Summer vacation is here, and if you haven’t planned out an RV trip for this glorious season yet, we have a fun suggestion for you. At 2001 Colorado Blvd. in Denver, Colorado you will find theDenver Museum of Nature and Science. Typically when kids first hear the words “nature” and “science” and then realize they’ll be joined with the word summer, you’re met with rolling eyes and the popular response “do we have to?” But this museum is sure to surprise, entertain, and enlighten everyone. Even your teen. Yep, we said it. Even your teenager.
The museum has 11 exhibitions, an IMAX theater, a planetarium, day camps, workshops, a gift shop, a snack bar, and a cafe. Needless to say, you’re gonna want to be here all day. Let’s start by learning about the 11 different exhibitions:
Lizards & Snakes – See more than 60 live snakes and lizards from five continents as you explore the evolution, movement, and feeding habits of this ancient group of animals.
Arctic Sanctuary – Arctic Sanctuary, featuring the photography of Jeff Jones, reveals the natural landscape, significance, and stunning beauty of the Alaskan Arctic.
Discovery Zone – This interactive educational center is geared toward children and families who like fun, hands-on activities.
Egyptian Mummies – Two mummies teach modern scientists how the ancient civilization of Egypt regarded its living, and preserved its dead.
Expedition Health – Expedition Health is about YOUR human body-how it is constantly changing and adapting in ways you can see, measure, and optimize through the choices you make.
Gems & Minerals – Tunnel beneath the earth in a re-created mine and examine a host of colorful crystals and minerals found both locally and globally.
Konovalenko: Gem Carvings of Russian Folk Life – See the only collection of the remarkable Vasily Konovalenko gem sculptures on public display outside of Moscow.
North American Indian Cultures – Shelter. Food. Clothing. Tools. Experience the incredible diversity among Native American groups and the practicality and artistry of their everyday objects.
Prehistoric Journey – A journey through the eons allows you to trace the evolution of life on Earth, from single-celled organisms to lumbering dinosaurs to the inhabitants of today’s world.
Space Odyssey – Explore the universe and your place in it in this dynamic and highly interactive exhibition.
Wildlife Exhibits – Animals big and small come to life in exquisitely detailed dioramas that transport you around the world.
Some exhibits are only on display for a limited time, so you will want to check the website or call ahead to see what the dates are.
The IMAX theater also changes, but currently they are showing:
To the Arctic 3D – To the Arctic 3D takes you on a never before seen journey into the lives of a mother polar bear and her two seven-month old cubs as they navigate the changing Arctic wilderness they call home.
Tornado Alley 3D – This is one the teens will especially enjoy. Experience the adrenaline and the science of nature’s most dramatic phenomena inTornado Alley 3D.
Flying Monsters 3D – In Flying Monsters 3D, Sir David Attenborough, the world’s leading naturalist, sets out to uncover the truth about the mysterious pterosaurs.
The museum does not allow late admittance to the IMAX or planetarium, so if you plan on viewing any of these attractions, you’ll want to make sure you are there on time. As you can see there are so many interesting and fun things to do at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, but we know you’re also wondering about camp sites in the area. Because, lets face it, after a fun filled adventurous day, you’re going to want to get back to the campsite and relax.
There’s Dory Hill Campground. Actually in the town Black Hawk, a short drive from Denver. Dory Hill Campground offers RV & Tent camping as well as Camping Cabins. A true mountain gem just west of Denver. A great base camp to visit Denver’s many attractions,ride the historic Georgetown Loop railroad, or drive scenic Peak to Peak highway to Rocky Mountain National Park or drive up Mount Evans. Dory Hill is also a great place to relax and enjoy the cool mountain temperature and clean, fresh air.
Then, there is Denver Meadows. They are the closest full service, secure park to downtown Denver and the Denver International Airport, Fitzsimons Medical Center, Jewish Hospital and the Western Complex. Guests can enjoy the recreation room with billiards, table tennis, big screen TV, laundromat, ice, modern clean restrooms and showers, and BBQ area.
Barr Lake RV Park is “just a stones throw from Denver” Happy campers prefer Barr Lake RV Park, open year-round, with its convenient amenities for RVs and tents. The nearby Barr Lake features feature fishing and non-motorized water sports plus biking/hiking paths. You’ll definitely want to check out all the amazing amenities the park has to offer.
And if you do get out this way, don’t forget to stop in at our Denver store and say hello! We love seeing old friends and meeting new ones!
