Finding fun things to do with kids in Parker can be tricky—but it doesn’t have to be! If you want easy, family-friendly ideas that will keep your kids entertained and create lasting memories, you’re in the right place. These are some of our favorite activities in Parker, from outdoor adventures and playgrounds to exciting attractions and experiences that the whole family will love.
Things to Do with Kids in Parker, Colorado
1) Things to do with kids in Parker – McCabe Meadows Park and Trailhead
Have you taken your family for a walk at McCabe Meadows Park? This is one of my favorite spots to let my kids explore. It’s a great place for walking, biking, or riding scooters, especially if you have older kids. My kids love riding their bikes and exploring the trail. On the way back to the car, we always stop by the parking lot so they can collect little “treasures” they find along the way. Sometimes they also enjoy throwing branches and leaves into the water and watching them float.
One thing to keep in mind is that this park can get busy, especially in the fall. Many photographers and families visit for photos, and you might even see me there photographing families. I always remind parents to watch for bikers on the trail because kids can run fast and may not notice them coming. You may also see people riding horses, which my kids get very excited about. It’s a beautiful place, and I hope you enjoy your visit.
2) Storytime at the Douglas County Library – Downtown Parker
The Douglas County Library in Parker is a great place to spend time with kids. Inside, there is a coloring area, a reading space, and a fun play area for younger children.
During the summer months, there is a water fountain right in front of the library, so bringing a change of clothes is a good idea. Kids often want to play in the water after visiting the library. The library also offers free storytimes, summer reading programs, and events for both kids and adults.
When winter arrives, an outdoor ice skating rink opens near the library. I like to plan a full day by visiting the library, going ice skating, taking a walk around Downtown Parker, and finishing the day with hot chocolate. It’s a simple and fun family outing.
3) O’Brien Park Playground
O’Brien Park Playground is a favorite for my kids. It’s a fun playground with lots of space to run and play. You can easily spend a few hours there.
We even go on colder days for about 30 minutes just to get some energy out. In the summer, we bring lunch, play for a while, and then walk across the park to grab ice cream. It’s an easy and fun outing that doesn’t cost anything.
4) Discovery Park
Discovery Park is another great spot in Parker. In the summer, kids can play in the splash pad right in front of the library as I mentioned before, which is perfect on hot days.
In the winter, Discovery Park turns into the Parker Ice Trail, a fun outdoor skating path. It’s a great way to enjoy the season and get outside with kids.
5) Parker Trails
Parker has miles of walking and biking trails that are free and easy to access. These trails connect parks and open spaces all over town. Kids can walk, ride bikes, use scooters, or just explore nature. It’s a simple way to get outside and enjoy fresh air.
6) Free Events in Downtown Parker
Throughout the year, Downtown Parker hosts free family-friendly events like festivals, music nights, markets, and movie nights. These events are great for kids and a fun way to enjoy the community. Many of them are seasonal, so it’s a good idea to check local event calendars.
7) Neighborhood Parks and Playgrounds
Don’t forget about your local neighborhood parks. Parker has many small parks with playgrounds that are perfect for kids. These are great for quick outings when you don’t want to drive far.
8) Pace Center
The PACE Center in Parker is a fun place for families with kids. They have shows, concerts, and events that children can enjoy, along with activities where kids can try arts and crafts. It’s a great spot to have fun indoors, watch a play, or take part in a hands-on workshop together.
A few other ideas of things to do with kids in Parker:
- Take a walk in downtown Parker, eat dinner in one of our local restaurants, and then get some frozen yogurt.
- Parker Recreation Center – Rec center with indoor pool (slides, splash zones), seasonal programs, and classes. Great for swimming and active fun year-round.
- Boondocks Food and Fun – Parker – Amusement complex with go-karts, bowling, arcade games, laser tag, mini-golf, bumper boats, and more — perfect for a full family activity day.
- Backyard Tea Party – If you don’t feel like leaving the house, why not host a tea party right in your backyard? My kids have at least three tea parties every year, and they never get old! I love baking, so I usually make soft rolls, muffins, and cookies, and we add some fresh fruit, tea, and homemade lemonade. It’s always a hit, and sometimes each of my kids invites a friend to join their tea time for extra fun.
Things to Do with Kids in Parker, Colorado
Have you been to any of these places? If not, try planning a day around one or two of them for a day filled with fun.
As a family and senior photographer living in Parker, I’m always out exploring, finding new places to hang out with my kids and great spots for family photos. Before you go, let me ask you one thing—when was the last time you had family portraits taken?
If you’re ready to update your family photos, take a look around my website, and let’s chat to see if we’re a good fit. I hope you like my style, and I can’t wait to hear from you.
