Grand County is a wonderful place for families looking to spend quality time together.

As it is located only about an hour and a half from Denver, Grand County is a convenient destination for families, but it still feels like a completely different place.

Here’s a look at some of the best family-friendly activities Grand County has to offer:

1. Check out the Headwaters River Journey Eco-museum

Get hands on at this unique museum that offers a “one-of-a-kind educational experience.” The museum is self-guided and interactive as it brings kids through a series of exhibits that include building a mini waterway and following the path of the Colorado River. It also includes touchscreens, games, and real-time monitoring of rivers.

2. Enjoy Grand Lake’s Public Beach

As well as a relaxed atmosphere, Grand Lake’s beach offers great alpine scenery and plenty of fun activities. Kids can splash around in the water, and the area is also within walking distance of ice cream stands, restaurants, and Grand Lake’s historic boardwalk.

3. Take a scenic boat tour of Grand Lake

Wind down on a scenic boat tour on Grand Lake while enjoying the area’s scenery and learning about the town’s history. Guests will get to see hidden coves, learn about the area’s Wild West past, and possibly spot some wildlife.

4. Hike Adams Fall Trail

This hike is short, but does not compromise scenery. Adams Falls Trial is a half-mile hike from the trailhead to the falls. It winds through aspen groves, goes over a wooden footbridge , and ends a a rocky overlook with waterfalls.

5. Go on a scenic gondola ride at Winter Park Resort

If you still want epic mountain views (without the hiking or skiing involved) take a ride up Winter Park Resort’s gondola. You’ll get 360-degree views of the Continental Divide on the serene ride, and there’s a perfect area at the summit for photos , short walks, or even a snack break.

6. Visit Snow Mountain Ranch

Snow Mountain Ranch offers a variety of thrilling activities for families. The ranch provides mini-golf, archery, swimming, horseback riding, and even a summer tubing hill.

7. Watch a production at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre

According to Visit Grand County, Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre puts on “Broadway-caliber productions in a family-friendly format.” The venue offers everything from musicals and plays to youth-centered performances.

8. Play at the Fraser Valley Sports Complex Playground

The Fraser Valley Sports Complex Playground is a great pit stop for families. The playground has plenty of room for kids to play, throw frisbee, have a picnic and anything else you might want to do.

9. Go ice skating

The Fraser Valley Sports Complex Playground turns into an outdoor ice rink in the winter, making it the perfect spot to enjoy open skate sessions under the mountains.

10. Take a bike ride along the Fraser River Trail

The Fraser River Trail is mostly paved and mostly flat, making it a great option for families. The path winds through Winter Park and Fraser through meadows, pine forests, and neighborhoods.

11. Take a look at history at the Kauffman House Museum

The Kauffman House Museum is a restored 1890s log home that provides a look into life in the early days of Colorado. There are guided tours with exhibits including antique toys, hands-on household items, and stories about those who lived there.

12. Go on a horseback ride

Various outfitters provide easy trail rides good for beginners and children as young as six, according to Visit Grand County. The horseback rides range from 30-minuted loops to half-day excursions.

13. Go kayaking and/or paddleboarding on Lake Granby

Lake Granby is a great place for beginner paddleboarders and kayakers. There are several marinas, including Beacon Landing, that provide affordable rentals and gear.

14. Attend the Winter Park Jazz Festival

This iconic jazz festival includes jazz, funk, and soul performers, and there’s plenty of room for kids to enjoy the festival too. There is a designated kids’ zone, lots of open lawn space. There are also food trucks, art vendors, and great scenery that everyone can enjoy.

15. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Known for its stunning mountain scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park has plenty of easy hikes that the whole family will enjoy. Some great options include Alberta Falls Trail, Bear Lake Loop, and Sprague Lake Loop.