For families with young children, storytime is more than just a fun way to pass the time. It’s a chance to spark imagination, introduce early literacy, and create meaningful moments through books and storytelling. In Denver, you don’t have to stay indoors to enjoy these experiences. The city offers a growing number of outdoor storytime sessions and library events that let kids learn and play under the sun. If you’re looking for ways to blend learning and fresh air, these are the best spots to enjoy storytime in Denver with your kids.
Denver Public Library Hosts Storytime Across the City
The Denver Public Library system offers some of the most engaging and consistent storytime sessions around, and many of them are hosted outdoors during the warmer months. Branches like the Sam Gary Branch Library and the Central Library hold regular storytime events on their lawns or patios, where families can spread out blankets and enjoy stories, songs, and puppets. These events are free and open to the public, making them a go-to activity for parents with young children looking for screen-free fun.
Smiley Branch Library in Berkeley Offers a Cozy Outdoor Setting
Located in the charming Berkeley neighborhood, the Smiley Branch Library is a local favorite for families. Their outdoor storytime sessions often take place on the grassy front lawn, shaded by mature trees that offer a peaceful setting. The sessions usually include books, songs, and movement activities that are ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. After storytime, families can head over to nearby Berkeley Lake Park for a picnic or playground fun, making it easy to turn the morning into a full outing.
Green Valley Ranch Library Combines Stories With Nature
The Green Valley Ranch Branch Library offers a unique storytime experience by hosting events near their community garden space. This setting adds a natural touch to storytime that many kids find calming and engaging. Families are encouraged to bring their own seating, and the library sometimes includes nature-based themes or simple garden activities as part of the session. It’s a thoughtful way to connect early learning with the natural world while enjoying time together outside.
Ross-Cherry Creek Library Pairs Books With Outdoor Crafts
At the Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library, outdoor storytime often includes a creative element like simple crafts or coloring activities that go along with the stories being read. Their shaded outdoor space provides a comfortable and safe area for young listeners to enjoy stories and participate in interactive play. The mix of reading and hands-on activities keeps children engaged and gives parents an easy opportunity to support early development in a relaxed setting.
Bonus Storytimes at Local Bookstores and Parks
Some independent bookstores like Second Star to the Right Books occasionally host pop-up storytime events in local parks or on their outdoor patios. These events usually feature guest readers, themed stories, and sometimes visits from costumed characters. They are a great alternative to the library setting and help support small businesses at the same time. Follow your favorite bookstore’s social media or check their event pages to stay up to date on outdoor storytime opportunities throughout the city.
Make the Most of Outdoor Storytime Adventures in Denver
Outdoor storytime in Denver brings together everything parents love about summer adventures with the magic of reading and community. Whether you’re joining a library event or finding a shaded patch of grass outside a bookstore, these sessions give kids the chance to listen, learn, and laugh with their families in beautiful surroundings. It’s a perfect way to build a love for reading while enjoying the natural beauty Denver has to offer.
Book your Denver vacation rentals today and stay close to the city’s best storytime spots and library events, where books and sunshine come together for unforgettable family fun.
