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13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Denver

Whether it’s beautiful city parks, incredible craft breweries, or the call of the Rocky Mountains, here are 13 reasons why Denver is a must-visit.

Enjoy the beautiful parks.

The city of Denver maintains a number of parks throughout downtown and surrounding areas that offer urban dwellers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Rent a bicycle and hop on the Cherry Creek Trail that cuts right through the heart of downtown. Or visit Confluence Park and take in the South Platte River. The expansive City Park is home to several playgrounds, picnic areas, and sporting fields, as well as the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science . With no shortage of parks throughout the city, a little patch of green is never far away.

Join the craft beer mania

The Mile High City loves its craft beer . In fact, according to a report by Datafiniti, Colorado has 348 breweries, the second highest number of any state, and many of those breweries happen to be in Denver. Every fall, the city plays host to The Great American Beer Festival , where 800 breweries and several thousand beers are on display at the largest beer festival in the country.

Denver has an incredible art scene. The Denver Art Museum and The Clyfford Still Museum are just a few of the art attractions worth visiting. The Santa Fe and RiNo Arts Districts offer many contemporary art galleries and artist studios worth visiting. First Friday Art Walks happen the first Friday of every month and allow visitors to enter many of the galleries throughout the evening. There are also food trucks, live music, and other fun activities throughout the community to keep visitors entertained.

The newly renovated Union Station

The century-old Union Station is much more than just a transportation hub. From the outside, you’ll take in the views of one of Denver’s most important historic landmarks constructed in the turn-of-the-century Beaux-Arts architectural style. Once inside, Union Station is nothing but state-of-the-art luxury, with everything from 10 chef-owned bars and restaurants to upscale shopping, and the luxury Crawford Hotel .

Wine and dine in Larimer Square

Larimer Square is a block right out of Denver’s history; it’s the oldest commercial block in the city and first historic district. Now, Larimer Square is the shopping and dining center, with several chef-driven restaurants that make all the top lists of best places to eat and drink year after year. The Victorian buildings have been refurbished to lend a delightful charm of string lights crisscrossing the street, adding to the vibrant atmosphere all year long.

Take a stroll down the 16th Street Mall

This pedestrian mall stretches several city blocks and features a wide variety of shops and eateries, including more than 42 outdoor cafés. Take the free MallRide shuttle up and down the mall to the DenverPavillions, with plenty more shops and a large movie theater, or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride or pedicab. After dark, the mall lights up with nearly a million lights in 200 trees that line the walkway.

See a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts

For the theater aficionado, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is sure to have something to love. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts complex is a four-block site with 10 theater spaces. Not only does the complex host its own theater company, as well as the Colorado Ballet, Symphony, and Opera, but it also plays host to a number of national tours of Broadway productions.

See the Rockies and watch the Rockies at Coors Field

Denver loves its sports’ teams. And there’s no better place to watch a game than to see the Colorado Rockies play baseball at Coors Field . Not only does Coors Field have a reputation as a home-run-friendly ballpark, but the stadium was designed to give the fans a view of the stunning Rocky Mountains while they take in the game. Other highlights include a microbrewery and Rio on the Rocks , a full-service restaurant and bar where you can reserve a spot for the entire game.

Tune into the Denver music scene

Denver boasts an incredibly passionate and adventurous music scene worth checking out. There’s a large number of venues, from small bars and jazz clubs to concert halls to Red Rocks Amphitheatre , frequently rated one of the best outdoor music venues in the country.

Smell the flowers at Denver Botanic Gardens

It’s not surprising that the Denver Botanic Gardens is rated one of the top five in the nation. Not only do the gardens offer year-round programming and special events, but the two locations also have everything from visiting art exhibits to live concerts and even wine festivals. The Denver Botanic Gardens is so much more than a place to smell the flowers.

With the legalization of marijuana in the state of Colorado, Denver has become a popular spot for weed tourism. The dispensaries in Denver are a dime a dozen , and the options for consumption range from the smokeable to the edible to the drinkable varieties—there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find that the staff in most dispensaries are knowledgeable and helpful if you are looking to try something for the first time.

Soak in the Western history

There are plenty of opportunities to learn about the West right here in the Mile High City. Check out The History Colorado Center for hands-on exhibits that feel like riding right into the past. Visit The Molly Brown House for a guided tour and learn about Denver’s own Titanic heroine. For a piece of culinary history, have a meal at Denver’s original steakhouse, the Buckhorn Exchange , open since 1863, and try a frontier delicacy such as alligator tail, buffalo sausage, or Rocky Mountain Oysters.

The mountains are calling

No trip to Denver is complete without a journey into the surrounding beauty of the Colorado mountains. And you can take a road trip into the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and be home before dinner.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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Home > United States > 27 Reasons To Visit Denver: Why You Should Visit Denver

27 Reasons To Visit Denver: Why You Should Visit Denver

By Dymphe / February 4, 2023

Interested in the best reasons to visit Denver ? The city has so many great things and that's why you should visit Denver for sure.

Denver is a gorgeous city in the United States . It's the capital of the state of Colorado. Furthermore, it's the largest city in its state. Some of the best sights in the city are the Denver Art Museum and the botanic garden.

If you're wondering why you should visit Denver, there are many reasons you should know about. The city has so much to offer and there's something for everyone's liking. For that reason, traveling to Denver is so much fun!

One of the most amazing reasons to visit Denver is that there is a gorgeous amphitheater. This is an amphitheater made of rock. And the best thing about this place is that you can see performances there! It's one of the most unique things in the city and going there is great.

Another nice reason to travel there is that it often snows in the city. This looks magical!

Besides that, there is much more. Love shopping? Then the boutique shops in the LoDo Neighborhood are wonderful! And if you're looking for a relaxing place to go to, Denver is great as well. There are many wonderful rooftop bars in the city.

Another thing that makes the city worth visiting is that you can see mountains when you're in the city. This is definitely breathtaking and it makes the city unique.

And there are so many other great things about the city that you will love!

Table of Contents

1. You Can See Performances at a Gorgeous Amphitheater Made of Rock

One of the best reasons to visit Denver is to visit the Red Rocks Amphitheatre .

This is a beautiful amphitheater that you can find a bit outside of the city center.

What's special about this theater is that it is completely made of rock and in a rocky landscape.

It is the perfect place to attend a concert when you are in the city!

What's great is that you can see the rocky landscape of Colorado while attending a concert at this place. This is very special for sure!

This is definitely why you should visit Denver if you like to go to a unique theater.

2. You Can Have a Great View of Mountains When You Are in the City

Here's also why you should visit Denver!

What's great is that there are a lot of mountains that surround the city.

This is beautiful to see, and it makes the whole city look much more beautiful!

It is lovely that there is a city surrounded by mountains.

Also, what makes this one of the best reasons to visit Denver is that the mountains are very photogenic.

So if you like taking photos, these mountains make the city great to capture!

3. There Are Many Beautiful Murals: Nice Reason To Visit Denver If You Like Murals

Here's another one of the reasons to visit Denver if you like beautiful places.

That's because you can find a lot of colorful murals in the city.

You can find these through the city in various districts.

These murals look beautiful and are great for taking photos.

Besides that, the murals often feature lovely and positive texts.

It is great to go for a walk through the city and see these murals as you are walking!

If you like street art, that's definitely why you should visit Denver!

4. It Often Snows in Denver During Winter

Another one of the best reasons to visit Denver is that it often snows in the city.

Denver has a very unique climate.

In summer, it can get very hot in the city. But in winter it can get very cold in the city. And it snows for a lot of days!

So if you love snow, that's also why you should visit Denver!

And this also makes the city great to visit throughout the year.

5. You Can Do a Day Trip To Places in Colorado: Perfect Reason To Visit Denver If You Want To Visit Beautiful Places

Denver is in the middle of Colorado, and because of that, it is very easy to go to various places in the state.

It is very nice that you can do a day trip to many cities and towns. And this is one of the reasons to visit Denver.

One of the best places for a day trip is Colorado Springs. This is a wonderful place if you like seeing nature. Moreover, the city has a lot of places with great views.

Also, you can do a trip to Boulder. This is a lovely city where you can find many boutique shops and art galleries. Also, it is a great place to combine with the Rocky Mountain National Park.

6. There Are Lovely Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in Denver

If you like having dinner or a drink with a view, that's also why you should visit Denver.

That's because you can find many rooftop restaurants and rooftop bars in the city.

From these places, you can see the skyscrapers of Denver. And you can see the surrounding mountain landscape of the city from these rooftops.

It is very spectacular to have food or drinks with a view!

One of the best rooftop bars is 54thirty Rooftop . This is the highest rooftop bar in the city. And they serve delicious food and a large variety of drinks.

7. There Are Unique Nightclubs: Amazing Reason To Visit Denver If You Love Parties

If you want to party, that's another one of the best reasons to visit Denver.

The nightlife of the city is amazing, and there are many good clubs that are great for a night out!

Moreover, what's great is that there are some unique nightclubs in the city.

One of the most unique nightclubs is The Church.

This is a dance club inside of a former church. And this location makes partying at this place amazing!

You can attend performances by famous international DJs at this place, which is a lot of fun!

8. You Can Find Many Boutique Shops in the LoDo Neighborhood

One of the best neighborhoods in Denver is LoDo . And this area is why you should visit Denver!

This is a place where you can find a lot of trendy boutique shops.

For example, you can go to Larimer Square. This is a lovely place with buildings in a beautiful historic architectural style. These buildings house all kinds of shops, making it a great spot for shopping!

Also, there are lots of trendy restaurants in this area of the city.

9. Denver has a Very Walkable City Center

Another one of the reasons to visit Denver is that the city center is very walkable. If you want to explore downtown Denver, you don't need a car, which is great!

It is great to go for a walk here and discover shops, restaurants, and all kinds of other places.

And walking is a lot of fun because you can see a lot of things along the way. There is beautiful architecture, and you can take in the feeling of the city when walking at this place!

10. The City is Home To Many Professional Sports Teams

If you like sports, that's also why you should visit Denver.

That's because you can find a lot of professional sports teams in the city. In total, there are 4 professional teams, and that's rather unique for a city the size of Denver!

If you like football, you can attend a game of the Denver Broncos. And if you like basketball, you can go to a game of Denver Nuggets.

Moreover, the Colorado Avalanche is a hockey team that competes in the NHL. And the Colorado Rapids is a team that competes in the MLS.

So there is a sport for everyone's liking, which is awesome!

11. There is a Lot of Sunshine Throughout the Year: Great Reason To Visit Denver If You Like Sunny Days

If you like great weather with lots of sunshine, then Denver is a lovely city to visit.

That's because Denver is the city with 300 days of sunshine per year!

When you are doing a trip here, you can expect great weather for sure, which is one of the reasons to visit Denver!

12. The Food Scene of Denver is Spot On

Denver is perfect if you are looking for a city with a great food scene.

The food scene of the city is very diverse, which is also why you should visit Denver!

If there's a particular type of cuisine you want to experience, you can likely do so in Denver! And this is why you should Denver if you find food important for a trip!

13. You Can See Gorgeous Flowers at the Denver Botanic Gardens

If you like nature, that's one of the reasons to visit Denver for sure.

That's because you can go to the Denver Botanic Gardens when you are in the city.

This is a beautiful botanical garden where you can see various theme gardens. Each garden focuses on a particular type of flowers and plants, which is great!

For example, there is a Japanese Garden and there is a green roof garden that is very special.

Also, there is a conservatory at this place where you can see tropical plants.

14. You Can Cool Down at Water World: Very Nice Reason To Visit Denver If You Like Attractions

If you like water parks that's also why you should visit Denver.

You can find an amazing water park in the city.

This water park is Water World , and it is a very fun place to visit! Moreover, you can find about 50 different water attractions at this place, so you won't get bored for sure.

Furthermore, what's great is that going here is a great activity for everyone. It is great with kids, but it is also great if you go here as a couple or with friends!

You can find the water park in Federal Heights, which is a bit to the north of the city.

15. Washington Park is a Beautiful Park in Denver

Another one of the reasons to visit Denver is that you can relax in the city. There are many places where you can do so, and one of these places is Washington Park.

This is a beautiful and large park that you can find in the city.

There is a lot of beautiful nature at this place, and there are two lakes. These lakes make going here for a relaxing walk great, as you can see the water while doing so!

16. You Can Have Fun at the Elitch Gardens

If you like amusement parks, Denver is wonderful!

You can go to Elitch Gardens when you are in the city.

You can find a Ferris wheel at the park, slides, roller coasters, and many other attractions. It is a great place to have fun for everyone, and it makes the city a lot of fun to visit!

17. It is the Largest City in Colorado: Incredible Reason To Visit Denver For Those Who Love Large Cities

Large cities are a lot of fun! There are many people and there is often a lot to do. Denver is such a city!

It is the largest city in the state of Colorado and this is why you should visit Denver for sure!

There are so many sights, restaurants, clubs, activities, and many other things to do. The city won't bore you, so doing a trip to this city is a great idea!

18. There are Many Artists and Art Galleries in Denver

There are many areas in the city where a lot of artists work. And there are many small art galleries in Denver.

If you like art, this is one of the reasons to visit Denver.

It is great to go for a walk and visit several art galleries. Each art gallery contains different art, and this variety is lovely to see! Also, it is great to get to know the local art scene of the city by doing this.

19. Denver Has Many Theaters: Perfect Reason To Visit Denver For Those Who Like Theaters

There are so many theaters in the city!

If you want to go to the movies or if you want to see a performance, you can choose from a lot of venues to go to!

There are very large theaters where you can see expensive large theater products. But there are also very small indie theaters, where you can see more indie and unique shows.

Also, you can choose from a wide selection of diverse cinemas. There are well-known movie theater chains, but there are also arthouse cinemas. Depending on what type of movies you like best, you can choose where to go!

When doing a trip to the city, I definitely recommend checking out what's playing in the city. And I definitely recommend going to a show or seeing a movie!

20. There Are Many Areas That Are Great For Shopping in Denver

If you like shopping, that's also one of the reasons to visit Denver.

You can find a lot of great places for shopping in the city. There are many shopping areas, such as Larimer Square.

Besides that, there are a lot of shopping malls. For example, you can go to the 16th Street Mall, which is one of the most famous shopping malls in the city.

Also, you can check out the Cherry Creek Shopping Center .

Both of these malls are wonderful if you want to shop for hours! So for those who love shopping a lot, this is why you should visit Denver.

21. There Are Great Art Museums in Denver

If you like seeing art and learning about it, Denver is definitely worth visiting.

That's because you can find a lot of art museums in the city that are great!

For example, you can go to the Denver Art Museum . This is a museum where you can find a lot of diverse artworks from all over the world. In total, there are more than 70,000 different artworks at the museum!

Another great art museum in the city is the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver .

This is an amazing place to visit if you have an interest in contemporary art! There is no permanent collection at this museum, but there are temporary exhibitions. And these exhibitions make your trip to the city great!

22. You Can Explore the River North Art District: Great Reason To Visit Denver If You Love Art

The River North Art District is also why you should visit Denver.

This is a trendy neighborhood where you can have a lot of fun!

There are all kinds of art galleries in the neighborhood. And these galleries feature contemporary art that is wonderful to see! If you want to discover new art, this is a great place to visit in the city.

Besides that, this area of the city is great if you want to go to a concert venue that is unique. That's because you can find here all kinds of old industrial buildings that are now venues.

Also, there are various food halls in this part of the city. So if you want to have diverse and delicious food, this area is great!

23. The City is Close To the Rocky Mountains

If you love nature and beautiful landscapes, that's one of the reasons to visit Denver as well.

You can go to the Rocky Mountains when you are in the city.

This is a beautiful place where you can see mountains, lakes, forests, and much more. Moreover, it is only a short ride from the city to get there!

Also, you can combine going here with going to a nearby city, such as Boulder or Fort Collins.

24. You can Ride the Denver Trolley

The Denver Trolley is an old streetcar that is a lot of fun to ride! This makes the city very unique.

It is a yellow open trolley car that is great for getting around the city! While riding it, you can have a beautiful view of the city, which is great!

The Denver Trolley is definitely also why you should visit Denver!

25. The Skyline of Denver is Beautiful To See

Another one of the reasons to visit Denver is the beautiful skyline.

There are a lot of skyscrapers in the city and these are great to see from a distance.

There are various places in and near the city where you can get a view of the skyline and the beautiful mountains! This is lovely to see!

26. There are Great Museums For Children: Perfect Reason To Visit Denver For Families

There are many museums in the city that are great for children.

For example, you can go to the Children's Museum of Denver. This is a museum where children can learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way.

Also, Wings Over the Rockies is a great museum to visit with kids. This is an air and space museum with all kinds of exhibits, such as old airplanes.

These museums are why you should visit Denver as a family!

27. There Are Many Different Neighborhoods in the City

If you are looking for a diverse city with lots of different places, you'll love Denver.

There are a lot of different neighborhoods in the city that all have something unique to offer.

There are neighborhoods with classical architecture, while there are some with contemporary art. Also, you can find a lot of different restaurants in each area of the city.

It is great that you can visit all these different places during one trip! It makes your trip a lot of fun, and it is one of the reasons to visit Denver for sure!

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Denver   Travel Guide

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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

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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16 things to know before visiting Denver

Jul 19, 2023 • 7 min read

Get prepared to dive into Denver with our local tips on what you need to know © Cavan Images / Getty Images

When I first moved to Denver, I came on a whim – my only experience of the city was a brief weekend during a cross-country road trip. But after bouncing from coast to coast and across the southern border for years, I figured Denver would be a good place for a short-term stint.

Almost 15 years later, I’m still here and I have no plans to move. What I’ve found in Denver is an unexpected urban gem: a fast-growing city of locals and newcomers, revitalized neighborhoods and a rich cultural landscape.

The sunny days and outdoorsy ethos are an integral part of life here – people walk and cycle around the city, and green spaces dot the landscape. And, oh those mountains overlooking it all! Here's what I think it's most important for you to know about Denver before your visit.

1. Plan on a long weekend

Colorado’s biggest city buzzes with activity – it has a good mix of museums, theaters and sports arenas plus a hopping restaurant and nightlife scene. Choose a couple of things to do each day, including time to wander, and a long weekend should be plenty of time to get a sense of the city; it'll also leave you wanting to come back for more.

2. Pack layers

Though Denver’s weather is relatively mild year-round, it can change on a dime…snow melts quickly and summer evenings can become downright chilly. Bring layers, including a fleece and a warm hat, to stay comfortable. A pair of closed-toe shoes is a good idea too.

3. Experience the city on foot, bike and bus

Denver’s traffic can be onerous and parking can be expensive, especially downtown. Skip the rental car and navigate the city by foot, bike or public transportation . Most of the city’s sights are within a few miles of each other, which makes riding a bike or taking the bus easy.

They’re affordable too – day passes on Denver’s RTD bus lines are just $6 per day (free for kids under five) and Lime bikes cost a dollar to unlock and then run at $0.15 per minute.

4. Expect extra restaurant fees

Since Covid hit, Denver restaurants have increasingly added a pre-tax "cost-of-living fee" to diners’ bills to supplement staff wages. Often, it’s directed to non-tipped kitchen staff but sometimes it’s split amongst everyone. So should you still tip? In general, if the fee is 12% or less, a gratuity is still expected and very much appreciated.

5. Book (most) sporting event tickets in advance

Denverites take their big sports seriously with five professional teams calling it home. Tickets aren’t cheap and can sell out quickly, especially to the Broncos , Nuggets and Avalanche so be sure to buy those as soon as you know you’re headed to town. If you'd rather play it by ear, you can typically score decent same-day seats to a Rockies or Rapids game.

6. Ditto for big hit shows

Big ticket shows come to the impressive Red Rocks Amphitheater and Denver Performing Arts Complex (DPAC) every year and seats go fast. Peruse their websites before you arrive – if there’s a show you don’t want to miss, snag tickets early.

Otherwise, you can sometimes find last-minute tickets, especially for weeknight performances. If you don’t mind a gamble, try for rush seats at DPAC – tickets sold directly from the box office on performance day at a significant discount.

7. Budget extra time at the airport

One of the biggest and busiest airports in the world, Denver International Airport (DIA) takes a little extra time to navigate. A multi-year, billion-dollar upgrade to its main terminal, though, means navigating construction in the ticketing and security checkpoint areas. Allow for more time than your local airport, especially on the outbound flight, until it’s completed in 2028.

8. No need to dress up, even when you’re out on the town

Casual dress rules in Denver – a T-shirt, jeans and puffy jacket are the unofficial uniform. If you want to dress things up, wear a button down shirt and your nicest sneakers. No pressure though!

9. Drink the local brew

With over 150 craft breweries in the Denver metro area, local beer is pretty much the go-to drink, often sipped and savored like wine. So, if you enjoy beer, join the craft crowd. And if you must drink a mass-produced brew, make it a Coors. It’ll sting locals a little less.

10. Enjoy happy hour eats

Denverites take happy hour eats seriously and many high-end restaurants comply by offering incredible deals on small plates, an affordable way to eat gourmet. Go early to get a table – typically around 4pm Monday to Thursday.

11. Tread lightly when talking about politics

Coloradans value courtesy but can have strong, vocal opinions if pushed, especially on their home turf. Sure, Denver is one of the state’s liberal hubs, but opinions can run the gamut in this purple state. Be respectful and don’t assume people share your opinion.

12. Yes, you can smoke weed...but there are rules

The skunky-sweet smell of weed has become commonplace in Denver since recreational marijuana was legalized in 2012. As long as you’re over 21, it’s easy to partake as long as you follow the rules:

• Buy from a dispensary – they are the only businesses licensed to sell cannabis products. And with close to 200 in Denver, they’re easy to find. Bring your ID and cash (credit and debit cards aren’t accepted).
• Smoking marijuana in public is illegal, including parks, sidewalks and concert halls. Instead, partake in private or in places like a 420-friendly hotel or marijuana social club.
• You can only use weed in specially designated vehicles, like those on cannabis tours. It’s illegal to smoke it or have an open container of it in your car – think of it as alcohol and keep the container shut until you get where you’re going
• Don’t drive if you’re high. You could really hurt someone and face a DUI charge too. Take an Uber or taxi instead. For a deeper dive on everything cannabis, check out the Colorado Pot Guide .

13. Acclimate to the elevation

Sitting 5280 feet above sea level, it’s common for visitors to the Mile High City to experience altitude sickness. Symptoms are typically mild but can include light-headedness, slight headaches and fatigue.

Take it easy the first couple days to give yourself time to acclimatize to the elevation; staying hydrated helps too. If you experience severe nausea, dizziness and continued headaches, consult a doctor and/or get to a lower altitude.

14. The sun is no joke

Denver is one of the sunniest cities in the county, enjoying about 300 days of sunshine each year. Add to that the high elevation (which enhances the sun’s intensity) and you’ve got a recipe for a nasty sunburn. Cover up, slather on sunscreen, and consider wearing a billed hat.

If you’ll be exercising or walking a lot, copy the locals and carry a refillable water bottle. You’ll save cash (not to mention the environment) and stay hydrated.

15. In summer, beware of the hail

Colorado’s Front Range lies in the heart of "Hail Alley," where the nation’s highest number of hailstorms occur. Take cover if one hits! In 2017, a storm of baseball-sized hail hit metro Denver, causing a record-breaking $2 billion in damages in just minutes (including totaling my beloved blue Subaru!).

16. Tent cities are a thing

Tent cities or collections of makeshift shelters are a common sight in and around downtown Denver, and are a reflection of the city’s ongoing homelessness crisis. While these unhoused communities don’t necessarily pose a safety problem to passersby, the people living there are particularly vulnerable to issues like drug abuse and mental health crises.

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Denver Travel Guide

Why visit denver.

Denver is a gateway to adventure. While alpine pursuits are the main draw for Denver travel, the Mile High City—so named because it’s 5,280 feet above sea level—is a booming metropolis in its own right. Colorado’s capital city is teeming with talented artists, brewers, chefs, and makers. It’s also home to 20,000 acres of green space.

When to Visit Denver

Late-spring snowstorms aren’t unusual, and August brings heavy rains, so aim to visit Denver in June or July for the best weather. Visit Denver in September or early October to catch the aspen leaves turning orange and gold. Winter can be snowy (though it typically melts quickly), but temperatures usually stay above freezing.

Weather in Denver

Colorado’s weather fluctuates constantly; in Denver, a blizzard might be followed by sunny days and sweater weather. Average temperatures range from well below freezing in winter to the high 80s in July. Expect the most snow in March and afternoon thunderstorms in summer. For Denver travel, wear layers and carry an all-weather jacket.

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Your ultimate travel guide for visiting Denver

• Denver, Colorado is a bustling city filled with sunshine, sports, and gorgeous landscapes. 
• Insider created a comprehensive travel guide for the best places to go, stay, and eat in Denver.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver, Colorado, offers a variety of activities for visitors amid its gorgeous landscapes  and bustling downtown.

The Mile High City, famous for its 300 days of sunshine, is home to the Colorado Rockies, Avalanche, and the Broncos. It's also home to an abundance of art and history museums, lush parks, and a diverse food scene.

Check out Insider's guide for planning a well-rounded trip to the Mile High City based on expert intel from in-the-know locals who shared their secrets on the best places to experience.

→ What to know about getting to and around Denver  

→ where to stay in denver, → what to eat in denver, → what to do in denver  , → important advisories for visiting denver.

• Main content

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

• Destinations

Denver Travel Guide

Denver was founded by pioneers in search of gold, and that spirit of adventure and opportunity are still alive and well in the Mile-High City. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Denver has become the epitome of a modern urban wonderland. One of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., it’s easy to understand why people are flocking to it in droves. With a diverse population, a bustling downtown, a growing food scene, and seemingly endless clusters of hip, walkable neighborhoods, what was once a hidden gem has become one of the premier destinations in the country. —Matt Cauthron

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26 Brilliant Things to do in Denver

Discover the best things to do in Denver, Colorado with this in-depth guide. 

I have to say, of all the US cities I’ve spent time in, Denver was the one that surprised me the most. I don’t know what I expected from it, but this quirky city, packed with cool haunts and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes more than delivered. 

From hiking and biking trails to world-class museums and restaurants, it’s little wonder that the locals are fiercely proud of Denver. Now it’s time for you to get to know Colorado’s capital city – just don’t be surprised if you come away raving about it too. 

Hold on tight. We’re going to explore the best things to do in Denver  – complete with practical tips for planning your stay at the end. 

Top 5 Things to do in Denver

See the street art in rino.

RiNo is a neighborhood in Denver that is home to some of the best street art in the city .

You can find murals, graffiti, and sculptures throughout the neighborhood. It’s a full-on explosion of colour in which there’s always something new to discover. 

Once a year, it hosts a giant mural festival called CRUSH Walls. Artists fly from all over the world to bring their freshest ideas to decorate RiNo’s walls. 

Time your visit right to see all of the action. Even if you don’t, the pieces stay up until the next year’s festival, ready for you to explore them at your leisure.

How to Visit: Check out my Denver Street Art Guide – Complete with a self-guided tour

Take a Visit to Red Rocks Park

Red Rocks Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Denver that’s a popular spot for yoga, concerts and hiking. The views from the top of the rocks are absolutely stunning, so be sure to bring your camera!

Still, beautiful as the park is, it’s the Red Rocks Amphitheatre that most people come here for: a world-famous concert venue located in Red Rocks Park. 

The natural amphitheatre hosts concerts and events all year round, and is a must-see for music lovers. The acoustics at Red Rocks are some of the best in the world, so you can be sure to experience a show like no other!

How to Visit: Book tickets to a concert of your choice or visit on this Red Rocks & Mount Evans Tour 

Visit the Denver Zoo

Denver’s Zoo is one of the best in the US – a world-class zoo that’s a total pleasure to visit. The zoo has over 4000 animals from 500 different species.  

They also have a variety of fun exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy. Be sure to check out the Predator Ridge exhibit, which is home to lions, tigers, and other predators!

How to Visit: Book tickets online, on the door or get free admission with the Denver CityPass

Go Hiking (Or Biking) in The Rocky Mountains

You’re not going to come all the way to Denver and ignore the glorious Rocky Mountains are you? Thought not. 

Let’s face it: a trip to Denver, no matter how short,  would not be complete without experiencing the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. It’s only an hour and a half to Estes Park, the gateway to the Rockies – from where you can hop off to do cool hikes and trails including Bear Lake and the Glacier Gorge Trail. 

Even better? Take a road trip around Colorado , kicking off in Denver and then making your way to the Rockies and a Dude Ranch like I did. 

Pop into Denver Central Market

Denver’s culinary scene is booming. Jump into the deep end and eat your way around the uber-cool Denver Central Market in the RiNo district. 

Packed with dozens of different food vendors as well as a few shops and bars, it’s the place to dine your way through locally-sourced Colorado food – often with an international twist. 

My favourite drinks spot is Curio, who serve up some banging cocktails and a decent selection of wines and craft beers. 

For food, don’t miss out on Green Seed, whose hearty salads lend a new definition to the name. They’re some of the best I’ve ever had! 

Cool Things to do in Denver During the Day

Visit denver’s botanic gardens.

Denver’s Botanic Gardens provide a beautiful oasis of verdant calm in the middle of the city. The gardens have dozens of different gardens and exhibits to explore, as well as a selection of rare orchids from around the world. 

It’s a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing and taking in all the beauty away from the crowds!

Visit The Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in Denver and definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in history or architecture. 

The Capitol was built in the late 1800s and is full of beautiful details. There is also a museum on-site that covers the history of Colorado.

Explore Larimer Square

Less a square and more a wide street, Larimer Square is a historic spot in the heart of Denver that is full of trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. 

This is where Denver started – and now it’s one of its coolest hangouts. 

Osteria Marco serves some of the best pizzas in the city, while the secret speakeasy Green Russell is one of the coolest places to grab a cocktail in Denver – period.

Tattered Cover Book Store

The Tattered Cover Book Store is a Denver institution. It’s the largest independent bookstore in Colorado, and it’s full of new and used books, as well as magazines, comics, and more.

Historically, The Tattered Cover has been a place for writers and artists to come and hang out, so it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for some inspiration. They also host author readings and events throughout the year.

Visit The Denver Art Museum

Denver is home to a number of world-class museums, which are a must-visit for any art or history lover.

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in the United States. It is home to a variety of collections, including American Indian art, Asian art, and European modernism. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs for visitors to enjoy. Be sure to check out the museum’s website for information on upcoming exhibits and events.

Or The History Colorado Center

The History Colorado Center is another great museum that tells the story of Colorado’s past, from the ancient Pueblo people to the present day.

The museum has a variety of exhibits and interactive activities that are perfect for visitors of all ages. It’s also home to the Colorado History Library, which is one of the largest historical libraries in the state. Be sure to check out their website for information on upcoming exhibits and events.

Drink Your Way Around Denver’s Craft Beer Breweries

Denver is home to a number of world-class craft breweries, and beer lovers will definitely not want to miss out on them!

Some of the best breweries in Denver include Great Divide Brewing Company and Wynkoop Brewing Company. These breweries offer a variety of beer styles and flavors, so there is something for everyone.

Enjoy A Delicious Meal

Denver is home to a variety of amazing restaurants, which offer something for everyone. Whether you are in the mood for Mexican food, Italian food, or sushi, Denver has a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings.

The city also has a number of food trucks, which serve up some of the most delicious street food in the country. Be sure to check out one (or several) of Denver’s amazing restaurants during your visit!

Top picks include Blackbelly for contemporary American cuisine and Restaurant Olivia for fine dining. 

Hang Out in Union Station

Union Station is a beautiful historic building in the heart of Denver that has been transformed into a trendy shopping and dining destination.

The station features a variety of restaurants and bars – including the much-loved Mercantile Dining & Provision –  as well as several shops. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. 

Explore the Neighborhoods

Denver is a huge city, and there’s a lot to explore beyond the tourist traps. Head to one of Denver’s neighborhoods and check out what the locals love about their neighborhood.

 You’ll find everything from hipster coffee shops to hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurants. Each neighborhood has its own style and feel. 

RiNo is the best place to go for art and nightlife, for example, while LoDo is good for sports fans.

Dairy Block 

If you’re looking for a place to hang out and explore, be sure to check out Dairy Block. The development is located in the heart of LoDo and is home to some of Denver’s best restaurants, bars, and shops.

The Grandoozy music festival is also located in Dairy Block. The three-day festival is a celebration of music, art, and food, and features performances by some of the biggest names in the music industry.

Have a Drink in the Lobby of the Brown Palace Hotel & Spa

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa is one of Denver’s most iconic buildings.

 The hotel has been around since 1892 and features a beautiful lobby with marble floors and stained glass windows. It’s the perfect place to have a drink after a long day of sightseeing.

Hang Out in Washington Park

Washington Park is a beautiful park in the heart of Denver that is perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

 It’s huge – measuring in at over 200 acres – and features a variety of gardens, ponds, and walking trails. 

Locals love it – and any tourists who venture to the park love it too, thanks to the melange of gardens, trails, and grassy areas, as well as several ponds and fountains. 

Washington Park is also home to the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Speaking of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science – make sure you pop in for a visit too.  Delve into the museum’s exhibits, which range from  dinosaurs to Egyptian mummies. 

Pretty much what you’d expect from a museum that covers such a wide range of fields from paleontology and human sciences. 

Where else do you get the opportunity to learn about everything from the universe to human anatomy?

Catch a Game at Coors Field 

Denver is a great city for sports fans, as it is home to two professional sports teams – the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies.  If you’re in town when either team is playing a home game, be sure to catch a game at Coors Field. 

The stadium is located in LoDo (Lower Downtown)  – there’s nothing like it when the game is on and the crowd is pumped! It’s definitely worth checking out!

Molly Brown House Museum 

The Molly Brown House Museum is a must-visit for history lovers. 

The museum is dedicated to the life of Margaret “Molly” Brown, who was a social activist and philanthropist who lived in Denver.

The museum features exhibits on Molly’s life as well as the history of the times in which she lived. It’s a fascinating look into the life of an incredible woman.

MCA Denver 

If you’re looking for a little bit of culture during your visit to Denver, be sure to check out the MCA Denver. 

The museum is dedicated to contemporary art and features rotating exhibits by some of the world’s most talented artists. It’s a great place to see cutting-edge pieces and get a unique perspective on modern art.

Unusual Things to do in Denver

Hang out in denver’s beer spa.

Denver’s first beer spa recently opened up in the RiNo district. The spa offers a variety of different beer-themed treatments, such as a hop and malt wrap, a barley scrub, and even a beer bath!

Now, if the idea of a beer spa has you thinking about some low-quality boorish hangout that’s more pub than spa, you should think again. The spa is inspired by  a traditional Czech spa but given a Japanese aesthetic – think lots of clean lines and light and you’ll be on the right track.

Take an E-Tuk Tour of the City

Denver is a great city to explore on foot, but if you want to see a little bit more of the city, consider taking an E-Tuk tour.

E-Tuks are three-wheeled vehicles that can accommodate up to six passengers. They are perfect for getting around the city and offer a fun and unique way to see Denver – particularly when headed up by some of the funniest tour guides in town. I highly recommend them. 

Clyfford Still Museum 

The Clyfford Still Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. 

The museum is home to the world’s largest collection of works by Clyfford Still, an American painter who was a pioneer of the Abstract Expressionist movement. 

Some of his most famous works are in the museum, including  “Cityscape” and “1949-A-No.I”. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs for visitors to enjoy.

Check Out the Public Art – Including the Big Blue Bear

Denver is home to a number of beautiful pieces of public art, which are worth checking out during your visit.

Some of the most famous pieces of public art in Denver include “The Big Blue Bear” (which is located outside the Colorado Convention Center), “Red Pegasus” (located at 16th and Blake Streets), and “Marilyn Monroe” (located in Civic Center Park).

The Big Blue Bear is particularly interesting because it is one of the most photographed pieces of public art in the world. Be sure to stop by and snap a picture during your visit!

Meow Wolf 

Want to discover something a little bit more out-of-the-box? Be sure to check out Meow Wolf. The art collective is based in Santa Fe, but they have a location in Denver too.

The exhibitions at Meow Wolf are interactive and mind-blowing – definitely not your average museum experience! Be prepared to be amazed.

So there you have it – some of the best things to do in Denver. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for something fun to do, Denver has something for you – you just need to know where to find it! 

Things to do in Denver: Practical Tips for Your Trip

Easy access to the Rocky Mountains Great Breweries  Football  History  Cool Street Art

Denver is a great city to visit, and there is a lot to see and do. However, if you only have a limited amount of time, I would recommend staying for 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city and its attractions.

Where Should I Stay in Denver? 

The sheraton denver.

The Sheraton Denver – The Sheraton Denver is one of the biggest hotels in Denver.

It’s everything you’d expect from a Sheraton – high-end, comfortable and a great location downtown (plus beds so comfortable that you never want to get out of them).

Check Rates and Availability at the Sheraton Denver

Things to do in Denver: Map 

Read More Denver and Colorado Guides

• The Best Things to do in Colorado
• Stunning Hikes Near Denver
• Discover Denver’s Cool Street Art Scene  
• A Quirky + Cool Colorado Road Trip 
• Here’s Why You Need to Spend Some Time at a Colorado Dude Ranch

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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• Feb 12, 2023

Why Visit Denver? For It's Mile High Fun & Then Some…

Come for the mountains and stay for the food, culture, sights and this top 10 list.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why visit Denver?” you’ll be happy to know that the Mile High City has tons to offer! Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or culinary experiences, Denver has something for everyone. From its vibrant local scene to its mild year-round climate and majestic Rocky Mountains, here are the Top 10 reasons why you should visit Denver Colorado:

1. Animal Encounters.

Denver is home to some amazing wildlife, including bison, elk, mule deer, and even mountain lions. You can take one of the many Denver tours and attractions to get up-close and personal with the local wildlife. We totally recommend a visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary , even if you only have an hour or two.

2. Shopping.

With dozens of malls, boutiques, and shopping centers, Denver is a shopper’s paradise. In addition to the major stores, there are plenty of unique local vendors offering handmade items, vintage clothing, souvenirs, and more. Check out Denver Pavilions if you’re downtown, the Cherry Creek Mall for the largest number of stores, or for a unique experience, checkout the small, local shops in the eclectic, art-filled Milk Market activated alleyway.

3. Arts and Culture.

Denver is full of amazing artwork, performances, and cultural events. From museums and music venues to galleries and theater performances, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the First Friday ArtWalk in the RiNo Arts District and the Denver Street Art + Graffiti Tour with their chocolate tasting and beer garden visit.

4. Food Scene.

Denver’s thriving culinary scene has something for everyone, from upscale restaurants to farm-to-table eateries, to more food halls with small, local chefs than we can count and then there’s some of the most innovative food trucks at weekly events like Civic Center Eats . The city’s craft beer scene is unrivaled, featuring over 200 local breweries.

5. Great Weather.

Despite its reputation for being a cold, snowy city, Denver has a mild climate and plenty of sunshine. The city averages over 300 sunny days a year (more than Miami Beach) and each year there are days I the winter hitting 60+ degrees F, making it ideal for enjoying all of Denver’s outdoor activities, regardless of the time of year.

6. Local Downtown Scene.

Denver’s bustling downtown area is full of great restaurants, bars, and pubs. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a quiet evening, you’ll find something to do, including numerous Denver tours and attractions, in downtown Denver that you can easily walk to.

7. Denver Like a Local.

One of the best ways to get to know the city is to just explore it. Take a walk around the neighborhood with the Denver Walking Tours crew to get a feel for the city and be sure to check out the iconic downtown sights along the way. Weather not ideal for walking the day you want to see the city? No worries, just book a spot on the Discover Denver bus to see it all.

8. Outdoor Activities.

With its easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a great place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing, skiing, and more, there are plenty of ways to get outside and explore nature. Our top picks are these three experiences:

· Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure

· Rock Climbing Adventure

· Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting

9. Nightlife.

There are plenty of ways to have a great time in Denver after the sun goes down. From clubs and bars to music venues and comedy clubs, there’s something for everyone. Dress code in Denver is really casual unless your plans will take you to a night club.

10. Colorado Springs.

Located just an hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a great day trip for visitors looking for a taste of the Rocky Mountains. With plenty of trails, waterfalls, and amazing views, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, it’s home to the iconic Garden of the Gods, a must-see and if you don’t want to drive, this tour will take you to Garden of the Gods AND to Pikes Peak.

So, if you’re wondering why visit Denver, that’s a wrap! From outdoor activities and vibrant culture to great food and nightlife, Denver has something for you and for everyone. Start planning your visit today and explore Denver like a local.

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8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Denver

Dec 11, 2019

By Brad Miller

From the craft beers found throughout the city to the glorious mountains on the horizon, locals and visitors alike love Colorado’s capital city. Maybe you’re looking to get active in one of the city’s 200 parks or spend a night on the town trying out the endless unique restaurants and breweries. No matter how you want to spend your time here, there’s no end to the adventures you can find in the Mile High City. Here are some of the biggest reasons why you should visit Denver the next time you’re planning a vacation.

The Famous Craft Beer

The entire state of Colorado boasts craft beers, and Denver is a shining example of what it has to offer. There are over 50 breweries in the city and even more in the wider metropolitan area. From themed bars to taverns with a view to staples that have been in the city for decades, there’s a perfect brew for any beer lover who visits. You don’t have to feel overwhelmed with choices, either. If you can’t decide where to go, try taking the Denver Beer Trail through the gorgeous (and easily walkable) downtown area to sample some of the featured breweries. You can also plan a trip in the fall to attend The Great American Beer Festival. Here you can find hundreds of breweries displaying thousands of beers, making it the largest beer festival in the country—and one of the best reasons why you should visit Denver.

The Art Scene

There’s no end to the number of art districts, galleries, and museums you can explore in Denver. You can keep it classic and take a trip to the Denver Art Museum, home to world-class art and interactive exhibits. From there, you can visit the rest of Denver’s downtown Golden Triangle Creative District and explore the art studios, specialty stores, and museums. That isn’t the only art district to check out, either. You can zip up north of downtown to the Highlands neighborhood, where you can spend the afternoon browsing the galleries of local artists and taking in the Victorian-era buildings. There’s also the Art District on Santa Fe—a lively cultural hub that boasts over 100 galleries, theaters, restaurants, and more.

The Music Scene

Art goes hand in hand with music, and Denver is lacking in neither. From hip restaurants and bars to exciting shows and venues, you can find live music anywhere you turn in the city. There’s a history of jazz, particularly in historic Five Points. This original jazz neighborhood used to be a stop for legends such as Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday, and today it’s still a soulful center for live music of all genres. For larger-scale performances, visitors can also see a concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This breathtaking venue is a natural amphitheater nestled among ancient red rock formations, and it’s hosted some of the biggest music legends over the years.

The Museums

There’s more to Denver’s museum scene than just art. History buffs will enjoy learning more about the West throughout the city. The History Colorado Center is a Smithsonian Affiliate famous for its immersive exhibits showing visitors all about the history of Colorado and the rest of the American West. Visitors can also explore transportation museums, the house of “the Unsinkable Molly Brown,” and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. For families with kids, the Children’s Museum of Denver is perfect for visitors age eight and under. Your kids can spend the afternoon playing and learning in a museum designed entirely for them.

The Delicious Eats

Like any classy city, Denver is home to an endless table of flavors. While you’re enjoying the sights and sounds of the city, you’ll also enjoy the delicious smells coming from a vibrant variety of food trucks. Wander over to historic Larimer Square (the oldest block in the city) to visit Denver’s first saloons or feast at the spectacular restaurants (owned by local chefs) that dot the neighborhood. Feast on a classic Colorado steak at Edge Restaurant & Bar or try one of the exotic meats at Barbed Wire Reef. You can also sample an unlimited range of cultural cuisine—from hot and exciting street food to classy plates at fine dining establishments. No matter your tastes, there’s a place in Denver for all foodies.

The Great Outdoors

Denver is a city of adventurers, and it has no problem satisfying the outdoorsy needs of its people. 200 lush and vibrant parks surround the city’s central business district. Denver’s B Cycle bike renting system makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors. You can travel Cherry Creek Trail through downtown or drink in the gorgeous South Platte River from Confluence Park. If you’re looking for picnic areas, playgrounds, or just a little patch of green, you’ll never have to travel too far. Plus, you can enjoy it all, as well as the rest of the city, with a panoramic view of the Rockies in the background.

16 th  Street Mall

Overflowing with restaurants, shops, and heart, 16 th  Street Mall is a perfect example of what makes Denver so special. Crossing several city blocks, trees, outdoor cafés, and endless things to do line this gorgeous pedestrian mall. Walk around to see the street performers or take the free shuttle or horse-drawn carriage ride. You can also visit after dark to see the city lit up with nearly a million dazzling lights.

Union Station

If you want awe-inspiring history and thrilling modern culture in one place, you have to see Union Station. It’s been operating since 1881, but a few years ago it underwent a massive restoration. In July 2014, the city unveiled Denver’s Union Station as a hub of culture and entertainment. Surrounded by fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops, Union Station is the perfect way to welcome visitors into Denver’s downtown area. If you’re looking to splurge, stop by the Cooper Lounge for a unique, hand-mixed cocktail or stay at the luxurious Crawford Hotel. No matter your purpose for coming to Denver, you won’t regret starting your journey from Union Station.

Are you excited yet? Pack your bags, decorate it with a  Colorado sticker  that’s as vibrant as the city itself, and spend your next vacation having the trip of a lifetime in Denver.

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Forbes Travel Guide Stories

6 New Reasons To Visit Denver By Correspondent Linnea Covington

March 4, 2022

Even a pandemic hasn’t kept amazing things from opening in Denver over the last few months. Whether you want to check out cutting-edge art offerings, find a unique way to relax or savor some of the best beef in the area, the Mile High City offers a new place for you to explore. Here are six reasons to visit Colorado’s capital right now.

Book Dinner at A5 Steakhouse

Make a reservation for the Culinary Creative’s latest restaurant and get ready to indulge in some of the best beef in the city, as well as equally matched cocktails. After Morin restaurant shut down in 2020, chef Max Mackissock decided to turn his modern French place into something new. The team revamped the décor to lend it a vintage coastal vibe and gave the menu a steakhouse makeover. But even with the changes, A5 maintains upscale presentations that make the restaurant feel nothing like the steakhouses Denver is known for.

On the appetizer menu, try the rich beef tartare katsu sando and crabby toast, the latter is a dish that looks and tastes more upscale than it sounds. Move onto the classic wedge salad, followed by the 10-ounce Tajima black wagyu bavette steak or a top-notch French dip. Add a side of roasted cauliflower drizzled in brown butter and an order of Japanese milk bread rolls. It’s not an old-school steakhouse — it’s so much better.

Visit Meow Wolf

The hottest opening in the local art world launched in September 2021. We’re talking about Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station , the third installation by Santa Fe’s famous art collective. The large, four-story space is near downtown, right next to the football stadium. But once inside, you won’t feel like you are in Denver much at all. With 90,000 square feet and more than 70 installations, the facility immerses you in the art, intricate story line and overall quirkiness of the place.

If you want a taste of the host city, head to the C-Station section, a futuristic, Blade Runner -esque world that tips a hat to some Denver landmarks and the Sun Valley neighborhood in which the venue is located. All the worlds are connected, and you may find yourself walking into one unawares. It’s a great spot for kids too, just expect to take a break or two in the café for snacks, lunch, beer, wine and caffeine. Make sure to book tickets in advance to secure a spot and time — it sells out fast.

Appreciate Art at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver consistently impresses, but now there are even more reasons to book your stay here. For starters, the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel has partnered with the aforementioned Meow Wolf to bring guests to the immersive and unique Denver experience with the Gateway to Exploration package (which also includes Meow Wolf cocktails and an Uber credit to get to the venue). The hotel has also added on the luxurious Ultimate Ritz-Carlton Celebration package, which features tickets to the newly renovated Denver Art Museum, spa treatments and more. The offerings always change to highlight the newest and best things to do in Denver.

See the Revamped Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum has been around in some form or another since it was founded as the Denver Artists’ Club in 1893. The first structure that housed it was crafted by architect Giovanni Ponti in 1971, and it is now known as the Martin Building. In 2006 the venue expanded, and the old building was put on hold. But now both spaces are ready for visitors, and the original building has been refurbished and filled with permanent exhibitions and traveling shows.

Not only that, James Beard-winning chef Jennifer Jasinski has taken over the former restaurant spot and opened The Ponti , named after the original architect. The Ponti serves high-end American fare with Italian and Mediterranean twists, with many vegetarian options as well. While Jasinski consults on the restaurant, chef Ben Love oversees the menu, which includes plates of dukkah-roasted carrots, cavatelli topped with locally scoured lamb sugo, and a rich tempeh Reuben sandwich. It’s open the same time as the museum, which means lunch every day and dinner Tuesdays.

Take a Bite Out of Apple Blossom

In the fall of 2021, chef Paul C. Reilly, his sister Aileen Reilly, and her husband JP Taylor Jr. opened Apple Blossom inside Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver. It was the first foray into the hotel restaurant world for Paul, but Aileen and Taylor both had a hand in this sort of hospitality before. Prior to this venture, the team had run the popular Beast + Bottle, a nose-to-tail eatery that shut down due to the building being sold. It still owns its Northern Italian joint Coperta in Uptown and now Apple Blossom, a fine dining place sought out by visitors and locals alike.

Chef Russ Fox helms the kitchen here, churning out elevated comfort food, such as duck gumbo, chicken friend duck livers and handmade pastas topped with lamb bolognese, vodka sauce and Santa Barbara uni. Sit at the long bar or book a cozy seat in the main dining area. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served here, and while you don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the elegant décor, fine wine, cocktails and excellent food, if you are staying there, you can opt to enjoy it through room service.

Enjoy Suds at The Beer Spa

The Beer Spa in RiNo is not your ordinary spa. It’s the laid-back Colorado version that’s approachable, simple, sleek and involves craft beer. But you’re not actually bathing in it. Instead, fill an insulated pint of craft beer from whichever local brewery is being featured that month, and then head to a private bathing room. In these rooms are two-person tubs filled with hot water and a giant bath bomb of the herbs, spices and hops featured in the beer. There’s no alcohol in the bath, just the aromatics and soothing hops that go into the beer-making process.

While the tub fills (it’s all on automatic timers so you don’t have to manage it), sit in the infrared sauna with your cup of beer, wine or non-alcoholic beverage, and relax for 20 minutes or so. Then it’s time to get in the tub and unwind. Truffles and/or a charcuterie board can be added on to the 90-minute experience. Take advantage of the warming beer lotion and a CBD mud mask while there, and then afterward relax in the lounge with another drink or in one of the zero-gravity massage chairs. It’s not as luxurious as The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Denver , but it’s a great way to get a unique local experience that feels good at the same time. And there’s no reason you can’t do both.

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Things To Do

Arts | 10 of the most beautiful things to see this spring and summer around denver, the colorado convention center’s expansion is the architectural masterpiece nobody noticed.

The installation “Meadow,” by the Dutch duo drift, is a centerpiece of “Biophilia: Nature Reimagined” opening May 5. (Image provided by the Denver Art Museum)

Artist Mike Lustig spins the wheel of his kinetic sculpture "Whee," creating different patterns of light on the ground below the sculpture at Creekside West Apartments in Lakewood on Thursday, April 11, 2024. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)

The Colorado Convention Center’s addition was tucked in over its existing parking garages, complementing the original landmark design by Fentress Architects. The expansion, which opened in Dec., adds a 20,000 square-foot outdoor rooftop terrace that captures stellar views of the Rocky Mountains and the city skyline. (Photo provided by Denver Arts & Venues)

The Nick Ryan Gallery will debut in Boulder this summer, with an exhibition of work by respected artist Bruce Price. (Image provided by Nick Ryan Gallery)

Allen Tupper True’s public art masterpiece "Happy Hunting Ground” celebrates its centennial. (Ray Mark Rinaldi, Special to The Denver Post)

Ken Gun Min's “Passing” was commissioned specifically for his solo show at the MCA Denver. (Ray Mark Rinaldi, Special to The Denver Post)

Is it a captivating piece of art? A perfectly framed scene of nature? A building or a green space that challenges, and opens up, our aesthetic senses?

No doubt, the answer is up to you, dear beholder. But here are 10 places that, right in this moment, might meet that elusive definition.

At Denver Botanic Gardens, a rug to remember

Denver Botanic Gardens works hard to coordinate the human-made objects it exhibits in its indoor art galleries with the natural plants and flowers it displays outdoors. It has found a perfect match in Alexandra Kehayoglou’s massive woven textile piece titled “Paraná de las Palmas River.” The hand-tufted wool rug is more than 39 feet long and 13 feet wide, and it stretches from the wall right down to the gallery floor where visitors are invited to walk, crawl and lie down upon it (shoes off, of course!). Kehayoglou, who is Argentinian, shapes her textiles as aerial landscapes that bring attention to environmental conditions along South America’s Paraná River.

Through Dec. 8. DBG is at 1007 York St. Info at 720-865-3500 or botanicgardens.org.

In downtown Denver, a local art masterpiece marks a centennial

It was 100 years ago that Allen Tupper True began work on what would be one of the greatest pieces of public art in the city’s history. His “Happy Hunting Ground” is a series of 16 oil-on-canvas murals that capture views of Native American life as it existed before Western expansion. True painted them for the lobby of the then-new Colorado National Bank, the stately, neoclassical building that now houses the Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center. The hotel has served as an excellent steward of the works, and the public can still wander in and see them in their original glory. They can also savor the murals’ centennial with a cocktail or meal in the elegant lobby space. It’s a lovely afternoon or evening.

Stop in anytime at 918 17th St. Info: 303-867-8100 or via marriott.com

In RiNo, beauty in the making?

All of Denver has watched with astonishment as the apartment building One River North has risen from the ground over the past year. It’s impossible not to be awestruck by the daring of the place, if not the actual design, which features a dramatic canyon winding down the center of its facade. The jury is out on how beautiful this project, still getting its finishing touches, will end up. Will it live up to its promise once the canyon is overflowing with flora that its creators — Beijing-based MAD Architects — have planned? Or will it become known as the “crack building?” My bet is on something approaching magic.

See it at 3930 Blake St. Info: onerivernorth.com.

At MCA Denver, a transformative “painting”

It is easy to overlook the exhibitions that are installed in the Museum of Contemporary Art’s basement gallery, but that is often where the real treasures can be found. This summer, that is true once again with the exhibition “The Lost Paradise” featuring works by Ken Gun Min, including the show-stopping “Passing,” which was commissioned specifically for this event. Min works with oil, but enhances his two-dimensional objects with thread, beads, crystals and textiles, and it all comes together in this portrait of a life-size female figure emerging into a world of her own making.

Through May 26. MCA Denver is located at 1485 Delaney St. Info: 303-298-7554 or mcadenver.org.

At the Colorado Convention Center, Denver’s best new view?

The Colorado Convention Center’s expansion is the architectural masterpiece nobody noticed. The project, which opened in December, added 115,000 square feet of exhibition and ballroom space to the existing building without ruining the original design that makes the place a landmark. The secret: tucking the addition in on the building’s west side, right over the top of its massive parking garages. The best part: a new, 20,000-square-foot outdoor rooftop terrace that captures stellar views of the Rocky Mountains and the city skyline. It is hard to make the familiar feel new again, but this effort, helmed by Atlanta-based TVS Architecture and Design, made it happen. Locals can access the space during any of the major events that occur during the year at the CCC.

The Colorado Convention Center is at 700 14th St. in Denver.

At DAM, lighting up nature

The Denver Art Museum’s upcoming “Biophilia: Nature Reimagined” is full of people-pleasing possibilities. It has that immersive edge that art fans seem to enjoy these days and an easy-to-grasp theme: Who doesn’t love nature and want to explore how it inspires artists and designers to make innovative works? The lineup is full of international stars across creative disciplines, including Iris van Herpen, StudioGang, teamLab and Joris Laarman. What piece will stand out? From the media material, it is looking to be the light-up installation “Meadow,” by the Dutch duo that goes by the name drift.

“Biophilia” runs May 5-Aug. 11 at DAM, 100 W 14th Ave. Parkway. Info: 720-865-5000 or denverartmuseum.org.

In East Denver, a park for the times

Visiting Babi Yar Park is always a meaningful experience, but especially so in this political moment. The 27-acre open space — never crowded, forever stunning — is a place to stroll, walk a dog, or do a little exercising, but it is also a living memorial to the many who died during the 1941-1943 Nazi massacre of Ukrainian Jews. Current events can divide us — yes, there are varying opinions on happenings in both Ukraine and the Middle East right now — and Babi Yar is right there, with its incredible layout by design legends Lawrence Halprin and Satoru Nishita, offering space to sort out realities and myths. It’s a beautiful gift.

Babi Yar Park is 10451 E. Yale Ave. in Denver.

In Lakewood, a human-propelled light show

Mike Lustig’s “Whee” is the perfect destination for a sunny, summer day. The public artwork, located on the grounds of the Creekside West senior housing complex, is a towering, interactive sculpture that invites visitors to grab on, give it a spin and watch as the sky’s natural light is converted into a rainbow of colors that light up the ground. It’s family-friendly, refreshingly low-tech, and a lot of fun for all. For an even more perfect day, pair a visit with stops at the galleries on the campus of the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, which is right next door.

Creekside West is at 1700 Pierce St., Lakewood. 

At the Dairy Arts Center, a show of strength

Arvada’s Bala Thiagarajan has carved out a niche in the Colorado art scene, making contemporary works that employ folkloric traditions from her native India. Thiagarajan is deft at using both rich color and intricate patterning, but she also understands the power of texture, piping layers of acrylic paint onto her surfaces  — sort of in the same way bakers apply frosting to a cake —  that give the works shape and emotional depth. Her show at the Dairy, “Shakti: The Source of Strength,” is a new series of portraits of Indian women that embody the spirit of shakti, “the divine feminine energy that symbolizes empowerment, creativity, and strength,” as the gallery’s website puts it.

May 10-July 14 at the Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder. Info: 303-440-7826 or the dairy.org. 

In Boulder, a new gallery opens with promise

Nick Ryan is a well-known figure in the region’s visual arts scene, having spent the last two decades representing and promoting numerous artists in Denver. Starting May 16, he moves his operation to Boulder, opening his own namesake gallery in The Hill neighborhood. The full roster of the new Nick Ryan Gallery remains a mystery, but if the signature work for his opening show — a new painting by local art hero Bruce Price titled “Dissonance — is any indication, Ryan will make the most of the deep connections he has cultivated with Colorado talent.

The Nick Ryan Gallery opens May 16 and will be located at 1221 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder. Info: nickryangallery.com

Ray Mark Rinaldi is a Denver-based freelance writer who specializes in fine arts.

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Why everyone should take a solo road trip to Colorado

I ’ve always found that the US is one of the easiest places for solo travel — especially as a woman. When I was 21, for instance, I spent six weeks travelling from New York to LA on the Greyhound (the notorious interstate bus system is probably the least salubrious — and least comfortable — way to travel in America, but it is cheap). 

Admittedly, the year before I embarked on that particular Stateside odyssey, someone had been decapitated on a Greyhound — a story that my American friends trotted out as a (very fair) warning of the dangers of bus travel in the US. With all the wisdom of a twentysomething in the first flush of independence, I figured that lightning rarely strikes twice and my chances of being decapitated were fairly low. And as it turned out, the Greyhound was great. Well, not ‘great’, it hellishly uncomfortable, but the American people I met (from an out-of-work truck driver to two Amish brothers with special dispensation to travel via bus) were unfailingly friendly.

There was obviously no language barrier which made most things feel manageable, including the time when one bus drove off and left me and a friend at a gas station in the middle of the desert with no bags, passports or clothes. There was nothing but empty desert and cacti for as far as the eye could see but it's hard to panic when the timetable showed that the next bus would be along in six hours or so and when there was a gas station full of Hershey’s bars for sustenance. 

Since then I’ve made several solo pilgrimages — I’ve driven from Miami to New Orleans and spent an ill-fated 10 days in an RV driving through the various landscapes of California (I had a great time but the trip, which was meant to last a month, was cut short by the onset of the pandemic). What I’ve found is that, in the US even a city dweller with a bad sense of direction (I was once banned from the orienteering club at school for lack of aptitude with a map and compass), can enjoy an outdoors adventure, on their own, without ever needing to call for a search and rescue team. 

As with everything else in the US, nature and wilderness can be found on a vast scale — and if you head to one of the 63 National Parks spread out across the country, you will find hundreds of acres of the world’s most spectacular forests, mountains, deserts, canyons and creeks — all incredibly well provisioned for amateur hikers, campers and climbers, with many well sign-posted trails so you won’t get lost (and never need to fork out for an expensive guide).

Admittedly, the parks can feel a little too safe — many Americans enter their national parks via car, drive the road routes and only stop at designated parking viewpoints to take a quick picture, which feels like a slightly depressing way to experience nature. But the fact remains that if you are alone, and you don’t spend every weekend navigating the wilderness but you do want to see some beautiful nature, maybe even spend a few days camping somewhere without phone signal, hitting one or two of America’s glorious national parks is a nice way to ease yourself in.

It was this learning that I had in mind after a particularly hellish few months in our busy capital. I wanted something wild and remote to give my city-fried brain a chance to recharge. And so off I went to Colorado : the true, rugged Wild West , one of the most beautiful states I’ve been to — and one of the most interesting. It gets 300 days of sunshine annually and has a diverse landscape that includes mountains (the Rockies), desert and canyons. It is known as a haven for snowsports enthusiasts, mountaineers and hikers, while its buzzy capital city, Denver , is the second city for some of the world’s biggest tech firms (with all the gentrified, green-juice-swilling, rooftop-bar-dwelling culture that implies).

I decided to explore Southern Colorado (northern cities like Aspen and Boulder tend to get more attention but are much more touristy as a result), driving along the curve of the Rocky Mountains and stopping at some of the state's national parks and mountain resorts along the way. 

Day 1-2: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, Nathrop

After a quick hop over to Denver (a number of airlines offer direct flights from Heathrow, including British Airways and United), I picked up a car at the airport and headed directly to Mount Princeton. It’s a three hour drive up a scenic mountain route, ending at a geothermal spa resort surrounded by lush forests, with views of the towering Mount Princeton (its snow-topped 4,327m peak dominates the landscape) in the background. 

Mount Princeton Hot Springs resort felt a bit like a boujie Centre Parcs, with a main ‘lodge’ surrounded by cabins and apartment-style suites. I checked-into one of the suites — only built in 2022, they are pretty and well provisioned (mine had a plush king size bed, a kitchenette with a breakfast bar, microwave/ oven, fridge and a Nespresso machine, as well as a living area). There was also a balcony which looked out onto Chalk Creek, and onto a number of small hot pools that usually bubble right out of the Creek, like natural hot tubs. In the winter they’re accessible to guests but when I visited in spring, they were covered by raging waters as the usually placid Creek had been swelled to rapids by ice melt higher in the mountains.

No matter, there are a number of natural geothermal pools at the resort, each of which is perfect for whiling away an afternoon. My particular favourite was the hot infinity pool. The water bubbles up at very pleasant 38 degrees celsius and there were fewer children than at some of the other pools. It is very much a family-friendly resort so I didn’t feel like spending an entire day there but either way Nathrop is a good base for exploring the surrounding countryside — for skiing in the winter or hiking and fishing in the warmer months. 

While I was there, I visited the abandoned town of St Elmo about a 25 minute drive from Mount Princeton Resort. It’s one of the best preserved ghost towns in the West and an eerie example of what frontier life would have looked like in the late 1800s. I also drove 20 minutes to the trailhead for Brown’s Creek waterfall — it's a very manageable three hour hike, with a handy parking area at the beginning. A steep start quickly afforded me spectacular views across the surrounding valley. There were a number of longer hikes in the area which covered some of the beautiful nearby mountain lakes, forests and meadows (tip: the AllTrails app will show you all the great hiking routes in your vicinity and has comprehensive notes on difficulty, it also allows you to follow your progress on a map even when you're out of signal) but as I only had a day for both the hike and St Elmo, I stuck to a more manageable route, and it absolutely didn’t disappoint.

The next day, after a quick dip in the geothermals, I was ready to tackle the next leg of my Colorado adventure.

Day 3-6: Dunes Experiences, Mosca 

And what a leg it turned out to be! It’s a 90 min drive from Nathrop to Mosca and to the 320-acre property of Chris Mahoney. The drive itself was so spectacular that I had to keep pulling over just to take in the views. Imagine driving through the Alps — but bigger. By comparison, Mosca itself was a little underwhelming — less a ‘town’, more a strip of road with a few shops on it - but Mosca isn’t the reason anyone would visit Dunes Experiences. 

Set in a valley, with the Sangre de Cristo mountain range along one border, and just ten minutes from The Great Sand Dunes National Park, a booking at Dunes Experiences is very much about interacting with the unique landscape in whatever way takes your fancy. Mahoney — who worked as a safari guide in Africa for more than a decade before returning to his homeland during the pandemic (he was happy to regale me with stories of his wild adventures — like the time he almost died while rafting the Nile or when a leopard ate his dog) — will host groups looking for a fully immersive adventure. Horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, camping, rock climbing, Jeep trekking — those booking at Dunes will have the full run of the territory, on a ‘build your own adventure’ basis, with Mahoney as a personal guide. 

And of course, it’s not just about staying in the valley — there’s the nearby national park, which offers-up a strange mix of desert-like dunes (the tallest in the US — though when you’re climbing them it feels more like being in the Sahara), and snow-capped mountains. Created when powerful winds — carrying sand and sediment up from the San Luis Valley — hit a bend in the Sangre de Cristos, the sand dunes form a kind of arid, lunar landscape, which feels deeply incongruous against the more lush greenery and rugged peaks of the mountain. 

When I visited, Dunes Experiences was still in its first few weeks of operation so there were elements (an outdoor kitchen, for instance), still being built but if anything that added to the sense of being off the grid and in the wilderness. The space on offer is vast and feels basically cut off from civilization — all I could see were desert shrubs, sky and the safari tent which would be my home. The tent was more glamping than roughing it, though — carpeted, with a giant and supremely comfortable four-poster canopy bed, a trunk for belongings and electricity to charge devices and power the lights at nighttime. There was also a porch with a seating area to watch the sunset. The washing facilities were rudimentary but not uncomfortable — the toilet block is covered but the (hot) showers are open to the elements, which made for amazing morning showers as the sun was coming up.

After my arrival, Mahoney let me drive his Jeep, bouncing across the shrubbery to look at the different parts of the territory as we hatched a plan for how to spend the next few days. That night I was treated to a completely clear sky. The valley is a dark sky conservation area — and there are no houses or street lamps for acres anyway — so looking at the sky was unlike anything I'd ever seen before. The stars were swarming, teaming — it wasn't like stars, it was like looking at intricate lacework where the sky itself is only barely visible between a great mass of stars. It all felt so intrepid and remote that even after just a few hours my overstimulated city brain began to quieten and slow. 

The next day, Mahoney and I drove through the national park and I had my first experience of off-roading in his Jeep, up through rivers and mountain tracks in the Sangre de Cristo mountains. We stopped along the way to observe a herd of wild Big Horn sheep, then after a brief hike to find a view across the valley, had a picnic that Mahoney had prepared. That night I helped chop wood, Mahoney lit a fire and cooked bison steaks and vegetables over the flame. A delicious, lean meat, bison was only recently reintroduced to the area after they were hunted to extinction. They’re a protected meat, Mahoney explained, so farmers aren’t allowed to add hormones, antibiotics and additives into their feed. It’s probably the best meal I had in the entirety of my trip. On the last day, Mahoney and I hiked to the top of The Great Sand Dunes — it took around an hour of scrambling up steep dunes but the views were absolutely worth the effort. 

Though I didn’t get time, Dunes Experiences is a short drive from Creede, a small town in the San Juan Mountains, where the Rio Grande springs from, which still has its original 1890s storefronts. It’s a town with a rich cultural history — Bob Dylan once carved his name into the bar and the Repertory Theater was reviewed by the New York Times two years ago and seems well worth a visit if you have time.

It was with a heavy heart that I left Mahoney’s wilderness behind — it was a profoundly unique experience.

Day 6-7: The Mining Exchange, Colorado Springs

My next stop was just a quick overnighter but a lovely reintroduction to civilization. It was a three hour drive to Colorado’s second city, Colorado Springs , and to The Mining Exchange Hotel. The hotel has been recently renovated with a huge degree of care and a keen eye for the history of the building. 

The building was actually completed in 1902 as an exchange for local gold mining companies and the generously sized bedrooms have lots of details which give a nod to this banking past — from a bank teller-style desk complete with sage green banker’s lamp to the exposed red brick wall, high back leather armchair and a turn-of-the-century style Victrola radio. Massive windows reached almost to the 12ft ceiling so the room felt lofty and full of light. In the bathroom the sink area was made from an old apothecary table with a marble top and all the products were Malin & Goetz. Basically, it gave off a boutique city hotel vibe despite the fact that there are almost 150 rooms.

For me Colorado Springs was a good base for exploring the Garden of the Gods National Park — though, if you have more than a night, nearby Downtown is a good area for the city’s nightlife (everywhere else closes at 9pm).  

The Garden of the Gods is worth dwelling over. After breakfast at Urban Egg, a chain restaurant five minutes from The Mining Exchange (I’m told they’re known for their pancakes but they’re not the best I’ve had in the States), I drove 30 minutes to the park.

The red and pink geological rock formations were indeed as spectacular as the pictures — and as I was walking through I couldn’t shake the sense that I’d slipped into prehistory (or even an episode of The Flintstones). Though it’s a good place for rock climbing, I didn’t have the necessary expertise and with more than 20 miles of hiking trails it seemed pointless to risk my neck. I settled instead on a 10km trail (though the visitor’s centre had maps, I found the AllTrails app indispensable again), which took me all around the outer edges of the park (search for ‘Garden of the Gods Outer Loop’) in less than three hours. 

Day 7-10: The Ramble, Denver

And then back in my car for the final stop on my southern Colorado road trip: the state capital, Denver. 

Denver was originally a frontier town — Denver Union train station was built in 1881 to accommodate the estimated 100,000 people who were attracted to the area thanks to the Colorado Gold Rush. Larimer Square, in what is now known as Downtown Denver, was the city’s original main street and was established as Denver's first historic district in 1971. As such, the storefronts along the square have been preserved as an example of the city’s earliest architecture (the oldest building — the Kettle Arcade — dates back to 1873). Nowadays it's the site of a different kind of gold rush, known as the second city for many of the world’s biggest tech firms (including Meta and Google), whose workers decamped during the pandemic to make the most of the nearby mountain wildernesses and have since made it their home. As such, I found that it had the feel of a buzzy coastal city like New York or LA but it also seemed much more laid back. 

I was staying at The Ramble, a fun, 50-room, boutique lifestyle hotel which has both a rooftop and a cocktail bar in the lobby (the latter stays open until 2am). My room was gorgeously furnished, with a dusty, midnight blue feature wall, huge, loft-style windows and even a crystal chandelier. I was delighted to find that the hotel was right next to RiNo, the city’s art district — a clutch of streets that have become Denver’s artistic epicentre and which are covered in innovative murals and works of graffiti. 

In the past, Denver has played host to multiple street art festivals, where artists were invited to create works during a set period, but now there are works being completed all the time (The Ramble hotel itself has two). I spent the first morning touring many of these on foot with a super interesting local guide —Jana Novak from Denver Graffiti Tour — and learned that Denver was one of the first municipalities which embraced street art as a public art (which is why large swathes of the city feel like living artworks).

Then in the afternoon, I headed to Denver Central Market , a ten minute walk from the hotel, where I found  multiple local and small scale vendors selling everything from pimped-out salads to sushi or smoked BBQ ribs. The food was all uniformly excellent and as I left, I even found an outdoor vintage market in the Central Market car park. Denver, it turned out, was a great place for second hand stores — and both Goldmine Vintage (227 Broadway) and Garage Sale Vintage (1445 Larimer St) are highly recommended for a visit, if that’s your thing.

The next morning I hit up local cafe Snooze in Denver Station , which already had a queue at 10am. The food was, again, excellent (they specialise in breakfast and brunch — go for the pancakes) and after I finished-up I decided to get an ETuk Tour of the city. That’s the thing about going solo, it doesn’t have to mean having no one to talk to — my guide was super fun, and took me to see all the city’s historical sites, as well as recommending good places to eat ( City, O’ City is one of them which I tried on my last day for excellent vegan food).

Other standout restaurants were El Five , a rooftop cocktail bar with views right across the city, serving a tapas and paella menu in the LoHi neighbourhood. The “small” plates were anything but (each was easily a full meal) but I'd recommend the harissa eggplant fries, which came with a moreish honey glaze and a strong hit of dill, even if you're full. Around the corner from El Five there was also Linger , which was a buzzy eatery serving cocktails alongside ‘bites’ (skewers, kebabs, buns etc.) and was full of people on dates and groups of friends. I’d also been recommended Little Man Ice Cream , which happened to be right next door to Linger but when I came out there was a queue that snaked all the way round the block. 

On my last day before heading to the airport I decided to visit the History Colorado Centre. Throughout the trip, I couldn't help but think that present day Colorado, like most of the USA , was built on a dark legacy of colonial invasion, occupation and theft. In the History Centre, the exhibitions explored in stark detail the bloody beginnings of the modern state, including an in-depth look at the Sand Creek Massacre (where hundreds of Cheyenne and Arapaho people, mainly women and children, were killed over land disputes), and it felt like a fitting end to a trip that brought me so close to an ancient landscape where most of the cultural offerings only date back 200 years or so.

Of all the places I’ve visited in the States, Colorado offered the greatest sense of freedom and wilderness.

How to book…

• A return flight from London Heathrow to Denver International Airport with United Airlines starts from £588
• A night at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort starts at £173 per person; mtprinceton.com
• Luxury Safari Tents at Dunes Experiences from £196 per night. Full property rental, RV sites and private camping are also available from £40 per night. Yoga Retreats, Indigenous Ceremonies and Holistic Workshops start from £235; dunesexperiences.com
• A night stay at The Mining Exchange Hotel, Colorado starts from £170; wyndhamhotels.com
• A Juliette Queen room at The Ramble Hotel begins at £278; theramblehotel.com
• For more information, please visit: colorado.com

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Analyzing Every Broncos AFC West Rivals' Scariest Draft Pick

The Denver Broncos may have gotten better, but so did their competition.

• Author: Dylan Von Arx

In this story:

The 2024 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Denver Broncos drafted seven players, including their possible franchise quarterback, Bo Nix. Sean Payton and George Paton filled several holes on their roster, and it looks to be interesting to see how this new crop of talent can elevate the Broncos.

As Denver gets better, so do their fiercely competitive AFC West rivals. Unfortunately, the Chiefs, Chargers, and Raiders all had great drafts, and there are a few players in particular that have the potential to give the Broncos nightmares for the foreseeable future.

Let’s look at some of the studs each foe scoped up. 

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy (WO40) ran an official time of

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs: Xavier Worthy, WR Texas 

It was nice having Tyreek Hill play outside the division with the Miami Dolphins , besides a particular Week 3 game. But of course, the Kansas City Chiefs traded up in the first round to select a young man who is even faster in Texas wideout Xavier Worthy.

Worthy broke the 40-yard dash record at the NFL Combine by former Cincinnati Bengals first-round pick John Ross with a mindboggling 4.21 sprint. Xavier is a bit smaller, standing at 5-foot-11, and weighs around 165 pounds, which means he can get bullied at the line of scrimmage; however, in Andy Reid’s system that utilizes tremendous amounts of motion, Worthy is sure to get a running start. Denver’s secondary is going to have their hands tied.

Honorable Mention: Jared Wiley, TE TCU

Jared Wiley is a 6-foot-6 tight end out of TCU who uses that height and length to overpower defenders trying to fight him at the catch point. Jared has the perfect teacher to sit behind for a few years in Travis Kelce and could eventually become his replacement.

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Georgia tight end Brock Bowers

Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK

Las Vegas Raiders: Brock Bowers, TE Georgia

Davante Adams lining up out wide was annoying enough, but now the Las Vegas Raiders have a potential star tight end in Brock Bowers, a Georgia product. Bowers, who wreaked havoc in the SEC with 175 receptions for 2538 yards and 26 touchdowns in three years in Athens, is a significant threat. His size and speed make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive backs and linebackers. Bowers is good enough as a blocker but primarily will be used in the passing game. The combination of him and Adams is a formidable one, and it's a situation that the Broncos need to figure out how to counter. 

Honorable Mention: Dylan Laube, RB New Hampshire 

Dylan Laube is far more than just a running back. His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and in the slot is outstanding. He rushed for 749 yards and nine touchdowns while also catching 68 passes for 699 yards and seven touchdowns. Laube also has four scores on kick/punt returns.

Dec 30, 2023; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Ladd McConkey (84) makes a

Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Los Angeles Chargers: Ladd McConkey, WR Georgia

Brock Bowers won’t be the only Georgia Bulldog giving the Broncos fits on defense. When Bowers wasn’t getting the ball, now Los Angeles Chargers WR Ladd McConkey was the next man up. McConkey caught 119 passes for 1687 yards and 14 touchdowns using his stellar route running and fluidity.

Ladd’s smooth movements can lull corners into a trance; before you know it, he’s instantly creating separation. He’s also deceptively fast and should not be slept on to blow by defensive backs. Jim Harbaugh will focus heavily on the run game in Los Angeles, but McConkey could easily be their number-one weapon through the air. 

Honorable Mention: Junior Colson, LB Michigan

Junior Colson is a speedy, explosive linebacker who is a thumper in the run game and holds up well enough against the pass. The Chargers needed a rough and tough leader patrolling the middle of the field, and they may have found that in Colson. 

The always-competitive AFC West only got more dangerous after the 2024 draft, and the Denver Broncos will have their hands full with some of their rival’s selections. Sean Payton would be wise to keep an eye on the players listed above, for they could make life a living hell for the foreseeable future. 

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About VISIT DENVER

To bring conventions and leisure visitors to Denver for the economic benefit of the City, the community and our partners. At VISIT DENVER, we believe that travel makes the world a smaller and more connected place. It brings people together and fosters interaction among diverse cultures. The Mile High City embraces and celebrates people of all races, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities and sexual orientation. See VISIT DENVER's Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion ​.

Organization

In 1908, Denver hosted the Democratic National Convention. Recognizing the economic benefit that came from this meeting, some farsighted businessmen created a new agency that would come to be called VISIT DENVER.

VISIT DENVER is a private, nonprofit trade association that is responsible for marketing metro Denver as a convention and leisure destination. The Bureau is contracted by the City & County of Denver to act as the official marketing agency for Denver. It is governed by a board of directors and employs a staff of more than 60 professionals.

Our Company values are the set of guiding principles and fundamental beliefs that allow our team members to function together and work toward a common goal:

• Customer Service: Deliver exceptional service by putting our customers first, anticipating their needs and exceeding their expectations.
• Integrity: All actions reflect ethical beliefs and behavior.
• Excellence: Our hard work reflects dedication to excellence in all that we do.
• Creativity: We constantly seek to enhance and grow the business by challenging the status quo.
• Teamwork: Internally, we work together as a team through mutual trust and respect. Externally, team success in the community allows us to deliver the Denver experience.

VISIT DENVER is funded from both private (membership, advertising, and sponsorship) and public sources (voter-approved lodging tax). In 2019, the Bureau had a budget of $38.8 million, which was derived from 3.75 percent of the lodger's tax in the City and County of Denver, from advertising and private fundraising and from the membership fees the Bureau collects from its nearly 1,300 business members.

Impact of Tourism 

In 2022, 19.9 million overnight visitors spent $8 billion in Denver. Travel-generated spending contributed $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. Direct visitor spending benefits hotels, retailers, restaurants, attractions, transportation services and other businesses, and supports jobs for 71,320 people in metro Denver. (Sources: 2022 Longwoods International, 2022 Dean Runyan) 

The Bureau uses a sophisticated, integrated marketing approach to sell Denver as a travel destination, which includes direct sales, advertising, tourism and convention industry trade shows, digital promotions, public relations, social media and more. VISIT DENVER maintains the City’s official tourism website (VISITDENVER.com), Official Visitors Guide to Denver & Colorado and Official Tourist Information Centers.

History of Tourism in Denver & Beyond 

"The story of tourism in Denver is also the history of our city and our people."

- John Hickenlooper Mayor, City & County of Denver, 2003-2011

Read about 100 years of  Mile High Tourism  online or purchase the book from the  Tattered Cover Book Store .

Partnerships 

For more information on how to become a partner of VISIT DENVER and promote your business to visitors, please visit the  partnership section . For information on employment at VISIT DENVER, please visit the  career center .

Strategic Partnerships

City of Denver Colorado Tourism Office Colorado Convention Center Denver Arts & Venues Denver International Airport Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Colorado Hotel & Lodging Association/Metro Denver Lodging Council Colorado Association of Destination Marketing Organizations Tourism Industry of Colorado VISIT DENVER Partner Organizations

VISIT DENVER is an accredited Destination Marketing Organization from Destinations International (DI). Click to learn more  about DI .

VISIT DENVER Foundation

Awards & accolades, tourism hall of fame, convention stats, facts & figures, history of denver tourism, board of directors, visitor impact, privacy policy.