Denver Bucket List: 61 Best Things to Do in Denver CO
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If you find yourself in Denver, Colorado, you may be wondering what there is to do in this vibrant city. Luckily, we have compiled a list of the top things to do in Denver CO so that you can make the most of your visit.
From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, Denver has something for everyone! It’s one of the reasons we love living in Denver so much; you can have both the city vibes and fancy bars but also escape into the great outdoors with just a short drive.
As Denver locals, we’ve spent so much time exploring all that this city has to offer. Living here for three years has allowed us to experience it during every time of year, too.
Below, find all of the best things to do in Denver CO.
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Best Things to do in Denver CO
Visit the Denver Art Museum
For those who love visiting museums, be sure to head to one of our local art museums, like the Denver Art Museum.
It is located in downtown Denver and houses many unique works of art. The museum is home to an extensive collection of Latin American art, as well as European, Asian, and contemporary art. The museum also features a variety of educational programs and events.
The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Tuesday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Admission to the museum is free for children under 18, and there are discounts available for seniors, students, and military personnel. There are also select free days throughout the year.
Dine at The Source
There are so many food halls in Denver, but one of the most underrated is The Source! This is located in the northern part of the city and has tons of fun restaurants to dine at, and you’ll often find locals here.
One of the best places to eat at The Source is smōk. This BBQ restaurant has mouth-watering food that you’ll dream about after you eat it!
See a game with the Colorado Avalanche
Calling all sports fans! In the winter season, one of the best things to do is to see a Colorado Avalanche game. Tickets can get pretty expensive, but our pro tip is to check ticket apps (like Gametime) the day of; this is normally when you can grab tickets the cheapest.
The experience is unlike any other, and the fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL. Don’t forget to wear your maroon and navy to show your Avalanche pride!
Take a walk or bike ride through one of Denver’s many parks
There are many free things to do in Denver, and one of the best is to visit one of the parks in the city. Denver is home to many parks, and each one is worth visiting.
Biking in a park is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery. Denver has many beautiful parks, so it’s a great place to go for a bike ride.
There are also many trails that are perfect for walking. Visit these parks earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.
Wake up with coffee from Grounds for Dismissal
The absolute best spot for coffee in Denver is Grounds for Dismissal. This queer-run cafe features tons of amazing morning foods and drinks that will leave you wanting more!
The best thing on their menu is definitely their coffee flight. They change what is in the coffee flight each month, and it usually has to do with the season or an upcoming holiday. It’s perfect to split with a friend!
Browse the eclectic shops in historic Larimer Square
If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, look no further than Larimer Square. This historic block is home to some of the best shopping, dining, and nightlife in the city.
Larimer Square is also one of the most popular spots for visitors to Denver. It’s Instagram-worthy and is often decorated! Located in the heart of downtown, it’s easy to get to, and there’s always something going on. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Denver downtown.
Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a unique gift, or just a place to people-watch, Larimer Square is the perfect place.
Explore Meow Wolf Convergence Station
Meow Wolf Convergence Station is one of the top things to do in Denver for anyone who loves art, music, and good vibes. It’s a newer addition to Denver, and when we visited it during opening week, we were absolutely in awe.
This community-based art gallery features work from local artists as well as hosts musical performances, workshops, and other events. It’s the perfect place to explore your creativity and connect with others in the city.
Plus, it’s immersive and brings the word “immersive” to a whole new level. Like, you actually walk through the exhibits, almost like you’re a part of it. It’s hard to explain… but you’ll love Meow Wolf Denver!
See the Colorado Rockies play at Coors Field
If you’re a baseball fan, catching a game at Coors Field is a must-do while in Denver. The stadium offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and the experience of watching a game here is like no other.
Plus, what better way to see the Coors Effect in action? Basically, this term came to be because, at the elevation of Coors Field (and Denver), the balls tend to fly here like no other. It’s worth witnessing in person!
Similar to seeing the Avalanche, wait for the price of tickets to drop right on game day on apps like Gametime. We’ve snagged tickets as low as $12 on there before!
We also think it’s way more beneficial to sit higher up. You get more of a breeze, and you’re less in the sun, which is great in the summer months.
Have a donut from Voodoo Donuts
If you’re looking for tasty things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with eating some delicious Voodoo Doughnuts. Though they hail from Portland, there’s a location in Denver that’s almost always busy over on Colfax.
These unique treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, and they’re definitely a memorable experience. Trust us; you’ll be talking about these donuts long after you’ve left Denver!
Plus, they come in a cute pink box. Try their Grape Ape or their Portland Cream; these are our two faves!
Sip on a craft beer at one of Denver’s many breweries
Obviously, no trip to Denver is complete without testing out the breweries here. It’s what we are pretty well known for, after all!
Not only will you get to sample some delicious local beer, but you’ll also learn about the brewing process and how different beers are made.
Plus, most breweries offer tours so you can see first-hand how your favorite brews are created. And, of course, there’s always the opportunity to buy some beer to take home with you!
So if you’re curious about craft beer or just want to try something new, be sure to check out a Denver brewery during your next visit.
For a planned tour of some of the local breweries, check out Denver Brewery Tours.
Attend a show at one of Denver’s many live music venues, such as Ogden Theatre or the Bluebird Theater
There are plenty of things to do in Denver CO, but one of the best things to do is see a concert. We go to a concert in Denver at least once a month because the music scene is very alive and well here!
Denver is home to some great venues that host a variety of music genres. So, whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or anything in between, there’s sure to be a concert for you.
Our personal favorite place to see a concert is at Ogden Theatre. It’s by downtown and has had great artists like Tones & I and Noah Kahan.
See the exhibits at the Molly Brown House Museum
Many people know Denver as a historic gold mining town, but it has so much more to offer visitors today. One of the top things to do in Denver CO is to visit the Molly Brown House.
This house was built in the 1800s and was home to one of the most famous residents of Denver, Margaret “Molly” Brown. Molly Brown was an American socialite, actress, and philanthropist who is best known for surviving the sinking of the Titanic.
Many people know her as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown!”
When you visit her house, you can take a tour and learn all about her fascinating life. You can also see how she lived during a time when most people in Denver were living in poverty.
The Molly Brown House is a great example of how far Denver has come since its early days as a mining town.
Stroll through 16th Street Mall
Even though it’s super touristy, we think it’s worth stopping at 16th Street Mall at least once, and it deserves a spot on this list. This street is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.
Plus, you can ride the 16th Street Mall Ride up and down the street for free. It’s a great way to get around the city on a budget.
During the holiday season, this street gets all jazzed up with fun lights, and you can even see the city’s electric tree.
Explore Denver Union Station
Located right in LoDo, it’s near impossible to miss a visit to Denver Union Station. It’s where the California-Zephyr Amtrack comes through and also is where most people will come into the city for the first time if they take the airport train.
The train station is truly beautiful both indoors and outdoors. It has a huge sign that welcomes you in, and the marble and gold accents inside feel so opulent.
Watch a Denver Broncos game
If you’re a football fan, there’s no better place to watch a game than at Mile High Stadium. The Denver Broncos fans are some of the most passionate in the league.
There’s nothing like experiencing a Broncos game firsthand, so if you’re in town, be sure to check out a game! Don’t forget to wear orange and blue.
Find a new book at the Tattered Cover Bookstore
If you’re looking for things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Tattered Cover Bookstore. This local bookstore has been around since 1971 and is beloved by both locals and visitors alike!
What makes Tattered Cover so special?
For starters, it’s one of the largest bookstores in Denver, with a few locations in the area. It stocks both new and used books, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Plus, there’s always something going on at Tattered Cover, whether it’s a book signing or a reading group meeting. In other words, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon.
Visit the galleries in the Santa Fe Art District
The Santa Fe Art District is one of the more unique places to visit in Denver. The area is well known for its art galleries and museums.
One of the most fun times to explore the Santa Fe Art District is during the First Friday Art Walks. It happens all year long, and it’s a time when you can go and explore the galleries, mingle with others, and even enjoy some great food.
Sample some delicious Rocky Mountain oysters
Okay… hear us out. Rocky Mountain Oysters are something you should try as a first-time visitor to Denver.
These delicious morsels are actually fried bull testicles. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they are definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a unique culinary experience.
There are many places throughout the city to try them, but the most popular place is the Buckhorn Exchange Restaurant. This steakhouse has many other unique dishes on the menu, too!
See a performance at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre
This world-famous amphitheater is nestled by the beautiful Rocky Mountains and offers stunning views no matter where you sit! The acoustics are also incredible, making it a popular spot for both concerts and other live performances.
If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also take advantage of the hiking and biking trails in the area. Or, if you’re feeling sporty, you can even attend Yoga on the Rocks. No matter what you do, Red Rocks Park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Denver.
For a real treat, visit in the morning to catch the sunrise there. It’s the perfect way to start a day in Denver!
This is easily one of the best things to do in Denver in the summer.
Take a scenic drive or hike through the beautiful Rocky Mountains
Why not take the time to explore the rest of the area by Denver during your trip? Hop in a car and explore some of the Rocky Mountains.
The Rocky Mountains are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, millions of people flock to the mountains to enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, and the many activities that can be found there.
Some fun places in the area to explore include Golden, Boulder, Estes Park, Idaho Springs, and even Rocky Mountain National Park.
Visit the Colorado State Capitol Building
The Colorado State Capitol Building is one of the most iconic structures in Denver. It’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, thanks to its beautiful architecture and rich history.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Denver and the state of Colorado, a visit to the Capitol Building is a must. Guided tours are available, or you can explore the building on your own. Either way, you’re sure to be impressed by this beautiful and important landmark.
Don’t forget to snap a photo at the mile-high step in the front of the building!
Relax in Confluence Park
Confluence Park is one of the most underrated places to visit in Denver. This urban oasis offers stunning views of the cityscape and is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.
When we lived in Lodo, we visited this spot all the time. It’s nestled kind of behind a bridge near 16th Street Mall, and you’re more likely to find local residents there than tourists, which is what makes it so great.
This is the perfect place to jog, relax, or even have a picnic. It’s where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River.
Explore the memorabilia and exhibits at the National Ballpark Museum
Visiting the National Ballpark Museum is one of the unique things to do in Denver, Colorado. The museum is dedicated to the history of baseball and the role that ballparks have played in the game.
The museum features exhibits on the history of baseball, the construction of ballparks, and the evolution of the game.
The museum also has a collection of baseball memorabilia, including many artifacts from the first professional baseball stadium, Fenway Park.
The National Ballpark Museum is a must-visit for any baseball fan and is right by Coors Field.
Have fun at Elitch Gardens
For those visiting Denver with kids, you’ll want to head to Elitch Gardens. This amusement park has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides.
It’s located right by downtown (yes, you read that right), so it’s super easy to get to no matter where in the city you are staying.
There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, as well as live entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a romantic night out, Elitch Gardens is the perfect place for you.
Grab a bite to eat at the Dairy Block & Milk Market
The Denver Milk Market is in the heart of downtown Denver. The area is home to some of the best things to do in Denver today, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The Milk Market is home to many one-of-a-kind shops that you won’t find anywhere else in Denver. From fashion and beauty stores to home decor and gift shops, there’s something for everyone!
The Dairy Block is home to some of the best restaurants in Denver. From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll find something to suit your taste here. There’s especially good pizza at Bonnano Brothers Pizzeria, one of our fave pizza places.
Once you grab a bite to eat, sit and enjoy it in the beautiful alleyway here, look up, and you’ll see there are lights shaped like milk bottles!
See a Colorado Rapids Game
The Colorado Rapids are a professional soccer team here in Denver. They play their home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. The Rapids were founded in 1996, so the team is still fairly new!
Since their founding, the Rapids have won the MLS Cup once in 2010. The amount of support at these games is higher than we’ve witnessed at any other stadium here in Denver. Plus, none of the seats are bad!
Walk around the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mile High City. With many plants from all over the world, it’s one of the best botanic gardens to visit in Colorado.
Even if you’re not a plant lover, the gardens are still worth a visit for their beauty and serenity.
One of the best things to do at the Denver Botanic Gardens is to take a stroll through it all. We recommend grabbing a map and just exploring. There are lots of hidden spots throughout the garden that you’ll wander upon.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, the Denver Botanic Gardens also offers yoga classes, botanical art classes, and gardening workshops.
Boat in Washington Park
Washington Park is one of the most popular parks in Denver, Colorado, and for good reason.
The park is home to a beautiful lake where you can go boating, paddleboarding, or simply relax on the shore. There is a place right by the water where you can rent these by the hour. Try to go earlier in the day, because in the afternoon, it gets hot in the sun!
There are also plenty of walking and biking trails to explore, as well as a playground and picnic area. Washington Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with friends or family.
Have drinks at a rooftop bar
Rooftop bars offer stunning views of the cityscape, and they’re a great place to enjoy the warm weather. And what’s more, Denver has some of the best rooftop bars in the country, in our opinion!
Some great ones include Avanti, Tap Fourteen, and 54Thirty Rooftop. There are also quite a few downtown in Lodo heading towards RiNo.
Go shopping in Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek is one of the best places to shop in Denver. It is an upscale neighborhood with a variety of shops and boutiques.
You can find anything you need at Cherry Creek, from clothes to home decor.
There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. One of our personal favorite spots here is the Cherry Cricket!
Dine at Stanley Marketplace
Located right outside of Denver in Aurora, Stanley Marketplace is one of the most unique places to visit in the city. We go here so often!
The marketplace is filled with different vendors offering a wide variety of cuisines, so there’s something for everyone. A new churro place even opened in 2022, which is incredible and is called Churreria de Madrid.
You can also eat at Denver Biscuit Co here, which serves over-the-top biscuit sandwiches!
The marketplace is located in an old airplane hangar, so it has a really cool industrial vibe. In addition to the food vendors, there are also several shops selling things like clothes, jewelry, and home goods.
The marketplace regularly hosts events like live music, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs.
See a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the top places to visit in Denver. There is always something going on here, and it’s the place where you can often see theatrical performances in the city.
Throughout the past year, they’ve even had Dear Evan Hansen and Hamilton! We saw Hamilton, and it was incredible. If you plan on seeing a show here though, book your tickets well in advance!
Attend BBQ Fest
If you love BBQ, then you’ll definitely want to attend the BBQ Fest in Denver! This event is one of the best in the country and features some of the most popular BBQ vendors from around the nation.
You’ll be able to try out different styles of BBQ and find your new favorite! It usually happens over a weekend in the month of June.
Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most popular ways to see the beauty around Denver. The byway takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado and offers stunning views of Mount Evans and the surrounding area.
Just as a heads up, make sure you’re okay with heights before driving this! Be sure also to check the weather before you begin the drive.
Take a stroll through the picturesque LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood
Lodo, short for Lower Downtown, is one of Denver’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods.
Situated just south of RiNo, Lodo is home to a variety of businesses, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The area is home to Coors Field and Union Station, too! If you’re staying in a hotel, you’re most likely staying in LoDo.
Take the time to walk around this neighborhood and see what you stumble upon. You never know what you might find!
Have fun at the Children’s Museum of Denver
One of the best things to do in Denver with kids is to visit the Children’s Museum, especially if you are visiting with kids. The Children’s Museum is a great place for kids of all ages to learn about different subjects.
The museum has many interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, art, history, and more. The Children’s Museum is a great place to take the family for a day of fun and learning!
Stroll through City Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Denver’s City Park. This park is home to a number of attractions, including the Denver Zoo.
The park is absolutely massive, so take the time to park and just walk around it. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city because it’s a lot quieter. You could also consider biking here if you want to.
Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA Denver) is a world-class museum featuring the best in contemporary art. MCA Denver offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just getting started.
MCA Denver is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. They even had a Keith Haring exhibit in 2021.
It is located in the heart of downtown Denver, making it easy to get to and from. The museum also has a cafe and a shop, so you can refuel after exploring all the amazing art on display.
Throughout the year, there are also “penny days” where you can basically visit the museum for free. Visit their website to see when these occur!
Read at the Denver Public Library
The Denver Public Library is one of the must-visit spots if it happens to be raining during your trip to the city. It is a beautiful building with a lot of history and plenty of things to do inside.
Why not take the time to stroll through the library, see what it offers, and maybe even pick up a book or two to read? There are lots of spots throughout the library, too, where you can sit and read at your leisure!
Learn at the Denver Museum of Nature and History
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is one of the coolest places in the city, and it’s a great place to learn about the natural world. The museum has a ton of exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
Families and solo travelers alike will love this museum. Plan on spending at least a few hours there to see everything!
Shop at a local farmer’s market
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Denver this weekend, one great option is to visit a farmer’s market. Shopping at a farmer’s market supports local farmers and helps to ensure that you’re getting fresh, high-quality produce.
Plus, it can be a lot of fun to browse the different stalls and see all the different kinds of fruits and vegetables that are available.
Farmer’s markets are typically held on weekends, so if you’re visiting Denver on a weekend, be sure to check out one of the city’s many farmer’s markets.
Some of the best include the Cherry Creek Farmer’s Market, the Boulder Farmer’s Market, and the Denver Union Station Farmer’s Market.
Have a bite to eat at the Denver Central Market
The Denver Central Market is a great place to eat, and it’s located right in the beautiful RiNo. The market offers a wide variety of food options, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Once you peruse the market and grab whatever food you’d like (we absolutely love and suggest Green Seed for smoothies), find a spot to eat by the street art outside the market.
Check out the sealife at the Denver Aquarium
If you find yourself in Denver, then you absolutely must visit the world-renowned Denver Aquarium. While many people visit here to try out the restaurant (which is consistently voted as one of the best places to eat in Denver), the aquarium itself is fun, too.
Head upstairs and walk from exhibit to exhibit. Take your time; there are lots of signs throughout the aquarium where you can learn more. Surprise, but there is a tiger there too!
You can also consider going on one of the Denver Aquarium free days.
Bike the Cherry Creek Trail
The Cherry Creek Trail is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Denver. This popular trail follows Cherry Creek for over 40 miles, offering beautiful views of the creek and the city skyline.
The trail is well-maintained and perfect for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. There are also plenty of places to stop along the way to rest or grab a bite to eat.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or a visitor looking to get outside and experience all that Denver has to offer, the Cherry Creek Trail is definitely worth checking out.
Ride the Denver Trolley
The Denver Trolley is a unique and fun way to see the city. It’s a great way to get around, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Plus, it’s just really cool to ride on a trolley!
The Denver Trolley costs $7 for adults or $3 for children under 13 and over 4, as children under 4 are free. It stops at the Denver Children’s Museum and also the aquarium. Note that they only stop on the southbound part of the ride.
Golf at Urban Putt
Located in Lodo, Urban Putt is one of our favorite hidden gems. This indoor golf course has two different courses set up to replicate parts of Denver! Golf through Denver International Airport, downtown, and even Red Rocks.
Visit during the day to avoid the rush from happy hour. This is fun for both kids and adults, no matter how many times you go! (We’ve gone a handful of times and plan on going many more.)
See the exhibits at the Denver Firefighter Museum
The Denver Firefighter Museum is awesome, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of firefighting in Denver.
The museum is located in an old firehouse, and it has a few exhibits. You can learn about the equipment that firefighters use, see old photos of fires, and more. This spot is mentioned on almost every free tour of Denver!
Drive through and see the animals at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
If you want to see wildlife during your trip to Denver, you won’t want to miss Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to bison, prairie dogs, deer, and more.
There are plenty of things to do at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. You can go hiking or biking on the trails, take photos, or, our favorite, hop in your car and drive through to see what animals you’ll find.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for things to do in Denver, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. The drive takes around an hour.
Eat a burrito at D’Corozan
D’Corazan is one of the best places to get a burrito in Denver! We ate here during our first-ever trip to Denver, and since moving here, it’s where we go all the time.
Their cheesy queso with green chile has a nice spice but is incredibly tasty. Their a la carte beef burritos are also so delicious. Order both at the same time and put some of the queso on the burrito for a real treat.
This restaurant is located downtown, so if you’re exploring 16th Street, this is a great place to go to escape the commercial restaurants and eat local.
Drive the Peak to Peak Highway
One of the best things to do in the Denver area is to drive the Peak to Peak Highway. The highway connects Estes Park to Black Hawk and Central City. The views from the road are simply breathtaking, making it one of the most popular scenic drives in Colorado.
In addition to the incredible views, driving the Peak to Peak Highway is also a great way to experience some of the state’s best foliage. In the fall, this highway is truly one of the most spectacular in the entire country.
Tour Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar
The Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar offers tours of their facilities, allowing visitors to see how they make their award-winning whiskey. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy spirits.
Explore more about their tour by clicking here. Many of their tours include up to four different tastings, so you can try it while also learning more! Talk about a good time.
Go ice skating downtown
In the winter, go ice skating in Denver!
Ice skating is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the city. Plus, it’s a perfect activity for both adults and children.
There are several ice skating rinks in Denver, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re new to ice skating, don’t worry; just stay to the side. It’s what we do!
So put on your warmest coat and gloves and head out to one of these top ice skating spots in Denver.
Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most amazing creatures at the Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and for good reason. The zoo is an exciting place to explore for people of all ages.
In addition to its impressive animal collection, the Denver Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, events, and exhibits throughout the year.
Whether you’re interested in learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts or you just want to see some of the animals, there’s something for everyone at the Denver Zoo.
Discover some amazing street art in Denver’s RiNo (River North) Arts District
Denver’s RiNo (River North Art District) is home to some of the best street art in the city. The area is also home to a number of breweries, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring!
There are a number of ways to explore street art in RiNo. You can take a walking tour, rent a bike, or even take a Segway tour. No matter how you choose to explore, you’re sure to see some incredible artwork.
Learn at the United States Mint
The United States Mint in Denver produces coins for circulation, as well as collector coins. It is also a great tourist destination, especially for those interested in American history or numismatics.
The Mint offers tours of its facility, which is the best way to learn. Tours are free and open to the public, making the Mint a great option for things to do in Denver CO that are both educational and enjoyable.
After taking a tour of the facility, visitors can browse the gift shop, which sells a variety of items related to coins and money. The Mint also has an exhibit gallery, which features rotating exhibitions on topics such as the history of American coinage or the Mint’s involvement in world events.
Whether you’re interested in American history, numismatics, or just want to see how coins are made, the United States Mint in Denver is a great option for things to do in the city.
Take a photo at the Big Blue Bear
The Big Blue Bear is one of the most iconic sculptures in Denver, and for good reason! This massive sculpture is impossible to miss, and it makes for a great photo op. Trust us; your Instagram followers will be jealous.
Find it right by the Denver Convention Center. It’s leaning up against the building!
Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Denver.
This museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of aviation travel. The museum has an impressive collection of aircraft artifacts, as well as interactive exhibits that will teach you about the science of flight.
The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation and space travel, and it’s also a lot of fun!
Explore the outdoors at Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Denver. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.
There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas. The park is open all year round, making it a great place to visit no matter what time of year it is.
If you live in Denver, be sure to grab a free state park pass from the library. Keep in mind there are often waitlists for these, but you can keep it for a week!
Attend the National Western Stock Show
The National Western Stock Show is the perfect event for any Western fan. This annual event features some of the best in rodeo, livestock, and more.
It normally takes place in January each year and is truly fun for the entire family. It’s been going on since the early 1900s and takes place over the course of about 16 days, so you can choose a date to attend that works best for you.
Go on a free walking tour
A Denver free walking tour is the perfect way to get an insider’s view of the city. You’ll learn about the history and culture of Denver, see the best sights in Denver, meet new people, and make new friends. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise!
We actually have gone on walking tours before when family and friends have visited us here. Visit here to see some great walking tours in Denver.
Don’t forget to bring some cash to tip your guide. While they are free, tipping is encouraged!
Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
Last but not least, consider taking a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Just a short drive from the city, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the state. It’s easily one of the best day trips from Denver.
There are several outdoor activities one must do near Denver, Colorado… but this is one you can’t miss out on.
Here, you’ll find towering mountains, stunning alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. There are plenty of things to do in the park, whether you want to go hiking, camping, or fishing.
And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife! With just a day, spend the morning hiking in the Bear Lake area (we recommend Emerald Lake trail, and if you have the time, also see Lake Haiyaha) and then spend the afternoon on Trail Ridge Road.
FAQs: What to do in Denver Colorado
What are the best attractions to visit in Denver?
The city of Denver is home to many wonderful attractions. The top five include the Colorado State Capitol, the Denver Zoo, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Denver Union Station.
Are there any great outdoor recreational activities in Denver?
Denver has plenty of outdoor activities for visitors, including hiking and biking trails throughout the city, kayaking on one of the many lakes in the area, or skiing in the nearby Rockies.
Is there a safe place to stay when I’m visiting Denver?
Denver is a very safe city with many hotels and Airbnbs offering comfortable accommodations for travelers. It’s best to stay downtown in LoDo!
What type of food can I find when I’m in Denver?
There are so many great dining options in Denver! From classic American eateries to international restaurants, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your taste. Don’t forget about trendy cafes where you can grab coffee or a bite to eat!
Is there nightlife and entertainment in Denver?
There’s plenty to do when it comes to nightlife and entertainment in Denver – from dive bars to fine dining establishments, live music venues, and comedy clubs.
🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver!
Final Thoughts: Denver Bucket List
This post was all about the best things to do in Denver CO! We hope you enjoy your time in the Mile High City.
Want to read more? Check out these next:
- 19 Best Things to Do in Denver at Night
- 10 Delectable Spots for Afternoon Tea in Denver
- 13 Tasty Spots for Brunch in Denver
- 7 Best Places to go Apple Picking Near Denver
- 49 Best Free Things to do in Denver (& the Surrounding Area!)
- How to Have the Perfect 1 Day in Denver
- 23 Romantic Date Night Ideas in Denver
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