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Step into a magical winter night

Stars are sparkling, cocoa is steaming and the West Atrium and Third Floor diorama halls have undergone a beautiful, holiday makeover. There’s something for everyone…and all that’s needed now is you.

Thursday, Nov. 20-Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026

First entry time 4:15 p.m. daily

21+ Nights: Dec. 4, Dec. 11, Dec. 18

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Guests at Magical Winter Nights

Your Magical Winter Nights Experience

Under sparkling stars and through a series of immersive scenes, it’s an adventure designed to delight all ages.

FIRST FLOOR
  • The Lodge: Warm up and set the tone for your adventure with cozy fireside vibes and hot cocoa and cocktails for purchase. Don't forget to take a picture by the hearth!
THIRD FLOOR
  • A Wild Winterland: Purchase a cocktail or a snack to enjoy in this moonlit savanna scene while you take in a 10-minute kaleidoscope of changing lights.
  • Festive Fun: Enjoy holiday crafting with the whole family under twinkling holiday lights. 
  • The Frosted Path: Take off your shoes, tuck them in a cubby and then show off those holiday socks while you skate around an “ice-less” indoor skating rink (no skates required). 
  • Colorado Hideaway: Take a moment to grab a drink, relax in front of a campfire and snap a selfie in a handmade postcard frame set against the backdrop of a beautifully recreated Colorado scene before continuing.
  • Celestial Canopy: It’s the perfect time to sit down and take in the colors of a breathtaking aurora borealis light show then wander over to a reflecting pool where you can see constellations appear with the switch of a button.
  • Glacier Groove: As you move from the northern lights out into the hallway, get ready to dance to tunes being spun by the coolest DJ in Colorado.  
  • One More Time: Not ready to call it a night? Head back to your favorite area to see what you might have missed the first time around.
  • Village Shoppe: Don't forget to spin through the holiday shop before you head home to pick up a unique gift or souvenir to commemorate your night.

Learn more on Catalyst: What You Can Expect at Magical Winter Nights 

Guests at Magical Winter Nights

Explore at Your Pace

The average visit lasts around 30 minutes, but you’re welcome to spend more time in the experience and even loop back through to revisit your favorite areas. Wander slowly through glowing scenes or hop right to your favorites because your experience is entirely up to you.
Don’t forget to stop by the Village Shoppe before you head home to pick up curated holiday gifts and Museum-exclusive keepsakes – perfect for stocking stuffers, host gifts or something special for yourself.
Guests at Magical Winter Nights

Tickets & Arrival

To help you glide seamlessly from one wonderland to the next, and to get the most out of your evening, here’s what to expect:
  • Magical Winter Nights Entrance: Follow the twinkling lights to the West Atrium on the City Park side of the Museum.
  • Tickets: Please have your timed-entry ticket available to scan (either printed or on your phone).
  • Timed Entry: This is a timed experience, so please plan to arrive on time. Guests arriving more than 30 minutes late will be admitted as space allows. Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate early arrivals or late arrivals after 8 p.m.
  • Souvenir Mugs: If you purchased a souvenir mug, you’ll pick it up when you check in to enjoy a discounted drink to warm your night. Mugs can also be purchased on site for $14.
  • Visiting the Museum first? After exploring the science and natural history exhibitions, exit through the main (North) entrance and follow the lights to reenter the Museum through the West Atrium for Magical Winter Nights.

Please note: Magical Winter Nights is a separate ticketed experience and doesn’t include general Museum admission, access to exhibitions or Friday evening hours. If you’d like to explore the Museum before or after your visit, a general admission ticket or membership is required.

Guest at Magical Winter Nights
Guest at Magical Winter Nights
Guest at Magical Winter Nights
Guest at Magical Winter Nights
Guest at Magical Winter Nights

Know Before You Go

Parking & Getting Here

 

Accessible parking spaces are located in the main parking lot on the north side, in the underground parking garage (enter at the northwest corner of the lot). Parking is free, but spaces fill up fast during the holidays, so we recommend leaving a little extra time to find a spot.

Dress & Seasonal Conditions


This winter wonderland is indoors! You’ll stay cozy as you wander through the sparkling scenes of Magical Winter Nights.

Comfortable shoes are your best companion for exploring all the enchanting worlds. Don’t forget your socks if you’d like to glide across the iceless skating rink!

Accessibility

 

The experience is ADA-accessible, but does include an indoor skating rink, which may not be accessible to all visitors. If you plan to bring a stroller, single-wide are highly encouraged.

Food & Drink


Follow the scent of sweetness and spice! Warm beverages, cool cocktails and tasty snacks will be available for purchase in select areas throughout your journey.

Don’t forget to stop by the Village Shoppe for delightful gifts and keepsakes to remember your night.

Please note: outside food and beverages are not permitted. 

Weather & Weather Plans


Your Magical Winter Night is indoors. The magic is on whether it’s raining, snowing or cold. In the event of a Museum closure or cancellation due to severe weather, ticket holders will be notified by email about their options.  

Check our website dmns.org or social channels on the day of your visit for updates.