Denver, The Mile high – one mile – above sea level, is a dreamy destination. With a mix of urban adventures, a thriving art scene, gateways to the wild outdoors, and breathtaking scenery, the Mile High City has something for visitors of all ages during any season.
Read through our guide to get a glimpse of the best aspects of the exciting Denverite life. Make your way through the good food and drinks and fun experiences Denver has to offer.
Here are the the 21 best things to do in Denver, Colorado:
1. Catch a concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
Fifteen miles from the city center, this famed attraction is worth the trip. Red Rocks is a park and outdoor venue for live music events, famous for its acoustics.
Red Rocks Park at sunrise, near Denver Colorado | Photo by Adam Springer via Shutterstock
It is aptly named after the iconic red sandstone rock formations along the trails and the walls of the amphitheater.Experience the Denver landmark best by catching a live show. You’ll be amazed by the open-air theater. You can also join a yoga class, watch a movie, or even go on a hike or bike around the park! Check their calendar for a full roster of shows/activities for your trip.
Operations depend on events, but it generally opens one hour before sunrise and closes one hour after sunset.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 720-865-2494
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Ziggy’s (5/5 stars, Denver, $$$)
• Sherpa House Restaurant and Culture Center (4.6/5 stars, Nepalese, $$)
• Abejas (4.6/5 stars, New American, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Source Hotel (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
2. Check out Larimer Square
Larimer Square, the historic commercial block, was once the center of Denver’s life. Fast forward to today and it is bustling with one-of-a-kind boutiques, great restaurants, and busy bars.
Street scene along historic Larimer Square in downtown Denver | Photo by littlenySTOCK via Shutterstock
There’s plenty to explore in the square where Denver began. History buffs can take a walking tour to learn more about the history and impact of the square to the city. It is also hosting special events and activities all year round.
Larimer Square
1430 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-685-8120
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Foraged Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, American, $$$)
• Rioja (4.6/5 stars, Mediterranean, $$)
• The Capital Grille (4.9/5 stars, Fine Dining, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Larimer Square in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Larimer Square based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Kimpton Hotel Born (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
3. Hop on a bike or an e-scooter
Denver’s fairly active population means there are many options for you to get around the city.
A couple enjoying using bike and e-scooter | Photo by JUMP via Facebook
Most people get on a bike or an e-scooter in order to visit tons of destinations and have fun working out too. Hop on a bike or e-scooter and see the city from a fresh perspective. Shared bicycles and scooters can be found all over the city, but you can also rent one for the duration of your stay.
4. Wander around Denver Art Museum
The city has a passion for art and culture, and nothing embodies it more than the Denver Art Museum.
Denver Art Museum on sunny day | Photo by Checubus via Shutterstock
The fortress-like building is home to an encyclopedic collection of different kinds of art. See the artwork on display or join in the many events it hosts: tours, hands-on experiences, artist demonstrations, and other family-friendly programs. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, closing later on Fridays at 8 pm.
Denver Art Museum
100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States
Admission: Free – $13 Entrance ticket
Ph: +1 720-865-5000
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Foraged Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, American, $$$)
• Rioja (4.6/5 stars, Mediterranean, $$)
• The Capital Grille (4.7/5 stars, Fine Dining, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Denver Art Museum in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Denver Art Museum based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver (8.7/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
5. Enjoy the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful spot to take a stroll. Spanning 24 acres, the gardens have different themes that showcase the species of flora and fauna.
Beautiful Scenic Botanic Gardens in Denver in the summer | Photo by Sherry Little Fawn S via Shutterstock
It is also a host to local events such as concerts and special themed events. Take a stroll along the Romantic Gardens for a picture-perfect, idyllic afternoon. Lavender, lilies, and roses are in bloom around the park for your viewing pleasure. The gardens open daily at 9 am.
Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, United States
Admission: Free – $32.49 per person
Ph: +1 720-865-3500
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Fortune Wok to Table (4.8/5 stars, Chinese, $$$)
• The Ethiopian Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Ethiopian, $$)
• Blue Pan Pizza Congress Park (4.7/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Denver Botanic Gardens based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection (8.8/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
6. Stimulate your taste buds at Restaurant Row
The stretch of 17th Avenue from Broadway to City Park is what locals fondly call Restaurant Row.
Wings & Whiskey – Naked,Tiger, Special wings | Photo by Ace Eat Serve via Facebook
Lining the stretch are upscale restaurants, hip cafes, buzzy bistros, and LGBTQ-friendly bars. It is one of the top locations to find a bite in Denver. Order from Restaurant Row’s staples like Steuben’s Food Service or try the exciting offerings like Ace Eat Serve, an Asian fusion restaurant with ping-pong facilities. You’ll be amazed by the number of choices from this foodie paradise.
Restaurant Row
17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203, United States
Get directions
7. Explore the Downtown Aquarium
Housing over 500 species in its 107,000 square feet grounds, the Downtown Aquarium is an exciting, refreshing way to have fun with your family and friends.
Shark Dive – Downtown Aquarium Denver | Dave Mitchell
A Stingray touch tank, the live mermaid show, a Dive Lounge, and the aquarium restaurant are just a few of the many activities you can partake in the aquarium. Learn about the marine creatures through innovative aquarium experiences. The exhibits are open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, and the restaurant is open from 11 am to 9 pm.
Downtown Aquarium
700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211, United States
Admission: $27.99 per person
Ph: +1 303-561-4450
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Taqueria La Familia (4.8/5 stars, Mexican, $$$)
• Ohana Island Kitchen (4.7/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Tacos El Paisa (4.5/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Downtown Aquarium in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Downtown Aquarium based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
8. Look for vintage finds at Antique Row
Adore one-of-a-kind knickknacks and furniture? Head over to Antique Row on South Broadway for your bargain hunting fix.
Vintage and Antique of Denver’s Antique Row | Photo by Denver’s Antique Row via Facebook
You’ll find over 100 shops and services in the 18-block stretch offering eclectic items from old cameras to vintage chairs and lamps. Go antiquing and hunt for unique items at low prices on Antique Row, or just spend hours eying the many curiosities available. Run through the stacks at Bowman’s Vinyl & Lounge for new and used records while sipping a signature cocktail, or smell that old book smell in the Printed Page, a used bookstore.
Antique Row
1500 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-777-7871
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Sushi Den (4.7/5 stars, Sushi, $$$)
• Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina (4.6/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
• Palenque Mezcaleria (4.7/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Antique Row in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Antique Row based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• the ART, a hotel (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
9. Glimpse the past at the Molly Brown House Museum
The Molly Brown House Museum is an homage to the life and contributions of Margaret Brown, an American philanthropist, activist, and Titanic survivor.
Exterior of the Molly Brown House Museum | Photo by Molly Brown House Museum via Facebook
The eclectic house also showcases the way of life back in the Victorian era through its antique artifacts and the house’s architecture. Discover Brown’s life and her part in Denver’s past through the guided tours of the house. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 4:30 pm and on Sunday, from 12 pm to 4:30 pm.
Molly Brown House Museum
1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-832-4092
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Angelo’s Taverna (4.6/5 stars, Oyster Bar, $$$)
• The 9th Door Capitol Hill (4.6/5 stars, Spanish, $$)
• Anise, Modern Vietnamese Eatery (4.7/5 stars, Vietnamese, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Molly Brown House Museum in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Molly Brown House Museum based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Sonder — The Essex (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
10. Browse independent book shops
With the increasing digitization of our world, there is also an increasing number of those fighting against it. Denver is home to such efforts, proudly locally owned and operated bookstores.
Entrance to Capitol Hill Books | Photo by Capitol Hill Books via Facebook
These hidden gem bookstores not only champion the printed word but also create a sense of community around it through organized events and live shows within the bookstore. Visit the floor-to-ceiling stacks at Capitol Hill Books to find books of any genre or check out Mutiny Information Café, where books and pop culture converge into a superstore. Book lovers will find so many spots to find the perfect book.
11. Go on a public art tour
Art isn’t confined inside the four walls of a museum. There are over 300 pieces of public art occupying corners of the city.
Special Big Blue Bear statue | Photo by Kit Leong via Shutterstock
From street art murals to quirky sculptures, there is a whole universe to experience in Denver’s public art.
Explore Denver’s public art collection by going on a tour around the city. You can also just walk around and see how many you can spot – from a 40-foot Blue Bear to graffiti and street art covering the walls of the River North Art District.
12. Be amazed in the Museum of Contemporary Art
The art scene in Denver is certainly engaging and thriving, especially with the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Exterior of the Museum of Contemporary Art | Photo by MCA Denver via Facebook
The museum collection contains over 70,000 works of art, from abstract expressionism to pop art. Explore the art of our time and learn about the artists making waves and pushing the boundaries of art. The museum has 5 galleries to showcase a rotating selection of work from artists all over the world. The museum is open on Tuesdays to Thursdays from 12 pm to 5 pm and until 9 pm on Fridays. Saturday and Sunday hours are from 10 am to 5 pm.
Museum of Contemporary Art
1485 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-298-7554
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Mercantile Dining and Provision (4.6/5 stars, New American, $$$)
• Pony Up (4.8/5 stars, Denver, $$)
• Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ (4.5/5 stars, Japanese, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Museum of Contemporary Art based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center (8.2/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
13. Spend a day or more at Cherry Creek State Park
If you need to get away from the busy city, Cherry Creek State Park offers a great escape. It is a 4,000-acre park and campground for any adventurous soul.
White Pelican with a stop at the Cherry Creek Reservoir | Photo by Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin via Shutterstock
It is a pocket of peace in the Denver area, with a selection of water and land activities. Wildlife freely roams the area and there is much to explore. If you’re looking to spend a longer time, campsites are available for reservation. Families often bring their RVs during the summer for a memorable getaway. The park is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm.
Cherry Creek State Park
4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-690-1166
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Dion’s (4.6/5 stars, Pizza, $$$)
• Mt. Fuji Sushi & Hibachi (4.5/5 stars, Japanese, $$)
• Pho Real Saigon (5/5 stars, Denver, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Cherry Creek State Park in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Cherry Creek State Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Woolley’s Classic Suites (9.3/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
14. People watch at 16th Street Mall
The 16th Street Mall is a Denver landmark. Spanning 1.25 miles and featuring intricate granite stone streets, it offers a space for visitors to shop, dine, and stroll.
16th Street considered as the main street in Denver | Photo by Sopotnicki via Shutterstock
Denver Pavilions, located at the south end and a shopping and dining complex, is a haven for shopaholics and movie buffs. Sit down at any of the 42 outdoor cafes in the mall and watch people go about their business over a snack or a drink. Listen as street performers serenade the crowds. You can take the shuttle up and down the mall, stopping at every corner, to make the most of going around the area.
16th Street Mall
1001 16th St Mall, Denver, CO 80265, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-534-6161
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Red Square Euro Bistro (4.6/5 stars, European, $$$)
• BRUTO (5/5 stars, Denver, $$)
• Panzano (4.5/5 stars, Italian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near 16th Street Mall in Denver in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near 16th Street Mall based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Element Denver Downtown East (9.3/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
15. Experience the Rocky Mountains
Denver is at the foothills of the famed Rocky Mountains. The scenic Rocky Mountain National Park spans 415 square miles and features 355 miles of hiking trails, 147 lakes, 77 mountains, and majestic wildlife.
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado | Photo by Jeremy Janus via Shutterstock
The park offers the country’s best winter sports, hiking, and rock climbing. The beautiful Rockies are over an hour ride from the almost-always sunny Denver. There is so much to see and do in the park, so plan your trip wisely to make the most of it. Consider taking the Mount Evans Scenic Byway for a scenic journey to the peak of Mount Evans, which is 14,264 feet above sea level.
Stop by lookout points or at Echo Lake Park to admire the enthralling views.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 970-586-1206
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• vagabond (5/5 stars, American, $$$)
• SEASONED – An American Bistro (4.7/5 stars, American, $$)
• Hangar Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Barbecue, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Rocky Mountain National Park in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Pine Haven Resort (9.5/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
16. Learn to climb at the Denver Climbing Company
For the adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers easy access to mountains and rocks worth the climb.
A Woman climbing at Denver Climbing Company | Photo by Denver Climbing Company via Facebook
To start your adventure, you should visit the Denver Climbing Company. They offer outdoor rock climbing experiences with a mountain guide. Push your limits as you push yourself to the top of real rock cliffs. There are many courses to suit any skill level, from beginners to professionals.
Denver Climbing Company
3300 W Florida Ave #75, Denver, CO 80219, United States
Admission: $149.00 to $299.00 price range
Ph: +1 888-560-6994
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Tortas San Pancho (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Pizzeria Lui (4.8/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
• J’s Noodles Star Thai (4.7/5 stars, Thai, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Denver Climbing Company in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Denver Climbing Company based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hyatt Regency Denver At Colorado Convention Center (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
17. Watch a baseball game at Coors Field
If you’re a fan of baseball or are just looking for a new experience, check out the Coors Field in LoDo district.
Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies baseball team | Photo by Jon Osumi via Shutterstock
The stadium is home to the Colorado Rockies and can occupy more than 50,000 people in one game. Catch a sunset game for a gorgeous view of the mountains over the stadium. Check out the Rooftop too – a 38,000 square foot space on top of the stadium with an amazing view of the stadium and the city and a great selection of Denver’s local brews.
Coors Field
2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205, United States
Admission: $96 – $960 Price range
Ph: +1 303-292-0200
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Café miriam at City Park (4.9/5 stars, Brunch, $$$)
• Foraged Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, American, $$)
• Hop Alley (4.6/5 stars, Chinese, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Coors Field in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Coors Field based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Ramble Hotel (9.2/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
18. Watch coins being made at the Denver Mint
The Denver Mint branch started producing coins for circulation in 1906. To this day it is still operational and offers a look inside the inner workings of making currency, as well as the rich history of the US mint.
The U.S. Mint in Denver | Photo by Jeffrey Beall via Flickr
The Denver Mint offers interesting and educational tours to visitors, and you may get the chance to see the minting process. There are 6 45-minute tours in a day starting at 8 am from Monday to Thursday. Book tours in advance as these easily fill up.
Denver Mint
West Colfax & West 14th Street, Denver, CO 80204-2693
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 303-572-9500
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Tavernetta (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Carne – Argentina Street Food (4.6/5 stars, Argentinian, $$)
• Foraged Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, American, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Denver Mint in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Denver Mint based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Le Méridien Denver Downtown (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
19. Go on a picnic at Washington Park
Locals visit Washington Park, fondly called Wash Park, to enjoy one of the best and well maintained green spaces within the city.
Volleyball league games are very popular in Washington Park | Photo by Jim Lambert via Shutterstock
The park features rose gardens, lakes for boating/fishing, paved and gravel streets, and grassy areas for everyone’s pleasure. Ready your picnic basket and settle down in large, open grass areas with the bright blue sky as your backdrop. It’s perfect for an afternoon of rest and relaxation. The park is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm on weekdays, from 6 am to 8 pm on Fridays, from 8 am to 4 pm on Saturdays and from 11 am to 4 pm on Sundays.
Washington Park
701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 720-865-3400
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Atomic Cowboy (4.5/5 stars, Breakfast, $$$)
• Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina (4.6/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
• Moxie Eatery (4.8/5 stars, American, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Washington Park in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Washington Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Jacquard, Autograph Collection (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
20. Taste local eats at a food hall
Denver has a quirky and flourishing dining concept: food halls. These are a collection of urban and multicultural restaurants, bistros, bars, and other food-related shops with a common seating area.
Delicious foods at Avanti F&B, a collective eatery | Photo by Avanti F&B, a collective eatery via Facebook
Locals and tourists alike visit these food halls to sample various culinary treats, from Vietnamese Bahn mi to Denver’s favorite green chile. Avanti Food & Beverage, the leader of the food halls, has an impressive selection of changing concepts and cuisine offerings. The food hall also has a roof deck that offers a gorgeous view of the Denver downtown skyline.
Food halls are a great way to immerse yourself in the Denver community and get your stomach full.
Avanti Food & Beverage
3200 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 720-269-4778
Get directions
21. Wine and dine at the Union Station
Union Station, a historic icon of Denver, is a multi-purpose community space. In addition to being the transportation hub of the city, it was renovated to host an impressive array of bars, cafes, and bistros.
Denver Union Station at Sunset | Photo by Jay Yuan via Shutterstock
Every Saturday from May to October, the station hosts the Union Station Farmers Market, bringing fresh and organic produce to the city. Enjoy your meal with the wonderfully restored architecture and the busy station as your backdrop. For drinks, head over to The Cooper Lounge and people watch from overhead, over a signature cocktail.
Union Station
Denver, CO 80202, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: 303-299-6000
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Pony Up (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Mercantile Dining and Provision (4.6/5 stars, New American, $$)
• ChoLon (4.6/5 stars, Asian Fusion, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Union Station in Denver.
The best hotel to stay near Union Station based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Guild Union Station | 18th Street (9.5/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
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