Each of our national parks is a national treasure, offering families a unique way to connect with nature and learn about our country's history. But did you know we also have a treasure trove of world-class museums and cultural facilities right here in the Denver Metro area that you can visit for free?
If you are looking for a budget-friendly family adventure in 2026, mark your calendars!
2026 Fee-Free Days at National Parks
There are 63 national parks and more than 400 total locations under the National Park Service umbrella. While many are free year-round, over 100 sites—including Rocky Mountain National Park—usually charge entrance fees ranging from $5 to $35.
For 2026, the National Park Service has announced a robust lineup of fee-free days. Mark your calendar for these upcoming dates to get in for free:
- February 16: Presidents Day
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3–5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: National Park Service Birthday
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt's Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
Please Note: The fee waiver applies only to entrance fees. It does not cover camping, boat launches, special tours, or other user fees. Also, check specifically for 2026 residency requirements if applicable.
Free Days in the Denver Metro Area (SCFD)
You don't have to drive to the mountains to find free family fun. Thanks to the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), organizations across the seven-county metro area offer hundreds of free days and programs each year.
From the Zoo to the Art Museum, here are a few upcoming free days to keep on your radar for early 2026:
- Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance: Sunday, Jan. 25
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Sunday, Feb. 1
- Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave: Wednesday, Feb. 4
- Denver Art Museum: Tuesday, Feb. 10
- Denver Botanic Gardens (York St. & Chatfield): Thursday, Feb. 12
Click here to view the full 2026 SCFD Free Days Calendar (Tip: Use the date filters on their site to find specific free days for the month you are planning!)
National Parks to Visit in Colorado
We are lucky to have four incredible national parks in our beautiful state.
Rocky Mountain National Park~90 minutes northwest of Denver
Spanning 415 square miles, RMNP offers everything from meadows to towering peaks. Explore over 300 miles of hiking trails and keep your eyes peeled for elk and moose!
Great Sand Dunes National Park~4 hours south of Denver
Home to the tallest dunes in North America! It’s a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, and tundra. It is also an International Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison~4.5 hours west of Denver
Experience some of the steepest cliffs and oldest rock in North America.
The Gunnison River has sculpted a vertical wilderness that is breathtaking to behold.
Mesa Verde National Park~6.5 hours southwest of Denver Step back in time. For over 700 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people built thriving communities here. Today, it protects the rich cultural heritage of 27 Pueblos and Tribes.
3 Tips for Visiting National Parks with Kids
1. Plan Ahead Weather in the parks can be unpredictable. Check the NPS website for current conditions, maps, and facility info before you leave. If you are visiting a popular park like Rocky Mountain National Park, check if a timed-entry reservation is required (even on free days!).
2. Stop at the Visitor Center Talk to a ranger to get the best family-friendly recommendations. And don't forget to ask about the Junior Ranger program! It’s a free activity book that guides kids through the park, and they earn a badge when they finish.
3. Pack Smart Whether you are hiking a trail or exploring a museum, comfortable shoes are a must. For the parks, bring plenty of water, layers for changing temperatures, sun protection, and snacks. And always remember to Leave No Trace—pack out all your trash to keep these treasures beautiful for everyone.
