denver tourist places

Denver   Travel Guide

Courtesy of TylerPorter | Getty Images

17 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its outdoor offerings, its city life isn't one to pass up. Denver is home to numerous must-sees from museums and galleries to restaurants and breweries. Spend a few hours in Meow Wolf to experience an interactive and

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit in the fall for Glow at the Gardens, a Halloween festival complete with stunning (and spooky) light displays and epic pumpkin art. – Leilani Osmundson

The Denver Botanic Gardens' 24 acres feature a whopping 50 gardens for visitors to explore. This expansive facility in downtown Denver's Cheesman Park treats travelers to a variety of different environments, from a traditional Japanese garden (complete with bonsai trees) to the South African Plaza blooming with exotic plants like asparagus fern and torch lilies. Meanwhile, art aficionados will also appreciate the gardens thanks to the numerous sculptures that grace the grounds; the facility also plays host to touring exhibits that have included works by such artists as Stephen Talasnik and Dale Chihuly.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an essential experience in Denver. There's no such thing as a bad seat, either; in fact, the best views are in the back, where you can see stunning sunset views over the red rocks and city skyline. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

With its excellent views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of hiking trails and cinnamon-hued sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks Park is a big draw for outdoors enthusiasts. Occupying 700-some acres, this impressive park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating geographic transition between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. If you only have a short amount of time here, stretch your legs along the Trading Post Trail; this nearly 1 ½-mile-long path weaves through the rust-colored buttes, making for some spectacular scenery. Before you head out, travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center, which features information on the park’s history and trails.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Denver Museum of Nature & Science

With exhibits featuring everything from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science inspires learning in the young and young at heart. This impressive facility houses artifacts pertaining to a variety of scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology and space science. Some of the more popular displays include the wildlife exhibit, which includes more than 90 habitat scenes containing information on animals from around the world, from Alaska to Australia. Meanwhile, the hands-on Space Odyssey area introduces travelers to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond. 

Recent visitors said the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a great place for families. A few reviewers who were not traveling with children said the museum may not be as engaging for adults as it is for kids because of the elementary nature of the displays. Many recent travelers were particularly impressed with the gems and minerals exhibit, which features artifacts like an 8-pound nugget of crystallized gold discovered in Breckenridge in 1887.

Popular Tours

Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver

(1638 reviews)

from $ 169.00

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park - Picnic Lunch Included

(2620 reviews)

from $ 159.00

Half Day Rocky Mountain Escape

(1347 reviews)

from $ 79.00

Denver's Union Station Denver's Union Station free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Have breakfast at Snooze (a local chain), but get there early – there's almost always a line because the food is that good. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Denver's Union Station serves a dual purpose: it's a working public transit station and a highly-praised dining and shopping center. The station was a huge success when it first opened to the public in 1881, providing railroad service until the center of the building caught fire in 1894. The architecture from the 1914 redevelopment remains, and today, it's home to an Amtrak hub and a bus concourse. Located in the hip Lower Downtown neighborhood (aka LoDo), the station also houses multiple dining options and boutiques, as well as  The Crawford Hotel .

Meow Wolf Denver Meow Wolf Denver

U.S. News Insider Tip: Plan to spend several hours (at least two) here if you're hoping to see everything, and remember as you explore that there is an underlying storyline that connects all the exhibits and includes a mystery for visitors to unravel. – Leilani Osmundson

If you’re a fan of immersive art installations, you’ll probably enjoy Meow Wolf Denver, which is best described as a contemporary art museum, a haunted house, an amusement park and a film set all rolled into one 90,000-square-foot space. There are several Meow Wolf locations around the U.S., including Las Vegas and Santa Fe, New Mexico . Denver’s iteration is spread across four stories and features more than 70 distinctive installations that feature colorful lights, sounds and interactive displays. The largest permanent installation is the Convergence Station, a “multiverse transit station.”

Denver Zoo Denver Zoo

Modeled after a Kenyan nature preserve, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including tigers, black rhinos, kangaroos and orangutans. Sprawling across 80 acres of City Park, this impressive facility boasts a number of ways to view our furry, feathered and reptilian friends. Head to Predator Ridge, the recreated African savanna, to see hyenas, lions and African dogs roam, watch monkeys swing from tree branches at Primate Panorama or catch a glimpse of colorful critters like Panamanian golden frogs and green tree pythons at the Tropical Discovery center. You can also overload on cute during a visit to the nursery and take on a ride on the zoo's train and carousel.

While you're here, many travelers highly recommend timing your visit around feeding times, during which staff offers educational lectures about the zoo's residents. Keep in mind that this is a large facility; you'll want to budget plenty of time to see all the animals.

Best Denver Tours

Denver Tours

The 10 Best Denver Tours

April 4, 2024

The 6 Best Denver Brewery Tours (Beyond Coors)

July 12, 2023

The Crawford Hotel: Photo Tour

May 12, 2023

Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pay attention if you're in the flash flood simulation room – you might get wet! – Leilani Osmundson

Visit the AZA-accredited Downtown Aquarium to see more than 500 species of animals across a variety of ecosystems both underwater and on land (including tigers). In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also boasts a Stingray Reef touch tank, a 4D theater, scuba and snorkel experiences, a shark cage experience, and in-person and virtual animal encounters. Kids can participate in a plethora of activities from a fun overnight stay to a five-day summer camp. Day programs for children include "Marine Biologist for a Day," which includes encounters with exotic species from the deep sea, as well as "Zoologist for a Day," where kids can learn how to handle and train animals that live outside the ocean.

Denver Art Museum Denver Art Museum

With galleries showcasing more than 70,000 works by famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Winslow Homer, the Denver Art Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art between Chicago and the West Coast. Spread across two buildings, the museum's holdings range from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary displays with such mediums as painting  and sculpture represented. One of the highlights of a visit to the Denver Art Museum is its extensive assembly of western American art, which includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper related to the West going back two centuries.

Past visitors raved about the Denver Art Museum, praising its diverse and varied collections, especially its collection of western American art, and the museum's ability to appeal to kids through interactive activities. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that the museum is a popular stop on many of the best Denver tours .

Downtown Denver Food Tour

(1311 reviews)

Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver Winter and Spring

(327 reviews)

from $ 139.00

Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver

(335 reviews)

16th Street Mall 16th Street Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit Skyline Park (located at 15th and Arapahoe streets) in the summer for draft beers at Skyline Beer Garden and the winter for outdoor ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. – Leilani Osmundson

Walk along this mile-long pedestrian mall for restaurants, shops, entertainment and more. Described as "the spine that connects all of downtown," the mall starts with Union Station on the north end and the Colorado State Capitol on the south end, with attractions like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Larimer Square and the Denver Pavilions – a shopping and dining complex with multiple movie theaters and pop-up events – along the way. If you've worked up an appetite walking around, you won't go hungry: There are more than 40 outdoor cafes throughout the mall, as well as plenty of casual, upscale and international eateries.

Coors Field Coors Field

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a seat in row 20 – the only purple row in the stadium – and you'll be sitting exactly one mile above sea level! –  Leilani Osmundson

Named for Denver's famed beer, Coors Field in Denver's LoDo district is home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies. The stadium occupies a whopping 76 acres and has the capacity for more than 50,000 fans. Of course, the main reason to come to Coors Field is to catch a game, but there's more to this stadium than a diamond. Whether you're traveling with children or alone, be sure to spend some time at the Interactive Area, where you can test your skills in the video batting cages and the Speed Pitch area. And if you've left the kids at home, take the opportunity to sample some of Denver's local brews on the Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot platform with fantastic views of the field and downtown Denver. If the weather isn't cooperating, pay a visit to the on-site SandLot brewery instead.

Washington Park Washington Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's not the easiest to find parking in Denver, but don't worry -- Wash Park has plenty of street parking, and it's easy to find a spot even during events. –  Leilani Osmundson

Located south of central Denver, Washington Park is consistently praised by Denverites and visitors alike for its ample facilities and enjoyable atmosphere. Occupying 155 acres, this immense park boasts miles of jogging paths, two massive lakes and two formal gardens, one of which is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon gardens. Wash Park, as it’s called by locals, is a popular weekend hangout spot thanks to the variety of things to do here. You can spend your time simply relaxing on the grass, or you can take advantage of the park's 10 tennis courts, boat rentals and recreation center, which houses a pool and offers scheduled fitness classes and swim lessons.

Larimer Square Larimer Square free

In 1858, a group of settlers struck gold at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Their discovery soon spread back to the East Coast, prompting people to pick up and move west. The site of the original pioneer camp (known back then as Auraria) soon grew into the charming area now known as Larimer Square. Although the city has since expanded, this historic neighborhood remains the heart and soul of the Mile High City, and according to some, it's the place to start your Denver experience thanks to its variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It's also a featured stop on many of the best Denver tours . 

Before venturing to Larimer Square, you may want to pay a visit to the Larimer Square  website . Here, you'll find a listing of all the local businesses and upcoming events, not to mention maps that can help orient where specific dining, shopping and entertainment options are.

Empower Field at Mile High Empower Field at Mile High

Football fans won't want to pass up the chance to spend some time on the Denver Broncos' home turf. Empower Field at Mile High can hold more than 76,000 NFL fans and is notable for its elevation, which sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That, combined with the view of the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east, makes it a unique venue to visit.

If you can swing it, try to catch a home game. Ticket prices vary by game and availability, and you'll want to purchase your seats well in advance to ensure availability. If you can't make it to a game, you can tag along on a guided tour of the stadium. Led by employees from the on-site Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum (one of the stops on the tour), these 75- to 90-minute tours take participants to the visiting teams' locker rooms, the end zone as well as into the network television production compound and the TV and radio broadcast facilities. Recent visitors described the tour experience as incredible thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

Denver, Red Rocks, and Beyond

(1196 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park-Picnic Included

(526 reviews)

Guided Hiking Tour in Colorado mountains

(172 reviews)

from $ 79.99

Molly Brown House Museum Molly Brown House Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Though you can explore the museum on your own, a guided tour is vastly more educational. Register for a late morning tour and then walk to The Corner Beet after for tasty juices and brunch options. – Leilani Osmundson

Nestled among the contemporary architecture of the Capitol Hill district is the Molly Brown House Museum, an eccentric example of Victorian life and design that no history buff should miss. Once the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown (Kathy Bates' character in the film, "Titanic,"), this museum offers a glimpse into Denver's history and the life of one of its most fascinating residents. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about Brown's experience aboard the Titanic, as well as her role in the women's suffrage movement and her endeavors in Colorado's mining industry.

Elitch Gardens Elitch Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the park in winter for its Luminova Holidays event and don't forget to bring your camera; there are plenty of beautiful holiday light displays for photo opportunities, and some rides are open as well. – Leilani Osmundson

Open first as actual gardens as well as a zoological park in 1890, the long-running Elitch Gardens now boasts a theme park, a water park, entertainment and more. At the theme park, fly 17 stories above Denver on the Star Flyer swing ride, or dive and spin at 50 mph speeds on the Mind Eraser coaster. If thrills aren't your thing, you'll find plenty of more relaxing rides and activities in both the theme and water park, such as the Commotion Ocean wave pool and Castaway Creek lazy river.

United States Mint United States Mint free

Even if you hate the sound of excess change rattling around your pockets, you'll find a tour of the Denver branch of the United States Mint to be an interesting way to spend an hour or so. Having opened in 1863, its purpose was to transform the Gold Rush's findings into coinage. Today, the U.S. Mint in Denver can produce up to 50 million coins a day.

A free guided tour of the U.S. Mint in Denver will allow you the opportunity to learn more about each stage of coin production, from the design and sculpting of each piece to the cutting of each type of coin. Some recent visitors marveled at the coin-making machines, but say that not all travelers will likely find it enthralling.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Housed in a hangar on the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, this museum has more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space that explores the history of the base's role in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War. A variety of iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts and military uniforms are on display. The collection includes bombers from World War II, reconnaissance aircraft and commercial planes. One of the most iconic symbols of the Vietnam War – the Bell UH-1M Iroquois “Huey” – is among the displays. 

Past visitors enjoyed seeing the variety of aircraft and especially the replicas of “Star Wars” spacecraft. About 20 miles south of the museum is its sister location, the Exploration of Flight, which offers visitors a more immersive experience. They include a pilot simulator and actual flights in vintage and modern aircraft. The 15-acre site is located at Centennial Field, about 20 miles south of downtown Denver.

Things to Do in Denver FAQs

Explore more of denver.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Denver, CO

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Carri Wilbanks lives near Denver and enjoys exploring the sights of the city.

Denver, the Mile High City, so named because it sits at 5,280 feet above sea level or one mile high, has been rocking since the late 1850s, when gold was discovered around Cherry Creek . Today, it is one of America's hottest cities to live and play in and a great place to visit in Colorado .

With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop and more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Denver is a visually appealing metropolis, filled with a variety of sights and attractions for everyone, from families to couples. Whether you are wandering the Denver Art Museum, doing some shopping and gallery-hopping in Cherry Creek North, or visiting animals at the Denver Zoo, day or night, there is no shortage of things to do.

The city is also home to several parks, including Civic Center Park in the heart of downtown, Washington Park, Cheesman Park, and City Park in surrounding neighborhoods. Just outside the city limits is Denver's most famous park: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, which is one of the top outdoor concert venues in the U.S.

Learn more about the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions in Denver.

See also: Where to Stay in Denver

1. Union Station

2. larimer square, 3. stroll and shop along 16th street mall, 4. take a tour or see a game at coors field, 5. denver museum of nature & science, 6. see a show at the denver center for the performing arts, 7. denver botanic gardens, 8. kirkland museum of fine & decorative art, 9. denver art museum, 10. denver zoo, 11. colorado state capitol, 12. enjoy live music at red rocks park & amphitheater, 13. denver public library, 14. united states mint, 15. civic center park, 16. cherry creek north, 17. clyfford still museum, where to stay in denver for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to denver, map of attractions & things to do in denver, co, denver, co - climate chart.

Anchoring downtown Denver , Union Station is a hub of activity for locals and travelers alike. This Beaux Arts train station is a historic landmark dating back to 1881.

Completely revitalized in 2014, today Union Station is a bustling attraction that doubles as a working train station. You can catch the A-line train to the airport, RTD transit around Denver, or embark on Amtrak rail trips across the country from here.

Union Station is also home to many shops, restaurants, and The Crawford Hotel, which often puts on special themed-stay events. It's fun to take a stroll through Union Station just to look at the impressive architecture.

Also, make sure to pay a visit to the branch of the Tattered Cover Book Store located here. It is one of the best independent bookstores in the U.S.

Address: 1701 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Colorado

A successful example of urban refurbishment in Denver is Larimer Square, with well-restored buildings of the Civil War period. In 1971, Larimer Square became Denver's first historic district. Today, it is a major entertainment district. The area is home to art galleries, shops, cheerful restaurants, and gas lamps.

It continues to evolve and is popular with both locals and tourists. During the day, most people come here to shop. In the evening, this is a great place for dining or seeing some live entertainment, such as comedians or bands. This area is also famous as the place where Buffalo Bill lived at one time.

Address: 1430 Larimer Street, Denver, Colorado

Running through the city center, the 16th Street Mall is a European-style pedestrian precinct, with shady trees, flowerbeds, and park benches. The only traffic here is a free shuttle bus.

The mall is lined with department stores, boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and the stalls of street traders. Near the south end of the street are numerous modern and Post-Modern skyscrapers.

The mall was designed by the late world-famous architect I.M. Pei, the same architect that designed the pyramid at the Louvre in Paris. At night, the mall is illuminated by over one million lights, making it an ideal place to stroll on a warm summer evening.

Originally opened in 1982, the 16 th Street Mall is currently undergoing an overhaul that will create wider pedestrian walkways, modernize existing infrastructure, and introduce new art, among other objectives.

The renovations of this 13-block mall between Market Street and Broadway will take place in phases and are expected to be finished by late 2024. The area remains open during renovations, however.

Coors Field is the home of the Colorado Rockies baseball club. The stadium, which opened in 1995, has a seating capacity of 50,200. From the seats along the 1st base line, it's possible to see the Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Tours of the facility are available year-round and are a good way to learn about the stadium and see a bit of the behind-the-scenes action. Tickets are limited to a certain number each day, so advance purchases are a good idea. Tours last just under 1.5 hours and are accessible to those with disabilities.

Address: 20th and Blake Streets, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science sits in City Park's southeast corner and is one of Denver's top cultural attractions. Among the most notable exhibits are the imposing dinosaur skeletons, remains of Ice Age animals, the collection of minerals presented by the Coors family, and one of the largest nuggets of gold found in Colorado.

The museum features changing exhibitions, so there is always something new to see. An IMAX theater and a Planetarium are also on-site. When you've finished wandering this museum, take time to check out City Park, which is popular with locals, and hosts a free summer jazz concert series.

The Space Odyssey exhibit has been renovated and revitalized and is now better than ever. You'll be able to step into the new Fantasy Spaceship and fulfill your dreams of blasting off into space.

Address: 2001 Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado

Read More: Denver with Kids: Top-Rated Things to Do

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts sits on the south side of Larimar Square and is a gigantic cultural center. The center consists of multiple venues, including the Boettcher Concert Hall, Auditorium Theater, and Ellie Caulkins Opera House. If you are looking for things to do in Denver at night, you can usually find something to entertain you here.

A night out at the Center for Performing Arts could mean watching a Broadway Show or enjoying a play or a variety of other performances. This venue hosts all kinds of major events. It is home to the Denver Center Theater Company, the Denver Center Attractions, and the Denver Center Theatre Academy. The center also functions as an educational facility, offering acting classes and programs, as well as professional development opportunities.

Address: Speer Boulevard and Arapahoe Street, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Botanic Gardens , first laid out in the late 1950s, is one of the largest botanical gardens in the United States , occupying 23 acres next to Cheesman Park.

The garden emphasizes native plants and sustainable, environmentally responsible practices. However, the various gardens display plants from all over the world. There are 43 individual gardens, some of which are laid out in natural landscapes, others of which are in more formal gardens.

Some of the highlights include the Japanese Garden; Marnie's Pavilion with orchids, ferns, and waterfalls; and the Boettcher Memorial Conservatory, with exotic tropical and subtropical species. The Denver Botanic Gardens also hosts special events throughout the year, including concerts that draw in nationally recognized talent.

Address: 1007 York Street, Denver, Colorado

The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art displays a major collection of decorative art from 1880 to 1980. Every major design period is represented, from Arts & Crafts to Pop Art. Regional modernist art, from 1875 to 1980, with a focus on Colorado, is also documented with hundreds of works.

The museum features a retrospective of Colorado's distinguished painter, Vance Kirkland (1904-1981). All three collections are housed in a 1911 Arts & Crafts building, the oldest commercial art building in Denver. Kirkland Museum is a member of Historic Artists' Homes and Studios, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Address: 1311 Pearl Street, Denver, Colorado

The massive, fortress-like Denver Art Museum has a vast collection, which includes American Indian, African, European, Asian, and Oceanic Art. Collections also include Spanish colonial and pre-Columbian works.

The remodeled Native American galleries are particularly impressive, covering a broad range of cultures and tribes from the United States and Canada. This extensive collection has gained a reputation throughout North America, with pieces that span 2,000 years of history.

This modern and contemporary art collection features both well-known names and emerging talent in a variety of media. Don't miss the separate gallery dedicated to photography. Also of note is the museum's African art collection.

The Denver Art Museum began in a building now known as the North Building, designed by Italian Architect Gio Ponti and opened in 1971. In 2006, the 146,000-square-foot Hamilton Building, an expansion designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, was opened to the public. The new building captured attention with its unique design, inspired by the peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

Address: 100 W 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Zoo is beautifully laid out, with enclosures adapted to different species, from the polar bears' den to monkey island. The zoo was begun in the late 1800s and has a rich history of conservation. Over the years, it has managed to remain one of Denver's most popular tourist attractions.

Exhibits that are sure to delight families with children of all ages include Stingray Cove, where you can pet a stingray as it swims by; the Toyota Elephant Passage, consisting of two miles of trails in a natural habitat featuring African animals; Harmony Hill Bear Habitat, home to the park's resident Grizzly Bear; and The EDGE, an enclosure that lets you get within six inches of two gorgeous Amur Tigers from Siberia.

Address: 2900 E 23rd Avenue, Denver, Colorado

On a low hill on the east side of Civic Center Park is the classical-style State Capitol, crowned by a gilded dome 250 feet high. From the viewing platform on the drum of the dome, there are magnificent views of the city's imposing skyline and the Front Range. The 13th step on the west side of the Capitol is exactly one mile above sea level, thus the name "mile high city."

Address: Broadway and East Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater is about 15 miles from the city center but is well worth the commute as this is the most revered attraction around Denver — and there is a shuttle to get you here should you not have a car.

Red Rocks is both a live music venue and a city park owned by Denver. The name comes from the striking red sandstone rock formations found along the trails that also form the walls of the outdoor amphitheater.

The venue attracts major live music talent weekly in season and is most famous for its acoustics. Music buffs will want to stop by the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, which tells the stories of Colorado's music greats.

Address: 18300 West Alameda Parkway, Morrison, Colorado

Famed architect Michael Graves designed the Denver Public Library , which opened in 1995. The library is noted for its western history and genealogical collections. Outside, the 30-foot-tall, red-orange steel sculpture is often used for reference as a landmark.

Address: 10 W. Fourteenth Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Immediately beyond the City and County Building is the U.S. Mint , one of the United States' six facilities. This is where the American currency is created and part of the country's gold reserves are stored.

Be sure to take a free guided tour of the facility to learn about the history and process of making money. Following your tour, visit the small gift shop on-site selling commemorative coins, souvenirs, games, and other items. Reservations for the tours are always required and can be scheduled online through the website.

Address: 320 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado

In the heart of Denver is the green and, in summer, agreeably shady Civic Center Park, laid out in Classical style with numerous monuments. Principal administrative buildings of the state of Colorado are scattered around the outskirts of the park. Along its north side is Colfax Ave, which is the longest street in America, running for 26 miles east to west through Denver.

Address: 101 14th Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Located just south and east of the Downtown, Cherry Creek North is Denver's best-known shopping district , especially if you're looking for luxury and boutique shops and art galleries. Covering some 16 blocks laid out in a square, the leafy and flower-strewn neighborhood is also home to numerous restaurants, offering cuisine from around the globe.

Cherry Creek hosts a number of different events throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival , held around July 4th, which attracts national and international artist vendors in mediums ranging from painting and jewelry to ceramics. The district runs along 2nd and 3rd Ave between Steele Street to the east and University Boulevard to the west.

Part of the first generation of Abstract Expressionist artists, Clyfford Still is considered one of the 20th century's most influential painters. The Clyfford Still Museum , which opened in late 2011, is home to an archive of more than 3,000 artworks by the late artist and showcases his life's work and legacy in exhibits in a minimalist-style building.

Address: 1250 Bannock Street, Denver, Colorado

The best place to stay in Denver is right downtown in the heart of the action. This is where the main attractions are located, as well as the Convention Center, restaurants, and entertainment. Below is a list of highly-rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels :

• The landmark Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has been one of Denver's top luxury hotels since it first opened in 1892. This opulent hotel, in the heart of downtown, is also known for its superb customer service.
• Opened one year earlier, in 1891, is another of Denver's top hotels, The Oxford Hotel , near Union Station.
• By contrast, if you are looking for a contemporary luxury hotel, the uniquely designed The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton , near the Denver Art Museum, is the place to stay.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Near the Convention Center and just a short walk from the 16th Street Mall is the conveniently located Hilton Garden Inn .
• Nearby, and also in a great location is Aloft , with a modern look and trendy feel.
• The Hyatt House is a newly opened, extended-stay hotel in the city center, with standard rooms and suites featuring fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families.

Budget Hotels :

• The Days Inn is on the periphery of the city center, either a long walk or short drive from the main downtown area.
• If you are willing to drive 30 minutes, the Comfort Inn is well outside the city center but offers quality rooms at budget prices.

Joining an organized tour is a great way to see all the highlights of Denver and its surrounding mountains without the hassle of finding your way around. Along the way, you'll learn fascinating stories about the city's history and the ecology of the surrounding areas. These tours include convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time and money. Below are some fun sightseeing tours and day trips that guarantee the lowest price:

Take a Day Trip:

• Soaring mountains surround Denver, and a convenient way to experience this alpine wilderness is on the Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder . Accompanied by the narration of an expert guide, this tour takes you in an air-conditioned coach across the Continental Divide, reaching altitudes of up to 12,000 feet. After exploring Estes Park and passing by the famous Stanley Hotel, you can look for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and black bears in Rocky Mountain National Park. The tour includes admission to the park, lunch, and hotel pickup.
• If you're short on time but still want to venture into the wilderness, consider the Foothills Explorer Tour From Denver . This four-hour adventure includes a visit to Red Rocks park, a natural amphitheater; a drive through the scenic Lariat Loop, where you can look for wildlife; and stops at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave and the historic town of Evergreen. Hotel pickup and entrance fees are also included.

Summit a 14neer :

• From Idaho Springs, the highest mountain road in the U.S. runs steeply up past the beautifully situated Echo Lake to the alpine pastures on Mount Evans (14,266 feet). From the summit, there are breathtaking panoramic views out over the mountains and valley below. A variety of wildlife also frequents the area. At these elevations, it is not uncommon to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and pika. The Mount Evans Highway (State Highway 5) is a seasonal road, which is closed during the winter months, usually reopening in late May. Opening dates may be weather dependent. Mount Evans gets particularly busy on summer weekends. Weekdays and early mornings are some of the less visited hours and maybe a better option for people looking to escape large crowds.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Mountains: Denver is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Less than two hours away are some of the best ski resorts in Colorado , including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. You can also find smaller and budget-friendly ski resorts near Denver . But you don't have to be a skier to enjoy the beautiful scenery. In summer, hiking , camping, biking, and sightseeing opportunities attract tourists from across North America.

Fun mountain towns you may want to include on your Colorado itinerary include nearby Boulder and Colorado Springs , and in the far southwest of the state, Durango and Telluride , where you'll also find excellent skiing and snowboarding, as well as hiking and biking in summer. Mountain bikers should look to Fruita and Grand Junction for some awesome rides. For more ideas, see our article on the top attractions and places to visit in Colorado .

More on Colorado

Top 11 things to do in Denver from baseball to tubing South Platte River

Jul 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Vendors sell everything from gelato to bao buns at Denver Milk Market © Chip Kalback / Lonely Planet

A Rocky Mountain megastar, Denver is a thriving city that blends its rich Old West history with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe. Here you’ll find dynamic arts and cultural options woven with a booming food, craft beer and cannabis scene. And with endless sunny days, green spaces galore and a spectacular mountain backdrop, outdoor play is always part of the local ethos. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll find Denver is buzzing with activity.

Here are its top things to do.

1. Eat, drink and play in Union Station

Enjoy a drink or a fancy meal at Union Station , an iconic landmark and beautifully restored 19th century train station. Sure, it’s Denver’s main transportation hub – local buses, light rail and cross-country trains use it – but this Beaux Art beauty also is home to tony restaurants and cocktail bars, a place locals come for a night out on the town.

Local tip: If you need a sightseeing break, chill out in the Great Hall, a waiting area and chic lounge with leather couches, shuffleboard and wifi. It’s all free and open to the public – no need to buy anything.

2. Cheer on the Rockies

Join baseball fans at Coors Field in downtown Denver, one of the MLB’s most hitter-friendly ballparks (thank the thin air for all the homeruns). Eighty home games mean lots of opportunities and with tickets in the Rockpile (aka centerfield) starting at just US$1, it won’t break the bank. Come decked out in your purple, black and silver best to fit right in.

Detour: If you’re a die-hard baseball fan, cross the street to the National Ballpark Museum, which is jam-packed with memorabilia from the country’s 14 classic ballparks.

3. See masterpieces at the Denver Art Museum

The crown jewel of the Mile High City’s art scene, the Denver Art Museum houses an eclectic collection of some of the world’s greatest works of art, from Old Master painters to modern contemporary artists. It includes a stunningly rich collection of Native American art, integrating both historic and contemporary work, with signage that prioritizes Native perspectives. The complex itself is a work of art – the titanium-paneled Hamilton Building with its jutting angles connected by bridge to the newly-renovated Martin Building, a fortress-like structure covered in millions of glittering glass tiles.

Local tip: No need to hesitate about coming if you’re traveling with kids – there are loads of interactive art stations and activities throughout the museum plus two eateries for mid-visit treats. Admission is free for everyone 18 and under too.

4. Take in back alley street art

Nowhere has street art more transformed a neighborhood in Denver than the one-time-industrial-wasteland-turned-hipster-enclave of RiNo (aka River North Arts District). Unexpected and ever-changing, the streets and alleys are draped in hundreds of murals covering every sort of surface, from parking lot walls to transformer boxes. Walking through the neighborhood, the art stops you in your tracks, the images speaking to the city’s diversity, politics and day-to-day life.

Local tip: If you want a bit more structure to your mural walkabout, check out RiNo’s own mural map . For an even deeper dive into the art, take a guided tour with Denver Graffiti Tour , a two-hour stroll past notable works, including details on the artists and their historical context.

5. Go to a Red Rocks concert

There’s something almost primal about attending a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater : the sounds of instruments enveloping you, the sight of people dancing under an umbrella of stars and the iconic 300ft-high red sandstone monoliths standing guard on either side. Renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning beauty, Red Rock has been a rock 'n’ roll venue ever since 1964 when The Beatles played there. Today, Red Rocks is synonymous with big name bands of all genres – even symphony orchestras – and a place where memorable albums are often recorded. For many, it’s reason enough for a trip to Denver. Concerts are held all summer long.

Detour: If a Red Rocks concert isn’t in the cards, the venue and its surrounding 816 acres are free to visit during the day, including several hiking trails that wind through the red rock landscape. The amphitheater also hosts other events like early morning yoga and movie nights.

6. Have a flight at Great Divide

Colorado takes its beer seriously, raising craft brewing to a high art. And with over 150 breweries in Denver, you certainly won’t go thirsty in this town. For an OG experience, head to the downtown brewhouse of Great Divide Brewing Company , a small brick building housing one of the most decorated breweries in the country with a whopping 18 Great American Beer Festival medals and five World Beer Cup Medals to its name. Weekend evenings bring wall-to-wall crowds but stop by on a weeknight for a seat at the bar and a flight of Great Divide’s exquisitely bold and balanced brews. If you want to go all in, geek out on a behind the scenes tour to learn how their magic sauces are made. 

7. Take a selfie with the Blue Bear

Stop for photos with the playful and ever-curious symbol of the city, a 40ft-tall sculpture of a blue bear entitled I See What You Mean . Located in Downtown Denver, the bear stands upright peering into the Convention Center – the artist Lawrence Argent’s riff on a local newspaper’s photo of a bear looking into a home (a not unfamiliar occurrence in the state). The bear’s color represents the famous Colorado skies.

8. Spark your sense of wonder at Meow Wolf

Step into Denver’s most immersive art experience at Meow Wolf Denver , an extension of the renowned art collective started in New Mexico. Here, wander through a multi-story building that tells a story of the convergence of four worlds through 70+ fantastical art installations. Enter dark tunnels and tipping hallways, man towering spaceships and touch psychedelic coral reefs, and keep your eyes peeled for the live performers who somehow creep onto the scene. It’s wonderfully bizarre and totally unforgettable.

9. Catch a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Denver is home to the second largest theater complex in the country: the Denver Performing Arts Complex , a four-city-block-wide collection of stages connected by a sky-high glass canopy, with large-scale art pieces dotting its walkways and green spaces. Weekends bring thousands to the complex, a river of people flowing into its different venues to see everything from Broadway shows to experimental theater. Join the crowd! While big ticket shows sell out fast, there are enough venues to almost guarantee a seat most nights.

Detour: If homegrown theater is more your speed, head to nearby Curious Theater . Housed in a repurposed church, this award-winning theater company stages thought-provoking plays with a social justice bent. Stay afterwards for the talk-backs, when actors engage with the audience about everything from the plot to the set.

10. Float through Denver

Float down the South Platte River, taking in the downtown skyline as you dip your toes into the cool, gentle water. A historic waterway, gold was found along its shores way back in 1858, sparking the Colorado Gold Rush and the founding of Denver itself. Today, the South Platte winds its way through the center of the city, popular pedestrian walkways and small sandy beaches following its path. Ask about tube and kayak rentals at Confluence Kayaks near Confluence Park.

11. Meditate in the International Cannabis Church

You don’t have to be high to feel the full effect of the light show at the International Cannabis Church (in fact, onsite cannabis use is technically prohibited by the public). Every day of the year, the one-time Lutheran church turned multi-colored Elevationist sanctuary comes alive in a spectacular 3D video mapping show while a guided audio meditation leads visitors on a journey towards self-discovery. People leave feeling at peace, happy and well, high on life.

Local tip: Come early to take full advantage of the old school arcade, complete with Galaga and Ms. Pacman machines plus Mario Kart projected onto a 26-foot movie screen, all included in the price of admission.

This article was first published Jun 15, 2021 and updated Jul 23, 2023.

Explore related stories

Apr 9, 2022 • 4 min read

Discover six of the most exciting neighborhoods in the USA to add to your must-see list, packed with artistic and culinary action, though not large crowds.

Feb 5, 2021 • 3 min read

Nov 9, 2020 • 2 min read

Aug 14, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 11, 2020 • 20 min read

Jan 30, 2020 • 4 min read

Oct 31, 2019 • 8 min read

Oct 4, 2019 • 2 min read

Sep 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Jul 28, 2023 • 6 min read

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Colorado Chevron

Denver Chevron

16 Best Things to Do in Denver

By Megan Barber and Nicholas DeRenzo

If you’ve always thought of the Mile High City as simply a gateway to Colorado’s world-famous ski resorts , you’re still thinking of the old Denver. The capital has spent the past two decades coming into its own as one of America’s most progressive and creative cities, with a host of top-notch museums, wildlife-filled green spaces, and a slew of up-and-coming neighborhoods filled with food halls, street art, and buzzy design hotels. And you’ve probably heard a little something about the craft beer scene, which is now matched by equally exceptional distilleries and even urban wineries. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Denver.

Read our complete Denver travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Denver Union Station Arrow

Union Station, Denver's so-called “living room,” sits in the center of Lower Downtown. It's a busy transit center with an outdoor play fountain, patio-filled restaurants, and boutiques. But this is all new; for decades the historic Beaux Arts building—first constructed in 1881 before several fires required renovations in 1914—was a desolate and run-down train station. A $54 million restoration and a dedicated train to the airport changed all that, and the station’s Grand Hall has returned to its glory days. Tourists and locals alike come to gawk at the historic architecture, linger over drinks, or enjoy community events, including a weekend farmer’s market. Grab a farm-to-table dinner at Mercantile Dining & Provision, then finish the night slinging cocktails at the Terminal Bar.

Meow Wolf: Convergence Station Arrow

Meow Wolf installations are, by design, indescribable. Three hundred artists, including more than 110 from Colorado, collaborated on 79 projects, spread over four floors, to create a loud, neon-lit dreamscape that has something important to say if you scratch beneath the surface of the surreal, Instagram-friendly tableaus. Hidden catacomb passageways, trash-strewn cityscapes, alien bodegas and pizza parlors, and tons of Easter eggs about Denver culture and history allude to big-picture topics like accessibility and Indigenous rights. As the Denver Convergence Station iteration of Meow Wolf warns on its website, the exhibit features “dark spaces, low lighting, low overhangs, tight spaces, crawl spaces, narrow walkways, steep stairways, flashing/strobe lights, theatrical fog effects, music, some loud noises, and exposed materials.” In other words, be prepared for everything—especially if you’re claustrophobic or hate crowds.

Denver Art Museum Arrow

Serious art lovers, this one’s for you. The city’s biggest art museum is a bustling hub at the center of the Golden Triangle Creative District known for both its vast permanent collection and its blockbuster temporary exhibitions. But just because art aficionados can geek out on everything from the 1971 Gio Ponti building to colorful, large-format murals, that doesn’t mean the DAM is reserved for stuffy nerds in sweater vests. No, the best part of the DAM is that art experts and novices can both find things to love. An extensive collection of Native American Art is one of the best in the world; Claude Monet’s “Waterloo Bridge” stops people in their tracks; and kids will enjoy hunting down the family-friendly activity centers scattered throughout the building. Grab a map at the entrance and don’t forget to check out the first floor gift shop for a treasure trove of glimmering vases and artsy gifts.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre Arrow

There’s a reason Red Rocks is considered one of the most beautiful outdoor music venues in the country. Bright red sandstone rocks jut out from either side of the stage to create a natural amphitheater with truly remarkable acoustics, and concert-goers are treated to views of downtown Denver and the surrounding foothills. Even if you can’t see a concert, Red Rocks is worth visiting; fitness groups often run the stairs of the amphitheater on the weekend and the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail rewards hikers with brilliant rock formations and valley views.

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

Larimer Square Arrow

Picture the prettiest street in any city: wide sidewalks, red brick buildings, and restaurant patios full of well-dressed 30-somethings sipping wine. Boutique storefronts threaten your pocketbook, twinkle lights sparkle at night, and a pie shop hides a Prohibition-era “speakeasy” Green Russell , named for a Colorado gold miner. This is Larimer Square, the city’s first historic district. And even though you haven’t really been to the Mile High City unless you’ve Instagrammed the street’s signature twinkling lights—pro tip, they look especially amazing around the holidays—Larimer Square somehow manages to remain an authentic, non-touristy destination.

The Beer Spa Arrow

Colorado’s first beer-themed spa opened this February in a residential area near Denver's RiNo (River North Art District). Owners Damien Zouaoui and Jessica French were inspired to bring the beer spa concept back to the States after traveling through Eastern Europe, where many spots offer the chance to bathe in hot beer. In translating the idea for an American audience, they stripped out all the Mitteleuropa kitsch and modernized the concept, borrowing from Japanese and Korean spas. Rather than book a traditional spa treatment, you’re left to your own devices in the hushed but comfortable private therapy rooms. Begin the circuit in the infrared sauna, which can reach up to 170-degree Fahrenheit, and extend the relaxation with an optional session in a zero-gravity massage chair that scans your body, tilts you back, and then comes at you from all angles like some kind of super-relaxing robotic carwash. 

Clyfford Still Museum Arrow

If there’s one museum that surprises you in the Mile High City, our money’s on the Clyfford Still Museum. At first glance, your eyes might slide over the imposing, cantilevered concrete building located adjacent to the much larger Denver Art Museum in the Golden Triangle. But don’t miss this rarely crowded, under-the-radar gem. Inside, a 3,200-piece collection focuses on the life and work of Clyfford Still, a modern artist famous for his groundbreaking abstract paintings. Spacious exhibition halls guide you chronologically through Still’s body of work, beginning with small sketches and landscape paintings from the 1920s and culminating in colorful canvases from the 1950s that cover the whole wall. This is a museum that educates without pretension; conversational placards prompt visitors to look at specific lines or colors in each painting and well-placed benches are the perfect place to contemplate Still’s influential contribution to the modern art movement.

Denver Botanic Gardens Arrow

Set on 24 acres in the tree-lined Cheesman Park neighborhood, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis that's perfect for a one- or two-hour stroll. Gravel and stone paths meander through dozens of different types of gardens, from drought-tolerant xeriscaping to a traditional Japanese garden. Don’t miss the rotating exhibits that showcase internationally recognized artwork peeking out from behind the plants, a socially distanced alternative to the city's museums . Also, be on the lookout for a giant orange- and red-glass Chihuly sculpture and So Proud of My Children , a carved stone piece depicting maternal love by Zimbabwean artist Nicholas Kadzungura. Plant lovers won't ever want to leave.

Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art Arrow

Unlike other museums in Denver, the Kirkland is organized salon-style, displaying everything from Andy Warhol paintings to chairs designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The international decorative art collection spans every major design period since 1870, but the museum is at its best displaying the work of Colorado’s most distinguished painter: Vance Kirkland. The museum moved Kirkland’s original three-room studio eight blocks to its new location, and visitors can tour the space that the artist worked on his famous abstract and dot paintings. It’s now a stone’s throw from the Denver Art Museum , making it easy to visit both in a day.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Arrow

Colorado is chock full of national and state parks, but you don’t have to venture far from the Mile High City to immerse yourself in one of the state’s most wildlife-rich green spaces. Located about a 10-minute drive northeast of downtown, this 11-mile wildlife drive cuts through open prairie, past waterfowl-filled lakes, over creeks, and through fields of wildflowers. Think of it as one of those drive-through theme park safaris, but instead of elephants and giraffes, you might spot mule deer, coyotes, prairie dogs, or even the continent’s most-endangered mammal, black-footed ferrets, which were reintroduced in 2015.

Dairy Block Arrow

In the early 20th-century, the Windsor Farm Dairy Building, in what’s now called LoDo, used to churn out butter, cheese, and milk, but these days it offers the cream of a different crop as the city’s trendiest new “micro-hood.” Within the space of one compact square block in the shadow of Coors Field, the development includes a hotel, a coworking space, shops, restaurants, bars, and a food hall. Make time to explore the pedestrian-friendly Alley, which slices through the block like a narrow canyon and is lined with unique hangouts, like Blanchard Family Wines and Deviation Distilling, where the Mountain Herb Gin is made with wild-foraged juniper and spruce tips. Don’t miss BØH—the counter-service counterpart to Latin tasting-menu restaurant spot Brutø—for tacos, tortas, tostadas and excellent Mexican-inspired cocktails.

City Park Arrow

City Park, a sprawling 330-acre park east of Downtown Denver, is way more than green space—it’s also home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Manicured gardens and two scenic lakes show off views of the city skyline, and paths attract walkers, runners, and bikers. A Spanish-style pavilion in the center is often used as an event space, and its columns, arches, and waterfront location also make it a photogenic backdrop. For an epic sunset, park at the museum and walk west around the building toward Ferrill Lake. On the way, you’ll pass a kids' splash fountain and a playground; from there, you’ll see the sunset with the lake, city skyline, and Rocky Mountains all glowing in magic-hour light.

Downtown Brewery Trail Walk Arrow

There are plenty of organized brewery tours in Denver , but it's just as easy (and maybe more fun) to create your own thanks to this interactive beer ma p put out by the city. Downtown has a high concentration of quality tasting rooms, and we suggest starting at Wynkoop Brewing Company , Denver’s first craft brewery. Next, make your way to Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery for modern takes on traditional ales. Then it’s time for a heavy-hitter on the Denver beer scene: Great Divide Brewing Company . Finally, finish up at Woods Boss , a relative newcomer on the Denver scene that goes all in on Colorado kitsch.

Tattered Cover Book Store Arrow

Denver’s best independent bookstore has been a community gathering place since 1971. In an era when online sales threaten brick-and-mortar stores everywhere, the Tattered Cover has thrived. It now has multiple locations—including an outpost at LoDo’s gleaming new McGregor Square district, across the street from Coors Field—thanks to knowledgeable staff, comfy armchairs, and a lively event series that hosts well-known authors for seminars. There are all types of books here, but don’t miss the curated selection of staff picks, all marked with handwritten notes that detail why a reader might like the book. A whimsical children’s section and an array of calendars and paper supplies make buying housewarming gifts here a no-brainer.

Denver Zoo Arrow

The 80-acre Denver Zoo campus is a mostly outdoor journey on wide, well-spaced paths to see over 3,000 animals. Recent renovations make certain exhibits feel like you’ve taken a trip away from the city for the day . The Stingray Cove exhibit, opened in 2020, is an open-air interactive experience that lets you touch and feed cownose and southern stingrays as they swim around a 15,000-gallon tank. An extra $5 admission fee gets you into the exhibit with one piece of food to feed, and the space also showcases bamboo and bonnethead sharks. Another don’t-miss exhibit is Predator Ridge, a five-acre recreation of the African savanna that rotates African lions, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs through the enclosures.

The Source Market Hall Arrow

When it opened in an 1880s iron foundry on the edge of downtown in 2013, The Source food hall signaled a sea change for the former industrial zone that would blossom into the RiNo Arts District. Five years later, the historic brick complex welcomed an attached 100-room hotel, done up in polished concrete and Baltic birch, with an outpost of New Belgium Brewing dedicated to barrel-aged beers. Today, the twin “market halls”—one in the original building, one in the new tower—house various food stalls and design shops, plus a barbershop, a florist, and a vintage store. Standouts include Reunion Bread Co. , where baker Ismael De Sousa turns out incredible Venezuelan- and Portuguese-inspired pastries (try the golfeados, walnut-studded sticky buns topped, improbably, with cotija cheese), and Safta , an Israeli stunner from James Beard Award winner Alon Shaya.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Join Spotlight Sunday & get Colorado travel inspiration straight to your inbox!

Denver Bucket List: 61 Best Things to Do in Denver CO

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

If you find yourself in Denver, Colorado, you may be wondering what there is to do in this vibrant city. Luckily, we have compiled a list of the top things to do in Denver CO so that you can make the most of your visit.

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, Denver has something for everyone! It’s one of the reasons we love living in Denver so much; you can have both the city vibes and fancy bars but also escape into the great outdoors with just a short drive.

As Denver locals, we’ve spent so much time exploring all that this city has to offer. Living here for three years has allowed us to experience it during every time of year, too.

Below, find all of the best things to do in Denver CO.

🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver !

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Denver CO

Visit the denver art museum.

For those who love visiting museums, be sure to head to one of our local art museums, like the Denver Art Museum .

It is located in downtown Denver and houses many unique works of art. The museum is home to an extensive collection of Latin American art, as well as European, Asian, and contemporary art. The museum also features a variety of educational programs and events.

The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Tuesday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Admission to the museum is free for children under 18, and there are discounts available for seniors, students, and military personnel. There are also select free days throughout the year.

Dine at The Source

There are so many food halls in Denver, but one of the most underrated is The Source ! This is located in the northern part of the city and has tons of fun restaurants to dine at, and you’ll often find locals here.

One of the best places to eat at The Source is smōk . This BBQ restaurant has mouth-watering food that you’ll dream about after you eat it!

Join Spotlight Sunday & get weekly Colorado travel inspiration to your inbox!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

See a game with the Colorado Avalanche

Calling all sports fans! In the winter season, one of the best things to do is to see a Colorado Avalanche game. Tickets can get pretty expensive, but our pro tip is to check ticket apps (like Gametime) the day of; this is normally when you can grab tickets the cheapest.

The experience is unlike any other, and the fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL. Don’t forget to wear your maroon and navy to show your Avalanche pride!

Take a walk or bike ride through one of Denver’s many parks

There are many free things to do in Denver , and one of the best is to visit one of the parks in the city. Denver is home to many parks, and each one is worth visiting.

Biking in a park is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery. Denver has many beautiful parks, so it’s a great place to go for a bike ride .

There are also many trails that are perfect for walking. Visit these parks earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.

Wake up with coffee from Grounds for Dismissal

The absolute best spot for coffee in Denver is Grounds for Dismissal . This queer-run cafe features tons of amazing morning foods and drinks that will leave you wanting more!

The best thing on their menu is definitely their coffee flight. They change what is in the coffee flight each month, and it usually has to do with the season or an upcoming holiday. It’s perfect to split with a friend!

Browse the eclectic shops in historic Larimer Square

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, look no further than Larimer Square . This historic block is home to some of the best shopping, dining, and nightlife in the city.

Larimer Square is also one of the most popular spots for visitors to Denver. It’s Instagram-worthy and is often decorated! Located in the heart of downtown, it’s easy to get to, and there’s always something going on. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Denver downtown.

Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a unique gift, or just a place to people-watch, Larimer Square is the perfect place.

Explore Meow Wolf Convergence Station

Meow Wolf Convergence Station is one of the top things to do in Denver for anyone who loves art, music, and good vibes. It’s a newer addition to Denver, and when we visited it during opening week, we were absolutely in awe.

This community-based art gallery features work from local artists as well as hosts musical performances, workshops, and other events. It’s the perfect place to explore your creativity and connect with others in the city.

Plus, it’s immersive and brings the word “immersive” to a whole new level. Like, you actually walk through the exhibits, almost like you’re a part of it. It’s hard to explain… but you’ll love Meow Wolf Denver!

See the Colorado Rockies play at Coors Field

If you’re a baseball fan, catching a game at Coors Field is a must-do while in Denver. The stadium offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and the experience of watching a game here is like no other.

Plus, what better way to see the Coors Effect in action? Basically, this term came to be because, at the elevation of Coors Field (and Denver), the balls tend to fly here like no other. It’s worth witnessing in person!

Similar to seeing the Avalanche, wait for the price of tickets to drop right on game day on apps like Gametime. We’ve snagged tickets as low as $12 on there before!

We also think it’s way more beneficial to sit higher up. You get more of a breeze, and you’re less in the sun, which is great in the summer months.

Have a donut from Voodoo Donuts

If you’re looking for tasty things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with eating some delicious Voodoo Doughnuts . Though they hail from Portland, there’s a location in Denver that’s almost always busy over on Colfax.

These unique treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, and they’re definitely a memorable experience. Trust us; you’ll be talking about these donuts long after you’ve left Denver!

Plus, they come in a cute pink box. Try their Grape Ape or their Portland Cream; these are our two faves!

Sip on a craft beer at one of Denver’s many breweries

Obviously, no trip to Denver is complete without testing out the breweries here. It’s what we are pretty well known for, after all!

Not only will you get to sample some delicious local beer, but you’ll also learn about the brewing process and how different beers are made.

Plus, most breweries offer tours so you can see first-hand how your favorite brews are created. And, of course, there’s always the opportunity to buy some beer to take home with you!

So if you’re curious about craft beer or just want to try something new, be sure to check out a Denver brewery during your next visit.

For a planned tour of some of the local breweries, check out Denver Brewery Tours .

Attend a show at one of Denver’s many live music venues, such as Ogden Theatre or the Bluebird Theater

There are plenty of things to do in Denver CO, but one of the best things to do is see a concert. We go to a concert in Denver at least once a month because the music scene is very alive and well here!

Denver is home to some great venues that host a variety of music genres. So, whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or anything in between, there’s sure to be a concert for you.

Our personal favorite place to see a concert is at Ogden Theatre . It’s by downtown and has had great artists like Tones & I and Noah Kahan.

See the exhibits at the Molly Brown House Museum

Many people know Denver as a historic gold mining town, but it has so much more to offer visitors today. One of the top things to do in Denver CO is to visit the Molly Brown House .

This house was built in the 1800s and was home to one of the most famous residents of Denver, Margaret “Molly” Brown. Molly Brown was an American socialite, actress, and philanthropist who is best known for surviving the sinking of the Titanic.

Many people know her as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown!”

When you visit her house, you can take a tour and learn all about her fascinating life. You can also see how she lived during a time when most people in Denver were living in poverty.

The Molly Brown House is a great example of how far Denver has come since its early days as a mining town.

Stroll through 16th Street Mall

Even though it’s super touristy, we think it’s worth stopping at 16th Street Mall at least once, and it deserves a spot on this list. This street is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Plus, you can ride the 16th Street Mall Ride up and down the street for free. It’s a great way to get around the city on a budget.

During the holiday season, this street gets all jazzed up with fun lights, and you can even see the city’s electric tree.

Explore Denver Union Station

Located right in LoDo, it’s near impossible to miss a visit to Denver Union Station . It’s where the California-Zephyr Amtrack comes through and also is where most people will come into the city for the first time if they take the airport train.

The train station is truly beautiful both indoors and outdoors. It has a huge sign that welcomes you in, and the marble and gold accents inside feel so opulent.

Watch a Denver Broncos game

If you’re a football fan, there’s no better place to watch a game than at Mile High Stadium . The Denver Broncos fans are some of the most passionate in the league.

There’s nothing like experiencing a Broncos game firsthand, so if you’re in town, be sure to check out a game! Don’t forget to wear orange and blue.

Find a new book at the Tattered Cover Bookstore

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Tattered Cover Bookstore . This local bookstore has been around since 1971 and is beloved by both locals and visitors alike!

What makes Tattered Cover so special?

For starters, it’s one of the largest bookstores in Denver, with a few locations in the area. It stocks both new and used books, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.

Plus, there’s always something going on at Tattered Cover, whether it’s a book signing or a reading group meeting. In other words, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon.

Visit the galleries in the Santa Fe Art District

The Santa Fe Art District is one of the more unique places to visit in Denver. The area is well known for its art galleries and museums.

One of the most fun times to explore the Santa Fe Art District is during the First Friday Art Walks . It happens all year long, and it’s a time when you can go and explore the galleries, mingle with others, and even enjoy some great food.

Sample some delicious Rocky Mountain oysters

Okay… hear us out. Rocky Mountain Oysters are something you should try as a first-time visitor to Denver.

These delicious morsels are actually fried bull testicles. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they are definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a unique culinary experience.

There are many places throughout the city to try them, but the most popular place is the Buckhorn Exchange Restaurant . This steakhouse has many other unique dishes on the menu, too!

See a performance at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre

This world-famous amphitheater is nestled by the beautiful Rocky Mountains and offers stunning views no matter where you sit! The acoustics are also incredible, making it a popular spot for both concerts and other live performances.

If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also take advantage of the hiking and biking trails in the area. Or, if you’re feeling sporty, you can even attend Yoga on the Rocks. No matter what you do, Red Rocks Park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Denver.

For a real treat, visit in the morning to catch the sunrise there. It’s the perfect way to start a day in Denver !

This is easily one of the best things to do in Denver in the summer.

Take a scenic drive or hike through the beautiful Rocky Mountains

Why not take the time to explore the rest of the area by Denver during your trip? Hop in a car and explore some of the Rocky Mountains.

The Rocky Mountains are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, millions of people flock to the mountains to enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, and the many activities that can be found there.

Some fun places in the area to explore include Golden, Boulder, Estes Park, Idaho Springs, and even Rocky Mountain National Park.

Visit the Colorado State Capitol Building

The Colorado State Capitol Building is one of the most iconic structures in Denver. It’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, thanks to its beautiful architecture and rich history.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Denver and the state of Colorado, a visit to the Capitol Building is a must. Guided tours are available, or you can explore the building on your own. Either way, you’re sure to be impressed by this beautiful and important landmark.

Don’t forget to snap a photo at the mile-high step in the front of the building!

Relax in Confluence Park

Confluence Park is one of the most underrated places to visit in Denver. This urban oasis offers stunning views of the cityscape and is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.

When we lived in Lodo, we visited this spot all the time. It’s nestled kind of behind a bridge near 16th Street Mall, and you’re more likely to find local residents there than tourists, which is what makes it so great.

This is the perfect place to jog, relax, or even have a picnic. It’s where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River.

Explore the memorabilia and exhibits at the National Ballpark Museum

Visiting the National Ballpark Museum is one of the unique things to do in Denver, Colorado. The museum is dedicated to the history of baseball and the role that ballparks have played in the game.

The museum features exhibits on the history of baseball, the construction of ballparks, and the evolution of the game.

The museum also has a collection of baseball memorabilia, including many artifacts from the first professional baseball stadium, Fenway Park.

The National Ballpark Museum is a must-visit for any baseball fan and is right by Coors Field.

Have fun at Elitch Gardens

For those visiting Denver with kids, you’ll want to head to Elitch Gardens . This amusement park has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides.

It’s located right by downtown (yes, you read that right), so it’s super easy to get to no matter where in the city you are staying.

There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, as well as live entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a romantic night out, Elitch Gardens is the perfect place for you.

Grab a bite to eat at the Dairy Block & Milk Market

The Denver Milk Market is in the heart of downtown Denver. The area is home to some of the best things to do in Denver today, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The Milk Market is home to many one-of-a-kind shops that you won’t find anywhere else in Denver. From fashion and beauty stores to home decor and gift shops, there’s something for everyone!

The Dairy Block is home to some of the best restaurants in Denver. From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll find something to suit your taste here. There’s especially good pizza at Bonnano Brothers Pizzeria, one of our fave pizza places.

Once you grab a bite to eat, sit and enjoy it in the beautiful alleyway here, look up, and you’ll see there are lights shaped like milk bottles!

See a Colorado Rapids Game

The Colorado Rapids are a professional soccer team here in Denver. They play their home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. The Rapids were founded in 1996, so the team is still fairly new!

Since their founding, the Rapids have won the MLS Cup once in 2010. The amount of support at these games is higher than we’ve witnessed at any other stadium here in Denver. Plus, none of the seats are bad!

Walk around the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mile High City. With many plants from all over the world, it’s one of the best botanic gardens to visit in Colorado.

Even if you’re not a plant lover, the gardens are still worth a visit for their beauty and serenity.

One of the best things to do at the Denver Botanic Gardens is to take a stroll through it all. We recommend grabbing a map and just exploring. There are lots of hidden spots throughout the garden that you’ll wander upon.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, the Denver Botanic Gardens also offers yoga classes, botanical art classes, and gardening workshops.

Boat in Washington Park

Washington Park is one of the most popular parks in Denver, Colorado, and for good reason.

The park is home to a beautiful lake where you can go boating, paddleboarding, or simply relax on the shore. There is a place right by the water where you can rent these by the hour. Try to go earlier in the day, because in the afternoon, it gets hot in the sun!

There are also plenty of walking and biking trails to explore, as well as a playground and picnic area. Washington Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with friends or family.

Have drinks at a rooftop bar

Rooftop bars offer stunning views of the cityscape, and they’re a great place to enjoy the warm weather. And what’s more, Denver has some of the best rooftop bars in the country, in our opinion!

Some great ones include Avanti , Tap Fourteen , and 54Thirty Rooftop . There are also quite a few downtown in Lodo heading towards RiNo.

Go shopping in Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek is one of the best places to shop in Denver. It is an upscale neighborhood with a variety of shops and boutiques.

You can find anything you need at Cherry Creek, from clothes to home decor.

There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. One of our personal favorite spots here is the Cherry Cricket !

Dine at Stanley Marketplace

Located right outside of Denver in Aurora, Stanley Marketplace is one of the most unique places to visit in the city. We go here so often!

The marketplace is filled with different vendors offering a wide variety of cuisines, so there’s something for everyone. A new churro place even opened in 2022, which is incredible and is called Churreria de Madrid .

You can also eat at Denver Biscuit Co here, which serves over-the-top biscuit sandwiches!

The marketplace is located in an old airplane hangar, so it has a really cool industrial vibe. In addition to the food vendors, there are also several shops selling things like clothes, jewelry, and home goods.

The marketplace regularly hosts events like live music, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs.

See a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the top places to visit in Denver. There is always something going on here, and it’s the place where you can often see theatrical performances in the city.

Throughout the past year, they’ve even had Dear Evan Hansen and Hamilton ! We saw Hamilton, and it was incredible. If you plan on seeing a show here though, book your tickets well in advance!

Attend BBQ Fest

If you love BBQ, then you’ll definitely want to attend the BBQ Fest in Denver ! This event is one of the best in the country and features some of the most popular BBQ vendors from around the nation.

You’ll be able to try out different styles of BBQ and find your new favorite! It usually happens over a weekend in the month of June.

Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most popular ways to see the beauty around Denver. The byway takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado and offers stunning views of Mount Evans and the surrounding area.

Just as a heads up, make sure you’re okay with heights before driving this! Be sure also to check the weather before you begin the drive.

Take a stroll through the picturesque LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood

Lodo, short for Lower Downtown, is one of Denver’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods.

Situated just south of RiNo, Lodo is home to a variety of businesses, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The area is home to Coors Field and Union Station, too! If you’re staying in a hotel, you’re most likely staying in LoDo.

Take the time to walk around this neighborhood and see what you stumble upon. You never know what you might find!

Have fun at the Children’s Museum of Denver

One of the best things to do in Denver with kids is to visit the Children’s Museum , especially if you are visiting with kids. The Children’s Museum is a great place for kids of all ages to learn about different subjects.

The museum has many interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, art, history, and more. The Children’s Museum is a great place to take the family for a day of fun and learning!

Stroll through City Park

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Denver’s City Park. This park is home to a number of attractions, including the Denver Zoo.

The park is absolutely massive , so take the time to park and just walk around it. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city because it’s a lot quieter. You could also consider biking here if you want to.

Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA Denver) is a world-class museum featuring the best in contemporary art. MCA Denver offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just getting started.

MCA Denver is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. They even had a Keith Haring exhibit in 2021.

It is located in the heart of downtown Denver, making it easy to get to and from. The museum also has a cafe and a shop, so you can refuel after exploring all the amazing art on display.

Throughout the year, there are also “penny days” where you can basically visit the museum for free. Visit their website to see when these occur!

Read at the Denver Public Library

The Denver Public Library is one of the must-visit spots if it happens to be raining during your trip to the city. It is a beautiful building with a lot of history and plenty of things to do inside.

Why not take the time to stroll through the library, see what it offers, and maybe even pick up a book or two to read? There are lots of spots throughout the library, too, where you can sit and read at your leisure!

Learn at the Denver Museum of Nature and History

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is one of the coolest places in the city, and it’s a great place to learn about the natural world. The museum has a ton of exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.

Families and solo travelers alike will love this museum. Plan on spending at least a few hours there to see everything!

Shop at a local farmer’s market

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Denver this weekend, one great option is to visit a farmer’s market. Shopping at a farmer’s market supports local farmers and helps to ensure that you’re getting fresh, high-quality produce.

Plus, it can be a lot of fun to browse the different stalls and see all the different kinds of fruits and vegetables that are available.

Farmer’s markets are typically held on weekends, so if you’re visiting Denver on a weekend, be sure to check out one of the city’s many farmer’s markets.

Some of the best include the Cherry Creek Farmer’s Market , the Boulder Farmer’s Market , and the Denver Union Station Farmer’s Market .

Have a bite to eat at the Denver Central Market

The Denver Central Market is a great place to eat, and it’s located right in the beautiful RiNo. The market offers a wide variety of food options, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.

Once you peruse the market and grab whatever food you’d like (we absolutely love and suggest Green Seed for smoothies), find a spot to eat by the street art outside the market.

Check out the sealife at the Denver Aquarium

If you find yourself in Denver, then you absolutely must visit the world-renowned Denver Aquarium . While many people visit here to try out the restaurant (which is consistently voted as one of the best places to eat in Denver), the aquarium itself is fun, too.

Head upstairs and walk from exhibit to exhibit. Take your time; there are lots of signs throughout the aquarium where you can learn more. Surprise, but there is a tiger there too!

You can also consider going on one of the Denver Aquarium free days.

Bike the Cherry Creek Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Denver. This popular trail follows Cherry Creek for over 40 miles, offering beautiful views of the creek and the city skyline.

The trail is well-maintained and perfect for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. There are also plenty of places to stop along the way to rest or grab a bite to eat.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or a visitor looking to get outside and experience all that Denver has to offer, the Cherry Creek Trail is definitely worth checking out.

Ride the Denver Trolley

The Denver Trolley is a unique and fun way to see the city. It’s a great way to get around, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Plus, it’s just really cool to ride on a trolley!

The Denver Trolley costs $7 for adults or $3 for children under 13 and over 4, as children under 4 are free. It stops at the Denver Children’s Museum and also the aquarium. Note that they only stop on the southbound part of the ride.

Golf at Urban Putt

Located in Lodo, Urban Putt is one of our favorite hidden gems . This indoor golf course has two different courses set up to replicate parts of Denver! Golf through Denver International Airport, downtown, and even Red Rocks.

Visit during the day to avoid the rush from happy hour. This is fun for both kids and adults, no matter how many times you go! (We’ve gone a handful of times and plan on going many more.)

See the exhibits at the Denver Firefighter Museum

The Denver Firefighter Museum is awesome, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of firefighting in Denver.

The museum is located in an old firehouse, and it has a few exhibits. You can learn about the equipment that firefighters use, see old photos of fires, and more. This spot is mentioned on almost every free tour of Denver!

Drive through and see the animals at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

If you want to see wildlife during your trip to Denver, you won’t want to miss Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge . This refuge is home to bison, prairie dogs, deer, and more.

There are plenty of things to do at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. You can go hiking or biking on the trails, take photos, or, our favorite, hop in your car and drive through to see what animals you’ll find.

Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for things to do in Denver, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. The drive takes around an hour.

Eat a burrito at D’Corozan

D’Corazan is one of the best places to get a burrito in Denver ! We ate here during our first-ever trip to Denver, and since moving here, it’s where we go all the time.

Their cheesy queso with green chile has a nice spice but is incredibly tasty. Their a la carte beef burritos are also so delicious. Order both at the same time and put some of the queso on the burrito for a real treat.

This restaurant is located downtown, so if you’re exploring 16th Street, this is a great place to go to escape the commercial restaurants and eat local.

Drive the Peak to Peak Highway

One of the best things to do in the Denver area is to drive the Peak to Peak Highway . The highway connects Estes Park to Black Hawk and Central City. The views from the road are simply breathtaking, making it one of the most popular scenic drives in Colorado.

In addition to the incredible views, driving the Peak to Peak Highway is also a great way to experience some of the state’s best foliage. In the fall , this highway is truly one of the most spectacular in the entire country.

Tour Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar

The Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar offers tours of their facilities, allowing visitors to see how they make their award-winning whiskey. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy spirits.

Explore more about their tour by clicking here . Many of their tours include up to four different tastings, so you can try it while also learning more! Talk about a good time.

Go ice skating downtown

In the winter, go ice skating in Denver!

Ice skating is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the city. Plus, it’s a perfect activity for both adults and children.

There are several ice skating rinks in Denver, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re new to ice skating, don’t worry; just stay to the side. It’s what we do!

So put on your warmest coat and gloves and head out to one of these top ice skating spots in Denver.

Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most amazing creatures at the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and for good reason. The zoo is an exciting place to explore for people of all ages.

In addition to its impressive animal collection, the Denver Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, events, and exhibits throughout the year.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts or you just want to see some of the animals, there’s something for everyone at the Denver Zoo.

Discover some amazing street art in Denver’s RiNo (River North) Arts District

Denver’s RiNo (River North Art District) is home to some of the best street art in the city. The area is also home to a number of breweries, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring!

There are a number of ways to explore street art in RiNo. You can take a walking tour, rent a bike, or even take a Segway tour. No matter how you choose to explore, you’re sure to see some incredible artwork.

Learn at the United States Mint

The United States Mint in Denver produces coins for circulation, as well as collector coins. It is also a great tourist destination, especially for those interested in American history or numismatics.

The Mint offers tours of its facility, which is the best way to learn. Tours are free and open to the public, making the Mint a great option for things to do in Denver CO that are both educational and enjoyable.

After taking a tour of the facility, visitors can browse the gift shop, which sells a variety of items related to coins and money. The Mint also has an exhibit gallery, which features rotating exhibitions on topics such as the history of American coinage or the Mint’s involvement in world events.

Whether you’re interested in American history, numismatics, or just want to see how coins are made, the United States Mint in Denver is a great option for things to do in the city.

Take a photo at the Big Blue Bear

The Big Blue Bear is one of the most iconic sculptures in Denver, and for good reason! This massive sculpture is impossible to miss, and it makes for a great photo op. Trust us; your Instagram followers will be jealous.

Find it right by the Denver Convention Center. It’s leaning up against the building!

Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Denver.

This museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of aviation travel. The museum has an impressive collection of aircraft artifacts, as well as interactive exhibits that will teach you about the science of flight.

The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation and space travel, and it’s also a lot of fun!

Explore the outdoors at Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Denver. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.

There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas. The park is open all year round, making it a great place to visit no matter what time of year it is.

If you live in Denver, be sure to grab a free state park pass from the library. Keep in mind there are often waitlists for these, but you can keep it for a week!

Attend the National Western Stock Show

The National Western Stock Show is the perfect event for any Western fan. This annual event features some of the best in rodeo, livestock, and more.

It normally takes place in January each year and is truly fun for the entire family. It’s been going on since the early 1900s and takes place over the course of about 16 days, so you can choose a date to attend that works best for you.

Go on a free walking tour

A Denver free walking tour is the perfect way to get an insider’s view of the city. You’ll learn about the history and culture of Denver, see the best sights in Denver, meet new people, and make new friends. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise!

We actually have gone on walking tours before when family and friends have visited us here. Visit here to see some great walking tours in Denver.

Don’t forget to bring some cash to tip your guide. While they are free, tipping is encouraged!

Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

Last but not least, consider taking a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park . Just a short drive from the city, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the state. It’s easily one of the best day trips from Denver .

There are several outdoor activities one must do near Denver, Colorado… but this is one you can’t miss out on.

Here, you’ll find towering mountains, stunning alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. There are plenty of things to do in the park, whether you want to go hiking, camping, or fishing.

And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife! With just a day, spend the morning hiking in the Bear Lake area (we recommend Emerald Lake trail, and if you have the time, also see Lake Haiyaha) and then spend the afternoon on Trail Ridge Road.

FAQs: What to do in Denver Colorado

What are the best attractions to visit in denver.

The city of Denver is home to many wonderful attractions. The top five include the Colorado State Capitol, the Denver Zoo, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Denver Union Station.

Are there any great outdoor recreational activities in Denver?

Denver has plenty of outdoor activities for visitors, including hiking and biking trails throughout the city, kayaking on one of the many lakes in the area, or skiing in the nearby Rockies.

Is there a safe place to stay when I’m visiting Denver?

Denver is a very safe city with many hotels and Airbnbs offering comfortable accommodations for travelers. It’s best to stay downtown in LoDo!

What type of food can I find when I’m in Denver?

There are so many great dining options in Denver! From classic American eateries to international restaurants, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your taste. Don’t forget about trendy cafes where you can grab coffee or a bite to eat!

Is there nightlife and entertainment in Denver?

There’s plenty to do when it comes to nightlife and entertainment in Denver – from dive bars to fine dining establishments, live music venues, and comedy clubs.

Final Thoughts: Denver Bucket List

This post was all about the best things to do in Denver CO! We hope you enjoy your time in the Mile High City.

Want to read more? Check out these next:

• 19 Best Things to Do in Denver at Night
• 10 Delectable Spots for Afternoon Tea in Denver
• 13 Tasty Spots for Brunch in Denver
• 7 Best Places to go Apple Picking Near Denver
• 49 Best Free Things to do in Denver (& the Surrounding Area!)
• How to Have the Perfect 1 Day in Denver
• 23 Romantic Date Night Ideas in Denver

Pin this post for later!

After moving to Denver in 2020, KP & Jessie absolutely fell in love with the beauty of the city (and the entire state of Colorado). Together, they're always seeing more of what Colorado has to offer. They love exploring, going on hikes, and trying tasty foods! When they're not traveling, they can be found watching the latest season of Love Island or hanging out with their cat.

Similar Posts

15 Things to Do During Fall in Denver

11 Stunning Spots for Watching the Sunset in Denver

14 Best Things to Do During Spring in Denver

15 Denver Hidden Gems From a Local

11 Beautiful Spots for the Perfect Sunrise in Denver

13 Top Things to Do in Denver in Summer

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Denver (Colorado)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 16, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Denver is full of exciting points of interest, must-see tourist attractions and some of the best vacation spots .

With so many places to see, you’ll want to have a good plan for where to go while you’re in this bustling city.

Here are the 30 best and fun things to do in Denver, Colorado.

Table of Contents

1. Denver Botanic Gardens

Sherry Little Fawn S / Shutterstock

The Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the must see locations for anyone who’s looking for a peaceful, relaxing walk.

This gorgeous oasis spans 24 acres and is covered in stunning sights, including numerous sculptures, pools, and different garden types.

For the coolest sculptures, check out the huge, spiky red-and-yellow piece entitled “Colorado” made by glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, or the Deborah Butterfield piece depicting a horse stripped bare.

For the most fascinating gardens, xeriscaped drought-resistant lands, the Mordecai Children’s Garden, and a Japenese garden are all great options.

And don’t forget the beautiful Monet Pool packed with pretty lilies!

You can also stop by the gift shop for some quaint little trinkets.

Address:  1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, United States

2. Clyfford Still Museum

Clyfford Still Museum

The Clyfford Still Museum is situated right next to the arguably much more popular Denver Art Museum, but it is just as worthy of stopping by while you’re in this Colorado city.

It houses a whopping 3,200 pieces created by Clyfford Still, who is world-renowned as an abstract expressionist artist.

Originally opened in 2011, the Clyfford Still Museum celebrates some of Still’s most loved works, beginning from his early sketches from the 1920s to his more well-known canvas masterpieces made back in the 1950s.

Witness the bright bursts of colors, supplemented with a variety of informational placards that keep things concise yet interesting.

This Colorado museum also gives you great insight into the way that an art style can slowly but surely evolve and change over time.

Unlike many more crowded museums, this one is intimate and feels very much like a unique, personal experience that you can enjoy without the masses.

It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Denver!

Address:  1250 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

3. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Grossinger / Shutterstock

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a stunning spot for sightseeing that is located on Colorado Highway 5.

It’s a great way to take in some stunning views without exerting yourself in a hike if that’s not something you feel like doing.

The concept is simple: pay a simple car entrance fee and drive up from Echo Lake’s Highway 103 to the top of the Summit Lake road.

The road is only open at certain times of the year, but it’s one of the best places to visit in the area.

This is the tallest paved road that you’ll find not just in this city, but in all of America.

At the very peak of Mount Evans and its road, you’ll be a huge, impressive 14,264 feet over the level of the sea.

A number of useful stopping points allow you to step out and look out over the edge of the road to see views of the Rocky Mountains.

It’s certainly among the top things to do in Denver!

4. Denver Art Museum

robert cicchetti / Shutterstock

The Denver Art Museum is among the top 10 art-related locations in Colorado.

It is the biggest of its kind within the city.

Located in the famed Golden Triangle Creative District, it hosts over 70,000 different gorgeous works of art in two lovely buildings, from all manner of artists, from all walks of life.

The museum showcases a good mix of permanent fixtures as well as sophisticated and fantastic temporary exhibitions that change with the seasons.

The building itself is made with eye-catching architecture that provides a wow factor from the get-go, and there’s something within for everyone, from art aficionados to those who just popped in.

There isn’t any specific exhibit that truly stands out, as so many of them are incredible and worth viewing.

You’ll see countless different pieces that will make you gasp in delight!

Whether or not you’re an art fan, this museum easily makes the list for what to do in Denver.

Address:  100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States

5. Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Federico Curcio / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some music and entertainment tonight, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is among the greatest that you’ll find in Colorado.

It is famous for being exceedingly beautiful thanks to its natural amphitheater design, which benefits from the gorgeous red sandstone rocks that encircle it.

If you’re in Denver anytime from spring to fall, you’ll be able to witness some pretty interesting shows, from musical performances to film screenings.

Better yet, pretty much all seats in the entire amphitheater are good ones, and shows go on through all sorts of weather.

But even if you’re not big on live shows, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is still one of the things to see that you won’t want to miss, even if it’s purely for its aesthetic quality!

Address:  18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States

Going on a road trip around Colorado? Check out our list of things to do in Colorado !

6. Coors Field

Kit Leong / Shutterstock

Baseball fans unite!

Coors Field is one of the most fun locations in Denver to take a trip to if you’re looking for a ballpark that’s suitable for the whole family.

Named after the beer that this city is so well-known for, this field is the home turf of the Colorado Rockies, a Major League Baseball team much-loved by many.

Coors Field is a stadium that covers 76 acres and more than enough space to seat 50,000 spectators.

If you’re lucky enough to sit in the right-field or first-base areas, you’ll have a gorgeous view ahead of you to accompany the game: the Rocky Mountains loom overhead.

But what about off-season?

Well, there are still plenty of activities to do that will keep all ages entertained.

Ground tours can be still be embarked on off-season, giving you a great glimpse into the world of baseball.

An interactive area allows you to take your chance at video batting cages and speed pitches.

Whether you’re here to see a game, sample some tasty snacks, or just explore, visiting Coors Field is one of the most awesome things to do in downtown Denver!

Address:  2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205, United States

7. Empower Field at Mile High

APN Photography / Shutterstock

The Empower Field is located within the well-known Mile High Stadium of Denver.

It’s the site of many amazing events in Super Bowl history, including the multiple wins and record-setting efforts of the local Broncos.

Football fans in this Colorado City are sure to love catching a game over the weekend – or on a weekday, too! – in this 76,000-seater stadium.

But this field isn’t just pure sports.

Believe it or not, public art displays can be found around the field for you to scrutinize.

Still, no one can deny that catching a home game on the Empower Field is among the top things to do in Denver.

You can also go on a tour of the stadium, including walking through the locker rooms, broadcast areas, entrance tunnel, and more.

Address:  1701 Bryant St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

8. Forney Museum of Transportation

Neal Wellons / flickr

The Forney Museum of Transportation is one of the more quirky Denver attractions in Colorado.

Originally, the museum’s extensive collection began with the private collection of Forney Industries founder J.D. Forney.

His wife and children presented him with a special antique car in 1961, and that kickstarted his love of collecting unusual, special, one-of-a-kind, and sometimes downright weird automobiles!

If it had wheels, he would consider it!

Now, the collection comprises of 600 different pieces, and it continues to expand in the spirit of Forney’s efforts.

The car of Amelia Earhart, a “Big Boy” locomotive, and even a banged-about Herbie the Love Bug are all noteworthy entries to this museum.

Hilariously, to add a little more life to their displays, mannequins with silly eyes are posed around and in these vehicles.

It’s a very strange museum indeed, but if you’re looking for what to do, it’s one that shouldn’t be missed!

Address:  4303 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216, United States

9. Larimer Square

littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock

Known as one of the most beautiful places in the US , Larimer Square is full of sights, sounds, and stores that make it an absolute must-visit in downtown Denver.

It is from here that all of Denver slowly grew into the wonderful Colorado city that we know it as now.

Teeming with history, it slipped into a deteriorated state a good while ago and was slowly refurbished and brought back to life.

The square isn’t exactly the “plaza” type of square.

Instead, it is a street spanning just a block that contains a wide range of interesting shop lots, including clubs, boutiques, bars, restaurants, and more.

Delicious food and a delightful atmosphere await you!

Address: 1430 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, USA

10. Adams Mystery Playhouse

Adams Mystery Playhouse

The Adams Mystery Playhouse is the only establishment of its kind in all of Colorado.

So, what is it exactly?

It is a mystery dinner theatre, which essentially provides a delicious buffet meal for you to enjoy while actors bestow their hilarious and delightful comedy on you.

And it’s all family-friendly, so it’s among the greatest things to do in Denver this weekend with kids!

Then, surprise! Something happens!

A murder mystery takes place right after dinner is done!

Help look for clues, have a few snacks, and watch more performances – then enjoy the culmination of the mysterious case.

The winning team that solves the case gets some great souvenirs.

If you’re looking for some fun while you’re in town, this is a fantastic option.

Address:  2406 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80211, United States

Exploring other areas of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Colorado Springs  & some of the things to do in Estes Park ?

11. Denver Zoo

Mia2you / Shutterstock

The Denver Zoo first opened in the 1890s, and since then, it has only gotten better.

Designed after a nature preserve in Kenya, it’s among the most fun tourist attractions in Colorado that will make you feel like you’re far away in the wilderness!

More than 4,000 animals call the Denver Zoo their home.

It takes up a whopping 8 acres and spans across City Park, with a wide range of different types of areas that showcase some awesome animals.

You can view mammals, reptiles, aquatic creatures, invertebrates, birds, and more!

The Denver Zoo also offers plenty of activities.

If you get there during the standard feeding times, you’ll get to listen to some fascinating lectures from staff members.

Special events involve giant Lego replicas of the animals that litter the compound, photo safaris, animatronic dinosaurs, and more!

Address:  2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205, United States

12. Tattered Cover Book Store

Epiglottis / Shutterstock

If you’re a book-lover figuring out what to do while you’re in Denver, the Tattered Cover Book Store is arguably among the most loved.

It is one of the most impressive independent bookstores in Denver today.

Since it opened in 1971, the bookstore has grown outside of Colorado to earn four locations, and for good reason!

This homey bookstore is full of things to see, with great books, warm coffee, and cozy little armchairs to sit in.

Staff is very knowledgeable, and sometimes authors drop by to host seminars.

Gorgeous stationery is also available for sale, alongside a huge variety of books that spawn across all the genres you can think of.

Whether you’re here to just browse, to pick up some books or gifts, or to rest in an armchair while reading for a few hours, this bookstore feels like a sophisticated library that anyone would love to spend an afternoon in.

Address:  2526 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States

13. Craft Beer Tour

Master1305 / Shutterstock

Denver is pretty well-known for its beer.

That’s why you can’t miss out on a Craft Beer Tour if you’re in this Colorado city this week.

Head to downtown Denver to be taken through a two- or three-hour tour that teaches you just how all that renowned craft beer is made.

Many different types of these tours are held, but the most popular one brings you through four stops.

You’ll learn how brewing happens, take a trip to one of the initial brewpubs that started the Denver craft beer craze, get to drink in a special governer-founded brewery, and finally wind up in one of the state’s greatest bars.

Throughout this tour, which is one of the most fun things to do in Denver, you’ll find out about which beers have the most incredible tastes, receive a tasting glass as a souvenir, and learn historical facts and bits of trivia.

So if you want to sate your craving for good alcohol without going out tonight, this is a great way to do it!

14. Cheesman Park

jennifer_crowder_artist / Shutterstock

Cheesman Park is located in the central area of Denver, and it’s known for being pretty haunted.

In fact, it’s one of the most haunted spots not just in Colorado, but in all of the United States.

Spanning 80 acres, the park features landscaped grounds and looks perfectly serene, but don’t let that fool you when you visit today, tomorrow, or whenever!

Originally, this area of land was part of 320 acres used by the Colorado city as a cemetery.

Back then, it was known as Mount Prospect.

One end was reserved for the rich to be buried while the other was used for criminals and beggars, and people on either end of the spectrum were buried in between.

The cemetery eventually began deteriorating, and the city eventually got control over it and disposed of 5,000 bodies that had been unclaimed, often by cutting them up into tiny pieces.

No wonder this place has its scary reputation now!

It may not be the most conventional of Denver attractions, but it’s certainly worth a visit if you’re there to view the macabre and odd!

Address: 8th Ave & Franklin St, Denver, CO 80206, USA

15. American Museum of Western Art

Miguel Rodríguez / flickr

If you love history but don’t want to deal with overcrowded museums, the American Museum of Western Art is one of the best places to visit – so much so that you should drop in if you’re near Denver.

The building itself began its life in 1880, where it was used as a school for women known as the Brinker Collegiate Institute.

After that closed down, it was, surprisingly, turned into a brothel, which could be entered via a secret tunnel underground.

Eventually, William Foxley purchased the building, and he used a huge amount of money to turn it into the museum we know now.

The museum’s primary goal is promoting Western life, spanning from the early 1800s all the way to modern living.

A wide range of different collections provides insights into more than just Colorado, especially through the Anschutz Collection.

Tours are also available, through which you can get in-depth examinations of over 200 pieces.

Address:  1727 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80202, United States

Exploring other parts of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Breckenridge  & some of the things to do in Boulder ?

16. Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey

Infinite_Eye / Shutterstock

In need of a fun night in Denver, but you want to make it as unique an experience as possible?

You could visit a bar, but you could also be classy and get yourself a tour of the coolest places to visit in Denver – Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey.

If you would rather get your drinks sorted during the day, this operational distillery has you covered as well.

While the in-house bar itself has a rustic feel with its Western decor, the rest of the distillery (and the tasting room) retains that industrial feel with steel beams and corrugated metal.

No matter where you’re drinking your whiskey, however, one thing’s for certain – it’s some of the yummiest liquor in the city.

Don’t be surprised if you bump into people camping overnight for bottles of the distillery’s limited edition Snowflake!

Address:  200 S Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80223, United States

Planning another vacation? Don’t forget to check out some of the most beautiful places to visit in California !

17. Union Station

Jon Osumi / Shutterstock

There’s a lot of history to be found in Denver, thanks to it being the center of Colorado’s Gold Rush heyday.

Now, the century-old Union Station not only serves as a standing legacy to the city’s colorful past, but it also serves downtown Denver as a functioning public transit station!

In addition to that, Union Station is also a one-stop hub for entertainment and eateries.

If you have the time for it, one of the best things to do in Denver is to try having a night out at the station.

Head down over to the Union Stations Orient Express-style Cooper Lounge if you’re in the mood for snazzy cocktails, or catch happy hour at the Terminal Bar!

If you aren’t hungry yet, the renovated landmark has plenty of shops and boutiques you can look in.

Maybe you’ll find something in this entertainment center that’ll catch your eye!

Address:  Denver, CO 80202, United States

18. City Park

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

While hunting for tourist attractions around Denver, you may have heard of the City Park – and for good reason.

Located in the approximate LoDo side of Denver, this park sprawls across an incredible 330 acres and houses the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in proximity to each other.

While Colorado as a whole is no slacker in the scenic views department, you’d be hard-pressed to find backdrops that this park can provide.

Whether you just want to marvel at the sight of the city’s skyline against the Rockies or enjoy the romantic silhouette the Spanish-style pavilion provides, there are some breathtaking views this park is ready to offer!

And when you’re done with being outdoors all day, you can just duck into the Museum for an air-conditioned learning experience.

It’s a win-win situation no matter which way you slice it!

Address: Colorado Blvd. and York St., Denver, CO 80205, USA

19. Denver Mint

Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock

Should you still be wondering about other Denver attractions you can visit, then why not consider this chance to see a working coin mint in action?

A relic of Colorado’s mining heyday, the Denver branch of the national Mint was originally meant to take advantage of the Gold Rush and produce coinage for the U.S. Mint.

While it’s still an active mint pumping out 50 million coins daily, the facility also doubles as a museum.

Located near the Denver Art Museum, you can pop on by to learn about coin design, manufacturing, and Colorado’s rich mining legacy in great detail.

While the tours are free, they are often in high demand and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

So make sure to show up there first thing in the morning and give yourself at least 30 minutes to clear security!

Address:  320 W Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204, United States

20. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

f11photo / Shutterstock

For a day full of fun, why not check out the Denver Museum of Nature & Science ?

This impressive facility is home to tons of scientific exhibits that are sure to delight anyone who has a love for the natural sciences.

It’s easy to find this museum too – there’s plenty of buses that have this museum as a dropping off point.

If you were already visiting the Denver Zoo earlier that day, this fantastic museum is just to the south!

And here’s a fun little thing – one of the top things to do in Denver is to find mythological creatures that really should not be in a museum about the physical world.

A tradition that was started by painter Kent Pendleton in the 1970s, the museum is now full of hidden gnomes and elves just waiting to be spotted by an eagle-eyed visitor!

Address:  2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205, United States

Looking for more thrills? Why not check out some of the things to do in Fort Collins  & some of the fun things to do in Durango, CO ?

21. Washington Park

Faina Gurevich / Shutterstock

Known for its beautiful landscape and forests, Colorado remains one of the most worthy sightseeing destinations in the nation.

Denver itself is home to Washington Park – one of the city’s most treasured outdoor regions.

Why not take a break from the humdrum of city life and treat yourself to its soul-soothing aesthetics?

If you need some points of interest to keep you oriented in this park, why not try hopping on a paddleboat or a rented bike to explore Smith Lake with?

Just make your way down to the historical boathouse next to it to get started.

The park’s second lake, Grasmere Lake, has a sprawling playground should you decide to bring your families along.

For green-thumbed enthusiasts, Washington Park is also home to the Mount Vernon Garden – a green haven that welcomes any tired citizens with loving arms.

Here you can wander along meandering paths as you take in the richness of the plant life, and when you’re tired, simply relax on one of the garden’s many benches.

Address: S. Downing St. & E. Louisiana Ave, Denver, CO 80209, USA

22. The Room of Lost Things

The Room Of Lost Things

With such a unique name, you would hope that The Room Of Lost Things would live up to the expectations it has set for itself.

And thankfully, it does.

Located in the Sante Fe Arts Districts, this shop is themed on the macabre and the strange.

If oddities are your thing, then you need to put visiting this shop on your list of things to do in Denver today.

Check out the mummified Prairie dogs lining the shelves, or buy a fossil to bring home as a souvenir.

If you’re struggling to identify what it is that’s caught your attention, the employees and artists within are more than happy to help you out.

Address:  987 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, United States

23. Molly Brown House Museum

Kirstie Warner / flickr

The name “ Molly Brown House Museum ” may not seem fantastical enough to make it to your list of “What To See in Denver”, but to bypass this simple museum would be a mistake.

Margaret Brown was an activist and a philanthropist who boarded the ill-fated Titanic.

And contrary to most expectations, Brown actually survived the sinking of the ship to tell the tale, earning her the nickname of “Unsinkable Molly Brown.”

But there’s more to her tale than just surviving the Titanic – and this museum is here to show you just what you’ve been missing.

Built in the late 1800s, the museum itself is a historical building called the House of Lions – named so for its decorative lion statues.

Why not pop on over to explore what life was like in Victorian Colorado, or check out a guided tour of Molly Brown’s life – and her efforts in the suffrage movements of the time!

Address:  1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203, United States

24. Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art

Jose A Feliciano / Shutterstock

Art aficionados ahoy – Denver is host to one of Colorado’s many art museums, making it a must see destination if you want to complete that national art tour.

If you’re just an average person who appreciates art, then please understand museum-trawling can be one of the best things to do in Denver.

Why not give it a shot?

Located in Denver, the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art is still relatively unknown, despite its recently elevated profile.

Which is a shame, since it stands out from other museums nearby by its salon-style organization of its collection.

And what a collection it is!

If you’re not interested in international art collection (that contains pieces from all the major design periods since 1870), then perhaps this will whet your artistic appetite.

You can take a look at Vance Kirkland’s original three-room studio, and see where the state’s most distinguished painter worked!

Address:  1201 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

25. Denver Center for the Performing Arts

photo.ua / Shutterstock

Are you in Denver for a fun weekend trip?

Then why not reserve a night on your schedule to do cool things – like visiting all eight theaters handled by the nation’s largest nonprofit theater organization?

Whether you’re interested in musicals, cabaret, or innovative plays, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts probably has a program for you.

If you would rather have an intimate experience with the stage and its performers, look towards the cabaret-style Garner Galleria Theatre with its 200 seats.

Or would you perhaps rather some flashy, Broadway-style musical?

If so, look no further than Buell Theater.

With room to seat 2,800 people, the largest theater in the DCPA’s arsenal is host to bigger productions you can use to wow your friends into being Broadway fans!

No matter your preferences or age, there’s always something for you to enjoy at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts!

Address:  1101 13th St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

26. Children’s Museum of Denver

Children’s Museum of Denver

Museums are one of the coolest tourist attractions for a reason, but they’re not normally attractive to small children.

Where’s the fun in just staring at exhibits?

You need to have activities of some kind to keep them entertained.

So if you have little ones in town on your visit to Colorado, why not drop by Children’s Museum of Denver instead?

Full of interactive activities that are sure to delight the little minds and hands, this museum’s features will surely be the highlight of the trip for your children.

If the climbing walls, electricity demos, hands-on engineering stations, and the interactive art studio won’t capture their fancy, then check out their website.

Perhaps one of their other periodic workshops might be of further interest to them!

Address:  2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211, United States

27. Colorado State Capitol

While Denver is well-known as the mile-high city, reality falls a little short of that claim.

If you really want to stand a mile above sea level, you’ll have to make your way to the Colorado State Capitol .

And if you’re already somewhere near Denver, why not put in a little more leg work to nab that fun claim?

Not only is it the heart of the state’s government, one of the Colorado State Capitol’s steps should put you exactly one mile above sea level – though the step differs depending on who you ask.

This gorgeous building has not one, but three different granite steps that have been officially identified as the exact elevation that lives up to Denver’s mile-high claim.

That aside, the Capitol is one of the best places to visit if you’re interested in Denver’s history.

You can book a free tour of the historical building’s interior, or admire the architecture of granite and gold – a beautiful handover of the state’s 1890s Gold Rush era.

Address:  200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, United States

28. Denver Public Library

Jim Lambert / Shutterstock

If you are a self-professed bookworm of any kind, then a visit to the Denver Public Library is a must do.

Just head on over to downtown Denver, and you’ll find the city’s central library!

Or you could, alternatively, visit any of its 23 branches depending on what’s near you.

Established in 2003, this library is one you can lose yourself in.

Not only you can learn about Colorado in there, you can also dive into its archive of over 2 million items.

There’s just something in there for everyone.

Books? Of course.

Movies and DVDs? Tons galore.

Reference materials for the desperate student? They’ve got your back.

Historical photographs for the visiting researcher? All at your fingertips!

But what about your children?

Not to fret, there’s a kiddies area filled with all sorts of activities and materials for your little ones to discover and enjoy too.

And thanks to the library’s full-service lending department, you can take your time to learn about just anything you want!

Address (Central Branch):  10 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States

29. Denver Firefighters Museum

Craig Talbert / flickr

To make the most of your trip to Colorado, why not check out downtown Denver?

There are all sorts of things to see and do here – and if you happen to wander into Tremont Place, you might find Denver’s history just waiting to be explored.

Nestled within the building of the city’s very first proper firehouse is Denver Firefighters Museum – a museum dedicated to the Denver Fire Department, first established in the 1880s.

But why so much hubbub over some firefighters?

If you don’t find 150 years of firefighting techniques and equipment a fascinating subject in and of itself, then maybe learning about how the state’s infamous wildfires are dealt with may interest you.

Thanks to the region’s dry climate, the Department is no stranger to dealing with conflagrations.

Did they have those in the past? How did they deal with it then?

It’s time to find out!

Address:  1326 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80204, United States

30. Colorado Symphony

Kent Kanouse / flickr

If you’re bumbling around Denver at night with a partner in tow, why not skip the bars and get yourself some culture at the Boettcher Concert Hall?

Built in Denver in 1978, the first (and only) 360-degree concert hall in the country is a sight to behold in and of itself.

With the hall’s unique arrangement for its 2,700 seats, you will never be more than 85 feet away from the stage – no matter where you’re located in its five seating areas!

If this fascinating architecture isn’t enough to put this on your Denver must-visit list, then what about listening to some professional symphony orchestra?

With Andrew Litton as its music director, the Colorado Symphony presents all sorts of year-round performances and events.

For those of you who would rather get your hands dirty, the Symphony also hosts all sorts of community outreach programs too.

Why not listen to the orchestra, and then learn about their equipment afterwards?

Address:  1000 14th St #15, Denver, CO 80202, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Denver

There are countless Denver attractions that make great places to go while you’re here for your holiday.

So what are you waiting for?

Plan a trip and hopefully, this list of the top fun things to do in Denver will help you find lots of cool things and stuff to do as you enjoy the best of Denver!

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things to do in Denver

Your complete guide to the best things to do in Denver this year, from fascinating museums to funky breweries and beyond

What a marvelous place the Mile High City is. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dreaming of packing up and moving here, because Denver is one of the most liveable cities in the United States. It isn’t difficult to understand why; 300 days of sunshine each year, an energetic downtown area, one of the best culinary scenes in the country, and the whole ‘surrounded by stunning mountains’ thing make any argument null and void. Denver is delightful, dynamic, dramatic, and more.

Whether you are looking for tranquility or thrills, you will find each in abundance here. The best things to do in Denver are elite, from gorgeous hikes to all-night parties and beyond. Check out our guide to the ultimate Denver bucket list, and book your trip already.

RECOMMENDED:  The best restaurants in Denver

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Denver

1.  Denver Art Museum

Along with the architecture of internationally renowned visionaries Giò Ponti and Daniel Libeskind, the Denver Art Museum (DAM) is perhaps best known for its holdings in Native and Western American art. Though the DAM might lean heavily on its Rocky Mountain roots, its collections cover the entire spectrum. Seek out, for instance, Monet’s  Waterloo Bridge  and Sandy Skoglund’s startling large-scale installation  Fox Games , depicting a fantastical dining room.

2.  Denver Botanic Gardens

With dozens of horticulturally distinct collections set indoors and out on 20-plus acres, the Denver Botanic Gardens is an oasis in what is, after all, the high desert. Here you can peruse thousands of plant species from across the globe, from cacti to rainforest orchids. It’s also a cultural and educational center, regularly hosting art exhibits, plant shows, gardening classes, and more. As you explore, take a breather and check out glass wizard Dale Chihuly’s Colorado, which graces the pond in the Ellipse Garden.

3.  Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

The ever-so-dramatic sweep of its rugged sandstone formations has made Red Rocks a beloved venue for concerts of all stripes since its inauguration in 1941. In 1983, a little-known Irish band happened to film a performance at what you might call nature’s own music hall—and the rest, as U2 fans know, is rock history. Of course, it also serves as one of the world’s most breathtaking gyms, where runners get super-sweaty tackling the seemingly endless staircases, and hikers hit the trails through the surrounding 868-acre park. 

4.  SoBo

The Platt Park stretch of South Broadway (SoBo) has long been known as Antique Row for its wealth of dealers in everything from folk art to furniture. You can shop for vintage wares, weed, or both: SoBo is also called the Green Mile, reflecting the influx of marijuana dispensaries. The quirky shopping experience only gets funkier as you head north into the Baker District, where boutiques like  Decade , a source for up-and-coming designer labels, skew as hip as the nearby eateries.

5.  MCA Denver

Founded in 1996, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) moved into its permanent and larger home (27,000 square feet) in 2007. With works displayed across five galleries, a shop, a library, and a rooftop cafe, the space is as pretty as a picture (although we can't guarantee that all the pictures will be pretty). Comical, creepy, racy, relentless… Whatever else they may be, exhibitions at the MCA are always provocative. In fact, according to MCA Denver themselves, their exhibits seek to create 'understanding and dialog about the art of our time.'

6.  Union Station

After a historic redevelopment, LoDo’s turn-of-the-century terminal is once again a destination for architecture buffs, scenesters, foodies, and rail riders. Absorb the Beaux Arts aura of the majestic, barrel-vaulted Great Hall while sipping local craft beers in the retro-toned  Terminal Bar  or cocktails on the mezzanine of the glamorous  Cooper Lounge . Score a seat at  Stoic & Genuine’s  chef’s counter to indulge in sharp twists on seafood classics, or treat yourself to a feast at  Mercantile Dining & Provision , where farmhouse substance meets cosmopolitan style. 

7.  The Source

This epicurean food hall became an instant landmark when it opened in 2013 with a dream team of vendors. The food and drink are top-notch. To cite highlights would be misleading; that said, an order of brisket nachos at  Smok  and a croissant churro with dulce de leche from  Reunion Bread Co . are among the absolute musts.

8.  Molly Brown House Museum

Saved from demolition in 1970, visitors to this Victorian manor will find the docents’ stories about the Titanic survivor’s years as an actress and a civil-rights activist no less compelling than the opulent period decor. Her famous unsinkability aside, Margaret Brown led a remarkable life for a woman of her time. The Molly Brown House offers self-guided tours and special events throughout the year; Gothic-horror story hours, holiday teas, garden parties, and other corny-but-entertaining programs pop up every season. 

9.  Hiking near Denver

As (more-or-less) casual day trips go, you can’t beat hitting the trails around Golden and Boulder. Whether you choose one of the easygoing loops on Lookout Mountain or rugged climbs in Eldorado Canyon State Park and around the striking sandstone formations known as the Flatirons, you'll be treated to stellar natural vistas. While you wander amid ponderosa pines and Indian paintbrush, keep your eyes peeled for mule deer and monarchs (never mind rattlesnakes and black bears). 

10.  Empower Field at Mile High

The stomping ground of the Denver Broncos also made history when it hosted Barack Obama’s acceptance speech during the Democratic National Convention in 2008. Tailgate on the south side, stomp your feet to create 'mile-high thunder; and join a chorus of 76,000 yelling 'in-com-plete!' to show your support for the Broncos. On a guided tour, learn a bevy of stats while visiting the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum and getting a player’s-eye view of the end zone—something even non-fans get a charge out of.

11.  Clyfford Still Museum

This single-artist museum warrants intricate exploration, not only to view almost the entire oeuvre of the radical Abstract Expressionist Clyfford Still but to admire the masterful architecture as well. Dedicate at least an hour to the tranquil surroundings and the large-scale canvases that defined Still’s contribution to modern art.

12.  Craft breweries

Roam the linked RiNo, Ballpark, and Five Points neighborhoods, and you’ll run the gamut of craft tipples, from suds to spirits. Boozin' brilliant. Buzzing little breweries like Mockery and Ratio  encircle granddaddy  Great Divide —but as you hop from one to the next, sampling chocolate rye scotch ale and passionfruit-guava goes, you’ll also (quite possibly literally) stumble on  Stem Ciders ,  Infinite Monkey Theorem  Urban Winery, and  Mile High Spirits .

13.  The Beer Spa

Here you can soak away your worries and/or have them massaged out in zero-gravity chairs and then sample a wide variety of Colorado’s craft brews all in one place. Makes you wonder; if this was made a mandatory part of the working week, everyone would probably be much nicer to each other. Check out the website for a complete list of what is on offer. They cater to singles, couples, and groups, so you have no excuse.

14.  Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The route from Idaho Springs to the top of Colorado’s 14th-tallest peak traverses some 7,000ft along the continent’s highest paved roadway. Possibly nerve-wracking and definitely slow-going yet breathtaking in every sense of the word, Mount Evans Scenic Byway takes you past alpine lakes and meadows, through bristlecone-pine stands and the habitats of elk and bighorn sheep; along the way, you can hike, fish, picnic and even snowshoe. The summit itself is accessible only in summer—and even then, the weather can turn nasty without warning.

15.  Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Adults aren’t just babysitters at this kid-friendly museum jam-packed with dinosaur skeletons, mummies, and IMAX 3D flicks. Naturally, kids go gaga, but plenty of the exhibits and planetarium appeal to all ages—think Dead Sea Scrolls, Russian folk carvings, or black holes. If you’re making a day of it, skip the onsite café in favor of a lakeside picnic in nearby City Park, also home to the  Denver Zoo .

16.  Denver Performing Arts Complex

Believe it or not, downtown Denver contains one of the largest multi-venue performance centers in the world. Ballets, symphonies, operas, and touring Broadway shows are all staged here, but so are locally produced plays and the occasional rock concert. During the warmer months, all types of celebrations are held in the adjoining outdoor space, Sculpture Park, including the adorable Denver Public Schools  Shakespeare Festival .

17.  Coors Field

Sports fans and curious tourists will find plenty to do at the 76-acre field with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. Catching a baseball game isn't the only thing you can do on the Rockies' home turf; look for the row of purple seats marking the elevation that gives the Mile High City its name, then wash down some Rocky Mountain oysters (quickly, if you’ve never tried this infamous delicacy) with beer from the onsite brewery,  the SandLot . 

18.  Kirkland Museum of Fine Art

The Kirkland is a mesmerizing shrine to the decorative arts of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Peep iconic modernist furnishings (Irving Harper’s marshmallow sofa and Pierre Paulin’s ribbon chair) and exquisite Art Nouveau and Art Deco housewares. Located in the studio of its late namesake, Vance Kirkland, the collection is displayed salon-style—which means that visitors are surrounded on all sides by irreplaceable objet d'art as they wander through the galleries. Children under 13 are not admitted.

19.  Larimer Square

Situated on Larimer Street between 14th and 15th, Larimer Square is the most bohemian block in town; this is the place to see and be seen. A gentle saunter down this pedestrianized street will allow you to catch up on your window shopping as you gaze through the glass of some swanky boutique stores, and afterward, you could dine at high-end restaurants like Osteria Marco or Rioja .

20.  Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox

Restaurateur Justin Cucci's atmospheric eatery in a former house of ill-repute dishes up globally influenced grub. Cucci has a knack for designing restaurants that owe some of their success to a quirky backstory; Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox is an eye-popping risqué tribute to its history, while what was once a mid-century garage now informs the vintage cool of  Root Down . Take it all in over a meal that showcases the Edible Beats restaurant group’s focus on earth- and lifestyle-conscious food and drinks. 

21.  Punch Bowl Social

There are several spots in town where you can indulge your taste for booze and your inner child at the same time. Best of all is Punch Bowl Social, which boasts bowling lanes, an old-school arcade, karaoke rooms, two bars, and a mod diner. Apart from the undoubtedly bohemian-inspired decor, the activities have a touch of nostalgia that is nothing short of gratifying.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Denver

Hiking Near Denver

National Parks to Visit From Denver

The Best Food in Denver

Denver's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in Denver

Top Denver Breweries

The Best Time to Visit Denver

Weather & Climate

Denver International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

Day Trips From Denver

Top Things to Do

15 Top Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

With so much to do in Denver, it's hard to choose where to start in this well-known Colorado city. Some of the top must-see tourist attractions include the indoor grace of the Denver Art Museum and watching a concert or hiking while soaking up the outdoor beauty of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. There is something for everyone—including kids —in the usually sunny Mile High City that's home to one of the country's most popular skate parks. Downtown Denver is very pedestrian-friendly: Within a mile radius, tourists can enjoy art and history museums, a theme and water park, and numerous restaurants.

See Concerts and Hike at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

More than 250 million years in the making and located at 6,450 feet above sea level, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre features natural acoustics that lend themselves to unique outdoor concerts. Red Rocks—just 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Denver in Morrison—also has various hiking and biking trails with spectacular views.

Stop at the Trading Post shop onsite for some souvenirs and head to the Ship Rock Grille in the Red Rocks Visitor Center to enjoy amazing vistas while you dine.

Eat and Shop at Union Station

The iconic 1881 building—referred to locally as Denver’s living room—reopened in 2014 with a full slate of restaurants and shops, in addition to serving as a transit hub downtown. Stay overnight at the Crawford Hotel located above Union Station and explore town on one of their electric bikes, or just enjoy a drink at the Terminal Bar while people watching.

During the summer, the fountains outside the station provide a respite from the heat for children of all ages, and visitors can catch free cooking demonstrations on Saturdays at the Farmer's Market outside of Union Station.

Get Close to Animals at the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo opened its doors in 1896 with the donation of an orphaned black bear named Billy Bryan. Covering 80 acres in the historic City Park neighborhood, the popular attraction receives more than 2 million visitors each year. The zoo houses almost 3,700 animals from across the world, including a range from African lions to Asian elephants and Malayan Tapirs.

Various programs educate visitors about the zoo's creatures, including Up-Close Animal Encounters, which provides guided tours and an intimate look at animals and zookeepers.

Explore Denver Art Museum

Jennifer Broome / TripSavvy 

The Denver Art Museum is known for its African, Asian, Latin American, American Indian, and Western American art, among other collections such as design, photography, and architecture. The museum also has exhibitions such as "The Light Show," which explores light in the natural and spiritual world through a reflective narrative. "Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection" features approximately 60 paintings of Britain’s cultural history, dating from the 1400s through the late 1800s.

Get Inspired at Denver Botanic Gardens

Jennifer Broome / TripSavvy

Colorado's dry climate challenges gardeners across the state, but the Denver Botanic Gardens always provide inspiration. The gardens contain 24 acres, including numerous arid gardens that require little water. International gardens include plants from South Africa, the Tropics, Japan, China, and other parts of the world. Popular flowers such as roses, daylilies, and irises live in the ornamental gardens. There are also shady and water gardens to enjoy, while a children's garden with six ecosystems is sure to delight the little ones.

Various guided tours are available.

Have Fun at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science , founded in 1900 by local naturalist Edwin Carter, offers educational fun for all ages. The collection is home to more than 1 million objects from around the world, like natural history and anthropological materials, archival resources, and more.

The family will also love the Phipps IMAX Theater for checking out movies, and the Gates Planetarium has fun shows like "One World, One Sky," featuring Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo exploring the night sky with a friend from China.

Stroll Around 16th Street Mall

Take a stroll through Denver's 16th Street Mall, a mile-long outdoor shopping and dining center in the Mile High City. Dozens of restaurants and boutiques join chain stores such as the Banana Republic and Sephora for a one-stop attraction. Lucky Strike bowling alley, Regal UA Denver Pavilions 4DX & RPX movie theater, and Coyote Ugly bar also provide nighttime entertainment. Stop by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for some Colorado-made treats.

Visit the State Capitol Building

Designed in the 19th century by architect Elijah E. Myers, the Colorado State Capitol Building echoes the classical lines of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The inside features Colorado Rose Onyx (a rare rose marble) and beautiful stained glass windows. The Denver building is exactly one mile high at 5,280 feet (1,609 meters), leading to the city's nickname of the "Mile High City."

The capitol houses the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the governor, lieutenant governor, and treasurer. Check out the building on your own, or reserve a free weekday tour that takes less than an hour.

Take the Kids to Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Elitch Gardens, located downtown, truly has something for everyone in the family, from thrilling rollercoasters like the Mind Eraser—entailing dives and double spins going faster than 50 miles per hour—to fun ferris wheels and balloon races. The water park has big slides and mellower rides for little ones.

You'll also find several spots for shopping, dining, and games, plus summer movies and concerts.

Smell the Flowers at Washington Park

Washington Park, one of Denver's finest parks, covers 155 acres and features one of the most popular running and biking trails in Denver, drawing fitness enthusiasts and dog walkers from across the city. Two scenic lakes and the city's largest flower garden add to "Wash Park's" bucolic charm.

While you're there, check out the nearby charming South Pearl Street and its restaurants—ranging from sushi to Cajun to pizza—plus shops, galleries, and wine and cocktail bars.

Hike up High at Echo Lake

If you are looking for a nice mountain hike, try Echo Lake, just 33 miles (53 kilometers) west of Denver. The lake—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—is located at the base of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in the U.S., which reaches 14,260 feet (4,346 meters) above sea level. Visitors will have great views of snowy peaks, along with opportunities for fishing and having a picnic or cookout.

The 1926 Echo Lake Lodge houses a restaurant with buffalo chili and beloved pie and a gift shop that sells handmade Native American jewelry, glassware, collectibles, and other items.

Go on a Craft Beer Tour

Courtesy of Viator

Craft beer is big in Colorado, and the curious (age 21 and up) will enjoy a guided walking tour of 2-3 hours dedicated to the alcoholic beverage. The tour takes place in the Historical Lower Downtown (LoDo) District and includes more than 10 beer samples and fun city history and trivia. Attendees will learn about the brewing process, stop by a popular brewpub that turned into a nationwide franchise, relax in the city's top craft beer bar, and visit a brewery founded by the governor.

Venture to Boulder

espiegle / Getty Images

If you have a few days (or more) to spare, it's just about 40 minutes by car to reach Boulder, a small but lively city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains that is home to the University of Colorado, the state's biggest university. Boulder is a fun and scenic getaway: Explore the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall downtown, where you'll find restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries, and street musicians.

You can eat global cuisine at the gorgeous Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse , a popular attraction that was constructed in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, and sent to its sister city of Boulder, where the pieces were reassembled.

Get Your Thrills at a Skate Park

 TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

Denver is proud to have one of the most popular skate parks in the country, the Denver Skatepark in LoDo, which is open daily and has free admission. The large area has 60,000 square feet of concrete with bowls for boarders, bikers, and bladers of all skill levels.

You will need to bring your own gear, as there are no rentals onsite; helmets are required.

See a Baseball Game at Coors Field

Coors Field baseball stadium opened in 1995 in the lower downtown/Ballpark Neighborhood. Serving as home base for the Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball team, the stadium holds more than 50,000 fans. Those in the first-base and right-field areas will catch great views of the Rocky Mountains.

Stop at the Wazee Market behind section 137 on the main concourse if hunger strikes; enjoy pizza and other ballpark traditional foods in a courtyard area.

Top 10 Free Denver Activities

An LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Denver, Colorado

Top 10 Outdoor Summer Activities in Denver

The 6 Most Romantic Places in the Southwest

Your Trip to Denver: The Complete Guide

12 Top Things to Do Along the Light Rail Route in Denver

How to Travel from Los Angeles to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Top 10 Neighborhoods to Explore in Denver

How to Travel From Chicago to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Top 15 Things to Do in Colorado

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Denver

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado

The 10 Best Day Trips from Denver

The 12 Best Free Things to Do in Colorado

A Travel Guide for How to Visit Denver on a Budget

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Colorado (CO) » 25 Best Things to Do in Denver (Colorado)

25 Best Things to Do in Denver (Colorado)

Denver is nicknamed Mile High City due to the fact it is exactly one mile above sea level (I mean, how convenient is that?) making it one of the highest cities in the United States. The city comes with a seriously stunning backdrop of Rocky Mountains to the west of it and High Plains to its east, sitting in the South Platte River Valley.

Denver has plenty of opportunities to ski, climb and enjoy many other outdoor pursuits. And for those of a more reflective disposition, there are lots of museums and other activities to choose from.

Let’s have a look at all the many options on offer.

1. Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

What an interesting museum for all aircraft fans and their families.

This fascinating venue, situated in a circa 1930’s former Air Force hangar, houses 150,000 sq ft of a truly awesome collection of more than four dozen aircraft and space vehicles, including such rarities as a B-18A Bolo, an RF-84K Thunderflash Parasite, an Alexander Eaglerock built in Colorado and a Star Wars X-Wing fighter!

Nicest of all, kids are more than welcome to try out the various apparatus which in the end can turn out to be very educational. The museum guides are extremely knowledgeable, and there is a great gift shop to visit at the end.

2. Molly Brown House Museum

Molly (or Margaret as she was christened) was the brave socialite and activist who found fame when she survived the 1912 sinking of the legendary RMS Titanic and then urged the crew of Lifeboat No. 6 to go back to the capsize are to look for any survivors.

The Molly Brown Museum was built in dedication to her, and welcomes over 50,000 visitors every year. On site museum programs include a guided tours of her 1889 home in which you can find out all about her, her life and the influence she had before and after that historic event.

There is also a fabulous gift shop full of interesting items.

Included in : Denver: Haunted Walking Ghost Tour

 3. Denver Climbing Company

Learning to climb (or developing your technique, if it comes to that!) would be a great day out for all the family. The Denver Climbing Company Outdoor Climbing School provides rock climbing instruction and guiding and, best of all, is carried out by extremely professional guides who ensure the whole family have a fun and safe time.

The company caters for beginners, kids and experienced climbers alike, with routes set up appropriate for everyone’s skill level while at the same time allowing for a progression in challenges.

Your experience of climbing in the Colorado Rockies will be something joyous for the family to remember for many years to come.

4. Coors Field

Baseball fans will certainly enjoy a visit to the 76 acre Coors Field. This family friendly ball park has been a league leader in attendance with those in the know sitting in the first-base and right-field areas because they know they’re going to be treated to a spectacular view of the Rocky Mountains, plus there are plenty of tasty amenities to keep the kids happy all day!

There are also tours of the grounds available both on and off season, offering a fascinating behind the scenes look at the ballpark.

The tours last about an hour and a half, covering a distance of one mile, and are accessible for visitors with disabilities.

5. Denver Botanic Gardens

These are gorgeous gardens in which to have a family stroll, whatever season you are visiting the city. The gardens have worked hard on their conservation programs in protecting natural habitats and saving species and as you walk through the area you will be able to see and enjoy the ongoing results.

Whatever time of year, this lovely area with its tropical biosphere and Japanese garden complete with pool and lily pads plus lots more, makes for a perfect outing.

Bring a picnic, or enjoy a meal at one of the two high quality restaurants.

Book online : Denver Botanic Gardens General Admission Ticket

6. American Museum of Western Art

For all those interested in the area, a visit to this gallery which focuses on depicting life in the west from the early 1800s through the present day will not disappoint! The museum’s mission is to promote the appreciation and understanding through its art exhibits by displaying the history, character and beauty of this amazing location, the American West!

The resident Anschutz Collection offer guided and self-guided tours of the museum and also provides more than 200 pieces, including Bierstadt, Maynard Dixon, Remington, Russell, Thomas Moran and many more.

Kids under the age of 8 are not permitted due to the critical art content, and kids between the age of 8 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

7. Empower Field Field at Mile High

The Mile High Stadium has always been popular and are well known, being host to the Broncos – and even more so now that they have reached Super Bowl winning status again.

In fact, not only did the Broncos win consecutive Super Bowls in 1997 and 1998, but they established all-time pro football records for most wins in two seasons (33), most playoff wins in two seasons (seven), and most wins ever in three seasons (46, from 1996-98), and all of this accomplished while playing at the Mile High Stadium. (You can wonder if there might be something in the air, perhaps.)

Attending a Broncos game, enjoying the huge replay screens which certainly take you close to the action, is a great experience for all the family.

8. Empower Field at Mile High Tour

Carrying on in the same vein, why not take advantage while you’re here and join a public “behind the scenes” glimpse into some the inner workings of one of the most state-of-the-art stadiums in North America.

The stadium tours are informative, educational and enjoyable for both sports fans and non-fans alike, with each tour taking 75 – 90 minutes over a distance of ½ mile, and conducted by knowledgeable and friendly tour guides from the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

The tour includes stops at the Executive Suites, the NFL Visiting Team Locker Room Facilities, Thunder Stall, Keg Room, Team Field Entrance Tunnel, and loads more besides. Facilities for strollers and wheelchairs are available but you have to bring your own.

9. Mount Evans

Are you and your family in the need of some significant fresh air? You won’t get air more significant than the air you’ll breathe at the top of Mount Evans. With an elevation of 14,271 ft and Colorado’s 12th highest peak, the amazing views and fresh air will certainly knock any remaining cobwebs off you.

The peak dominates the western skyline of the Great Plains along with Pikes Peak, Longs Peak, and nearby Mount Bierstadt. There are a few options available when planning your drive; and though Pikes Peak is a good though rather concentrated drive, the Mt Evans route is easier with less traffic to contend with. The road has some strange bumps in it as you pass through the different climate zones, but is paved all the way up.

If you’d rather hike, it takes about 3-4 hours from the lake up to the peak. And if you’re visiting during the spring you’ll see the amazing array of flowers, with any remaining snow at the top, where the observatory is. You’ll probably also see some mountain goats.

Suggested tour : Red Rocks Amphitheater and Mount Evans Tour

10. Larimer Square

Enjoy a walk in one of Denver’s most historic areas, Larimer Square. Its history extends back to the 19th century when Colorado was all about gold and the famous gold strikes that put this beautiful State firmly on the map.

The square was once home to a lot of ‘firsts’; first bank, first dry goods store, first bookstore, first theater, and also the site of the city’s first post office! Some of the old buildings remain but the new ones are just as nice, and home to some great restaurants and shops selling unusual and unique gifts.

It’s worth taking the family to see the stores’ decorations too.

11. Denver Public Library

I’m always happy to recommend decent libraries; to me, there’s nothing more pleasurable than losing myself in an hour or three of literary entertainment. You’ll feel the same when you visit this tremendous library, consisting of over 2 million items which include books, movies, DVD’s, reference materials and even photographs.

It’s a real treat for those in the family interested in Western history and genealogy too, as there are so many informative avenues to explore.

And let’s not forget the little ones; with many children’s story time activities and an excellent and well designed kiddies area, everyone will be happy.

12. Colorado State Capitol

This is such a beautiful building and worth a brief stop while you’re here in Denver. Constructed in the 1890s from Colorado white granite, the building officially opened in 1894. You will be amazed at the care that went into its decorations too, the structure’s gold dome consisting of real gold leaf, commemorating the Colorado Gold Rush.

The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Place, becoming part of the Denver Civic Center National Historic Landmark District in 2012.

Take a tour and climb the narrow staircase up into the dome itself; you will be amazed at the spectacular views you’ll see.

13. Downtown Aquarium

This is a really fun venue for all the family. With an aquarium that features more than a million gallons of water and housing over 500 species, an interactive Stingray Reef touch tank, Dive Lounge, Aquarium Restaurant, Nautilus Ballroom and much more, there is plenty to keep busy with.

The aquarium is very well designed, and a fantastic way for young and old to learn about sea life and have fun together at the same time. The kids in particular will love seeing the live mermaid show and the flash flood exhibit (stand back or you will get soaked).

The Aquarium Restaurant is also worth a visit, offering good food at reasonable prices.

14. Children’s Museum of Denver

This wonderful museum has come a long way since its days of inception in a converted school bus in 1973.

Originally targeting ages newborn through eight years, it has turned into a ‘must visit’ venue for all, with the museum offering lots of hands on, unique and engaging interactive opportunities which include wood working, grocery marketing station, rocket launching, nature climbing & caves, and lots more.

The museum now welcomes over 350,000 visitors per year. It is particularly wonderful for the youngest members of the family with a separate safe area for them to run, roam and explore, complete with snack bar.

15. United States Mint

The Denver Mint branch struck its first coins in 1906, imagine that. Built in 1897, the mint is still operating and producing coins for circulation, together with commemorative coins.

The highly educational and interesting tours available are something to be enjoyed by all the family, so try and make time for a visit. You’ll be able to watch the coins being made and learn a lot about the minting process from the informative and interesting guides.

There is also a great gift shop on site where you can pick up lots of unique memorabilia. It’s a good idea to book in advance if possible as the tours fill up fast.

16. Forney Transportation Museum

This museum is a real car lover’s dream. The Forney Museum is simply one of a kind, with a collection of more than 600 artifacts that relate to historical transportation.

Built 60 years ago with a single 1921 Kissel it expanded rapidly and now includes not only vehicles, but also motorcycles, aircraft, carriages, steam locomotives, rail equipment, public transportation, fire apparatus, bicycles, toys & diecast models, vintage apparel and much more – phew.

The collection includes Amelia Earhart’s 1923 Kissel ‘Gold Bug’, Forney Locomotive, Colorado & Southern Caboose, 1923 Hispano-Suiza, 1913-53 Indian Motorcycle Collection, 500 Piece Matchbox Collection, Stutz Fire Engine and lots lots more.

There’s even an old Model T you can sit in! The volunteer staffers are helpful and informative. Be prepared to spend a good few hours here.

17. Adams Mystery Playhouse

This is Colorado’s first and only mystery dinner theatre and fun for all members of the family, being appropriate for every age. You will enjoy the actors’ special brand of comedy, while they keep everything politically correct.

Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious, plentiful buffet dinner with the character actors mingling amongst the tables, a murder occurs to which you are the witness. After a search for clues and a stop for refreshments, the performance then continues with songs, impressions and other fun surprises, then back to the case in hand.

At the end, souvenir prizes are handed out to the team who solved the crime.

18. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

This is not your usual outdoor world shop and I wouldn’t normally add it to my ‘things to see’ list. However, the kids in the family won’t want to miss the fish feeding event that takes place in the store’s 21,000 gallon super aquarium.

There are more than 15 various fish species involved, including an 82 lb blue catfish plus other trophy fish. It is of course worth a visit to buy some of the best hunting and fishing gear on offer too. Bass Pro is regarded as part museum, part art gallery, part education, conservation and part entertainment center, with a great restaurant attached.

The location is very kid friendly with super friendly and helpful staff.

19. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

This fascinating museum, a super venue for all the family, comes with an even more fascinating story.

Beginning its life in 1868, the naturalist and pioneer Edwin Carter, who had devoted his life to his true love – birds and mammals of the Rocky Mountains – had deciding to assemble what turned out to be one of the most inclusive collections of Colorado fauna, and started displaying his treasures from his log cabin home, dubbed the Carter Museum. This later expanded into the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

There are lots of interest exhibits to see, including the striking wildlife exhibit halls and a hands on space exhibit. The museum also has many travelling exhibits, including the Robot Exhibit, where kids actually get to build their own robot using robotic cubes, each of which serving a different function.

20. Rocky Mountain Hot Air

Another chance to reach for the skies, and this time, even higher than before. The company specializes in hot air balloon trips for all ages (in fact when I called to check, Ken the owner told me that one of his recent customers had been a 100 year old lady.) so every age from 5 and up are welcome and safely looked after.

You will enjoy gliding high above the fields and streams of the area while enjoying a fabulous view of the mountains, ascending about 1,500 – 1,800 ft. so not too intense.

After the flight you will receive a cute certificate of ascent, pin, and bottle of champagne upon landing.

21. Hammond’s Candy Factory

What could be more fun than a tour with a sweet ending – literally. Hammond’s complimentary candy factory tours are educational and fun for candy lovers of all ages.

The factory has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world who have seen how the well know handcrafted candy canes, lollipops and ribbon candy are pulled, twisted, and shaped by hand the way it used to be in 1920.

Within the tour you’ll also learn quite a bit all about Colorado history, learn a little bit of science and hear some tidbits about nostalgic candy. There’s plenty of opportunity to chat with the clever folk who make these delicious offerings and, best of all, receive your free samples at the end. Strollers, wheelchairs and walkers are easily accommodated.

22. Union Station

Even if you’re not planning on using Union Station for any transportation purposes, Union Station is still worth a visit of its own. This beautiful building first opened in 1881 and has since undergone major renovations, now including a hotel, lively restaurants, interesting stores and a train hall.

Walk through this lovingly restored gem where you can admire the stunning architecture from days gone by, and stop for an ice cream, meal or some shopping.

You can also play some free shuffleboard while you’re about it –the kids will love the experience.

23. Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey Tour

If you have time and the kids are busy elsewhere, why not treat yourselves to a tour of Stranahan’s?

Over time, the company was able to develop a recipe for what they name as ‘the smoothest, most flavorful whiskey in the world, using the purity of their mountain surroundings to their advantage’ (or, as they put it, to your advantage).

Lasting about an hour and a half, you’ll learn all about the history of how Stranahan’s whiskey was founded with guides providing lots of information all about process of making, distilling, and aging whiskey, finishing with a tasting. The tour is free and well worth a visit!

24. National Ballpark Museum

For all the baseball fans of the family, a visit to this museum will definitely be something to remember. The Ballpark Museum’s collection is actually recognized by Smithsonian Books as being one of the top 21 finest private baseball collections in the world. It all started when its owner, Bruce Hellerstein, decided to display his amazing collection of ballpark memorabilia from the basement of his house and the rest, as they say, is history. His meticulously acquired artifacts, bricks, postcards, jerseys, books and pictures just grew and grew, and now welcomes visitors who have come to see his amazing collectables which include anything and everything from the “NY” drainage cover that Mickey Mantle tripped over in the 1951 World Series that permanently injured his leg, to an Old Yankee Stadium turnstile, that has etched on its side “Property of the New York Yankees”. The helpful staffers will be happy to give one of their insightful tours.

25. Unser Karting

If your kids like a bit of racing the go kart way, Unser Karting is the place to take them. The venue offers arrive and drive racing, kids karting and kart training classes for everyone. And if you’re also a new or inexperienced driver (young or old.)

Unser Karting offers the opportunity to gain confidence and push your limits in a comfortable and safe environment. The company is fully equipped with everything you need including a new driver training session and safety gear. The highly trained and friendly track crew will make sure you’re completely comfortable.

There is also food and drink to enjoy at the Trackside Tavern that also has great track views.

25 Best Things to Do in Denver (Colorado):

• Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
• Molly Brown House Museum
• Denver Climbing Company
• Coors Field
• Denver Botanic Gardens
• American Museum of Western Art
• Empower Field Field at Mile High
• Empower Field at Mile High Tour
• Mount Evans
• Larimer Square
• Denver Public Library
• Colorado State Capitol
• Downtown Aquarium
• Children's Museum of Denver
• United States Mint
• Forney Transportation Museum
• Adams Mystery Playhouse
• Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science
• Rocky Mountain Hot Air
• Hammond's Candy Factory
• Union Station
• Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey Tour
• National Ballpark Museum
• Unser Karting

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

From downtown amusement parks to fascinating museums, Denver's attractions deliver unique and unforgettable experiences. Want to stay in the know on Denver happenings? Sign up for our free e-newsletter , and we'll keep you posted.

Must-See & Do

You can't have bragging rights from a Denver vacation until you see these…

Denver's 16th Street Mall

Located in downtown Denver, the Mall is currently being revitalized, yet still…

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Rolling Stone magazine calls it America’s best amphitheater. Musical legends…

Union Station

Explore the renovated Union Station in Denver. A transportation hub, historic…

Amusement Parks

The Mile High City is filled with thrills – from gravity-defying roller…

Larimer Square

Larimer Square is Denver’s urban shopping district where Victorian buildings…

Rocky Mountain Arsenal

Just 10 minutes northeast of downtown Denver, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National…

Museums & Historical Attractions

Since its Wild West beginnings, a rich tapestry of cultures have molded Denver into…

Attraction Pass

Explore The Mile High City with attraction passes and grab discounted tickets to top…

Green Attractions

From climate change and renewable energy to environmental cleanup, Denver is emerging…

Love dinosaurs? Denver is the place to see some of the most fossil-rich land in the…

Free Activities

Throughout the city, there are countless attractions and activities that will cost…

Accessibility Information for Denver Attractions

From ADA-accessible parking to sensory-friendly experiences, find out how the…

Fall & Winter

Spring & summer, plan your getaway, basecamp denver, arts & culture, family friendly, day trips & around colorado, sports & recreation, health & wellness, itineraries, booking widget added to footer panel.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

This Colorado City Sits One Mile Above Sea Level — and It's a Gateway to the Rocky Mountains

Consider this the only guide to Denver you need.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Denver is known as the Mile High City — not because marijuana is legal here, but because its elevation is 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level.

Denver is Colorado's state capital and the most populous city in the state. Dotted with luxurious hotels , world-class museums, gorgeous public murals, and city parks, it's also a gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Denver is home to the second-largest performing arts center in the U.S., after Lincoln Center in New York, and is frequently cited as a top city for singles.

Sports fans can watch the Denver Broncos play football, the Colorado Rockies play baseball, or the Denver Nuggets play basketball. Prefer hockey or soccer? Check out the Colorado Avalanche or Denver Outlaws. Looking to get some exercise? Take a hike in the Rocky Mountains or hit the nearby ski slopes.

Denver is also a beer town that's home to several craft brewers as well as Coors, the world’s largest single-site brewery, which operates just outside the city in the town of Golden. Denver even hosts the Great American Beer Festival each year. Marijuana is legal in Colorado, and Denver is home to several recreational marijuana dispensaries.

Mountain Standard Time

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Denver depends on what you want to do. In May, Denver celebrates Cinco de Mayo and hosts the Denver Arts Festival and Colfax Marathon. During the summer, Denver hosts PrideFest and the Five Points Jazz Festival in June and a county fair in July. Autumn is the best time for foodies to visit Denver because it's when the city puts on A Taste of Colorado and the Great American Beer Festival. Meanwhile, winter is a popular time for skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes nearby. The Denver Botanic Gardens holds its holiday light show from November through January, and Denver's National Western Stock Show happens each year in January.

Related : 15 Best Places to Travel in March

Things to Know

Denver is located near the Rocky Mountains, not in the Rocky Mountains. About 200 named mountain peaks are visible from Denver.

Alcoholic drinks have a greater effect when you're drinking at a mile above sea level, so be sure to hydrate and pace yourself.

Marijuana is legal in Colorado for adults 21 and older. Adults can possess up to one ounce of retail marijuana. Cannabis is sold through recreational and medical marijuana dispensaries. If you don't have a prescription, head to a recreational dispensary. Just make sure to find a private place to smoke, as marijuana consumption in public is still illegal. It's also illegal to take marijuana across state lines.

How to Get Around

Trains: Denver has 12 light and commuter rail lines covering 113 miles and serving more than 50 stations. Most notably, there’s a train that runs from the airport to Union Station downtown. Parking in downtown can be expensive, making rail the more affordable choice.

Buses: The Denver area has 170 bus routes, with more than 9,000 local stops in eight counties. Local buses are an especially good way to travel around the city center and suburbs. An express bus runs between Denver and Boulder.

Taxis: Taxis are available through companies like Denver Yellow Cab. Expect to pay about $55 for cab service between downtown Denver and the airport.

Ride-share: Lyft, Uber, and Migo are ride-sharing options available in Denver.

Best Hotels

The ramble hotel.

Address: 1280 25th St., Denver, CO 80205 Phone: (720) 996-6300 Book Now

With just 50 rooms, this boutique hotel is nestled into Denver's River North Art District, a neighborhood where old warehouses and factories give way to jazz bars, restaurants, breweries, and art galleries. If you're a light sleeper, this may be the place for you, as the property is designed to minimize outside noise.

The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton

Address: 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 572-8000 Book Now

This pet-friendly downtown hotel is a short walk from the Denver Art Museum and Colorado Convention Center. In fact, it counts more than a half-dozen museums within a 10-minute walk. There's an extensive art collection on display throughout the property, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and some rooms with mountain views.

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection

Address: 321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 297-3111 Book Now

This boutique hotel is an icon of downtown Denver. It was built as a luxury hotel in 1892 and is now operated by Marriott. The lobby is likely to transport you to a different era. The hotel has an eight-story atrium with a stained-glass skylight and six stories of interior balconies. It also has its very own rooftop beehive and an on-site flower shop.

Patterson Inn

Address: 420 E. 11th Ave., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 955-5142 Book Now

The Patterson Inn is a National Landmark housed inside a reddish-orange sandstone building dating to 1891. The hotel offers several themed bedrooms and common areas filled with books, games, and hand-carved wood. It's the kind of mansion that's sure to feel like home from the moment you walk in. The property offers free parking, but doesn't allow pets.

Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn

Address: 1207 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 839-5221 Book Now

The Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is a National Historic Landmark in Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood. The ruby sandstone mansion is just a block from the Molly Brown House Museum and a short walk from several of the city's top attractions. The property has been an inn since 1994 and offers eight guest rooms, each named after a local wildflower. Three rooms come with whirlpool tubs.

The Crawford Hotel

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (720) 460-3700 Book Now

This hotel is perfect for anyone who loves rail travel. It sits atop Denver's Union Station and offers a direct train link to Denver International Airport. If you prefer to catch a ride to the day’s adventure, you can request a ride in one of the hotel’s Teslas. The Crawford Hotel's Pullman guest rooms are designed to recreate the romance of train travel by making you feel like you have a luxe rail car all to yourself.

The Curtis, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Address: 1405 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 571-0300 Book Now

The Curtis is a quirky downtown hotel that sits across the street from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and just a couple of blocks from the 16th Street Mall. The hotel regularly plays cartoons in its retro-chic lobby, operates a store filled with nostalgic treats, and houses The Corner Office Restaurant + Martini Bar. Some rooms have themes inspired by Marge Simpson, Barbies, vintage arcade games, and more.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver

Address: 1717 Champa St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 296-1717 Book Now

This property is pet-friendly and has a lobby that feels like a living room. Its rooms are designed to deliver an artsy vibe with a touch of luxury. The property has a great Italian restaurant, Panzano, and a nightly wine social hour.

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

Address: 1881 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 312-3800 Book Now

The Ritz-Carlton is home to some of Denver's most spacious hotel rooms, several with Rocky Mountain views. The property is located near Capitol Hill and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Rooms include featherbeds, down comforters, and rain forest shower heads. It also features a 2,229-square-foot fitness center that's always open, an expansive spa, and a restaurant whose offerings include private dining.

Best Restaurants

Address: 1600 W. 33rd Ave., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (303) 993-4200 Website

This restaurant is known for its creative menu, brightly colored cocktails, gas station architecture, and quirky decorative items. Root Down serves brunch and dinner with menus that include ricotta gnocchi, 36-hour short ribs, and a dessert you'll never forget — a sweet corn ice cream sandwich. Popular cocktails include the Beet Down and Don Draper.

Address: 2930 Umatilla, Fifth Floor, Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (303) 524-9193 Website

From the team behind Root Down, this restaurant is a penthouse playground with an expansive patio. Its pan-Mediterranean menu includes a selection of tapas you can sample while taking in epic views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountains. Menu items include smoked burrata, harissa eggplant fries, Moroccan lamb sausage, and chocolate baklava.

Address: 2227 W 32nd Ave., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (720) 668-8506 Website

This Italian restaurant comes from Top Chef contestant Carrie Baird, who has since handed the restaurant off to chef Russell Stippich. Its menu offers an elevated take on traditional Italian cuisine, and includes pizzas, pastas, and pork milanese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts are also available.

Denver Biscuit Company

Address: Multiple Locations Website

One of the best brunch spots in the city, the Denver Biscuit Company is the place to go for Southern-style comfort food. The menu here includes several biscuit breakfast sandwiches, biscuit French toast, and, of course, biscuits and gravy. Denver Biscuit Company has also developed its own twist on poutine called Sully's Fries — waffle fries with gravy, pimento cheese, bacon, and green onions. Don't oversleep — the restaurants close at 2 p.m.

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St. #125, Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 534-1970 Website

This Spanish restaurant comes from a team with a track record of opening award-winning restaurants in Denver. That team includes James Beard-recognized chef Jennifer Jasinski. Ultreia is located inside Denver's Union Station and serves tapas inspired by Spain and Portugal. Menu items include bacon-wrapped dates, patatas bravas, and spiced octopus.

Address: 1889 16th St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (720) 605-1889 Website

From the James Beard Award-winning team behind the Frasca Hospitality Group, Tavernetta aims to bring la dolce vita to Denver with fresh handmade pastas and an epic wine list. The restaurant has private heated outdoor seating where it serves a tasting menu. Its regular menu includes Italian staples like pasta al forno and burrata. Tavernatta also makes a tagliatelle with Maine lobster.

The Wolf's Tailor

Address: 4058 Tejon St., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (720) 456-6705 Website

The Wolf's Tailor is meant to bring together elements of local chef Kelly Whitaker's travels through Europe and Asia. Its multicourse tasting menu, which evolves with the seasons, is a treat.

Things to Do

Rocky mountains.

Denver is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, which stretch from western Canada to New Mexico. Seventy-eight of its 100 highest peaks are located in Colorado, where Rocky Mountain National Park covers 415 square miles and offers more than 300 miles of hiking trails. Echo Mountain, Winter Park, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Vail are ski towns within a couple of hours of Denver by car.

Cannabis Dispensaries

Address: Multiple Locations

Colorado was the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana, and Denver is now dotted with hundreds of cannabis dispensaries. Lucy Sky and The Herbal Cure are a couple of popular options. Euflora is welcoming to first-time visitors and has a location at the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver. It also sells flowers, concentrates, edibles, smoking supplies, and T-shirts.

Brewery Tour

Denver is a beer drinker's dream come true. The city is home to a number of craft breweries, as well as to the world's largest single-site brewery — the Coors Brewery in nearby Golden, Colorado. The Coors Brewery can brew up to 22 million barrels of beer each year and offers self-paced tours. Denver's first brewpub, the Wynkoop Brewing Company, offers tours in downtown Denver.

Denver Art Museum

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Address: 100 W 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (720) 865-5000 Website

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest in the American West. Its collections represent cultures from around the world and include more than 70,000 works of art. The museum sprawls across several buildings, including the Hamilton Building, inspired by the Rocky Mountains and covered in 9,000 titanium panels.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Address: 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206 Phone: (720) 865-3500 Website

An oasis in the heart of the city, the Denver Botanic Gardens is home to North America's largest collection of plants from cold temperate climates. And each winter, the location hosts one of the country's most gorgeous holiday light shows.

Colorado State Capitol

Address: 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 866-2604 Website

The interior of the Colorado State Capitol, which houses the state Senate, House of Representatives, and governor's office, can be experienced on the free guided tours that run throughout the week. Before you leave, get a photo with the building’s gleaming gold dome in the background — the dome was crafted using 200 ounces of gold that were gifted to the state by Colorado gold miners in 1908.

Molly Brown House Museum

Address: 1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 832-4092 Website

The Molly Brown House Museum is dedicated to telling the story of American socialite and philanthropist Molly Brown, better known as the Unsinkable Molly Brown. Brown and her husband bought the home that became the museum in 1894. Brown survived the sinking of the Titanic after helping several fellow passengers evacuate the ship. She later organized a survivors' committee to counsel those who lived through the sinking.

Forney Museum of Transportation

Address: 4303 Brighton Blvd., Denver, CO 80216 Phone: (303) 297-1113 Website

If you're fascinated with how to get from point A to point B, this museum is for you. The Forney Museum of Transportation has been open for more than 60 years and houses a collection that includes buggies, motorcycles, steam locomotives, aircraft, and more. Amelia Earhart's 1923 Kissel Gold Bug is among the hundreds of items in its collection.

16th Street Mall

Address: 1001 16th St., Denver, CO 80265 Website

This mile-long thoroughfare is designed for pedestrians and closed to regular automobile traffic. The promenade resembles the skin of a diamondback rattlesnake from above. On the ground, visitors will find dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops. Horse-drawn carriages and pedicabs are generally available after dark.

Larimer Square

Address: 1430 Larimer St., Denver, CO 80202 Website

This block of Victorian buildings is where the modern-day city of Denver got its start. Nowadays, it's home to shops, bars, restaurants, and clubs. It's a great place for people-watching on a pleasant night.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, CO 80465 Phone: (720) 865-2494 Website

This may be one of the most epic places in the world to see a concert or take an outdoor yoga class. Over the years, this venue has hosted artists like Bruce Springsteen and The Beatles against the backdrop of its gorgeous red rocks. Even when there isn't a show, it's a sight to see.

Best Shopping

Rockmount ranch wear.

Address: 1626 Wazee St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 629-7777 Website

If you're looking for Western wear, look no further than this family-owned business that's been outfitting Denver since 1946. This store pioneered Western shirts with snaps and has dressed celebrities like Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Robert Redford, Elvis Presley, and David Bowie.

Inspyre Boutique

This chain of boutiques has a mission: Surface incredible clothes, accessories, and gifts while keeping everything under $100. Inspyre Boutique now has four stores in the Denver area. No single item is priced over $100.

Art District on Santa Fe

Address: 525 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (720) 773-2373 Website

This creative art district is home to a number of galleries, boutiques, and vintage shops. Check out Creative Living to spruce up your outdoor space, Abstract Denver for fresh wall art, or Carol Mier Fashion for a new look.

This isn't the traditional enclosed shopping mall you may have in mind — the 16th Street Mall is an outdoor promenade lined with shops and restaurants. It's a great place to buy souvenirs to take back home.

This may have been the block where Denver was born, but these days, it's a haven for boutique shopping. You'll find everything from clothing and gifts to leather goods here.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

Address: 3000 E 1st Ave., Denver, CO 80206 Phone: (303) 388-3900 Website

This upscale shopping center not far from downtown Denver is where you'll find high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co. It's also home to Nordstrom, Macy's, Free People, and an Apple store.

Denver Premium Outlets

Address: 13801 Grant St., Thornton, CO 80023 Phone: (303) 200-3805 Website

This sprawling outlet is a half-hour's drive from Denver, and it includes a number of options to get your favorite brand names for a fraction of the price. Among them: Le Creuset, Ferragamo, Nike, Kate Spade, and Coach.

Neighborhoods to Know

Central Business District: This is a neighborhood that's mostly business, though it's also home to the 16th Street Mall, an outdoor promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and art. You'll also find the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Colorado Convention Center, and a sculpture known as the Big Blue Bear here.

Highlands: Highlands is a laid-back Denver neighborhood with a great selection of restaurants and bars. The neighborhood sits on a hillside overlooking the city and is sometimes called North Denver.

LoDo: LoDo is where downtown Denver parties. This part of the city is known for its nightlife, though it's also home to offices and apartment buildings. LoDo is where you'll find Union Station and Larimer Square — the block where the modern-day city of Denver got its start. It's on the edge of Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies.

Capitol Hill: This is Colorado's most densely populated neighborhood, and it includes the Colorado State Capitol building. Capitol Hill is home to the Molly Brown House Museum and situated just west of the Denver Botanic Gardens. It's an area that's brimming with bars, restaurants, and interesting locals.

Five Points: This neighborhood was once the center of Denver's jazz scene and still hosts an annual jazz festival. Nowadays, it's a hipster haven known for its restaurants, bars, and public art.

Denver summers are hot, while its winters tend to be cold and dry. The temperature rarely dips below 6°F or rises above 96°F. The warmest months are June through early September. The coldest are late November through early March. Expect snow between November and February.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January: 20°F to 49°F February: 21°F to 49°F March: 29°F to 58°F April: 35°F to 65°F May: 45°F to 73°F June: 55°F to 86°F July: 61°F to 92°F August: 59°F to 90°F September: 50°F to 82°F October: 37°F to 68°F November: 27°F to 57°F December: 19°F to 47°F

Apps to Download

RTD : Mobile tickets for trains and buses iOs | Android

ParkMobile : Pay for local parking iOs | Android

Colorado Trail Explorer iOs | Android

Related Articles

Matador Original Series

The 10 Top Rated Restaurants in Denver

D ener’s food scene is ever-evolving. It’s shrugged off its long-standing cow town reputation with chef-driven restaurants and fun, fast-casual late-night joints. Suburbs have replaced the ranches that once surrounded the city, and although there’s still a hearty steakhouse industry, Denver is one of the more exciting places to eat in the US if you know where to go.

From French dips, white cloth fine dining, pop-ups, and food trucks to more than 100 brewpubs, many with exceptional light bites, there’s a wide variety of cuisine types and price points spread throughout the city’s neighborhoods.

“Be it a burrito smothered in Pueblo green chile, an 18-seat chef’s counter serving a refined tasting menu or one of our 150 metro-area craft breweries, we have something that satisfies every craving,” says Richard W. Scharf, president and CEO of Visit Denver. The evolution of the city’s culinary offerings was recognized last year in the Colorado-based Michelin Guide which celebrated 26 Denver restaurants.

After talking with the restaurant staff, you get a real sense of community spirit here. Tricia Maher, owner of plant-based restaurant Somebody People, shares that Devner’s talented chefs pull together and often work in collaboration. Supporting local small businesses is something this community is proud of. Urban homesteading has brought farming back to the city area, which is showcased in refined farm-to-table seasonal menus.

To help you find the best places to grab a bite, Matador meticulously sifted through reviews on Yelp and Google Maps. Ratings, both out of five, were then added together for an aggregate result of the top-rated places to eat. To ensure the businesses are well established, Matador also only selected restaurants with over 250 reviews. Although customer feedback paints a partial picture, a review-driven list like this can help you navigate the food scene.

If you’re planning a mountain getaway, here are the best restaurants in Denver according to customer ratings.

Traveling to Denver? Check out Matador’s Denver accommodations guides:

• These Denver Airbnbs Put You in the City’s Coolest Neighborhoods

These Denver Airport Hotels Put You Close in the Terminal With a Free Airport Shuttle

• 10 Boutique, Luxurious, and Trendy Denver Hotels
• At Limelight Hotel Denver, Exploring the Heart of the City Comes Easy

This Cherry Creek Hotel Blends Denver’s Adventurous Spirit and Posh Accommodations

• These Denver Airbnbs Are Cannabis Friendly

Rating: 9.5 (4.8 Google Maps, 4.7 Yelp)

Temaki Den’s nearly perfect score is in part due to the care taken by the kitchen to produce outstanding plates of traditional sushi, service after service. They take pride in their skill set. “We have crafted a dining experience that pays homage to traditional Japanese culinary philosophies and cuisine,” says general manager Kellie O’Brien. Two renowned chefs, Toshi Kizaki and Kenta Kamo, steer the ship with their modern twist on the typical sushi bar we know and love. Popular dishes include spicy tuna temaki, bluefin tsukami-zushi, and salmon oshizushi. Finish the dining experience with the cleansing and zingy yuzu black pepper sorbet or macha affogato.

Temaki Den : 3350 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216

Restaurant Olivia

Rating: 9.4 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.7 Yelp)

Restaurant Olivia is where you go in Denver for pasta. Located in Denver’s Wash Park neighborhood, the menu draws influence from Italian classics and elevates plates with precision and love for home cooking. Each ingredient is carefully sourced from local producers and is organic whenever possible. The drinks menu is also a joy. Playful cocktails like the Spell Bound (vodka, bergamot, lemon, salted green tea, blueberry and hibiscus, tonic) stand next to an interesting Italian wine list of heady Barbera and Montepulciano and mineral-laden whites. There’s an exceptional five-course tasting menu ($115 per person) and wine pairing, or you can order a la carte. The handmade paste is a must. Tortelloni alla vodka with black trumpet mushroom, smoked fontina, and candied garlic, and shells stuffed with warming nduja, salsify, chipotle, and sherry gastrique are two favorites.

Olivia : 290 S Downing St, Denver, CO 80209

Crave Mediterranean Grill

Photo: Crave Mediterranean Grill

Rating: 9.4 (4.8 Google Maps, 4.6 Yelp)

A step away from the fine-dining experience, but equally as popular, is Crave Mediterranean Grill. This family-run establishment has been in operation for over 20 years. Diners come here hungry for lashings of hummus topped with paprika and olive oil, fragrant rice dish lamb kabsa, tabbouleh, Lebanese fattoush salad, and stacks of steaming pita. Recent diner and Yelp reviewer David raves about the succulent baba ganoush and grilled lamb cooked to perfection and his liking. New Yorker Benjamin says on Yelp his bar is set high due to the Mediterranean dining scene in NYC, but Crave is his “go-to” when in Denver.

Crave Mediterranean Grill : 1000 S Colorado Blvd Ste 103, Glendale, CO 80246

Fish N Beer

Photo: Fish N Beer

Rating: 9.3 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.6 Yelp)

Fish N Beer is no stranger to a “best restaurant” list or props in the press. The seafood restaurant promises the “freshest fish in Colorado,” offering the coastally-challenged state plates of freshly shucked oysters and wood-grilled fish. Five-star Yelp reviewers talk highly of popular dishes such as the crab-stuffed cod, the Alamosa bass with devil butter, roasted fingerling potatoes, and the brown butter pan-seared scallops. There’s also a focus on craft beer with a constantly changing tap list of around two dozen brews.

Fish N Beer : 3510 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

Hey Bangkok!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hey Bangkok (@heybangkok_denver)

Rating: 9.2 (4.5 Google Maps, 4.7 Yelp)

Hey Bangkok! is owned and operated by the owners of the popular Swing Thai restaurants in the city. It’s a locally-owned and family-run business that has been supported by the community of Denver to thrive into a three-venue venture. The success is also in part due to the hard-working staff and family recipes from across Thailand. As the name suggests this outpost has a focus on street food from Bangkok. The menu includes staples like crispy spring rolls, peanut-topped pad-thai, and Thai boneless fried chicken. Come here, if you’re in the mood for punchy flavor and a casual street food dining experience.

Hey Bangkok! : 301 S Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80209

Yahya’s Mediterranean Grill and Pastries

Photo: Yahya’s Mediterranean Grill and Pastries

Rating: 9.2 (4.6 Google Maps, 4.6 Yelp)

Yahya’s Mediterranean Grill and Pastries is an excellent place if you’re looking for a relaxed place for a group. The chefs and owners have spent time in the Middle East, bringing back inspiration from Turkey, Iraq, and Syria for the comfort food menu. Yelp’s five-star reviews remark on the friendliness of staff and the excellent level of service, even during peak times. There’s also a celebration of vegetables with a superb variety of non-meat dishes such as the popular veggie plate of falafel, tabouli, turmeric rice, baba ganoush, hummus and pita, stuffed grape leaf, and lentil soup.

Yahya’s Mediterranean Grill & Pastries : 2207 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206

Pho & Bar

Photo: Pho and Bar

Pho & Bar serves traditional Vietnamese food with an imaginative twist. “Our pho is a labor of love, simmered to perfection for hours to achieve that rich, flavorful broth,” say owners and the people behind East Alameda’s Pho Haus, Annie Tran and Aaron Lam. The house pho is what people queue for, but the pho roll of lemongrass beef, pickled veggies, and fresh herbs, Asian buffalo wings, and five-spice fries with sriracha aioli have quickly become cult favorites. The dining space is cozy and inviting, the perfect atmosphere for a bowl of pho with friends or family. Yelp reviewer Joseph recommends both the house pho with a side of rare fillet to add to the steaming noodles.

Pho & Bar : 1600 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pony Up Denver (@ponyupdenver)

Restaurant and bar Pony Up is a great shout for a late-night dinner (or lunch, for that matter). It’s playful and attracts a cool crowd without being pretentious. The patio space is where you want to be on a warm evening with a cocktail or cold beer between rounds of stand-up shuffleboard (the venue also has entertainment). Pony Up established itself as the place to go for French dips — The Alameda Street Classic of roast beef, sea salt, rosemary, mayo, and beef jus is a classic for good reason. The menu simple, yet perfectly executed. If a sandwich doesn’t hit the spot, you can opt for French onion soup, Japanese style fried chicken, or peanut butter burger.

Pony Up : 1808 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202

Somebody People

The Denver food scene still heavily favors meat, but new-generation vegetarian and vegan establishments are popping up. One of the better places for plant-based food is Somebody People. The gourmet vegetarian dining spot embraces local, seasonal produce and is committed to sustainable practices.

“We end every week with Sunday Supper, a five-course, chef-selected tasting menu served family-style for the table. We look to see what we have in-house from the farms and cook it all up. This helps minimize our food waste (as we’re closed on Mondays) and gives guests a unique experience each week,” says owner Tricia Maher.

Maher also shares that guests are encouraged to bring their own containers so they can take home any leftovers. Current popular dishes include the Esoterra Farm Salad with radishes, house-made sourdough croutons, and red wine vinaigrette, the roasted broccoli with ajo blanco, almonds, and sumac topped with parsley mint salsa, and house-made fresh orzo pasta with English peas, mint, and lemon. Finish with the tiramisu and a Dirty Deed cocktail with award-winning Askur gin.

Somebody People : 1165 S Broadway #104, Denver, CO 80210

Cart-Driver

Photo: Cart-Driver

Rating: 9.2 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.5 Yelp)

Cart-Driver RiNo : 2500 Larimer St #100, Denver, CO 80205

More like this

Matador guide, trending now, at limelight hotel denver, exploring the heart of the city comes easy, this boutique rino hotel is denver's luxurious hangout for visitors and locals, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

National Nurses Week 2024: Chipotle's free burrito giveaway, more deals and discounts

Nurses should be celebrated every day, but they do have a special week: national nurses week, which runs may 6-12. restaurants like chipotle and buffalo wild wings have specials during the week..

Chipotle is giving away 100,000 burritos for National Nurses Week. And you don't necessarily have to be a nurse to get in on the deal.

From Monday, May 6, to Friday, May 10, healthcare workers can sign up for a chance to win a free burrito e-card on the Chipotle website . At the end of National Nurses Week, 100,000 healthcare workers will be randomly selected to get an email asking them to verify their employment status via ID.me. Those who successfully verify that within 48 hours will get a free burrito e-card.

Customers can get in on the action, too, by purchasing limited-edition Chipotle Healthcare Heroes E-Gift Cards online; 10% of the proceeds from the gift card purchases will be donated to the American Nurses Foundation. And throughout the month of May, you can round up your online or app orders to the nearest dollar amount. 100% of those proceeds will go to the foundation.

National Nurses Week 2024: A RN reflects on the state of the profession, calls for change

When is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week is observed annually May 6 through May 12.

What is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week grew out of a congressional resolution and proclamation signed by President Reagan in 1982 deeming May 6 as a National Recognition Day for Nurses.

The American Nurses Association board of directors expanded this to a National Nurses Week in 1990. The permanent dates for the week were designated in 1993 to be officially observed starting in 1994.

The week includes National School Nurses Day on May 8 and May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, which has been celebrated as International Nurse Day since 1974.

More ways to save: Visit USA TODAY's coupons page for deals from thousands of vendors

National Nurses Week 2024 freebies, deals and discounts

Here's a roundup of freebies, deals, discounts and other specials for National Nurses Week.

• Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza: Nurses get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• BurgerFi: Nurses get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: From Monday, May 6, to May 12, nurses get 20% off their orders with valid IDs on dine-in, call-in, and walk-in orders.
• Buzz E-Bikes and Huffy Bicycles : Both United Wheels -owned companies give nurses 20% off online purchases year-round when verifying their ID.me at checkout.
• Create Amor: Through June 7, get 25% off orders for scrubs (use the code NURSE25) and $1 per set (top and bottom) will be donated to the American Nurses Foundation. The scrubs brand will also donate 100% of proceeds from each Iris Five Pocket Top sold directly to the foundation.
• Dunkin': Nurses can get a free medium hot or iced coffee, no purchase necessary, on Monday, May 6. (The deal excludes Frozen Coffee, Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew. Espresso shots, flavors, dairy alternatives & cold foam may be an additional charge.)
• Firehouse Subs: The sandwich chain has a week of specials available starting Monday through its Firehouse Rewards loyalty program and app including (on Wednesday) BOGO Hook & Ladder Subs and (on Friday) two medium sandwiches for $12 or two large sandwiches for $18.
• Free Rein Coffee Company: Nurses, first responders and medical providers get 20% off all year long from "Yellowstone" star Cole Hauser's brew brand by verifying with ID.me. Also eligible for the 20% discount: military members.
• The Good Feet Store : The retailer, with more than 250 locations, will give nurses a complimentary pair of Architek Comfort Slip-Ons and three pairs of OS1st Comfort socks with the purchase of at least a Good Feet Store 3-Step Arch Support System. (Note: if Architeks are not available, a pair of Brooks running shoes will be provided. Valid nurse's ID is required.)
• The Greene Turtle: All nurses and healthcare workers with a valid ID get a free meal (value of up to $15) on Monday, May 6.
• Happy Joe’ s Pi zza & Ice Cream: Nurses get a 10% discount at participating locations from Monday to Friday, May 6-10.
• honeygrow: Nominate a nursing team for $250 worth of catering from the fast-casual chain with 33 locations in the eastern U.S. Submit your nomination on the honeygrow website before Wednesday, May 8. Five winning teams will be announced on May 10 via honeygrow's social media platforms.
• HTeaO: The iced tea chain will give healthcare personnel 50% off cups of tea from Monday, May 13, to Sunday, May 26, with a valid hospital, doctors office, and school nurse ID.
• Insomnia C ookies: The Philadelphia-based late-night bakery chain with more than 240 locations is giving nurses a free Classic cookie in-store, no purchase necessary, all week beginning Monday, May 6. (Just show a valid ID; availability varies by location.)
• KIND Snacks: Nurses get 15% off their purchases on the website all year long. Customers just verify with ID.me at checkout.
• Landing: The flexible rental firm, with sites especially practical for travel nurses, is giving away prizes including three months' rent. Nurses can enter to win by submitting a 60-second video and others can nominate a nurse, too.
• Logan's Roadhouse: Nurses get 20% off their entrée this week. Just show your badge.
• McAlister’s Deli: Nurses can get free tea – either one big Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, ½ Sweet & ½ Unsweet Tea, or ½ Lemonade & ½ Sweet/Unsweet Tea (flavor shots excluded) – at McAlister's Deli from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, with their badge or ID. Offer valid in-store only; no purchase necessary.
• Moe’s Southwest Grill: Cater a Moe's Southwest Grill meal for nurses from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, and when you spend $300 or more, get a $50 E-gift card (use code THANKYOU24). Good at participating locations; not valid with other offers or third-party delivery. Doesn't include tax, tip and fees.
• Pancheros: Nurses can buy one entrée and get one free on Wednesday, May 8, at participating restaurants. (Offer good in-restaurant; just present a valid hospital badge at checkout.)
• The Parking Spot: The parking company is giving healthcare workers 25% off parking during their trips; just signup with an associated healthcare email account .
• Peter Piper Pizza : Nurses can get a free personal pizza every day Monday through Friday (May 6-10). Redemption is limited to once per day; valid nurse ID/credentials must be shown.
• Postino: The restaurant chain, with more than 25 locations in five states , will give nurses its $25 Board and Bottle (bruschetta board, plus a bottle of wine) all day every day during the month of May with badge/ID. (The special is usually only available Monday and Tuesday 8 p.m. to closing.)
• Potbelly Sandwich Works: Nurses get a free cookie or fountain drink with the purchase of an entrée by showing their ID Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12. Also, all customers can get free delivery on a catering order over $150.
• Salata Salad Kitchen: On Monday, May 6, Healthcare workers get 20% off their order when they present their badge at checkout. Also from Monday to Friday, get 20% off catering orders of $200 or more, and get free delivery on orders through DoorDash.
• Shipley Do-Nuts: Nurses who belong the chain's Do-Happy loyalty program can get a free half-dozen box of glazed do-nuts with any purchase on Monday, May 6.
• Skechers: Nurses get a 10% discount on all styles during the month of May on the Skechers website (valid ID or form of employment required). Online shoppers can also round up the purchase price of May purchases to the nearest dollar with proceeds going to the American Nurses Foundation; donate $5 or more and get $10 off your next $100 purchase in June.
• Smoothie King: Get $2 off your on Monday and Tuesday via Smoothie King’s Healthy Rewards App (use code THANKS2024). The promo code may be used multiple times. Also, Friday, May 3, to Friday, May 10, when you buy $25 or more in gift cards online, get a bonus of 2,000 Healthy Reward points.
• Sockwell: Nurses get a free pair of socks when they buy three pairs at full price May 6-12 on the Sockwell website (excludes closeouts and 3-packs).
• Yogurtland: Through May 14, the frozen yogurt chain is offering free delivery on orders of more than $15 made through the website or mobile app (use the code FREEDELIVERY).
• Zaxby's : Nurses can buy one Boneless Wings Meal and get a second one free on May 7 at participating locations (redeemable through the Zaxby's app or website for Zax Rewardz members, while supplies last).
• Zips Car Wash:  Nurses can get a $5 "Pro" Wash at any Zips Car Wash or Rocket Express location across the country through May 19 with wash code 3687.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day

Unwind in Comfort at Our Hotel Near the Denver Airport

Experience unmatched convenience and relaxation at Hyatt Place Peña Station / Denver Airport, strategically located near the bustling Denver International Airport. Our hotel offers a free airport shuttle and modern, comfortable rooms, providing a stylish retreat for both business and leisure travelers. Unwind in our indoor pool, stay active at our 24/7 fitness center and start your day right with our complimentary breakfast. With a quick and seamless access to Denver’s A-Line, explore the vibrant energy of Downtown Denver, making our hotel the perfect hub for a well-rounded and enjoyable stay.

• Free Breakfast
• Free Internet Access
• On-Site Restaurant

Fitness Center

Pet friendly.

• Digital Key
• Digital Check-In
• In-Room Chromecast
• Business Services
• Meeting Facilities

Hotel Features

• 226 rooms, including two suites
• Indoor pool
• Shared Computers
• 4,026 square feet of event space
• Complementary airport shuttle (4am-midnight)
• $14 parking/night

Room Features

• Cozy Corner with sofa-sleeper
• Flat-screen TV
• Individually-controlled heat and air conditioning
• Blackout curtains
• KenetMD toiletries
• Iron and ironing board
• In-room safe
• Rollaway upon request
• Crib upon request

Accessibility

• Emergency strobe light and smoke detector
• Cordless phone
• Closed-captioned TV
• Lowered thermostat and light switches
• Lowered peephole and door latch
• Accessible bathroom
• Full Service Starbucks
• Two-Sided Fire Place

Map, Parking + Transportation

24/7 Dining

Wake up to breakfast served every day at The Breakfast Bar where you’ll find a wide array of choices from fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola, to eggs, hash browns, waffles, and more.

Conveniently located in our free-flowing lobby, The Placery offers a thoughtfully sourced, cleverly curated menu. Try our Signature Burger, Chicken Caesar Salad, Turkey Pesto Sandwich, or sharable Parmesan Fries, which can be paired with one of our premium alcoholic beverages. Cheers!

Looking to grab something To-Go? The Market has a selection of bottled drinks, and fresh conveniently packaged items from snacks to salads, while our bakery case is filled with an array of tempting pastries and sweets.

Hotel Accessibility Features

We are committed to providing equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. The features also make this hotel more accessible for older individuals with changing abilities to ensure a seamless experience. Our overall goal is to improve usability throughout the hotel for all guests.

Accessible Hotel Parking and Transportation

• Accessible Transportation
• Self-Parking for Cars
• Accessible Transportation with Advance Notice
• Van-Accessible Self-Parking

Accessible Hotel Areas

• Public Restrooms
• Restaurants
• Registration Desk
• Swimming Pool
• Public Entrance
• Fitness Center/Exercise Facilities
• Business Center

Accessibility for Guest Rooms and Meetings

• Text Telephone TTY
• Closed-caption or closed-captioning decoders for guest room televisions
• Assistive listening devices for meetings provided upon request
• Accessible guest rooms with mobility features have doorways with 32 in (0.81 m) of clear width

Hotel Areas with Accessible Routes from Accessible Public Entrance

• Meeting Room/Ballroom Area
• Guest Rooms
• Registration Area

Denver International Airport Shuttle Service

Enjoy the convenience of our hotel’s complimentary on-demand shuttle service to and from Denver International Airport, departing from East Side door #505 on Island 3. Simply contact us at +1 720 405 4321 to request the shuttle or obtain further details.

VIEW AREA TRANSPORTATION

On-Site Starbucks

Savor the convenience of a full Starbucks experience right at your doorstep in Hyatt Place Peña Station / Denver Airport, where you can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a variety of delightful treats.

VIEW ALL DINING

Indoor Pool

Events Spaces

Elevate your events to new heights at our hotel near the Denver airport, where our versatile venues provide the perfect setting for conferences or celebrations of up to 300  people.

1–6 nights: $75 7–30 nights: $75 and an additional $100 cleaning fee 30+ nights: please contact the hotel for further information

A permitted maximum of 2 dogs per room 

Weight Limits

"Great Value"

Connect With Us

Travel with the World of Hyatt App.

We're bringing flexibility and peace of mind to your stay, with digital amenities that can help put you in control of how you connect with us. Discover the below amenities via the World of Hyatt app, available at Hyatt Place Peña Station / Denver Airport:

• Account access
• Points balance & earned rewards
• Curated meditations from Headspace
• Hotel stay bill
• Hotel favorites
• In-stay benefits

Hyatt Place Peña Station / Denver Airport

Pantaleone's

Hours updated over 3 months ago

Popular dishes

View full menu

Greek Salad

Sausage Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza

The Carnivore Pizza

Pantaleone 's Feast Pizza

Greek Pizza

Meat Lover 's Pizza

Cheese Pizza

Caesar Salad

Linguine Alla Vodka

People also searched for

casual restaurants

restaurants good for groups

lunch restaurants

dinner restaurants

dine-in restaurants

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

2120 S Holly St

Denver, CO 80222

Other Pizza Nearby

Brooklyn’s Finest Pizza

6.1 miles away from Pantaleone's

Harlee S. said "I visited this place a while ago with two co-workers and am gonna give this place 4 stars solely based on the tasty pizza. The staff on the other hand were 2 stars at best. They weren't very friendly and we just wanted to let them…" read more

in Sandwiches, Italian, Pizza

Noah K. said "I'll preface this by saying I hardly ever write reviews for anything. And I love this place. Best pizza I've had in Denver by far. And you can't go wrong with other menu options, they clearly use high quality ingredients and prepare…" read more

Amenities and More

Powered by Health Department Intelligence

14 More Attributes

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Pantaleone's .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

300 reviews

I just went here for the first time after seeing it in my neighborhood, and had a great experience. I placed an order for takeout, and the owner (Pete) was super nice on the phone. He said the pizza would be ready in 10 minutes but asked "or is that too soon for you to get here?" which I thought was very considerate. We chatted a bit in the store when I arrived, and he was just the nicest man. He told me a little bit about his experience with being on the Kitchen Nightmares show. He told me Gordon Ramsay asked for his pizza crust recipe, but "since you are a lady I cannot tell you the words I told him", which was amusing! I wish I pressed him more for what he actually said. The pizza was delicious, and honestly, it IS the best pizza crust I've ever had. It was all puffy and flaky, and, I know this sounds weird, but tasted like BREAD rather than just a carby vehicle for toppings. The sauce tasted very herby without being sweet, which I enjoyed. The sausage did taste a little store bought, but it wasn't bad. And it wasn't greasy at all. Another local pizza place I frequent is good but the slices just drip grease everywhere. Happy that I could eat this pizza one handed and without a bib! All in all, between the delicious crust, great flavor, and excellent customer service, I would love to return to Pantaleone's soon. Note: If the owner reads these reviews, would you ever consider having dairy-free cheese as an option? My partner would LOVE this pizza as well, but is allergic to dairy. That greasy competitor I mentioned above has dairy-free Daiya cheese as an option, and really, that's the only reason we go there.

Pete is extremely convivial and serious about his business. This is one of the best pizzas you can get in the Denver area. The bread, crust is delicate, moist and firm and goes excellent under all of the wonderful red sauce and white sauce toppings he has to choose from. I was working in the area and found his restaurant, small and quaint. I had the choice between a taco stand and his pizza restaurant, and as I am a pizza aficionado, I chose to try his pizza. I have been all over the world and found his pizza excellent . If you go to Google maps to try and find a pizza restaurant, it will tell you that he closes at four and this is not true. Pete works feverishly until 9 o'clock every night to deliver quality pizza and ingredients. He has my utmost respect!

Honestly, I have no idea why this place gets bad reviews. Feels like people are just sheep because of the show. The pizza is amazing! Crust is super delicious!! The owner became a chef in New York. Had the pleasure to talk to him. We'll be back.

Saw them from chef Ramseys show and I had to check if they were still open (most of the restaurants aren't) from the show. I'm also Greek and my father was just like Pete. Work hard love hard loyal and generous but when it came to his ego he was always right. So glad to see Pete got it together! Makes me tear up . What a great outcome Bravo!

Gave this place a 2nd try after a mishap, I ordered online but Pete said that his ovens weren't warmed up and recommended I get a refund for my order. He offered to have me come back either later in the day or the next day for any complimentary pizza I wanted. Long story short, it wasn't a perfect visit, but Pete cares about his customers and made the unfortunate situation "right". The pizza was a bit underdone but still pretty tasty. He upgraded it to a complimentary large and my co worker came back for seconds and said it was a good pie.

Delicious Pie, friendly wait staff. Got a sausage pizza with mushrooms and was not disappointed. Would order again.

Definitely a place to go try if you havent. met the owner and he was very friendly. Pizza was done well and even if you don't like the crust, you should eat it too!

This pizza smelled so good, I didn't even wait to get out of the door before I started eating it. I even burned my mouth. #WorthIt I walked in, and the owner immediately greeted me, and he was super nice. Told him it was my first time, asked what he suggested, etc. They advertise about having the best dough, and it really is something special. Make sure it's a to-go meal, there isn't any indoor seating. And order more than you think you'll need because you'll want it.

I went here when I was driving through to New York and it didn't let me down it was realy good and ngl there pizza is pretty good

Decent pizza in a town that finds it difficult to make a good, thin crust like they do in the mid-west

67 other reviews that are not currently recommended

You Might Also Consider

Cherry Cricket

3.4 miles away from Pantaleone's

Chad D. said "I'm not going to leave 1 star due to the times. Showed up last night around 9:30pm and was looking for a seat for just myself at the bar. In the industry and got a rare Saturday night off....wanted a burger/fries/beer and figured…" read more

in Sports Bars, Burgers, New American

Los Chingones - DTC

3.7 miles away from Pantaleone's

Ben S. said "It's not often that I'm moved to write a review, I don't want to be the person that thinks their opinion is so great everyone needs to hear it, that being said, I am quick to give kudos, or let people know of a terrible experience.…" read more

Collections Including Pantaleone's

#ColoradoCurbside — Denver Takeout, Delivery & Curbside Pickup

Food To Try In Denver

By Laura K.

Lunch Spots in the DTC

By Cassandra F.

WHOA!! Don't even think about it

By Terry L.

Recommended Pizza

By Jerry N.

By Brittnie P.

By MinhTho N.

By Michelle W.

Denverdizzle

By Diana A.

People Also Viewed

Blue Pan Pizza

Marco’s Coal Fired-Ballpark

Oblio’s Pizzeria

Redeemer Pizza

Jimano’s Pizzeria

Pie Society Pizza

Best of Denver

Things to do in Denver

Other Pizza Places Nearby

Find more Pizza Places near Pantaleone's

People found Pantaleone's by searching for…

Pizza By The Slice Denver

Pizza Delivery Denver

Best Garlic Knots in Denver

Best Ny Style Pizza in Denver

Food Delivery in Denver

Meatball Sandwich in Denver

New York Style Pizza in Denver

The Old Neighborhood in Denver

Chicken Parm Sub in Denver

Italian Food in Denver

New Haven Style Pizza in Denver

Open Now in Denver

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Cocktail Bars

Things to Do

Dining in Denver

Search for Reservations

Book a Table in Denver