Best Places in Colorado to Summer Vacation With Kids
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a small commission from purchases from links in this post and on my blog. Thank you for supporting this blog and my family.
Looking for an unforgettable family getaway this summer? Colorado is one of the best states to explore with kids — from wildflower-filled mountain towns to hot springs, lakes, and kid-friendly adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a week-long road trip, these Colorado destinations are packed with family fun, natural beauty, and memorable experiences.
Here are the best places in Colorado to summer vacation with kids, starting with our family’s top picks.
PIN TO YOUR SUMMER TRAVEL BOARDS ON PINTEREST
1. Grand Lake, Colorado Vacation with kids – Lakeside Adventure for All Ages
Category: Family Fun • Water Activities • Small Town Charm
Grand Lake is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets for summer family vacations. Nestled at the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, this lakefront village offers boating, kayaking, and wildlife watching—plus easy access to nature without the crowds of Estes Park.
Kid-friendly highlights:
- Paddleboarding, canoeing, or riding on a pontoon boat
- Exploring the Riverwalk and grabbing ice cream downtown
- Junior Ranger activities in RMNP
- Attending a family-friendly show at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre
This is the kind of town where your kids will remember skipping rocks, spotting moose, and roasting s’mores under the stars.
2. Ouray, Colorado Vacation with Kids – The Outdoor Playground with Hot Springs
Category: Mountain Adventure • Relaxation • Scenic Views
Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a mountain gem filled with family-friendly adventure and dramatic alpine scenery. What makes it perfect for kids? Natural hot springs, waterfalls, and tons of outdoor space to explore.
What to do with kids in Ouray:
- Soak in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool with slides and shallow play areas
- Hike the scenic Box Canyon Falls Trail
- Drive the breathtaking Million Dollar Highway (safely!) to nearby Silverton
- Explore abandoned mines or take a Jeep tour for a little thrill
Ouray combines wild beauty with laid-back charm—perfect for unplugging with the kids.
3. Durango, Colorado Vacation with Kids – Trains, Rivers & Wild West Fun
Category: History • Railroads • Southwest Colorado
Durango is a dream for adventurous families. Home to the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, this historic town offers both cultural experiences and outdoor fun.
Top Durango activities for families:
- Ride the vintage steam train through dramatic mountain scenery
- Whitewater raft or tube down the Animas River
- Walk the historic downtown and grab a bite at a family-friendly saloon
- Visit nearby Mesa Verde National Park and explore cliff dwellings
Durango is an ideal home base for exploring the Four Corners region and immersing your kids in Colorado history.
4. Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
This classic Colorado vacation spot is ideal for first-time visitors. Hike family-friendly trails, spot elk in the meadows, and let the kids join the Junior Ranger Program. The scenery is iconic, and the town is full of fun stops like sweet shops and taffy stores.
5. Glenwood Springs – Hot Springs & Theme Parks
With the world’s largest hot springs pool, a mountaintop amusement park, and nearby caves to explore, Glenwood is a kid favorite. Families can soak, hike, bike the river path, or go whitewater rafting depending on your thrill level.
6. Breckenridge – Summer in the Mountains
Ride the gondola, meet the Breckenridge Troll, and check out the Epic Discovery adventure park. Breckenridge is bustling in summer with festivals, bike paths, hiking trails, and a very walkable downtown.
7. Crested Butte – Wildflower Capital
This off-the-beaten-path town is perfect for slower summer days: picnics, wildflower hikes, paddleboarding, and easy bike rides. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and full of hidden family gems.
Final Thoughts
No matter which mountain town you choose, Colorado offers a summer full of discovery, beauty, and memory-making moments for families. Grand Lake, Ouray, and Durango top our list for their incredible mix of water fun, history, and epic scenery—with just enough small-town charm to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
