If your child is always asking questions and loves to learn how things work, Denver offers the perfect collection of hands-on science exhibits. These interactive spots combine fun with education, giving kids the freedom to explore, build, and experiment. With exhibits focused on physics, biology, space, and more, there’s something to inspire curiosity in every young scientist. These attractions are designed for children to actively engage with the world around them while developing new skills. From toddlers to preteens, every visit becomes a fun discovery experience that parents enjoy just as much.
Discover and Learn at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
One of the best places to start is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which features exhibits that take kids on a journey through space, prehistoric life, and the natural world. The Discovery Zone is specially built for younger children, filled with sensory play areas, water tables, and science stations. Older kids will love the Space Odyssey exhibit, where they can interact with touchscreens, launch simulations, and scale models of planets. From dinosaurs to gems to human biology, the museum offers something for every interest. Special workshops and rotating exhibits keep the experience fresh all year long.
Play and Experiment at the Children’s Museum of Denver
The Children’s Museum of Denver also offers a science-rich environment through its playful, curiosity-driven exhibits. Kids can explore physics through climbing structures and simple machines or experiment with water currents and air flow in the Joy Park and Water exhibits. One of the museum’s most loved areas is the Energy exhibit, where children can launch rockets, build windmills, and learn the basics of motion and force. It’s an ideal space for letting kids discover science at their own pace. Plus, there are quiet zones and art spaces to balance out the high-energy learning.
Explore the Wonders at Butterfly Pavilion
Located in Westminster, just outside of Denver, the Butterfly Pavilion blends biology and environmental science in an accessible way. Kids can observe butterfly life cycles, interact with invertebrates, and even hold a live tarantula named Rosie. Exhibits explain pollination, ecosystems, and conservation efforts in a fun and age-appropriate format. Walking through the tropical indoor habitat also gives children a firsthand look at biodiversity and animal behavior. It’s a calm, engaging place to combine science with nature in a hands-on way.
Try STEM Fun at WOW! Children’s Museum
The WOW! Children’s Museum in nearby Lafayette is a great addition for families willing to venture a little outside the city. This museum focuses on younger kids and includes STEM exhibits with lights, magnets, water tables, and building zones. There are areas designed specifically for toddlers, as well as STEM challenges for older children. Parents appreciate how accessible and safe the space feels while still providing great educational value. It’s a great stop for families who want smaller crowds with big learning opportunities.
Recharge and Reflect Together
After a day filled with science fun, having a space to slow down and recharge is just what your family needs. A vacation rental gives you the flexibility to eat in, relax on the couch, and review all the cool facts your kids picked up throughout the day. Whether you’re exploring downtown exhibits or planning day trips to nearby science spots, it’s helpful to have a home base that keeps everything easy and comfortable. With plenty of room to spread out and unwind, your evenings can be just as enjoyable as your daytime adventures. Book with our Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals in Denver and turn your science-filled family getaway into a fun, flexible, and memorable experience.