7 Remarkable Dinosaur-themed Playgrounds in Colorado
I am so excited to share these dinosaur-themed playgrounds across Colorado with all of you! Whether your kids are dino-fanatics or just like going to new playgrounds, these are some great options. The seven playgrounds listed (two of which are indoors) will capture their imaginations and inspire some prehistoric learning. I can’t wait to hear which one is your family favorite!
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#1 East Boulder Community Park
Address: 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO 80303
For the first dinosaur-themed playground, I’m going with the most realistic looking T-Rex around! The East Boulder Community Park has older play equipment, but that didn’t stop my girls from having a wonderful time. There is a play structure for toddler ages and a large, square-shaped structure for older kids. Throughout the playground, there are multiple slides, bouncing bridges, monkey bars and swings. For the dinosaur fans, they’ll absolutely love climbing on, and posing with, the giant T-Rex as well as bouncing on the tiny dino bouncers!
This is a fantastic spot for the whole family with a beautiful path around the lake and a large dog park too! For additional details and pictures, check out our full review here: https://slidesandsunshine.com/dinosaur-park-in-boulder.
#2 Rocky Ridge Park
Address: 16200 E Mississippi Ave, Aurora, CO 80017
Your kiddos will love the dinosaur-themed playground at Rocky Ridge Park! Whether it is the huge skeleton to climb on, or the realistic dinosaur bone to jump over, or the small green plastic dinosaur to sit on, every kid will find their perfect place to play! There is also a large climbing wall, basketball courts and a fun filled play structure (complete with a pterodactyl entrance). Note that the playground is not very close to parking so be prepared for a walk.
Check out these Mom Must Haves!
#3 Discovery Park
Address: Illinois St & 23rd St, Golden, CO 80401
Be aware, there are multiple Discovery Park‘s in Colorado – this particular one is a small, hidden gem in Golden! There are no traditional play structures at this park, but what is there is completely unique! A dinosaur skeleton catches your eye first, followed by a large tortoise. The most time spent there was in the sandbox though because, as you can see below, the kids can discover fossils!
*The parking situation can be difficult, especially on weekdays as many streets are “city permit only”. I’d recommend driving by first and then walking from the nearest spot found. If you want to make it an extra special trip, you will be very close to the Triceratops Trailhead!
Discovering fossils in the sandbox 
#4 Fossil Creek Park
Address: 5821 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Ok, technically Fossil Creek Park doesn’t have a big dinosaur, it has a giant woolly mammoth! The history of this park is amazing as construction actually unearthed bones of a giant mastodon and other prehistoric creatures, according to Design Concepts. “The design team expanded the fossil theme and incorporated images of dinosaur skeletons, ancient sea creatures, and prehistoric human campsites into features such as an “Adventure Island” play area, fantasy interactive water feature, and a “tar pits” playground whose centerpiece is a life-sized wooly mammoth sculpture and climbing structure.”
Fossil Creek Park is also home to a skate park, dog park, beautiful lake to walk around and a splash pad!
Don’t forget to take along some of our park favorites!
#5 Denver Premium Outlets
Address: 13801 Grant St, Thornton, CO 80023
There are so many reasons to check out the playground at the Denver Premium Outlets in Thornton! In keeping with our theme, there is a play area (shown below) specifically with dinosaur bones. This is a great spot for younger ages to play. As you’ll see from our full review, the Denver Premium Outlets play area is where you’ll find one of the highest slides in Colorado! Between that and the tall climbing structures, the majority of this park is built for ages 5+, if not higher.
Come to shop and stay to play, or come to play and stay to shop. Either way, this play area will take your breath away and it will be tough to leave! For additional pictures, visit https://slidesandsunshine.com/denver-premium-outlets-thornton/.
Indoor Dinosaur-themed Playgrounds
How about some indoor options for those very hot summer days or the days when weather keeps us inside?!
#6 Trail Winds Recreation Center
Address: 13495 Holly St, Thornton, CO 80602
You can find this incredible dinosaur-themed, indoor playground at Trail Winds Recreation Center. Although most of the center has a fee, the playground is free during non-daycare hours! For the most up-to-date hours and details, visit their website or call ahead.
What makes this play area amazing is that it resembles the real dinosaur fossils uncovered in Thornton just a few years ago. In 2017, scientists discovered that the bones found were the remains of “Tiny”, a Torosaurus (similar to a Triceratops). Not only will your children enjoy the playground, you both can learn more about local history and dinosaurs as well!
For additional pictures, visit our full review here: https://slidesandsunshine.com/thornton-trail-winds-playground/.
#7 Cherry Creek Shopping Center
Address: 3000 E 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80206
We love the indoor play area at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center! This dinosaur-themed playground is a perfect way for the entire family to enjoy a trip to the mall. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science created this play area and included educational elements to go along with the play. Each dinosaur is labeled and there are screens showing additional details and pictures. This playground is recommended for ages 5 and under, but if your kids love dinosaurs, any age will love walking by!
https://slidesandsunshine.com/cherry-creek-mall-denver/
Know of another great park for our lil’ dinosaur lovers? Shout it out in the comments below!
Thanks for joining us at Slides & Sunshine. Now it’s time to get out there and PLAY!
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