure—educational, interactive, colorful, AND chaotic in the best way possible!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry and avoid disappointment by purchasing tickets in advance, especially for busy periods.

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring and playing, so comfortable footwear is essential for all ages.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Joy Park

Joy Park

Outdoor area

An expansive outdoor wonderland with water features, sand dunes, a zipline, and adventure courses.

Bubble Room

Bubble Room

Indoor exhibit

Experience the magic of creating bubbles bigger than your body in this popular, interactive exhibit.

Teaching Kitchen

Teaching Kitchen

Indoor exhibit

Hands-on culinary fun where kids can explore new ingredients and learn kitchen skills.

The Climber

The Climber

Indoor exhibit

A thrilling 3 1/2 story tall climbing structure that challenges and excites visitors of all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Weekdays, especially afternoons, are less crowded than weekends. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy exhibits without long waits. Memberships can offer great value if you plan multiple visits, and booking tickets online in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Embrace the Outdoors

The Children's Museum boasts fantastic outdoor play areas, including Joy Park. Check the weather and plan accordingly, as some outdoor sections might be closed seasonally or due to weather. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings (especially weekdays)
Why
Energetic start, less busy
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family fun, but busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

oh man do my toddlers & I love a good children’s museum! 🚀✨ about time we go one near us, we usually have to go to la or oc to find stuff like this! absolutely in love! we might need a yearly pass here! lol • • • • #childrensmuseum #childrensstemmuseum #stem #toddlers #inlandempire #ranchocucamonga #victoriagardens #ie #thingstodowithtoddlers #california #MomsofTikTok #toddlersoftiktok #toddlermo...
@learningencasita
83K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry and avoid disappointment by purchasing tickets in advance, especially for busy periods. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring and playing, so comfortable footwear is essential for all ages. Reddit

@childrensmuseum This was incredible! 10/10! Their next adults-only event is October 23…Halloween themed! #indiana #indianapolis #317 #indy
@wholesome.ish.mom
75.5K likes • 652.8K views
JOY PARK • Denver Childrens Museum Whewwwwww buddy! This park is a home run! It seriously has everything you could hope for! ⭐️Water features ⭐️Sand dunes ⭐️Hay Bales ⭐️ Tractors ⭐️Zipline ⭐️ Slides ⭐️ Adventure obstacle course! ⭐️ and tons of other tiny treasures! THINGS TO KNOW! ✔️This is part of the children’s museum so you have to pay admission or have a membership to enter ✔️ The kids WI...
watch.us.wander_denver
21 likes • 223 views

👶 Infant/Toddler Zone

The 'Bloom' exhibit is a sweet, garden-themed space perfect for little ones up to 36 months. Reddit

💧 Prepare for Water Play

Bring a change of clothes or be ready for the fun in the outdoor water features at Joy Park. Instagram

The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is the perfect place to take your family! They are located near downtown Denver and are open daily. They have so many incredible exhibits making it a must-visit destination! #childrensmuseum #childrensmuseumofdenver #denver #colorado #familyfun
coloradofamilytravel
11 likes • 737 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry and avoid disappointment by purchasing tickets in advance, especially for busy periods. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring and playing, so comfortable footwear is essential for all ages. Reddit

👶 Infant/Toddler Zone

The 'Bloom' exhibit is a sweet, garden-themed space perfect for little ones up to 36 months. Reddit

💧 Prepare for Water Play

Bring a change of clothes or be ready for the fun in the outdoor water features at Joy Park. Instagram

🍳 Teaching Kitchen Early

Arrive early to get on the list for the popular Teaching Kitchen experience. Instagram

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking is available but can be a bit of a walk from the entrance; plan accordingly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Children's Museum of Denver for its modern, creative, and highly interactive exhibits that engage children of all ages. The outdoor Joy Park and popular indoor attractions like the Bubble Room are major highlights. However, some find the admission price and food options to be on the expensive side.

"The Denver Children’s Museum has changed a lot since my childhood—it’s now very modern, creative, and full of engaging activities. From the magical infant/toddler Blossom Room to physics and construction areas, clay and cooking workshops, and even bubble play, there’s something for every age. The outdoor playground and water play area look fantastic (though the playground was closed during our visit). The only downsides: it’s pricey—our family of five spent nearly $100 for just a few hours—and the food options are expensive for what you get. Some outdoor areas also lack shade and you can hear I-25 nearby. That said, the museum is beautifully designed, fun, and well worth a visit if you’re in Denver."

Brad

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I took our toddler daughter to the Denver Children’s Museum today and it reminded me why this is one of our absolute favorite places to go. The exhibits are so creative and interactive—she was completely engaged the entire time, whether it was climbing, exploring, or experimenting in the hands-on areas. It’s the perfect balance of fun and learning, and I love how much thought they put into every detail to make it exciting for kids of all ages. Her favorite part was the “Bloom” 🌸 exhibit, which is so sweet and garden/nature themed for little ones up to 36 months. It is so nice that they provide clean socks just in case you haven’t brought any! She loved being able to run and crawl around in a beautiful and safe space. Bubble exhibit is a favorite too 🫧

We’re so glad they offer a membership option because this is definitely a spot we’ll be coming back to again and again. Highly recommend it for any family looking for a fun and memorable day in Denver!"

Homes by Halley • Denver Realtor

"Wow, this children's museum puts everything that I have seen in Utah to shame. Tons of activities and exhibits for the kids. I love how everybody flocks to the bubble room immediately. The art studio and crafting rooms were also great hits. The climbing courses are phenomenal. Well worth the price and you could easily justify a membership if you are in Denver with young kids."

Wade Brinton

What People Like

Modern and creative exhibits
Engaging for all ages
Fantastic outdoor play area

What People Dislike

Pricey admission and food
Limited shade outdoors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 2121 Children's Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211, near downtown Denver. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available, though it can be a walk to the entrance. Public transportation options are also available; check Denver's RTD website for routes and schedules. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available at the museum. However, it can be a bit of a walk from the parking area to the main entrance, so factor that into your arrival time. Reddit

Yes, public transport is an option. You can check the Denver RTD website for specific bus routes and schedules that serve the area around the museum. Instagram

The museum is generally stroller-friendly, with accessible pathways throughout the indoor exhibits. For outdoor areas, consider the terrain. Reddit

The Children's Museum of Denver is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission can be pricey, with a family of five spending nearly $100 for a few hours. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended. Consider a membership if you plan to visit multiple times. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance to secure your entry and potentially avoid long queues, especially during peak times. Instagram

Yes, the museum offers a membership option, which is a great value if you plan on visiting frequently. Many families find it worthwhile for repeat visits. Reddit

The museum occasionally hosts adult-only events, such as Halloween-themed nights, which can be a fun way to experience the museum without children. TikTok

Specific refund policies can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for details on ticket cancellations or changes. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Joy Park with its water features and adventure courses, the popular Bubble Room, the hands-on Teaching Kitchen, and the impressive 3 1/2 story Climber. The infant/toddler 'Bloom' exhibit is also a highlight. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Joy Park is a major attraction, featuring water play, sand dunes, a zipline, and obstacle courses. Some outdoor areas may lack shade. Instagram

The museum offers a wide range of exhibits catering to all ages, from infants and toddlers in the 'Bloom' exhibit to older children in the construction and art areas. InstagramReddit

Yes, the 'Bloom' exhibit is specifically designed for infants and toddlers up to 36 months, offering a safe and engaging space for them to explore. InstagramReddit

While designed for children, adults can enjoy the interactive exhibits and the joy of seeing their children engage and learn. The museum also hosts occasional adult-only events. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum offers food options, but they can be expensive for what you get. It might be more budget-friendly to pack your own snacks or plan to eat elsewhere. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's common for children's museums to allow outside snacks and drinks for personal consumption, especially for younger children. Check their policy if this is important to you. Reddit

The quality and variety of healthy options can vary. Packing your own nutritious snacks is often a reliable way to ensure your child has healthy choices. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafe or dining area within the museum, but reviews suggest the food can be pricey. Reddit

Being near downtown Denver, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the vicinity if you prefer to dine out after your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography is allowed for capturing memories. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas. TikTok

The vibrant outdoor spaces like Joy Park, the colorful architecture, and the interactive exhibits like the Bubble Room offer great photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, many visitors share videos of their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the fun and interactive nature of the museum. TikTokInstagram

While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or filming for commercial purposes may require special permission. Check the museum's policy if you plan extensive filming. TikTok

Weekday afternoons might offer fewer crowds, making it easier to get unobstructed shots. Natural light is generally best, especially in the outdoor areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Children's Museum of Denver is a paradise for families with young children. The 'Bloom' exhibit is a dedicated, safe space for infants and toddlers up to 36 months, featuring sensory activities and soft play. InstagramReddit Beyond this, the entire museum is designed for interactive learning, with exhibits like the bubble room and art studio providing engaging experiences for preschoolers. Instagram

Consider visiting on weekday afternoons to avoid the biggest crowds and give your little ones more room to explore. Reddit While food is available, it's recommended to pack snacks for picky eaters or to save money. Reddit The outdoor Joy Park also offers fantastic opportunities for active play, weather permitting. Instagram

💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors

While admission can be a significant cost, consider the value of a membership if you live locally or plan multiple visits. Reddit This can significantly reduce the per-visit cost. Packing your own snacks and drinks is also a smart way to manage expenses, as on-site food options are noted as being pricey. Reddit

Look for weekday afternoon visits to potentially experience fewer crowds, which can enhance the value of your ticket by allowing more time with each exhibit. Reddit While there's no direct mention of free days, keeping an eye on the museum's official website for any special promotions or community days could offer additional savings.

📸 Content Creators & Photographers

The Children's Museum of Denver offers a visually rich environment for capturing engaging content. The vibrant architecture, colorful exhibits like the Bubble Room, and the dynamic outdoor Joy Park provide numerous photo and video opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1

To get the best shots with fewer distractions, aim for weekday afternoons when crowds are typically thinner. Reddit Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive flash photography. The Teaching Kitchen and the Climber are also popular spots for dynamic shots showcasing interaction and scale. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Joy Park: An Outdoor Adventure

Joy Park is a standout feature of the Children's Museum of Denver, offering an expansive outdoor play experience that complements the indoor exhibits. It's designed to engage children with a variety of stimulating activities, from water features and sand dunes to a zipline and adventure obstacle courses. This area provides a fantastic opportunity for kids to burn energy and explore in a naturalistic setting. Instagram

When planning your visit, it's important to note that some of these outdoor areas might be seasonal or weather-dependent. The Reddit community has inquired about the usability of outdoor sections in March, suggesting that checking current conditions is wise. Visitors should also be prepared for the water play elements, as bringing a change of clothes or waterproof gear can be beneficial. Reddit

The design of Joy Park aims to foster imaginative play and physical activity. With elements like tractors and slides, it offers a dynamic environment where children can climb, slide, and dig. It's a key reason why many families consider the museum a top destination for a full day of fun. Instagram

Interactive Exhibits for All Ages

The Children's Museum of Denver is renowned for its diverse and engaging exhibits that cater to a wide range of ages and interests. From the moment you enter, you'll find hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through play. Exhibits like the Bubble Room allow children to create giant bubbles, a truly mesmerizing experience that's a consistent hit. Reddit

For the younger visitors, the 'Bloom' exhibit provides a safe and nurturing environment specifically designed for infants and toddlers up to 36 months. This garden-themed space offers soft play areas and sensory exploration opportunities. InstagramReddit Older children can challenge themselves on the 3 1/2 story Climber, a towering structure that tests their agility and courage. The Teaching Kitchen offers a unique culinary experience where kids can experiment with ingredients and learn basic cooking skills, though it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. Instagram+1

Beyond these highlights, the museum often features areas for construction, art, and physics exploration, ensuring that there's always something new to discover. The emphasis is on interactive learning, making it an educational and entertaining destination for the whole family. Instagram

Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community

Real visitors and content creators offer valuable insights to make your trip smoother. Many recommend booking tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid potential disappointment, especially during busy periods. Instagram Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and playing both indoors and outdoors. Reddit

When it comes to timing, weekday afternoons are frequently cited as the best time to visit to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit If you're visiting with very young children, the 'Bloom' exhibit is a highly praised area. Reddit For the popular Teaching Kitchen, arriving early is key to getting on the sign-up list. Instagram

While the museum offers food, reviews suggest it can be pricey, so packing your own snacks or planning meals outside the museum might be a more budget-friendly option. Reddit Parking is available but can involve a walk to the entrance, so factor this into your arrival plans. Reddit

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