The Gardner School is committed to supporting parents to ensure every child’s learning journey continues beyond the classroom. To help, we’ve created an exclusive guide to Denver’s free attractions, events, and activities that are tailored to meet the needs of preschoolers and their families! Our guide highlights unique opportunities for fun and learning so you can discover new and exciting adventures in our beautiful city. 

Hammond’s Candies

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Hammond’s, a company that has been making candy in Denver since 1920! Book a free tour of the candy factory to see how they make over 5,000 pounds of sweet treats every day. Check out Hammond’s website for their tour schedule to schedule one for your family. 

family holding lollipops in front of Hammond's Candies
Photo courtesy of Hammond’s Candies

Denver Art Museum

General admission at the Denver Art Museum is free for all visitors under 19, and the whole family can visit for free on select days each month. In addition to exploring the vast permanent collection, check out the museum’s calendar of child-friendly events, special activities, day camps, and games to fuel your child’s love for the arts. When your visit is done, check out the museum’s YouTube channel for a unique DIY project to try at home! 

children looking at exhibit at Denver Art Museum
Photo by Raine Chism, courtesy of the Denver Art Museum

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus 

From May to September on the third Friday of each month, Joy Park at the Children’s Museum of Denver is open for free. From 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., your little ones can hop on the dueling zip line, dig in the sand pit, and explore canyons, ruins, or dunes. Joy Park is enjoyable for all ages, so bring the whole family for an evening of adventure. 
This blog’s featured photo is courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

children playing outside at Joy Park at the Children’s Museum of Denver
Photo courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Free Festivals

Experience Denver through the different sights and sounds of its vibrant festival scene! Many festivals are free and family-friendly. Be sure not to miss the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, which takes place every summer, or the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival in Sloan’s Lake Park each July. Check out this calendar of Denver’s festivals listed by month to find even more options for your family.

toddler painting a wall
Photo courtesy of CherryArts

Denver Public Library (multiple locations)

Public libraries serve as great resources for families looking to have some fun for free. The Denver Public Library and its branch locations offer a variety of educational activities, including craft programs and storytime hours. The interactive calendar contains a complete list of events at every library branch. 

A Partner For Parents

The Gardner School is proud to partner with parents to provide support as you provide your children with new experiences. Take a look at our blog page for inspiration and helpful tips on a wide variety of topics.
Interested in enrolling your child at one of The Gardner School locations in Denver? Find a location near you and reach out to schedule a tour! We’re always here to answer your questions.