## Plains Conservation Center – A Kid-Friendly Outdoor Adventure

The Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, Colorado, is a unique destination where families can step back in time and experience the natural and cultural history of Colorado’s high plains. Spanning over 1,100 acres of open prairie, the center offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a chance to discover the beauty and diversity of the shortgrass prairie ecosystem[1][3].

## Why Families and Kids Love It

– **Interactive History**: Kids can explore a replica homestead village complete with pioneer-era houses, a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and even a tipi camp that showcases the lives of both pioneer settlers and Plains Native Americans from the late 1800s[1][3]. There are hands-on activities like churning butter, cooking on a wood stove, and feeding farm animals, which make history come alive[5].
– **Meet the Animals**: The center is home to a variety of friendly farm animals—donkeys, sheep, chickens, and turkeys—that kids can meet and help feed during special programs[3]. These interactions teach children about the importance of animals in pioneer life and today’s world.
– **Nature Exploration**: Families can hike along rolling trails where they might spot prairie dogs, pronghorn, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and even a resident bald eagle family[1][3]. The center is also a protected natural area, home to over 75 plant species and 30 mammal species, making it a fantastic spot for budding naturalists[6].
– **Educational Fun**: The center offers guided programs and seasonal events focused on conservation, prairie ecology, and local history. These programs are designed to be engaging for children, with opportunities to learn through play and exploration[2][4].
– **Accessible Adventures**: Entry to hike the trails, explore the visitor center, and see the tipis and homestead village is free, making it an affordable outing for families[1][7]. Special activities like wagon rides and tours are available during events, adding excitement to each visit[9].

## Practical Information

– **Location**: 21901 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora, CO 80013[1][3].
– **Hours**: Open Wednesday–Friday noon–4:30 p.m., Saturday–Sunday 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday[3].
– **Programs**: Daily animal feeding programs and seasonal events. Guided activities have a small fee, but general admission is free[3][7].

## In Summary

The Plains Conservation Center is a perfect spot for families seeking an educational and fun outdoor experience. With hands-on history lessons, friendly animals, wide-open spaces, and engaging nature programs, it’s a place where kids can learn, play, and connect with Colorado’s prairie heritage[1][3][5].

https://www.auroragov.org/things_to_do/parks__open_space___trails/nature___open_space/nature_centers/plains_conservation_center,https://kids.kiddle.co/Plains_Conservation_Center,https://denver.kidsoutandabout.com/content/plains-conservation-center,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plains_Conservation_Center,https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g29144-d6922645-Reviews-Plains_Conservation_Center-Aurora_Colorado.html,https://www.uncovercolorado.com/activities/plains-conservation-center/,https://www.visitaurora.com/directory/plains-conservation-center/,https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/experiences/colorado/plains-conservation-center-co,https://www.auroragov.org/things_to_do/parks__open_space___trails/nature___open_space/nature_centers/plains_conservation_center/plains_conservation_center_s_c_f_d_free_days,https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g29144-Activities-zft11306-Aurora_Colorado.html