"What is your backup plan if a big winter storm comes through Colorado, Vail Pass is closed, etc., when you want to leave Denver? "

Mine would be to head south to Santa Fe and then head west on 40.

I would say Park Meadows or Cherry Creek Mall for Santa. Just be aware parking will be at a premium at that time. Both have food courts & good restaurants close by.

I might chime in again about the Manitou Springs Santa--and with regard to parking at either of the malls Christmas week. These folks are tourists, and Manitou Springs offers an interesting close by destination with a purpose--Santa. It's a cute little town with cute shops and restaurants--and some springs. And a really really good Santa. For my part, I'd rather take a beating than go to a mall at Christmas, and particularly Cherry creek's parking deck!! Just my 2 cents again.

Has anyone mentioned Chautauqua Park in Boulder? It's just a bit south of NCAR. Gorgeous Flatirons there, nice hiking, great restaurant (Chautauqua Dining Hall), concerts in the little structure behind the main lodge.

We make a point of going to the Dining Hall with family and guests, because it is always a memorable meal and gorgeous views from their porch. Highly recommend it. Prices very reasonable. Fine for kids, and even has a wonderful playhouse outside that kids love.

There are wonderful vintage cabins for rent there, too, that would accommodate 4. Check it out. Although I don't know if you want to stay in Boulder, and I don't know if there's a minimum stay of more than one night.

Another very unique and worthwhile place to eat in Boulder is the Tea House. Very interesting. The website says it was "Completely built by hand without the use of any power tools, the Teahouse was constructed in Dushanbe, Tajikistan as a gift to their sister city, Boulder. It was disassembled, crated up, and sent halfway around the world to be rebuilt in Boulder as a symbol of friendship and cultural exploration. The elaborate and creative teahouse now sits as a reminder to the citizens of Boulder to value cultural diversity, global cooperation, and international friendship." Ask for a table by the creek.

I'm not sure how Boulder will fit into your plan, but just in case.

PS You probably already know that NCAR was used as a set in Woody Allen's "Sleeper" movie. They shot it as the outside of the hospital.

Might be fun to see parts of that film before visiting. Although your kids might be too young for the film, they might enjoy seeing the building on the 'big screen' to create some excitement for them to visit it in person.

There is so much to do in Colorado, you will be entertained, come rain/show or shine!