Denver’s Accessible Adventures for Winter 2023

Nothing compares to an inclusive environment that prioritizes the needs of each and every person. And we think that it’s well warranted to commend our state for its efforts in this area. Colorado is regarded as one of the best states nationwide when it comes to accessible attractions for people with disabilities.

Colorado might have a reputation for its towering mountains and sometimes unforgiving terrain, but there are still a number of inclusive, supportive, and device-friendly locations around Denver that the whole family can enjoy.

Here are our picks this year for Colorado’s enjoyable and accessible winter adventures.

Children’s Museum of Denver

The Children’s Museum of Denver is a staple among Denver’s museums and a must-visit this winter season. This museum is designed for children, specifically from newborn to 8 years old. Adults are required to have a child with them if they’d like to visit, but this family-oriented space has fun, interactive exhibits that everyone can enjoy.

Plan your family’s visit to this awesome museum over the holiday break or during a cold day! The Children’s Museum is committed to diversity in all areas, including prioritizing accessibility in their exhibits and events. Just like anyone else, children of all abilities should be able to feel included and accepted in their environments, and this museum is an advocate for that acceptance. See the Museum’s helpful accessibility guide here.

And for information on potential discounts, you can visit this website, or look into the Denver CityPass, which offers combined reduced tickets for the Children’s Museum as well as the Denver Museum of Nature and Science (also detailed later in this list).

Dinosaur National Monument

If you’re open to taking a trip outside of Denver this winter, one national park space that we highly recommend is Dinosaur National Monument. Located on the border of Colorado and Utah, this park is a bit of a drive from the Denver area, but we promise it’ll be well worth your time.

Dinosaur National Monument is not only a beautiful national park; it also features thousands of fossilized dinosaurs that you can view firsthand in their exhibit halls. Bring the family for a relaxing stay in this park’s comfy cabins while experiencing the magic of wintertime outside on their accessible trails, picnic areas, and exhibits.

For more information on accessibility at Dinosaur National Monument and other U.S. national parks, visit this page.

Denver Museum of Nature and Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science has many exhibits that are interactive and engaging for all of our senses. There, you can hold fossils in your hands, explore a mining tunnel, learn about the life cycles of our world’s creatures, and much more. We interact with the world around us through our senses, and this museum offers a sensory adventure for people of all abilities.

The displays and activities at the DMNS are designed to be as accessible as possible so everyone gets a chance to enjoy them. Additionally, on a first-come, first-served basis, free American Sign Language interpreters and free auxiliary aids for hearing are offered. There are also canes and wheelchairs available for use at the front desk.

This page includes more information on planning your visit to accommodate those with special needs. Here are more details on the museum’s sensory-friendly hours and quiet zones. And finally, the Denver CityPass discount can also apply to this attraction.

Denver Zoo Lights

The Denver Zoo is a great stop any time of year. But when it comes to experiencing winter magic, you’ll definitely want to visit their yearly Zoo Lights event, where the beauty of nature is brought to life in a whole new way.

Look out for nightly ice-carving performances, warm fire barrels, and a variety of festive Christmas food and drink as you wander around this winter paradise! During the holidays, tons of families enjoy fun traditions viewing holiday lights, and Denver Zoo Lights is always a hit!

And best of all – Zoo Lights is accessible to all! There will even be a sensory-friendly night this year on December 31st.  The Denver Zoo also has wheelchair-accessible parking and other accommodations. Visit this page for full details on accessibility at the Zoo and some helpful tips for planning your visit.

Wrapping Up

Colorado is a nationwide leader in inclusion and accessibility. The many amazing and accessible activity options that are available to us here prove that. But continuing to break down any barriers is crucial to creating welcoming environments for all people, regardless of ability.

And we all play a role in this pursuit.

At Adam’s Camp, we know how important is to make adventures accessible to everyone. This month, we invite you to reflect on the history of disability employment and prioritize ways that we can enact positive change in the coming years.

The Adam’s Camp mission is to realize the potential and develop the strengths of children, youth, and adults with disabilities. We do this through unique adventure and therapy programs with the help of committed counselors, therapists, and volunteers who all work together to create a safe, fun, and supportive environment for people with disabilities.

We hope this blog gave you ideas for some family-friendly, accessible adventures in Denver this winter! Please reach out to us with any questions you may have about how to find accessible spaces, how we support our community, or how you can get involved.