By Lisa Russell
Colorado represents one of the most diverse geographic areas in the
United States. Lush pine forests, mountains, endless plains and southwestern deserts yield plenty of activities that families and children can enjoy. Whether you're looking for something educational or just entertaining, Colorado has plenty to offer. Kids of all ages can find recreation, for day trips or longer
vacations.
Ride an Authentic Steam Train
For more than 125 years, passengers have marveled at the view from the Durango & Silverton line. Durango, Colorado, was founded in 1879, and the Denver & Rio Grande railway arrived in 1881, with construction on the Silverton line beginning the following fall. It was used to transport silver & gold from the San Juan Mountains. Today, visitors enjoy riding the coal-powered steam engine on a trip back through time, listening to the authentic steam whistle and chugga chugga sounds of yesteryear. Four classes of seating offer travelers everything from an open air gondola-type experience to a first-class experience with complimentary pastries to a presidential class experience, with drinks, a stateroom for four and a large viewing platform.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
479 Main Avenue
Durango, Colorado 81301
(970) 247-2733
www.durangotrain.com
Explore Ancient Anasazi Ruins
When families spend the day on an adventure at the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, they get the chance to spend time with real archaeologists, examining artifacts from the Southwestern Indian Tribes who inhabited the surrounding canyons for tens of thousands of years. Hike up to a real excavation site to learn about ancestral Pueblo communities and enjoy a native-inspired meal on the veranda before going off to hike the nature trails around the center. The Anasazi dwelt in cliffside caves thousands of feet above the canyon and vanished, leaving many cave houses intact.
Crow Canyon Archaeological Center
23390 County Road K
Cortez, CO 81321-9408
(970) 565-8975
www.crowcanyon.org
Bananas Fun Park
Bananas Fun Park, in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a local favorite for fun and play in a family-friendly environment. It is known for its excellent miniature golf course, go karts, racing karts, rookie karts, batting cages, inflatable playland, bumper boats, lazer tag, mini bowling, lazer maze, seasonal corn maze, gem river mining activity and ginormous arcade. Their Congo Cafe allows visitors to dine inside or outside, weather permitting, and features pizza, sub sandwiches, appetizers, ice cream and desserts, as well as fountain beverages and juices. Whether you have all day to kill or just a few hours to play, the Banana Fun Park is a place that adults and kids can enjoy together.
Bananas Fun Park
2469 River Road
Grand Junction, CO 81505-1320
(970) 241-7529
www.bananasfunpark.com
About the Author:
Lisa Russell is an entrepreneur and writer from Washington State, with a professional background in education, cosmetology and the restaurant industry. She's been published in regional parenting publications, homeschooling publications and has published over 10,000 articles online since 1999. She studied Early Childhood Education at Antelope Valley College.
