What to do in denver?

By HotBotUpdated: June 24, 2024

Answer

Explore Downtown Denver

Downtown Denver, often referred to as LoDo (Lower Downtown), is the heart of the city. This vibrant area is packed with historic architecture, trendy shops, and a plethora of dining options.

16th Street Mall: This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Hop on the free shuttle bus to traverse the 1.25-mile stretch with ease.
Union Station: More than just a transportation hub, Union Station is a destination in itself with its boutique shops, chic bars, and an array of dining options.
Larimer Square: The oldest and most historic block in Denver, Larimer Square is known for its Victorian buildings, vibrant nightlife, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.

Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture

Denver boasts a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues.

Denver Art Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Native American art, as well as modern and contemporary pieces, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver: Featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary work, this museum offers a fresh perspective on the art world.
Denver Performing Arts Complex: As one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, it hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and opera.
Colorado Symphony: Enjoy a night of classical music with the Colorado Symphony, which performs regularly at the Boettcher Concert Hall.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Denver's close proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some activities to enjoy:

Start

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: This iconic venue is not only a fantastic spot for concerts but also offers hiking trails with breathtaking views.
City Park: Spanning over 330 acres, City Park is home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, as well as beautiful lakes and walking paths.
Cherry Creek Trail: Perfect for biking, running, or walking, this 42-mile trail winds through downtown and extends to the Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Washington Park: Known locally as "Wash Park," it features beautiful flower gardens, two lakes, and ample space for picnics and recreational activities.

Indulge in Denver's Food and Drink Scene

Denver's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from farm-to-table dining to international cuisine.

Union Station Farmers Market: Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors.
RiNo (River North) Art District: This area is known for its craft breweries, food halls, and trendy eateries. Don't miss The Source, a market hall with various food vendors and shops.
Denver Biscuit Company: Famous for their oversized biscuits and unique toppings, this is a breakfast spot you won't want to miss.
Craft Breweries: Denver is known as the "Napa Valley of Beer," with over 100 breweries in the metro area. Popular spots include Great Divide Brewing Company, Wynkoop Brewing Company, and Denver Beer Co.

Family-Friendly Activities

Denver offers a variety of attractions that are perfect for families and children of all ages.

Denver Zoo: Home to over 4,000 animals, the Denver Zoo provides an educational and fun experience for the entire family.
Children's Museum of Denver: With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, this museum is designed to engage and inspire young minds.
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park: This amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and a water park, making it a great destination for a day of family fun.
Denver Botanic Gardens: With 23 acres of diverse gardens, this is a beautiful and educational spot for a family outing.

Experience Denver's Sports Scene

Denver is a sports lover's paradise, home to several professional sports teams and world-class facilities.

Coors Field: Catch a Colorado Rockies baseball game at this iconic ballpark, known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
Empower Field at Mile High: Home to the Denver Broncos, this stadium offers an exciting atmosphere for football fans.
Pepsi Center: This multi-purpose arena hosts the Denver Nuggets (NBA) and Colorado Avalanche (NHL), as well as concerts and other events.
Dick's Sporting Goods Park: Soccer fans can enjoy a Colorado Rapids game at this state-of-the-art stadium.

Shop Till You Drop

From high-end boutiques to quirky local shops, Denver offers a variety of shopping experiences.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center: This upscale mall features over 160 stores, including luxury brands and popular retailers.
South Broadway: Known for its antique shops, vintage stores, and hip boutiques, this area is perfect for unique finds.
Tattered Cover Book Store: One of the largest independent bookstores in the U.S., it's a haven for book lovers.
Denver Central Market: Located in the RiNo District, this gourmet marketplace offers a variety of food vendors, along with a selection of local products.

Seasonal and Special Events

Denver hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture.

Great American Beer Festival (October): The largest beer festival in the U.S., featuring thousands of brews from hundreds of breweries.
Denver Film Festival (November): A premier event showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the world.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival (July): This outdoor event features artists from across the country, live music, and culinary demonstrations.
Denver PrideFest (June): One of the largest pride events in the country, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, live entertainment, and vendors.

Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Denver offers several unique attractions and hidden gems.

International Church of Cannabis: A one-of-a-kind venue featuring vibrant murals and offering a space for cannabis enthusiasts to gather.
Confluence Park: Located at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, this park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic walking paths.
Street Art in RiNo: The River North Art District is known for its colorful murals and street art, making it a great area to explore on foot.
Adams Mystery Playhouse: Enjoy a night of mystery and intrigue at this interactive dinner theater.

With its rich cultural scene, diverse culinary offerings, and stunning natural surroundings, Denver truly has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a sports fan, the Mile High City promises an unforgettable experience.