There's no denying that with the Rocky Mountains in its backyard, and the region's best cultural attractions within city limits, Denver is literally a playground for adults. But fun for the whole family isn't hard to find. 

Not only does Denver have an array of amusement parks for the whole family, but some are so close they're part of the city skyline! Elitch Gardens is only blocks from downtown, Lakeside Amusement Park is just minutes away in Northwest Denver, and one of the country's largest water parks, Water World, is only 15 minutes from the city.

Denver's animal sanctuaries are a must for families. Kids can't resist Denver Zoo's 3,500 animals from around the world. The zoo also offers programs for all ages, from play-areas for tots to Zoo Keeper shadow programs for kids of all ages. At Denver's Downtown Aquarium, families can do more than look at fish, they can swim with them! The Wildlife Experience's Cubs Corner and Discovery Den are just for kids and full of hands-on exhibits. Check out creepy crawlers at the Butterfly Pavilion invertebrate zoo.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science has the fossils, mummies, and space exhibits kids dream about. Its Discovery Zone caters to the museum's youngest visitors with special activities that bring science to life in fun ways. No family visit is complete without a stop at the Children's Museum of Denver - an entire museum designed specifically for kids. 

Looking for fun and free ways for the family to experience Colorado's mountains without driving for hours? Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park, and William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain are all close by and offer a taste of Colorado's foothills. Golden Gate Canyon State Park, just west of Golden, has the hiking, camping, and views you expect from the Rockies without the isolation. 

Denver's variety of zoos, museums, and parks are fun, affordable, and so close, the kids won't have time to ask, "are we there yet?"