Summer in Denver has long days and great weather, making it a season where you can feel like you've truly enjoyed summer without traveling far from home.

But the problem is... these days, spending money is daunting, right? With prices skyrocketing, taking the kids out for activities can cost a fortune. When you add up entrance fees, parking, food, snacks, and even water, it can easily exceed a hundred dollars.

So today, as a mom of a 9-year-old living in Denver, I'll introduce some summer activities around Denver that you can enjoy without spending money.

Picnic + Mini Adventure at City Park
Denver's City Park is not just any park. You can play soccer, fly kites, and there are great bike trails. It's amazing to have such nature in the city. Packing a lunch and laying out a blanket on the grass with your child... it feels like you're rich. It's a free way to heal! The kids can catch bugs, climb trees, and run around the lake... they forget about their smartphones. In the evening, watching the sunset over the lake makes you feel like you've had a great day.

Denver Public Library Summer Programs (Free!)
The Denver Public Library offers children's programs every summer. There are reading challenges, story times, craft classes, magic shows, and so much more. Best of all, everything is 'free'! It's perfect for indoor activities to escape the heat while enjoying the air conditioning. My son is really into the 'read 10 books and get a sticker' program. Thanks to that, he has come to love books even more.

Splash Pads
Denver has a lot of free water play areas. The splash pads at Sloan's Lake Park, Schafer Park, and Central Park are perfect for hot summer days. There's no entrance fee like at a pool, and just bringing a swimsuit means the kids can play for hours. After water play, you can lay out a blanket on the grass and enjoy some simple snacks. Mom can have a cup of coffee while the kids play with water guns. This is what summer is all about.

Remember Free Admission Days at the Denver Art Museum
You might think art museums aren't suitable for kids, but the Denver Art Museum has a fantastic children's experience area. Especially on the first Sunday of every month, admission is free! (Be sure to check the website before you go.) You can draw pictures together, try out art tools, and it's great for short bursts of focus. There's no need to rush to see everything. Just spending 1-2 hours experiencing it can make you feel like you've had a fulfilling day.

Nearby Hiking Trails – Cherry Creek Trail Recommendation!
At 9 years old, kids are starting to build stamina and want something a bit more active than just walking. In that case, try a hiking trail like the Cherry Creek Trail. It's great for biking, and even just walking is pleasant with plenty of shaded areas. There are benches along the way, and lots of dogs, which makes it exciting for the kids, while moms get some exercise. Plus, when you can't hear any car sounds and only hear birds chirping, you momentarily forget you're in Denver.

I hope this article helps some fellow Denver moms. If you have more recommended places, please share in the comments!