The holiday season has officially arrived in the Mile High City, and that means Santa Claus is making his rounds! Whether your little ones are ready to share their wish lists or you’re just looking for a festive photo op, the Denver metro area is brimming with magical spots to meet the man in red. From dazzling mall displays and twinkling downtown backdrops to cozy local markets and elaborate winter wonderlands, there’s a Santa experience for every family and every holiday style.
No matter where you live, from Aurora to Broomfield to downtown Denver, you’ll find plenty of places to capture that perfect moment with Santa. Some stops offer full holiday experiences with lights, music, and treats, while others keep it simple and traditional. Grab your camera, bundle up, and get ready to make this season merry and bright with a visit to one (or more) of these jolly destinations across the metro area.
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
Where? 6700 N Gaylord Rockies Blvd, Aurora
Step into a true winter wonderland at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, where Christmas magic comes alive through the resort’s “Mistletoe Village.” Each year, the Gaylord transforms into a sparkling spectacle filled with millions of lights, themed attractions, and immersive holiday fun. Families can visit Santa in his cozy “Library,” surrounded by festive décor that feels straight out of a storybook. Professional photo packages are available to capture the moment, and the resort’s holiday programming includes ice tubing, gingerbread decorating, and the breathtaking “ICE!” exhibit – featuring larger-than-life ice sculptures hand-carved by artisans.
Whether you’re a guest of the resort or stopping by for the day, the Gaylord Rockies is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a full day of holiday cheer. Enjoy festive dining options, explore the winter activities, and make your visit with Santa part of an unforgettable seasonal outing.
PRO Tip: Reserve your Santa photo package and activity tickets online in advance, as time slots often sell out quickly. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and experience the magic before the resort fills up.
Cherry Creek Shopping Center
Where? 3000 E 1st St, Denver
When? November 7th-December 24th
For a Santa experience that blends holiday fun with a touch of magic, head to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center for “Santa’s Flight Academy.” This interactive adventure lets kids become little cadets-in-training as they help prepare Santa’s sleigh for takeoff. The multi-sensory setup features snowflake-activated badges, animated displays, and a life-size sleigh that truly immerses families in the Christmas spirit. The experience concludes with a one-on-one visit and photo session with Santa himself, the perfect reward for helping him get ready for his big night.
Beyond Santa’s Flight Academy, Cherry Creek is a one-stop destination for holiday shopping, dining, and festive décor. After meeting Santa, families can stroll through the beautifully decorated mall, enjoy a seasonal treat, or explore the nearby boutiques and restaurants in Cherry Creek North. It’s a holiday tradition that combines wonder, convenience, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
PRO Tip: Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid long lines, and don’t forget to register for a time slot online if available. Pet lovers can also take advantage of special “Santa Paws” nights to get adorable holiday photos with their furry family members.
Denver Union Station
Where? 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver
When? Sundays, November 30th-December 21st, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Downtown Denver’s historic Union Station transforms into a holiday showpiece each December, offering one of the most iconic spots to see Santa in the metro area. The beautifully decorated Great Hall glows with twinkling lights, a grand Christmas tree, and festive garlands draped across its historic architecture. Families can meet Santa for free during the “Santa at the Station” events, held on Sunday November 30th, December 7th, December 14th, and December 21st, leading up to Christmas. The setting feels timeless, with live music, warm drinks from nearby cafés, and the buzz of holiday travelers adding to the magic of the moment.
In addition to Santa visits, Union Station also hosts special seasonal events like the Grand Illumination and holiday markets, making it a full day of festive fun for all ages. After your Santa photo, enjoy brunch at one of the station’s restaurants, grab a hot cocoa from Pigtrain Coffee, or take a stroll to nearby Larimer Square for more lights and shopping.
PRO Tip: Because Santa visits here are free and first-come, first-served, plan to arrive early to secure your spot. VIP reservations for Santa are now available for purchase as well.
McGregor Square
Where? 1901 Wazee St, Denver
When? November 28th and December 6th, 12th, & 20th
McGregor Square, home to the Milepost Zero venue in Denver’s LoDo district, offers a unique and festive setting to meet Santa each holiday season. The space is decked out with sparkling lights, seasonal décor, and cozy seating areas, creating a charming backdrop for holiday photos. Santa visits are scheduled on select dates, and kids can enjoy interactive activities, festive music, and themed decorations before their turn with the jolly man in red.
It’s an experience that combines a traditional Santa visit with the lively energy of Denver’s downtown scene. In addition to meeting Santa, families can explore nearby restaurants, shops, and bars, making McGregor Square a convenient one-stop destination for holiday fun.
PRO Tip: Check the Milepost Zero event website linked above for specific Santa visit dates and times. Arriving early ensures you have time to enjoy all the interactive activities before your Santa photo.
Stanley Marketplace
Where? 2501 Dallas St, Aurora
When? November 21st-December 28th, 4-8 p.m.
Stanley Marketplace in Aurora brings holiday magic to life with its immersive “Camp Christmas” experience, where families can meet Santa in a cozy and festive setting. The marketplace is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, decorated trees, and themed vignettes that create a perfect backdrop for holiday photos. Children can visit Santa at the “Glampsite,” where they can share their wish lists while exploring the playful and interactive displays designed to spark their imaginations. Beyond the Santa meet-and-greet, the experience includes seasonal treats, photo opportunities, and a chance to soak in the festive atmosphere throughout the marketplace.
Stanley Marketplace also offers plenty of additional holiday fun, from shopping for local gifts to enjoying seasonal food and drinks at the various restaurants and cafés on site. The open layout and creative decorations make it a favorite for families seeking a full-day outing with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
PRO Tip: Purchase tickets for “Camp Christmas” in advance, as timed entries often sell out quickly. Plan to spend extra time exploring the market so your visit is more than just a quick photo stop – enjoy the food, shopping, and immersive holiday displays while you’re there.
Park Meadows Mall
Where? 8401 Park Meadows Center Dr, Lone Tree
Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree offers a classic Santa experience in a beautifully decorated holiday setting. Santa is typically located in the Dillard’s Court, surrounded by festive décor, twinkling lights, and a large Christmas tree that sets the perfect backdrop for family photos. The mall provides professional photo packages, including traditional prints and digital options, ensuring that you capture high-quality memories of your visit. Along with the Santa meet-and-greet, families can enjoy the mall’s seasonal decorations, holiday music, and special events that bring extra cheer to the shopping experience.
In addition to the Santa visit, Park Meadows Mall is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it easy to turn your holiday outing into a full day of fun. From browsing the latest seasonal merchandise to grabbing a treat at one of the many eateries, there’s plenty to enjoy before or after your Santa session. For more information, visit the link above.
PRO Tip: Visit during weekday mornings or off-peak hours to avoid long lines and crowded photo sessions. Bringing a pre-written wish list for your child can also make the experience more interactive and memorable.
FlatIron Crossing
Where? 1 W Flatiron Crossing Dr, Broomfield
When? November 7th-December 24th
FlatIron Crossing in Broomfield is a popular spot for families to meet Santa and get into the holiday spirit. Located in the center of the mall, Santa’s setup features a beautifully decorated area complete with festive lights, garlands, and a towering Christmas tree that makes for the perfect photo backdrop. Children can sit with Santa, share their wish lists, and take professional photos that capture the magic of the season. The mall often complements Santa visits with holiday music, seasonal décor, and interactive displays to enhance the festive experience for the whole family.
Beyond the Santa meet-and-greet, FlatIron Crossing offers plenty of shopping and dining options, making it easy to turn a quick visit into a full holiday outing. Families can explore stores for gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, or grab a meal at one of the mall’s restaurants before or after their photo session with Santa.
PRO Tip: Visit on weekday mornings or during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and crowded sessions. Booking a photo package online in advance can also help ensure your spot and save time.
Colorado Mills Mall
Where? 14500 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood
Colorado Mills Mall in Lakewood offers a festive Santa photo experience that’s perfect for families looking to capture holiday memories. Santa’s setup is surrounded by seasonal décor, twinkling lights, and cheerful holiday displays, creating a fun and welcoming environment for children and adults alike. In addition to traditional photo opportunities, the mall often features activity zones for kids, train rides, and other interactive elements to keep little ones entertained while waiting for their turn with Santa. Professional photo packages are available, and the setup is designed to make every visit feel special and memorable.
The mall also provides a convenient location for holiday shopping, dining, and exploring festive decorations throughout the property. Families can make a day of their visit by browsing stores, enjoying seasonal treats, or participating in mall-hosted events alongside their Santa session.
PRO Tip: Take advantage of the activity zones to keep children engaged while waiting. Check for holiday promotions or discounted parking during Santa visits to make your outing even more convenient and budget-friendly.
Bass Pro Shops
Where? 7970 E Northfield Blvd, Denver
Bass Pro Shops in Denver offers a festive and family-friendly holiday experience with its annual “Santa’s Wonderland” event. Kids can meet Santa in a beautifully decorated setting full of twinkling lights, seasonal décor, and interactive displays that bring the holiday spirit to life. Each visit includes a free 4×6 studio-quality photo with Santa as well as a free sharable video. In addition to the photo opportunity, the event features crafts, giveaways, and fun activities to make magical memories for visitors of all ages.
The store itself adds to the holiday magic, with decorated displays, themed merchandise, and a lively atmosphere perfect for creating lasting memories. Families can combine their Santa visit with some holiday shopping or a bite to eat at the in-store café, making it a full festive outing.
PRO Tip: Make a free reservation online to secure your preferred time and avoid long waits. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning is ideal for shorter lines, and don’t forget to bring a personal camera or phone to capture additional candid moments.
Capture the Magic: Make This Holiday Season Unforgettable
Meeting Santa is more than just a photo opportunity – it’s a chance to create lasting memories, share holiday traditions, and immerse your family in the festive spirit. From sparkling winter wonderlands at Gaylord Rockies to interactive mall experiences at FlatIron Crossing and fun community events at Union Station, the Denver metro area offers something for every family, no matter their style or schedule. Each location brings its own charm, whether it’s the cozy, private setting of Stanley Marketplace or the lively outdoor energy at Bass Pro Shops’ Santa’s Wonderland.
Plan ahead, choose the experience that fits your family best, and don’t forget the little extras – holiday treats, crafts, and festive décor that make every visit feel special. With a mix of classic mall setups, immersive winter adventures, and community-centered events, your family is sure to find the perfect Santa encounter this season. So bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready to make this holiday one to remember.