Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in denver, CO

Check it out! Bluff Lake Nature Center

May 26, 2009

I know that Colorado is known for it's naturey stuff, but it always surprises me when I find new and awesome things that are around to entertain and inform. Below is an article from Kristin, the volunteer program manager for Bluff Lake Nature Center in east Denver.

by Kristin

Bluff Lake Nature Center is a unique urban wildlife refuge and outdoor classroom in east Denver. The 123 acre refuge is adjacent to Sand Creek on the eastern edge of the Stapleton development. It offers a variety of native habitats including a seasonal lake, wetlands, short-grass prairie, a riparian zone and wetland woodland. Thanks to its 60 year history as an airport buffer, Bluff Lake has become an urban wildlife refuge for waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, deer, fox, beaver, reptiles, amphibians and other types of wildlife that visit or live at the site.

Bluff Lake Nature Center is much more than a place for plants and animals. It is an oasis in the city where people can come to view wildlife, appreciate the peaceful sights and enjoy the sounds of nature. It is also an outdoor classroom for thousands of kindergarten through fifth grade students each year. It is our goal to encourage childrens' and adults' interest in natural science and stewardship through curiosity, observation, activity and a sense of wonder.

Bluff Lake Nature Center offers a variety of ways for the family to get outside and get involved.  Week-long Jr. Naturalist  day camps allow children to explore the trails and learn about nature in-depth. Free Fireside chats offer campfires and marshmallow roasts as families discover the animals and ecosystems at Bluff Lake.  Volunteer opportunities let you give back to your community while learning new skills.

Our wildlife and volunteers make this a place worth visiting! Go to www.BluffLakeNatureCenter.org to find out more about us.

Top 10 Things To Do Before Kindergarten

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

January 27, 2009

Time flies so fast doesn't it? Believe me, I know. Declan is 6 and a half now, and halfway through 1st grade. The changes over the past few years have been astounding. And I know many of you are not even thinking about preschool, much less Kindergarten or 1st grade. So NOW is the time to get all those activities in. The ones you can't find the time for later when school and other friends and  Read more...

It's National Stock Show Time Again!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

January 07, 2009

You can always tell it's January when the signs for the Stock Show start appearing around Denver and there is an infiltration of cowboy hats. For over 100 years, the National Western Stock Show has been coming to Denver, and bringing animals, cowboys and loads of fun with it. I have to be honest, and say that even after living in Denver for over 15 years - we only made it to the Stock Show for  Read more...

It's Pumpkin Patch Time!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

October 06, 2008

One of my very favorite things about the Halloween season is visiting a pumpkin patch. And, until I was visiting home last week, I didn't realize just how lucky we are here in Colorado - where we have TONS of pumpkin patches to choose from. As I talked to my sister about the fun we have when we go, the wagon rides, the bouncy castles, the apple cider, the hay stacks, and of course, THE  Read more...

Detailed Guide to the Denver Zoo

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

August 14, 2008

Sure there may be some bigger zoos across the country, but I we have to feel pretty lucky to have the Denver Zoo sitting in our backyard. It's large, it's well organized, it's forward-thinking - and best of all - it's FUN! So often, it's the first place we take visitors when they come to Denver. Here are some reasons why: Cost Conscious - The entrance fees are reasonable at between $5-12  Read more...

Lions, Tigers and Bears, Oh My! The Urban Jungle Right Here in Denver!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

May 15, 2008

Another great thing about living in the West is animal life. Sure, Denver is a big city, but we definitely love our animals, don't we? That appreciation is woven into many of our attractions. Denver Zoo Any post on this subject would be remiss without mentioning the Denver Zoo. It's world class. The bear exhibit was among the first to REALLY make an effort to achieve a natural habitat for the  Read more...