By Elean Gersack
Although the snow is still melting, spring break is just weeks away. Plan ahead and enjoy some memorable family activities right here in Colorado. From state parks to museums, there is much to do and see close to home.
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Castlewood Canyon State Park
2989 South State Highway 83, Franktown
303-688-5242
This beautiful retreat is located just to the southeast. Enjoy educational programs, hiking, picnicking, and a rock climbing wall. The park is located in Franktown about five miles south of Highway 86 and Highway 83 (Parker Road.) A daily park pass is $5 and an annual pass is $55. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit
http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/castlewoodcanyon.
Chatfield State Park
11500 N. Roxborough Park Road, Littleton
303-791-7275
Bike, hike, camp, ride horses, or boat at the Chatfield State Park. Park hours are from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/Chatfield.
Garden of the Gods
1805 N 30th Street, Colorado Springs
719-634-6666
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Venture south to the amazing geological rock formations at The Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Hike, bike or take a guided walk tour through this historic Colorado nature park. For more information, visit
www.gardenofgods.com.
Roxborough State Park
4751 North Roxborough Drive, Littleton
303-973-3959
Unique rock formations, plants and wildlife make Roxborough State Park a must-see for all. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Biking and hiking as well as snow shoeing and cross county skiing are favorite activities at Roxborough. For more information, visit
http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/roxborough.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs 719-633-9925
For a change of scenery, consider exploring the zoo to the south – Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. This beautiful location offers some steep climbing grades, so in addition to viewing some amazing animals, enjoy a good cardio workout. For more information, visit
www.cmzoo.org.
The Children’s Museum of Denver
2121 Children’s Museum Drive, Denver
303-433-7444
Located just off of I-25 and 23rd Avenue in downtown Denver, The Children’s Museum is the perfect spot for toddlers and young children. From storytelling to grocery shopping and train building, this is a great place for creative and fun learning. For more information, visit
www.cmdenver.org.
The Colorado Railroad Museum
17155 W 44th Ave., Golden
800-365-6263
For all the conductors out there, make a trek to the historic Colorado Railroad Museum. On April 7, the Bunny Express takes ride with special guest, the Easter Bunny. Other upcoming special events include Father’s Day train rides on June 16-17 and A Day Out With Thomas in September. For more information, visit www.crrm.org.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver
303-322-7009
Opening March 2, 2007, is the new exhibit Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World. The IMAX film Hurricane on the Bayou also opens on March 16. This musical tribute searches for hope as New Orleans prepares for the future. For more information, visit www.dmns.org.
The Wildlife Experience
10035 S. Peoria, Parker
720-488-3300
Located just east of I-25 and Lincoln Avenue, The Wildlife Experience offers art and animal exhibits in addition to an IMAX theater featuring the film Beavers now through October 2007. For more information, visit www.thewildlifeexperience.org.
Sir Bouncealots and Castle Crafts Café
3194 N Industrial Way Unit O, Castle Rock
303-382-1111
Kids will enjoy hours of jumping fun as well as arts and crafts at Sir Bouncealots. Parents can access the internet and drink coffee while the kids play. For more information, visit www.sirbouncealots.com.
Rock’n & Jam’n Indoor Climbing
7390 S. Fraser St, Unit E, Centennial
303-254-6299
For kids and adults ages six and older, this indoor climbing facility offers the tallest and steepest climbing walls around. For more information, visit www.rocknandjamn.com.
