Golden is full of easy adventures for kids—places where they can climb, explore, and learn about the world! This blog highlights some of Golden’s best kid-friendly spots, showcasing the many things to do with kids across our quaint Colorado town.

Kid-Friendly Museums in Golden

Colorado Railroad Museum Train

For families visiting with kids, the Colorado Railroad Museum is hard to beat. The museum features historic railcars, model train displays, rotating exhibits, and even real train rides. Seasonal events are a big draw too, like the Polar Express, where visitors hop aboard a coal-fired steam locomotive for a festive ride and a visit with Santa. Another favorite is Day Out With Thomas, when a life-size Thomas the Tank Engine rolls down the tracks for a full day of themed activities and photo ops.

At the Mines Museum of Earth Science, kiddos can marvel at one of Colorado’s very own moon rocks, which was collected during the Apollo 17 mission. The museum regularly hosts family-friendly scavenger hunts and other hands-on programming.

To soak in some local history (think cowboys and pioneers), head to the Golden History Museum & Park, and don’t skip the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. The museum’s observation deck also offers an excellent view of the Rockies.

At the Buffalo Bill Museum a young child dresses up as a cowboy and rides a play horse

Activities and Outings for Kids

Golden offers fun and engaging activities for kids all year long, whether you’re exploring the outdoors, enjoying indoor play, or diving into hands-on learning.

Clear Creek provides families with a variety of kid-friendly activities throughout the year. Hiking and biking options include wide paved trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. Before visiting in the summer for water recreation, check out our Clear Creek Safety Information, especially if you’re bringing young children.

The Golden Community Center is another great stop year-round, especially for families who want to spend some time in the pool. The indoor aquatic area is open throughout the week, and the center also offers all sorts of workshops and classes for toddlers, kids, and teens. Visit their official website for the latest class schedules and updates. 

The Splash at Fossil Trace is a 10-acre water park designed for families, with a zero-depth leisure pool, gentle splash pad, big water slides, a huge sandbox, plenty of shaded picnic space, and all the kid-friendly amenities you need for an easy summer day out!

Dinosaur Ridge is a favorite for kids who love fossils and prehistoric creatures. The site hosts weekend and summer programs designed for young explorers, plus a simulated dig area where they can learn how paleontologists uncover fossil evidence. It’s an easy way to make science feel like an adventure, right here in Golden!

Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center is another great spot for kids to connect with nature while staying engaged. Beyond its open green spaces, you’ll find interactive exhibits, a hands-on playroom, and an observation area that overlooks the surrounding foothills. The center also offers free programs for families curious about local wildlife and ecology. It’s a calm, educational stop that rounds out a day of exploring Golden’s outdoor spaces.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Golden

Woody's Patio

Wrap up your family day in Golden with a stop for kid-friendly food like pizza, burgers, or a sweet treat. Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza has been a local favorite for more than 30 years, serving up classics in a casual, family-friendly setting. D’Deli keeps things fun with inventive sandwiches and kid-sized options, while Bob’s Atomic Burgers lets everyone build their own burger just the way they like it! For variety, The Golden Mill food hall brings everything together: tacos and burritos, sushi, sandwiches, and even the country’s first New Zealand–style creamery, all under one roof!

Head to Golden, Kids in Tow!

Beyond these recommendations, there’s plenty more for families to explore and discover in Golden. Check out our more ideas for kid-oriented outings by reading our Golden Fun for the Whole Family blog, and check out the city’s family-friendly lodging options to help you plan your next getaway in Colorado.

Family Friendly Events