This is part of the fun of the City! Where else can you see freaks and Tranny's just by walking down the street? Part of the fun is people watching! I personally love watching the "Freak Show", makes me feel better about my person/life decisions. I like to have lunch on the patio downtown, its like a freaky aquarium, I just watch them swim on past and point and say "ooh look at that one!"
Its really not too bad in Denver, I think they may have spotted you for "out-of-towner" and swarmed you. Most don't usually get hassled like that, if someone starts, I will fire off a "crusty look" as a warning shot and they go on to easier prey.
I think its good for kids too, because with your oversight they can see what people can become, and you (family) can set some higher expectations for them.