Experience a few more fun adventures this summer
More and more, it seems as though once Independence Day passes, the start of the school year for our K-12-aged kids is just around the corner. And, as a result, we hit the gas on completing the checklist of summer adventures we said we’d do. But suddenly we feel out of time!
For many of us, bigger trips and excursions aren’t possibilities anymore this summer. Campgrounds are full, flights are expensive, and school and kids’ activities begin soon. But last-minute day trips continue to be doable. Below lists ideas for some day trips you and your family members are sure to enjoy. And to make the list even better, they’re all free.
Benson Sculpture Garden: Loveland
http://www.cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=250
Bring a picnic lunch and spend time in the Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, you may dwell on the freedom of youth, curiosity of life, and nature in its most primal state. There are 170 permanent sculptures situated throughout the park, which is attractive and captivating for visitors of any age.
Denver Walking Tours
http://www.walkingtoursdenver.com/
This family-friendly walking tour winds through the heart of downtown Denver visiting the city’s sites and landmarks. Discover fun stories and lesser-known history.
Experimental Expressions
http://www.walkerfineart.com/upcoming
Six artists navigate mediums and seek balance between their inner narratives and outer influences. Free visits to the gallery at 300 W. 11th Ave., #A, Denver
Island Grove Park; the Gateway to the Poudre River Trail
Island Grove Park in Greeley is the gateway to the Poudre River Trail. Its name comes from the original stand of cottonwood trees that grew along the river and was once used as a burial site by Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Sioux tribes.
National Wildlife Refuges
https://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/ByState.cfm?state=CO
There are seven refuges open to the public and they are free to visit. The refuge system was created to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and natural areas. Each is home to a diverse ecosystem in which you can spot everything from bison to moose to hawks and bald eagles.
Park Hill Farm and Flea
http://parkhillfarmandflea.com/
This weekly market features food and fashion trucks, 40+ vendors and live music. Thursdays, 4-8, through September 30th.
Located at Oneida Park, 2255 N Oneida St, Denver
Tour the State Capitol
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cga-legislativecouncil/tours-0
Learn everything there is to know about the history of the state—from rocks to people. The dome might be open too so if you have no fear of heights, it’s worth the walk up and look at the Rocky Mountains.
Tour the Swetsville Zoo
www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g33669-d209425-Reviews-Swetsville_Zoo-Timnath_Colorado.html
The “zoo’’ is a roadside area with whimsical animal sculptures, a “funky farm” with a “motley crew” who “don’t make noises, and they don’t run. They don’t eat anything. They’re just for fun,” writes author Kerry Davis in his book: The Swetsville Zoo: Kerry Tales.
Turning Toward the Light
www.lakewood.org/Government/Departments/Community-Resources/Arts-and-Culture/Exhibitions-and-Public-Art/Exhibitions-at-LCC/Turning-Toward-the-Light?
An art exhibition by established artists Patricia Finley, Lydia Riegle, Janet Rundquist, and Cyncie Winter. Located at Lakewood Cultural Center
480 South Allison Parkway, Civic Center South, Lakewood.
