35 Things To Do In Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a lively city located at the base of the Rocky Mountains. It’s famous for its blend of outdoor activities, art, and great food. Often called the Mile High City, Denver provides a unique experience for visitors interested in nature, culture, and the city’s distinctive atmosphere.

This guide lists 35 exciting activities in Denver to inspire your travel desires and ensure a memorable trip.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts. Surrounded by red sandstone rocks, this outdoor amphitheater provides a unique acoustic experience, where music perfectly blends with Colorado’s natural beauty. It’s a place where nature’s majesty and musical talent come together for unforgettable shows under the stars.

The amphitheater’s stunning location offers breathtaking views of Denver and the Colorado sky, elevating the concert experience beyond just listening. Being at a performance here means feeling the music deeply, surrounded by ancient rocks and open sky. With artists worldwide aiming to play in this enchanting setting, every concert at Red Rocks is a special, once-in-a-lifetime event that captivates and inspires everyone in the audience, regardless of the musical genre.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens provide a peaceful retreat in Denver’s center, covering 24 acres. This garden oasis houses thousands of plant varieties from across the globe, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse themed gardens. Each area, from the calming Japanese Garden to the vibrant Tropical Conservatory, showcases the beauty and variety of global flora through a rich palette of colors, textures, and scents.

With each season, the gardens transform, offering new sights. Spring features cherry blossoms and tulips in delicate hues, while summer brings bright roses and water lilies. Beyond beauty, the gardens emphasize conservation, education, and research, underlining the significance of biodiversity and ecological balance. It’s a place to appreciate and learn about nature, encouraging everyone to take a moment to enjoy the natural world’s tranquility and wonders.

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is known for its bold architecture and extensive art collections that cover art from around the world and across the ages. As you visit, you’ll travel from ancient times to modern contemporary works. The museum is especially renowned for its Native American art collection, considered one of the best globally, offering deep insights into the creativity and spiritual life of North America’s indigenous peoples.

The museum’s modern design, with its angular, titanium exterior, is an iconic part of Denver’s skyline, showcasing the city’s dedication to the arts. Its innovative spaces foster inspiration and interaction, featuring a busy schedule of exhibitions, workshops, and educational activities. The Denver Art Museum is a place where both art lovers and newcomers can dive into the vast world of human creativity.

Coors Field

Coors Field, in the heart of Denver, captures the city’s essence with exciting baseball games and the collective excitement of fans. It’s more than the home of the Colorado Rockies; it’s a venue that celebrates sports, community, and the stunning views of the Rockies, enhancing each game with unforgettable scenery and a vibrant atmosphere.

The stadium isn’t just for watching baseball; it offers a range of dining and entertainment, including The Rooftop bar and various local food options. Coors Field combines the thrill of the game with Denver’s relaxed culture, making it a top spot for both serious fans and casual visitors looking for a fun experience.

Union Station

Union Station in Denver is not just a place for catching trains; it’s a central spot that brings together history and modern life in a restored Beaux-Arts building. When you enter the Great Hall, you step back into a time of grand travel thanks to the high ceilings and elegant design. However, the station is lively and modern, filled with people enjoying its trendy restaurants, unique shops, and bars.

It stands as a symbol of Denver’s development and energy, serving as a popular meeting spot that showcases the city’s personality. Union Station is more than a transit point; it’s a place where you can meet friends, enjoy a coffee, or just take in the mix of historical elegance and modern lifestyle. It encourages you to stay longer and discover what it has to offer.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Driving up the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is an extraordinary experience, taking you on North America’s highest paved road through the Rocky Mountains. The journey offers stunning views, with each turn presenting a more impressive scene of alpine lakes and towering peaks. It’s a chance to experience the silence and grandeur of nature, inviting travelers to stop, think, and appreciate the world from a higher perspective.

Reaching the top feels like standing on top of the world, overlooking Colorado’s vast wilderness. The air is fresh and thin, carrying stories of the land’s wild past. Whether driving the winding road or hiking the trails, the journey to Mount Evans is a profound reminder of our small place in the vast universe. It offers an adventure into the heart of the Rockies with a deep connection to nature.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a fascinating place where history and the modern world blend, sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration. With exhibits ranging from towering dinosaur skeletons to interactive space displays, it makes science engaging for both the young and the old. It’s a place filled with wonders, where the natural world’s secrets are revealed, and visitors are invited to discover and learn through a variety of displays.

Here, you can explore the depths of the earth to learn about evolution or travel across the universe with the planetarium’s immersive shows. The museum provides a deep dive into human anatomy, ecosystem complexities, and the vastness of space, making every visit an educational adventure. With each question leading to more discovery, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is an endless source of knowledge and excitement.

Confluence Park

Confluence Park is a significant spot in Denver, located where the South Platte River meets Cherry Creek. It marks the area where the city’s founders first settled, and today, it’s a beautiful area that reflects Denver’s beginnings and its connection to nature. The park is popular for kayaking, picnicking, cycling, and jogging, thanks to its scenic trails and natural beauty, providing a serene retreat within the city.

More than just a picturesque park, Confluence Park symbolizes Denver’s dedication to revitalizing its waterways and natural environments. It has become a lively community hub where people enjoy various activities, from river paddling and outdoor concerts to leisurely watching the day go by. The park is a key experience for visitors wanting to connect with Denver’s vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination in the Mile High City.

Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, located in the center of Denver, is a hub of excitement under the Colorado sunshine. This park is filled with thrilling roller coasters, water slides, and attractions for the adventurous. It’s a favorite spot for families and friends to come together, share laughs, scream with excitement, and make lasting memories in the warm summer air. Each attraction offers a unique adrenaline rush.

Beyond its thrilling rides, Elitch Gardens is a vibrant mix of colors and sounds. The park hosts live shows and concerts, adding to its festive atmosphere, while the air is scented with delicious food. As evening arrives, the park’s atmosphere becomes even more magical, with the Ferris wheel lighting up the sky. Elitch Gardens offers a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is a mesmerizing place that showcases the beauty and mystery of ocean life through vibrant and engaging displays. Visitors can explore the marvels of the sea and even interact with marine creatures like stingrays and sea turtles. Each exhibit acts as a portal to different marine ecosystems, highlighting the importance of marine conservation and the splendor of aquatic life.

Beyond being an aquarium, it offers unique experiences such as mermaid performances that bring mythical stories to life, blending education with enchantment. Guests can also enjoy dining with a view of a bustling marine tank, making every visit more than just an exploration—it’s a journey into the depths of the ocean. The Downtown Aquarium offers an unforgettable adventure into marine beauty and biodiversity.

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is an enchanting place with over 4,000 animals from around the world. It offers a journey through diverse habitats, from the African savannah to Asian rainforests, all within the city of Denver. Visitors can see a wide range of animals in environments designed to replicate their natural homes. The zoo celebrates the diversity of life, blending conservation with exploration, making each visit a unique nature adventure.

Apart from its exhibits, the Denver Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife conservation and educating its visitors on the importance of protecting natural habitats. Through educational programs and hands-on experiences, people of all ages are encouraged to care for the environment. The zoo provides opportunities to connect with nature in meaningful ways. It serves as a gateway to understanding the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Larimer Square

Larimer Square showcases Denver’s rich history, where every brick and cobblestone has a story. Walking through this historic block, you’ll experience a mix of the Old West’s charm and modern sophistication. Boutique shops offer everything from handmade crafts to luxury fashion, and world-class restaurants serve visually stunning and delicious meals.

At night, Larimer Square lights up, creating a magical and lively atmosphere. The sound of laughter and music from bars and venues attracts both locals and visitors, making it the center of Denver’s social life. In this area, surrounded by Victorian buildings, you’ll create lasting memories of your time in Denver.

Denver Public Library

The Denver Public Library is much more than just a place to find books; it’s a standout cultural and architectural landmark in the city’s center. It combines a visually impressive exterior with a mission to blend the quest for knowledge with an appreciation for aesthetics. Inside, visitors find extensive collections and art pieces that encourage curiosity and creativity.

Apart from being a treasure trove of literature, the library also offers a variety of events and workshops, making it a lively center for the community. These activities range from talks by authors to creative courses, providing a space where people can come together to learn, discover, and engage in a setting dedicated to the celebration of human creativity and thought.

City Park

City Park in Denver is a vast green area that blends natural beauty with urban life seamlessly. It offers large open spaces for a variety of activities, such as walking around Ferril Lake, playing volleyball, or enjoying the sunshine. The park is an ideal spot for those who love being outdoors and provides a peaceful break from city life for families.

Throughout the year, City Park changes with the seasons, showcasing everything from spring blooms to autumn leaves. It hosts summer concerts, combining music with the outdoor environment. This park symbolizes Denver’s passion for outdoor living, offering a slice of nature close to the city’s vibrant heart.

Clyfford Still Museum

The Clyfford Still Museum in Denver showcases the work of Clyfford Still, a key figure in abstract expressionism. Visitors can explore a comprehensive collection that highlights Still’s development over his career, set against the museum’s minimalist design that complements his striking paintings. It’s a place to see how his use of color and form can spark the imagination.

More than just a space to display art, the museum fosters a conversation between the art, the artist, and the audience. It encourages deep thought and exploration, making Still’s challenging and engaging works accessible to everyone. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or new to the scene, the Clyfford Still Museum presents a unique opportunity to connect with the essence of a pioneering modern artist.

16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall in Denver is more than a shopping center; it’s a lively hub of city activity. This mile-long pedestrian walkway is filled with trees and lights, and the presence of street performers adds to its charm, making every visit memorable. It attracts both locals and tourists who explore a variety of stores, from fashionable boutiques to well-known national chains, each offering its special finds.

At night, the mall comes alive with restaurants and cafes extending onto their patios, presenting a wide range of delicious foods. Visitors can enjoy everything from gourmet dishes to street food, or just relax with a coffee while watching the crowd. The mall’s free shuttle service makes it easy and fun to discover all the vibrant experiences this area has to offer.

Cherry Creek Shopping District

Cherry Creek in Denver is a luxury shopping area known for its style and sophistication. This chic neighborhood features tree-lined streets and an upscale atmosphere, attracting both fashion lovers and food enthusiasts. With over 160 stores ranging from high-end designers to unique local shops, Cherry Creek offers an exclusive and exciting shopping experience, ensuring a sense of discovery at every corner.

Apart from its shopping appeal, Cherry Creek is also celebrated for its dining scene, boasting some of Denver’s top restaurants and cozy cafes. The area offers a culinary adventure, from innovative dishes by creative chefs to gourmet versions of comfort food. Cherry Creek is more than just a place to shop and eat; it’s a sensory experience that combines luxury, innovation, and exceptional flavors.

Denver Skatepark

Denver’s Denver Skatepark is a massive, 60,000-square-foot area that showcases the city’s passion for skateboarding. It’s equipped with a variety of bowls, rails, and ramps designed to cater to skaters at different skill levels. The park serves as a hub for creativity and expression, where each maneuver reflects a mix of rebellion and elegance, making it much more than just a set of physical challenges.

Even as the evening sets in, the vibe at the skatepark only grows stronger, lit by floodlights that allow the action to continue. It’s a place where skaters challenge themselves and each other, building friendships through their shared experiences. More than a spot for skateboarding, the Denver Skatepark embodies the vibrant spirit and community of the city’s youth, keeping the city’s heart beating with the rhythm of rolling wheels.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Just a short drive from Denver lies the Rocky Mountain National Park, a testament to the American West’s natural splendor. With its towering peaks, reflective alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows, the park offers endless exploration opportunities. Trails range from peaceful forest walks to challenging mountain hikes, all presenting stunning vistas that go beyond imagination.

The park also serves as a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, where encounters with elk, bighorn sheep, and occasionally moose are moments of pure wonder. With each season, the landscape transforms, showcasing summer’s vibrant greens, autumn’s fiery colors, and winter’s quiet snowscapes. Rocky Mountain National Park is more than just a place to visit; it’s an experience that invites you to immerse yourself in nature’s untamed beauty.

Tattered Cover Book Store

Visit the Tattered Cover Book Store and you’ll find yourself in a space where time seems to stand still, dedicated to the love of reading. It’s one of the biggest independent bookstores in the country, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with its comfortable corners. Each book serves as a gateway to a different universe, beckoning you to immerse yourself in fiction, history, or mystery.

Tattered Cover is a vital part of Denver’s cultural and intellectual scene. It hosts a variety of events like author talks, book signings, and discussions that ignite imagination and provoke thought. This bookstore is a hub for dialogue, innovation, and the shared joy of reading. Amidst the city’s hustle, Tattered Cover celebrates the transformative power of books to enlighten, educate, and connect people.

International Church of Cannabis

The International Church of Cannabis combines art and spirituality in a stunning explosion of colors and creativity, unlike any traditional worship place. Its walls, covered in vibrant murals, offer a sensory sanctuary that encourages reflection on art, faith, and life. The church’s followers, known as Elevationists, seek enlightenment through this vivid art, welcoming all to explore the deep connections between creativity and spirituality.

As visitors move through the church, each painted corner reveals stories highlighting the transformative power of color and design. This journey through the sacred space is designed to free the mind and elevate the spirit. The International Church of Cannabis emerges as a symbol of innovation in spirituality, urging guests to broaden their views and accept a global vision of love and unity conveyed through art.

Denver Beer Trail

Explore the Denver Beer Trail and discover a world of craft beer, one pint at a time. Denver’s beer scene is diverse, offering a wide range of flavors from different breweries, each contributing to the city’s reputation for brewing excellence. Whether you prefer the hoppy flavor of an IPA or the deep richness of a stout, the beer trail takes you on a flavorful journey to some of Denver’s best breweries, each with its own unique story.

As you visit various taprooms, you’ll experience a strong sense of community within the craft beer world. Meet the brewers, who are true artists passionate about creating the perfect beer. The Denver Beer Trail is more than just beer tasting; it’s an immersive experience of Denver’s culture, celebrating the city’s innovative spirit and the creativity of its people.

Molly Brown House Museum

Visit the Molly Brown House Museum to step into the life of Margaret “Molly” Brown, known for her resilience and charitable work. This Victorian mansion, beautifully restored to its original early 20th-century state, shares the tale of a Titanic survivor, advocate for social reform, and a notable figure in Colorado’s history. Each room is a gateway to the past, offering insights into the life of a remarkable woman dubbed “unsinkable.”

The museum goes beyond showcasing beautiful architecture to highlight Molly Brown’s significant impact. It honors her not just for surviving the Titanic, but for her dedicated work in fighting for women’s and workers’ rights, and for education. Exploring the Molly Brown House Museum is like taking a walk through history, paying homage to a woman whose bravery and kindness remain influential.

Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol is an iconic symbol of the American West’s resilience and beauty, featuring a golden dome that shines in the Colorado sun. This architectural wonder gives visitors a look into Colorado’s rich history and lively present, with tours revealing the state’s journey from the Gold Rush era to modern governance.

The views from the capitol steps, offering a sweeping panorama of Denver and the Rocky Mountains, are stunning. This place represents where nature’s magnificence meets human ambition, symbolizing Colorado’s enduring spirit. More than just a building, the Colorado State Capitol stands as a beacon of democracy, where history and the future converge in the heart of the Mile High City.

Meow Wolf Denver

Meow Wolf Denver offers a journey into a world where art breaks free from reality, providing an immersive adventure that sparks the imagination. It’s a place filled with interactive installations that lead visitors through a maze of otherworldly spaces, unveiling mysteries and surreal scenes at every turn. This makes Meow Wolf an ongoing story crafted from dreamlike elements.

This unique experience engages all senses, inviting visitors to not just see art but to live it. Meow Wolf celebrates boundless creativity, transforming every visitor into a storyteller and participant in a vibrant, exploratory voyage. Located in Denver, it stands as a tribute to the imagination’s power, attracting those eager to dive into their creative depths.

Denver Street Art

Explore the colorful streets of Denver on a self-guided tour of its street art, showcasing the city’s artistic spirit on building walls. This journey takes you through places like the historic RiNo and the lively Santa Fe Arts District, where murals narrate Denver’s history and culture. Each piece, from realistic portraits to abstract designs, reveals a part of Denver’s soul, making the city’s neighborhoods vibrant and unique.

As you wander through Denver, you’ll see works by both local and international artists that turn simple buildings into iconic sights. This array of street art not only reflects Denver’s dedication to art but also shows how art influences the city’s identity. Bring your camera and let the street art of Denver lead you on an unforgettable adventure of creativity and discovery.

Sloan’s Lake Park

Sloan’s Lake Park, located in the heart of Denver, provides a peaceful escape from city life. It is a beautiful place for those who love the outdoors, offering stunning views of the Denver skyline. Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, jogging on scenic trails, or just relaxing and taking in the views. It’s an ideal spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Throughout the year, the park hosts various events and activities suitable for all ages, including the colorful Colorado Dragon Boat Festival. Mornings at the park are great for bird watching or participating in a calming yoga session by the water. Sloan’s Lake Park reflects Denver’s love for the outdoors, combining natural beauty with a sense of community under the expansive Colorado sky.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

The Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the history of flight and space exploration. Set in a historic hangar at the former Lowry Air Force Base, the museum showcases a vast array of aircraft and artifacts. Each piece in the collection highlights the journey of innovation and courage in aviation and space history.

Visitors can explore the extensive hangar and encounter legendary aircraft that have significantly impacted our world, including famous fighters and bombers, as well as experimental planes that have advanced technology. The museum also features interactive exhibits and simulators where you can imagine yourself as a pilot or astronaut. More than a look back at history, the museum celebrates the ongoing saga of air and space exploration.

Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex, located in downtown Denver, is a prominent center for cultural excellence and one of the largest of its kind in the United States. It hosts a wide range of entertainment options including Broadway shows, operas, symphonies, and innovative theater productions. The complex’s modern design, highlighted by its glass facade, welcomes visitors into a space where performing arts are celebrated in both grand and intimate settings.

Inside, each theater offers a distinct atmosphere. From the luxurious Ellie Caulkins Opera House to smaller, experimental stages that showcase avant-garde works, this lively hub of creativity provides a unique experience every night. The Denver Performing Arts Complex is more than just a venue; it’s a dynamic community where the arts are passionately nurtured and experienced.

Forney Museum of Transportation

The Forney Museum of Transportation, located in Denver’s industrial area, is a fascinating museum that documents the history of transportation, from early horse-drawn carriages to modern cars. It celebrates human innovation in transportation, featuring a wide range of vehicles including antique cars, trains, bicycles, and planes. Each item in the museum tells a unique story of our journey through time and how transportation has evolved.

Visitors to the museum can enjoy a trip back in time to appreciate the artistry of classic cars, the strength of steam engines, and the beauty of old motorcycles. With interactive exhibits and expert staff, the museum makes learning about the history of transportation both fun and informative for people of all ages. It’s a great place for anyone interested in history, transportation, or just looking for an engaging experience.

Washington Park

Washington Park, known as Wash Park in Denver, is a beautiful green retreat popular among both locals and visitors. It features large green areas, peaceful lakes, and scenic paths perfect for paddleboarding, jogging, or relaxing under old trees. The park’s well-kept gardens add a burst of color to the city, making each visit a treat for the eyes.

Wash Park is also a lively social spot, hosting various events all year round, including summer picnics and yoga classes by the lake. It caters to everyone from fitness buffs to families looking for a calm day out, providing a piece of tranquility and fun in Denver’s busy environment.

Golden

Golden is a picturesque town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, known for its blend of history and modernity. It’s famous for the Coors Brewery and the Colorado School of Mines, showcasing the area’s brewing history and its contributions to education and research. Walking through Golden’s historic downtown feels like stepping back in time, thanks to its well-maintained 19th-century architecture, unique shops, artisanal food spots, and vibrant taverns.

Beyond its historical charm, Golden is a lively place that honors its heritage while looking forward. The town boasts a rich cultural scene with festivals, art shows, and live music, alongside outdoor activities like kayaking in Clear Creek and hiking or biking on nearby trails. Golden represents the essence of Colorado’s past and present, making it an essential destination for those visiting the Denver area.

Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, located on Lookout Mountain, provides an engaging look into William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody’s life. It showcases a wide array of artifacts, photos, and personal items that highlight Buffalo Bill’s roles as a showman, hunter, and significant contributor to the development of the American frontier. The museum brings his Wild West shows and historical contributions to life.

This museum not only honors Buffalo Bill but also explores the era he lived in, highlighting the cultural exchanges between the American West and the world. Set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave symbolizes the adventurous spirit and rugged individualism of the American West. It serves as a source of inspiration and wonder for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Denver B-Cycle

Denver B-Cycle offers a fun and eco-friendly way to see the city by bike. It’s a bike-sharing program that lets both visitors and locals cycle through Denver’s varied neighborhoods, uncover hidden spots, and appreciate its green spaces at their leisure. The stations are convenient and accessible, making it easy to pick up a bike and go for a casual ride along Cherry Creek Trail or explore the historic LoDo area.

This bike-sharing initiative is special because it promotes a closer connection with the city in an environmentally responsible manner. Cycling enables spontaneous exploration, including close-up looks at street art and discoveries of local cafes and shops. Denver B-Cycle invites you to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and uniquely experience Denver, all while supporting a healthier, more lively city.

Stranahan’s

Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery embodies the pioneering spirit of Colorado, producing not just whiskey but offering a deep dive into the craftsmanship of one of Denver’s cherished spirits. The distillery tour showcases the meticulous process and passion of the artisans who create the whiskey by hand, highlighting the effort put into every bottle.

At Stranahan’s, tasting sessions become a journey through flavors, with each sip showcasing the unique qualities brought by Rocky Mountain water and charred oak barrels. The experience is designed for both whiskey aficionados and those new to the spirit, inviting everyone to experience a piece of Denver’s essence, one glass at a time.

Denver is a city where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure, where every street corner and mountain trail tells a story. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the Rockies or the pulse of the city streets, Denver invites you to discover its many treasures. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and dive into the vibrant, mile-high experience that awaits in Denver, Colorado.