Sometimes it’s good to think out of the box when conjuring up activities for your kids. While it’s easy to consider the usual amusement park, community pool and even neighborhood day camp, how about thinking about an activity that all of you will enjoy in Highlands?
In one of Denver’s most popular neighborhoods, you’ll find refreshing and interesting things to do with your children. Highlands Denver has become a favorite locale for young professionals and families alike. Its proximity to downtown, walkable streets, interesting architecture and access to shops and restaurants adds to its appeal and value.
So turn off your screen and have some fun with your kiddos before school starts. Best of all, in Highlands Denver it doesn’t cost a lot of money to create lasting memories. Whether it’s some window shopping, taking a stroll through the park or savoring an ice cream cone, your kids are sure to appreciate time well spent.
Check out some of these perfect kid (and adult) locations to that are sure to please.
Little Man Ice Cream, 2620 16th St.
Who doesn’t love ice cream? For many, it’s an obsession and most likely, Little Man Ice Cream has contributed to that condition. Serving up sweet and creamy homemade ice cream, Little Man has become an iconic Denver institution. Housed in a quirky Coney Island style “milk can,” you’ll savor cones, sundaes, splits, shakes and floats. You’ll appreciate the little dips and child’s sized cones along with a full array of toppings. There’s outdoor seating and great people watching in the plaza.
REI Climbing Wall, 1416 Platte St.
It’s call the Pinnacle climbing wall for good reason. This 47 foot monolith, amassing 6,400 square feet inside the building, has become a destination attraction in itself. Modeled after the sandstone bluffs along the Front Range, the climbing wall offers a variety of routes for all ability levels and closely mimics the natural feel of outdoor rocks. The features, rarely seen on indoor facilities, include Hand-Cracks, Finger-Cracks, Pockets, Huecos, Lay-Back-Cracks, Flakes, Aretes, Dihedrals, Roofs, Overhangs and Slabs. Beginners will love the routes that are 20-24 feet tall and host hand and footholds that are close together. Admission is free for REI members; non-members will be charged $10 for the first climb and $5 for subsequent climbs. All kids 10 and under must have a parent present and the minimum age is 5. The climbing wall is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and it operates on a first come, first served basis. The wall is sometimes closed for special events so please check the website first.
Confluence Park, 2250 15th St.
On a hot summer day, there is no better place to hang out than at Confluence Park. Where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, this setting recently underwent a $9.4 million facelift which widens and improved the bike paths and walkways, and added ADA ramps. People can access this area via two pedestrian bridges, one over the South Platt and the other over Cherry Creek. This has become a hotbed for water sports enthusiasts. Kayakers, tubing fans and people on stand up paddleboards take advantage of eddies and custom chutes enhancements on the river. In addition to the paddlers paradise, this area is popular among runners, cyclists, picnickers and people out for a stroll. Your kids can wade in the water and cool off in the summer heat while watching the on water activities. Take a relaxing ride on the Denver Trolley, located at REI. The 25 minute round trip ride stops at the Denver Aquarium and Children’s Museum, and offers a bird’s eye view of downtown, Mile High Stadium and Elitches.
Highland Farmers’ Market, 32nd Ave. and Lowell Blvd.
Every Sunday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., enjoy this neighborhood farmers’ market at 32nd and Lowell. Taste the best in produce and fresh fruit, peruse arts and crafts, and check out all the handmade clothing, candy, bakery products, cheese and many other items, all featuring local talent and growers. There is live entertainment and plenty of great people watching opportunities.
Mama Hood, 2902 Zuni St.
This is the ultimate resource for moms-to-be and new mothers. Offering a variety of maternity and infant products and well as group classes, Mama Hood’s got you covered. As they state, “bring the belly, boobs, and babies (and toddlers).” Interact with other women who are in various stages of pre- and post-natal stages with classes and clinics addressing sleep clinics, yoga, breastfeeding and mom-child yoga/music sessions. Check out the online features! There is a full gamut of pricing options ranging from full membership to drop in and punch card choices, sure to fit your budget.
