Hello! I am excited to share my favorite places in Denver with you. As a local, I know the Mile High City has a lot to offer aside from all the cool mountains (Although they’re hard to beat). Last year, nearly 37.1 million people visited Denver, and that’s no surprise! This guide covers the absolute best Denver activities and attractions, from the iconic concert venues to quirky art installations and historic squares. I have purposely included plenty of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit. So, if you’re looking for ideas of what to do in Denver for first-time visitors or returning fans, then you have found the right blog.
Best Month to Visit Denver, Colorado
September is great for sunny days and fewer crowds, but there are fun summer activities in Denver, too.
| Best Month to Visit (Time Period) | Top 4 Most Popular Seasonal Occasions / Key Events |
| September – October | 1. The Great American Beer Festival 2. A Taste of Colorado 3. Denver Food & Wine Festival 4. Oktoberfest on Larimer Square |
| April – May | 1. Cinco de Mayo 2. Five Points JazzFest 3. Colfax Marathon 4. Denver Arts Festival |
| June – August | 1. PrideFest 2. Cherry Creek Arts Festival 3. Juneteenth Music Festival 4. Denver Comic Con (Fan Expo) |
| November – March | 1. National Western Stock Show 2. Blossoms of Light 3. Denver Film Festival 4. Proximity to Rocky Mountain Ski Resorts |
| Travel Insurance-I think travel insurance is a smart move. Travel insurance is a good idea. It will protect you from unexpected cancellations or medical situations and allow you to spend your time in Denver happy and worry-free. |
List Of 13 Things to do in Denver, Colorado
1. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
An incredible outdoor venue to visit with amazing acoustics that you’re literally surrounded by hundreds of feet of red rock. You can see a concert, go for a hike, or just take in the majestic views. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Denver romantically. The park is free to visit on non-event days. It’s one of the top family-friendly things to do in Denver for a day trip. Parking lots fill up fast on show nights, so I always arrive early to get a decent spot.
Special Feature: The only naturally occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater.
Where to stay: 18485 W Colfax Ave, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Open–Close: 1 hr before sunrise – 1 hr after sunset. Verify on the official site.
Hidden Gem: An underground tunnel with artist autographs.
2. Denver Art Museum
This is an architectural highlight with a massive collection. You’ll find everything from Indigenous arts to modern works. The Rockies inspire the Hamilton Building’s sharp angles. It’s a great spot to spend an afternoon and to explore diverse cultures through art. New exhibits keep every visit fresh.
Special Feature: One of the largest Indigenous arts collections in the country.
Where to stay: 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Hours: Open–Close: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Tue until 8 pm). Closed Wed.
Hidden Gem: A rooftop terrace with great Rocky Mountain views.
3. Denver Botanic Gardens
This is a 23-acre urban oasis perfect for a peaceful walk. The gardens feature diverse plants around the globe in well-themed sections. There’s a tropical conservatory, with a Japanese garden, and nice water features. It is one of the most relaxing Denver activities and attractions you can find.
Special Feature: A tropical conservatory that feels like a different world.
Where to stay: 245 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206
Hours: Verify Denver Botanic Gardens’ ticket hours on the official site.
Hidden Gem: The Science Pyramid offers interactive science exhibits.
4. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
A place for on-going wonder. There are exhibits for dinosaurs, space, Egyptian mummies, and wildlife found in Colorado. This is good for all ages. The museum is vast, so plan on spending a few hours. With your Kids, love the hands-on Discovery Zone. It’s an engaging and educational stop, making it one of the top family-friendly things to do in Denver.
Special Feature: An IMAX theater and a planetarium for immersive shows.
Where to stay: 1430 Race St, Denver, CO 80206
Hours: Open–Close: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily.
Hidden Gem: The rooftop Sky Terrace has panoramic city views.
5. Meow Wolf | Convergence Station
This is a memorable, unique art experience. This massive four-story exhibit is filled with interactive, surreal worlds created by local artists. You can touch everything and uncover a hidden narrative. Plan to spend at least three hours and getting lost in this fantastic, weird place.
Special Feature: Over 70 unique, interactive art installations.
Where to stay: 1190 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
Hours: Open–Close: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Fri-Sat until 12 am). Verify on the official site.
Hidden Gem: A secret “dungeon game” unlocked via a phone booth.
6. 16th Street Mall
This is a mile-long pedestrian promenade that runs through downtown, is packed with shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you get tired of walking, feel free to jump on the free MallRide that runs up and down the streets of the Mall. It is a great place to people watch, eat, and soak in the sights of the city.
Special Feature: A free shuttle bus, the MallRide, runs end to end.
Where to stay: 934 16th St Mall, Denver, CO 80202
Hours: Mall is open 24/7; individual store hours vary.
Hidden Gem: The Clocktower Cabaret for burlesque and comedy shows.
7. Colorado State Capitol
This building is known to everyone by its dome covered with actual gold. It’s not just a normal political building, but a piece of history. I suggest taking the free tour to learn about the history of Colorado and check out the great interior of this building. It is a must-see for the architecture and the 365-degree panning views from the dome observation deck.
Special Feature: The 13th step is exactly one mile above sea level.
Where to stay: 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Hours: Open–Close: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm weekdays.
Hidden Gem: Walls are made of rare Colorado Rose Onyx marble.
8. Union Station
More than just a train station, it a beautifully renovated downtown center. There many great restaurants and bars, some of which are family-owned.I like to go in the morning to have coffee, and then work in the open atmosphere of the Great Hall or play shuffle board. This mix of old and new styles is one of the great things to do in Denver for couples.
Special Feature: Home to the elegant Crawford Hotel inside the station.
Where to stay: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
Hours: Building is open 24/7; retail hours vary.
Hidden Gem: Old train marker scrolls preserved in the elevator lobby.
9. Denver Zoo
The zoo is in City Park and there are more than 700 species of animals. The habitats look experienced and immersive to look natural so the animals thrive. It is an enjoyable day out, especially for children under 12. Make sure to check out the new “Down Under” exhibit. This is one of the most fun things to do in Denver.
Special Feature: The “Down Under” exhibit lets you walk among kangaroos.
Where to stay: 1430 Race St, Denver, CO 80206
Hours: Verify on the official site.
Hidden Gem: Watch vets at work through windows at the hospital.
10. Larimer Square
This is the oldest and most historic block of Denver. Has lovely Victorian architecture. There are many boutique shops, art galleries, and chef-run restaurants. At night with the string lights it is a nice atmosphere for dinner or a drink. It’s an excellent spot for a date night or some shopping.
Special Feature: Home to Comedy Works, a top national comedy club.
Where to stay: 1111 14th St, Denver, CO 80202
Hours: Shops open Monday through Saturday, 10 am; Sunday, 12 pm; restaurants vary.
Hidden Gem: Green Russell, an underground speakeasy with cocktails.
11. Denver Microbrewery Tour
Denver is a craft beer paradise and a tour is a great way to experience. The RiNo Art District has the best breweries and has a guided walking tour so you can try many local beers and learn about the brewing process in a great neighborhood!
Special Feature: The RiNo district boasts one of the highest concentrations of breweries.
Where to stay: 1280 25th St, Denver, CO 80205
Hours: Verify on the official site.
Hidden Gem: Many breweries feature murals from local RiNo artists.
Travel Basics & Tips
- Altitude Sickness: Drink lots of water to keep this at bay.
- Transportation: You’re connected to the airport via the RTD Light Rail.
- Weather: layers, and be mindful that the weather changes rapidly.
- Parking: don’t get suckered into paying $20 to park downtown; use apps to find bargains.
- Denver Botanic Gardens: book your tickets ahead of time so that you can avoid waiting.
- CityPASS: will help you save money if you plan to visit a few attractions.
Conclusion
Denver is a city packed with interesting things, both historic and contemporary. This Denver guide gets you going on finding all the cool things to see and do in Denver. Whether you’re planning a family trip or looking for fun things to do in Denver for couples, something is waiting for you. My personal favorite will constantly be checking out the street art and breweries in RiNo. You will always leave with great memories, no matter what you do!
Frequently asked questions
Is the Golden Triangle in Denver safe?
Denver itself is a very welcoming place, and the Golden Triangle and LoDo are two neighborhoods with one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
How far are the Rocky Mountains from Denver?
The Rocky Mountains are approximately 60 miles (97 KM) away.
What is mountain sickness in Denver?
One of the most common sicknesses that occurs in the mountains of Denver is altitude sickness, which includes headaches.
