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Day Trip

Looking for suggestions for a quick day trip 8-3 round trip back to Denver. Won’t have a car so will utilize the train. Have 8 year old son. Suggestions for Denver too if there is something besides zoo, aquarium.

For a day trip from Denver without a car and with an 8-year-old, you’ll want something accessible by train and fun for kids. The key is to pick destinations reachable via the RTD commuter rail or light rail system.

Day Trip Suggestions via Train (8am–3pm round trip):

  • Georgetown Loop Railroad: While a little tricky without a car, you can combine light rail to Union Station and then use a short taxi or ride-share to reach the train. It’s a historic narrow-gauge train that runs through scenic mountain areas and is very kid-friendly.
  • Golden, CO: Take the W Line light rail from Denver to Golden (about 30 minutes). You can explore the Colorado School of Mines Museum, Coors Brewery tours (if age-appropriate tours exist), or hike the short trails around Lookout Mountain. Great photo ops and short hikes for kids.
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science & IMAX: Easily accessible via bus from Union Station. Interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and IMAX films are engaging for kids without needing a full-day commitment.

Other Denver Activities Beyond Zoo & Aquarium:

  • Children’s Museum of Denver: Hands-on science and play exhibits perfect for an 8-year-old. Can fill a few hours without a car; accessible by bus or short ride-share from downtown.
  • Union Station Activities: Train-spotting, casual dining, and the Tattered Cover Bookstore nearby make for a low-stress, fun stop.
  • City Park Paddle Boats: Near the Museum of Nature & Science, you can rent a paddle boat for a small amount of time; fun for kids and easy to combine with other activities.
  • Denver Art Museum: Some kid-focused interactive exhibits, especially the Hamilton Building’s hands-on areas.

Given your time frame, a trip to Golden is probably the most practical, fully accessible by train, and fun for a short adventure. If you want a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, combining the Museum of Nature & Science with City Park paddle boats or a short light-rail trip to Union Station and nearby kid-friendly spots will make for an enjoyable day for both you and your son.

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