STEM Programs in Denver, CO

A playful introduction to robotics and programming. In Robotics with Sphero BOLT, campers dive into the world of robotics using one of the most engaging robots around - a programmable, sensor-packed robotic ball that responds to code, creativity, and experimentation. Students learn how to code and control their Sphero BOLT as they tackle hands-on challenges that involve driving, navigating obstacles, displaying designs on the built-in LED matrix, and even communicating with other robots using infrared signals. Each activity introduces core STEM concepts in a way that feels more like play than work. This camp is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence. Campers experiment, test ideas, and immediately see the results of their code in action—helping them understand how programming controls real-world devices. What students will do: Learn the basics of robotics and block-based coding Program movement, speed, and direction Use the LED matrix to create designs, animations, and games Explore sensors and infrared communication Solve challenges through trial, error, and collaboration No prior robotics or coding experience is required. This camp is an excellent introduction for students who enjoy hands-on learning and want to explore STEM in a fun, approachable way. Robotics with Sphero BOLT often inspires campers to continue into LEGO Robotics, BattleBots, or coding and game design camps as they grow.

A playful introduction to robotics and programming. In Robotics with Sphero BOLT, campers dive into the world of robotics using one of the most engaging robots around - a programmable, sensor-packed robotic ball that responds to code, creativity, and experimentation. Students learn how to code and control their Sphero BOLT as they tackle hands-on challenges that involve driving, navigating obstacles, displaying designs on the built-in LED matrix, and even communicating with other robots using infrared signals. Each activity introduces core STEM concepts in a way that feels more like play than work. This camp is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence. Campers experiment, test ideas, and immediately see the results of their code in action—helping them understand how programming controls real-world devices. What students will do: Learn the basics of robotics and block-based coding Program movement, speed, and direction Use the LED matrix to create designs, animations, and games Explore sensors and infrared communication Solve challenges through trial, error, and collaboration No prior robotics or coding experience is required. This camp is an excellent introduction for students who enjoy hands-on learning and want to explore STEM in a fun, approachable way. Robotics with Sphero BOLT often inspires campers to continue into LEGO Robotics, BattleBots, or coding and game design camps as they grow.

Go beyond playing Minecraft — learn how to change it. If your student loves Minecraft and is ready to take the next step, Minecraft Modding shows them how to turn their ideas into real, playable features inside the game. In this camp, students learn how to create their own Minecraft mods (short for modifications) that add new worlds, biomes, characters, and items to the game. Campers move from simply playing Minecraft to understanding how it works behind the scenes - and how to shape it themselves. Using MCreator, a powerful yet beginner-friendly drag-and-drop, Java-based modding tool, students design and build custom mods through an intuitive visual interface. Along the way, they’re introduced to core Java programming concepts, learning how code brings their creations to life. What students will do: Design custom Minecraft mods using MCreator Create new worlds, biomes, characters, and items Learn how games are structured and modified Explore introductory Java programming concepts Develop problem-solving, logic, and creative thinking skills This camp blends creativity, game design, and real-world coding foundations in a way that’s engaging and accessible. Many parents see Minecraft Modding as a natural gateway into deeper coding and software development skills—and kids love seeing their ideas come alive inside a game they already enjoy. If your student loves Minecraft Modding, they may also enjoy: Coding 101 BattleBots Game Design camps Minecraft Modding is where creativity meets code - and where players become creators.

Design it. Build it. Take it home. If your child loves creating, building, and figuring out how things work, this camp is a perfect fit. In 3D Printing & Design Lab, students step into the role of a real product designer. They’ll learn how to design objects from scratch using professional-grade CAD software (TinkerCAD by AutoCAD - the same tool used by engineers and product teams), then bring those ideas to life using actual 3D printers. This is a hands-on, project-driven camp. Students don’t just watch or follow instructions - they design, iterate, and improve their creations throughout the week. From gadgets and tools to creative models and custom parts, students experience the full design-to-production process. What students will do: Learn the fundamentals of 3D modeling and CAD design Use industry-standard software in a kid-friendly way Design multiple original projects Watch their designs become real on a 3D printer Take home their printed creations Along the way, students build confidence, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of how modern products are actually made - skills that translate directly into engineering, design, and STEM careers. Important note: Because 3D printing takes time, some projects may finish printing after camp hours. In those cases, completed prints will be available for pickup at Silicon STEM following the camp. This is one of our most popular camps for a reason - kids leave proud of what they’ve built, and parents love seeing real skills turn into real objects. If your student likes this class, they will love the Advanced 3D Printing camp (we use Onshape as the 3D CAD program) focused on more advanced design concepts, or another design-oriented camp like the Virtual Reality camp, or perhaps consider a more hands-on type camp like Battlebots with VEX Robotics.

Turn creativity into content - and ideas into polished videos. In YouTube Creator Lab, campers learn what it really takes to create engaging video content - from planning and filming to editing and presentation. This camp focuses on creative storytelling, video production, and responsible content creation, not just posting videos online. Throughout the week, students use a professional video-editing application to transform raw footage into polished videos. They learn how thoughtful editing choices - like titles, transitions, music, and effects - can dramatically improve the quality and impact of a video. Campers also explore what makes content compelling and learn best practices around audience engagement, branding, and digital citizenship, helping them understand how creators grow channels responsibly and creatively. What students will do: Plan and storyboard video ideas Edit videos using industry-standard tools Add titles, transitions, music, and visual effects Learn the basics of storytelling and audience engagement Explore how creators grow channels and build an online presence This camp is perfect for students who enjoy video, storytelling, creativity, and media production. Whether they dream of being a creator or simply want to build valuable digital skills, campers leave with confidence and a stronger understanding of how content is made. Prerequisite: Basic computer and keyboarding skills Ages: 10–15 YouTube Creator Lab pairs well with Game Design, Pixel Art, and other creative technology camps for students who love expressing ideas through digital media.

PREREQUISITE: CODING 101 or SIMILAR COMMAND-LINE CODING. Python is one of the most popular programming languages today, known for its simplicity, efficiency, and readability. In this camp, students will explore the fundamentals of Python, including variables, user input, operators, and control structures. They’ll gain hands-on experience with common programming applications and develop a solid understanding of Python’s versatility. Prerequisite: Coding 101 or prior command-line coding experience (block coding not applicable). Ages: 11+ Students who enjoy learning Python may like to consider a Game Design camp or a more hands-on engineering-oriented camp.

Build, Engineer & Compete. Design it. Build it. Battle it. If your student loves building, problem-solving, and friendly competition, BattleBots delivers an unforgettable hands-on engineering experience. In this camp, students work in teams to design and build their own robots using VEX IQ robotics kits, the same platform used in competitive robotics programs worldwide. Campers start from the ground up—planning, constructing, testing, and improving their robots as they learn how engineering decisions impact real-world performance. Once their robots are built, teams customize and fine-tune their designs in preparation for a series of exciting challenges. The week culminates in a BattleBots®-style tournament, where robots face off in a structured, high-energy competition that rewards strategy, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. What students will do: Design and build a robot from scratch using VEX IQ Learn mechanical design and basic engineering principles Test, troubleshoot, and improve robot performance Collaborate with teammates and follow design constraints Compete in a fun, structured robot tournament While campers do not take their robots home, they gain something even more valuable: engineering experience, teamwork skills, and confidence built through hands-on problem-solving. Ages: 10–15 Prerequisite: Ability to work collaboratively and follow building guidelines If your student enjoys BattleBots, they may also love: Rocketry 3D Printing & CAD Advanced Robotics and Engineering camps BattleBots is where creativity, strategy, and engineering collide and one of our most popular camps for students ready to level up their STEM skills.

Go beyond playing Minecraft — learn how to change it. If your student loves Minecraft and is ready to take the next step, Minecraft Modding shows them how to turn their ideas into real, playable features inside the game. In this camp, students learn how to create their own Minecraft mods (short for modifications) that add new worlds, biomes, characters, and items to the game. Campers move from simply playing Minecraft to understanding how it works behind the scenes - and how to shape it themselves. Using MCreator, a powerful yet beginner-friendly drag-and-drop, Java-based modding tool, students design and build custom mods through an intuitive visual interface. Along the way, they’re introduced to core Java programming concepts, learning how code brings their creations to life. What students will do: Design custom Minecraft mods using MCreator Create new worlds, biomes, characters, and items Learn how games are structured and modified Explore introductory Java programming concepts Develop problem-solving, logic, and creative thinking skills This camp blends creativity, game design, and real-world coding foundations in a way that’s engaging and accessible. Many parents see Minecraft Modding as a natural gateway into deeper coding and software development skills—and kids love seeing their ideas come alive inside a game they already enjoy. If your student loves Minecraft Modding, they may also enjoy: Coding 101 BattleBots Game Design camps Minecraft Modding is where creativity meets code - and where players become creators.

Learn how technology thinks — not just how to use it. Coding isn’t about memorizing commands or trying to compete with AI. It’s about learning how to think clearly, logically, and creatively in a digital world...and that skill is more important than ever. In Coding 101, students are introduced to the fundamentals of programming in a way that is approachable, engaging, and confidence-building. Through hands-on projects and interactive challenges, campers learn how code actually works behind the scenes — and how humans guide technology to do meaningful things. This camp focuses on core thinking skills: Breaking big problems into smaller steps Recognizing patterns Testing ideas and fixing mistakes Understanding cause and effect These are the same skills used by software engineers, game designers, data scientists — and even the teams who build and train AI systems. What students will do: Learn the basics of coding logic and structure Write programs and interactive projects Understand how computers “follow instructions” Practice problem-solving, debugging, and iteration Build confidence working with technology, not just consuming it For Loops, If/Else Statements, While Loops used daily by software engineers! Rather than treating coding as a rigid or intimidating subject, Coding 101 makes it accessible and empowering. Students leave with a strong foundation that prepares them for more advanced camps like game design, robotics, Minecraft modding, and beyond. For parents wondering whether coding is still relevant in an AI-powered world: AI doesn’t replace coding — it amplifies the people who understand it. Learning to code helps students become creators, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers who can shape technology instead of being shaped by it. This camp is an ideal starting point for students who are curious about how technology works and want to build skills that will serve them across school, careers, and life.

• Explore the outstanding collection of the Denver Nature & Science Museum with a ticket and a self-guided audio tour - all in one app • Marvel at terrific Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, Diplodocus, and other prehistoric beasts • Discover life habitats of North American mammals through exquisitely detailed dioramas • Enjoy the best views of Denver from the Sky Terrace • Learn about the mysterious rituals and traditions of Native American peoples

THIS TOUR REQUIRES 4 GUESTS TO START What's LoDo? I’m happy you asked! Lower Downtown is Denver’s oldest neighborhood which is home to some of the best restaurants and attractions in Denver. On this 2 hour walking tour your savvy local guide will share fascinating history and point out local hot spots, where to eat and drink. We walk about 1.5 miles where we bring to life the past, present, and future of our beloved city. This tour is perfect for those who have limited time and a busy schedule. At the end of the tour you will feel more like a local and less like a tourist! We begin the tour at iconic Union Station and its significance to the survival of Denver as a city. Over the next 2 hours we walk a loop around LoDo where we share stories of Denver’s first Chinatown, visit the most famous bordello of its time, visit the oldest operating hotel in Denver, and learn about the underground tunnel system that runs beneath the city. TOUR LEAVES AT 11 A.M. PLEASE ARRIVE AT 10:45 A.M.