DENVER – Every weekend, Denver7 compiles a list of some fun events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in the Denver metro area and beyond this weekend.
1. See dinosaurs – or what’s left of ‘em anyway – at Dinosaur Ridge this weekend
What: If you’re new to Colorado, you probably don’t know there are a bunch of fossils, tracks and bones that can be seen with the naked eye not too far from Denver along a closed section of Alameda Parkway, just off C-470. This year marks 30 years since a group got together to form a nonprofit to preserve the history and sites on the ridge, and the group is marking the occasion with a bunch of events including walking tours, an interactive dinosaur movie party, a dinosaur-themed carnival, and much more.
Where: 16831 W. Alameda Parkway in Morrison, Colorado
When: Thursday, April 25 through Sunday, April 28
Admission: Varies by event. Please click here for detailed event info. and pricing for that particular event.
More info: Learn more about the 30th anniversary celebration by clicking here.
2. Ride the G Line for free on Friday and all rail lines for free on Saturday
What: All aboard! The much-anticipated G Line is opening Friday and to celebrate, the 11.2-mile commuter rail line is offering free rides on Fridays. Not excited yet? All rail lines will be free on Saturday! You’ll kill two birds with one stone: You’ll help the environment and avoid the horrendous vehicle traffic.
Where: The G Line begins at Union Station in Denver
When: Friday, April 26
Admission: Free
More info: To learn more about the grand opening of the G Line, click here.
3. Enjoy the fun of watching cars get crushed at Monster Jam
What: Machines weighing 12,000-pounds capable of doing backflips, vertical two-wheel skills and racing at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour will leave families with mouths wide-open during Monster Jam, taking place at Broncos Stadium at Mile High!
Where: Broncos Stadium at Mile High, 1701 Bryan St. in Denver
When: Saturday, April 27 starting at 7 p.m.
Admission: $15-$75
More info: Buy tickets for the Monster Jam here.
4. Colorado’s largest and longest running gun show is in town
What: Billed as the largest and longest running gun show in Colorado, the Tanner Gun Show is returning for another year with over 700 vendors showcasing all types of guns, knives, ammunition, survival gear/food as well as hunting and fishing accessories.
Where: Denver Mart, 451 E. 58th Ave. in Denver.
When: Saturday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, April 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: $12
More info: Learn more about the Tanner Gun Show by clicking here.
5. Have a blast at the Pints and Pools Craft Beer Festival in Pagosa Springs
What: The Pints & Pools Craft Beer Festival is one of those unique beer fests in Colorado. Why? You’ll get the opportunity to soak in 23 hot springs and taste over 50 beers from Colorado and New Mexico on the banks of the San Juan River. There will also be food trucks, live music and much more. The event is 21+.
Where: The Springs Resort & Space, 164 Hot Springs Blvd. in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
When: Saturday, April 27
Admission: $50-$75
More info: Learn more about the Pagosa Pings and Pools Craft Beer Fest here.
6. Savor a Taste of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs
What: The Colorado Restaurant Association presents the 24th annual Pikes Peak Food, Wine and Beer Expo! With more than 80 local restaurants and vendors, this is the largest all-you-can-eat-and-drink event in southern Colorado, according to organizers.
Where: Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd. in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
When: Sunday, April 28 from noon to 3 p.m.
Admission: $45-$65
More info: Learn more about a Taste of Pikes Peak here.
7. It’s Día del Niño, and these Front Range cultural spots are offering free entry and a lot of fun for the kiddos
What: The U.S. celebrates Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, but for some strange reason, it doesn’t really have a designated day to celebrate children. Which is where Latin American culture comes to the rescue with “Día del Niño” (Children’s Day). Every year on April 30, kids across Latin America are given special presents, activities and events are held in their honor to celebrate all that it means to be a child. This year, the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum, and WOW! Children’s Museum in Lafayette are offering free admission to families on Sunday. There will be other events at the History Colorado Center, the Denver Public Library and other venues. The events are open to all children and their families.
Where: Various locations, please check here for participating venues.
When: Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28
Admission: Free
More info: If you’d like to learn more about the events being held this weekend, click here.
BONUS
Take a hike with a geologist at the Garden of the Gods
What: So you’ve hiked Garden of the Gods, but have you really hiked it without really understanding the geology of the site? Geologist Jay Temple will take participants on a guided tour of the formations to learn more about the beautiful rock features. Make sure to dress for the weather, and don’t forget to bring a snack, water, a hat and sunscreen.
Where: Garden of the Gods, 1805 N. 30th St. in Colorado Springs, Colorado
When: Saturday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon
Admission: $5; reservations are required.
More info: To learn more about the 2019 Garden of the Gods Gateway Adventure Series, click here.
Oh, hey there! We see you've made it to the bottom of the article - that's awesome! Colorado has its share of factory tours but none smell or taste quite like Celestial Seasonings in Boulder, making it a Mile High Must!
Have an event you’d like for us to tell viewers about? Send an email to oscar.contreras@thedenverchannel.com and make sure to title it "7 best things to do" so he can put your event on the list.