Winter is most definitely upon us, and it’s that time of year when you and your kids are spending more time inside. Already tired of the museum? Here are five great Denver-area places that will help make the great indoors more enjoyable.
EARTH TREKS
For your young adventures, head to Earth Treks for a fun experience that will teach your kids to challenge themselves. Drop in on the weekend for Open Climb when an instructor will teach your child climbing basics ($22/child includes harness rental and three climbs). Or, drop your child off at Friday Nite Rox where she’ll learn climbing fundamentals, get plenty of practice time and play creative climbing games with the other kids in the group ($29 for three hours). Children must be 5 or older to climb.
700 Golden Ridge Rd., Golden, earthtreksclimbing.com/co
SWALLOW HILL MUSIC
Kids of all ages are welcome at Swallow Hill where they can participate in a wide selection of workshops and classes. Workshops are typically one-day events lasting a couple of hours. For the more committed musician, 8-week courses are available for the guitar and piano among other instruments. Programs are also available for children ages 6 months to 4 years. Prices vary for each program.
Multiple Denver locations, swallowhillmusic.org
CANVAS AND COCKTAILS
You might think this DIY painting spot is just for baby showers and co-worker bonding, but Canvas and Cocktails has projects kids will love, too. You and your child can each paint your own masterpiece while an instructor guides your class (and you can enjoy a mimosa while you're at it). Children 12 and younger are encouraged to come for morning sessions when family-friendliness is at its prime. Cost is $25-$40/person depending on your project.
Locations in Denver and Centennial, canvasandcocktails.com
DENVER PUPPET THEATRE
A true gem in west Denver, an afternoon here includes making your own stick puppet, watching a marionette show, and playtime with a collection of puppets in the theatre. Plays range from familiar tales to originals, and each show is 50 minutes. Plays are intended for children ages 3 and up and admission is $8/child. There’s also a cafe next door serving lunch, coffee and ice cream so you and your kids can each have something to enjoy after the show.
3156 W. 38th Ave., Denver, denverpuppettheater.com
SECOND STAR TO THE RIGHT
New and used books fill this darling shop in Berkeley which offers free storytime everyday at 10:30. The store is also stocked with a good selection of educational toys. Weekends here feature special activities including kids yoga and American Girl Club. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful, and also accommodating to babies and very young children.
4353 Tennyson St., Denver, secondstartotherightbooks.com
Second Star to the Right, Denver