Tucked in between two buildings in the heart of Downtown Denver resides Fire Station One, a beautiful 1909 firehouse that’s been preserved and turned into the Denver Firefighters Museum. Once inside, follow the boot prints to each destination. Each highlights the history of fire fighting in Denver, complete with interactive features, photos and plenty of artifacts.
See vintage firetrucks and more at the Denver Firefighters Museum. Photo by Linnea Covington
With one visit it’s clear there’s a rich history of fighting fires and how it was done in the Mile High City.
The tales start from 1866 and continues onto the present day, from the evolution of the firefighter’s uniform to the unique ways people used to call for help to various modes and machines used to put out fires.
On the second floor guests can peer into vintage lockers and see a mini display showcasing real-life heroes of the Denver Fire Department from every era.
Exhibits showcasing some of Denver’s biggest fires help illuminate how technology has changed how fires are fought. And sometimes the vintage fire trucks make their rounds outside, siren and all.
Another part of the museum includes old school ways of communication. Photo by Linnea Covington
While the museum calls to history buffs and those curious adults who want to learn more about firefighting, it’s also a great place for kids.
Sure, they might not want to read all about the Rocky Mountain Fire Academy or how the Arson Bureau got started, but there’s so many hands-on features to discover.
For example, just about every kid loves watching the fire trucks roar by, and at the Denver Firefighters Museum they can get up close and personal.
There’s the front half of an engine to sit in, complete with outfits and a fire hose to help fuel the imagination.
Dress up and fight a pretend fire in the fire truck! Photo by Linnea Covington
Next to the engine is a theater showing fire safety videos, which kids can then practice the techniques right there. It’s a good starting point for a family to implement their own fire safety plan at their house as well.
Upstairs kids can take advantage of the play area. It features a tot-sized firehouse complete with a pole to slide down, kitchen to “cook” up a meal, beds and of course a few iconic (stuffed) dogs.
The space also has a reading nook, toys and other firefighter-themed activities and games to do. Plus, on the third Tuesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., there’s a story time and craft event for tots.
The kids’ area is great for toddlers up to 10. Photo by Linnea Covington
The museum has been in operation since it opened to the public on May 27, 1980. Updates constantly get made and there’s a rotating exhibit on the second floor to help keep material fresh.
With so much to see, it’s easy to spend a few hours just pouring over the historic objects and information displayed on both floors.
No matter the age, the Denver Firefighters Museum should be visited by locals and travelers alike.
Denver Firefighters Museum, 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver, 303-892-1436
How to save at the Denver Firefighters Museum
- Get a membership
- Utilize your library card for a free day pass
- Children under 2 are free
Hours
Tuesday to Saturday: Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday & Monday and major holidays.
Admission Prices
Adults: $9
Seniors (65+) & Students (w/ID): $8
Juniors 2-12: $6
Children under 2: Free
Members: Free
Parking
Unfortunately, the Museum does not have parking available for guests. The best parking option when visiting the museum is metered street parking.
There are meters on both sides of the street throughout the immediate area that cost $1 per hour with a 2 hour limit.
For longer term parking, you may use one of the many pay parking lots within close walking distance. Their prices vary between $5 to $12 for daily rates.
Please do not park in front of the Museum in the spots marked ‘Staff Parking Only’ as you may be ticketed and/or towed.