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Local’s Guide to the Best Rocky Mountain Tours from Denver

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If you’re planning a trip to the Mile High City, you’ll love this list of the best Rocky Mountain tours from Denver.

A trip to Colorado wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park .

With everything from snowy tundra to flower-filled meadows, crashing waterfalls to serene lakes , this high-elevation outdoor playground showcases the full range of Colorado’s natural beauty.

But it’s an hour’s drive from Denver, through thick metro traffic and along white-knuckle mountain roads. If you don’t want the stress of driving yourself, choose one of these Rocky Mountain tours from Denver.

A local guide will do the driving for you and take you to RMNP’s best scenic overlooks and hiking trails .

Table of Contents

Top Picks: Denver Rocky Mountain Tours

Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver

✅ Great for Colorado first-timers

✅ 8-hour tour

✅ Transportation & lunch

Half Day Rocky Mountain Escape

✅ 4 hour tour

✅ Visit less-crowded viewpoints

✅ Clear Creek Canyon & Echo Lake Park

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

✅ 8 hour tour

✅ Includes 4-mile hike

✅ Transportation & hiking guide included

Rocky Mountain Tours from Denver

For your first visit to colorado: rocky mountain national park tour from denver.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 67 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide, transportation, lunch, park entrance fees | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day tour provides a taste of everything the Rocky Mountains and Foothills have to offer.

You’ll drive through Boulder for views of the majestic Flatirons and the University of Colorado’s beautiful redstone campus.

Then you’ll explore RMNP on Trail Ridge Road, which climbs to elevations over 12,000 feet and offers countless stops to take photos and drink in the scenery.

A turkey or vegetarian sandwich is included. Afterward, you’ll explore the charming resort town of Estes Park and its haunted Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King to write The Shining .

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For budget travelers: Half Day Rocky Mountain Escape

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 840 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 4 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, water refill (bring your own bottle!) | ⛰️ Book now

This affordable half-day Rocky Mountain National Park tour from Denver is a great way to get acquainted with Colorado’s natural beauty on a budget.

Your guide will drive you from downtown Denver to RMNP, where you’ll stop at some of the less-crowded viewpoints.

You’ll get a chance to stretch your legs at Clear Creek Canyon and Echo Lake Park, which offer easy river strolls and nature walks suitable for all ability levels.

On the way home, you’ll hit up a local brewery in the old mining town of Idaho Springs to round out your Colorado experience.

To get off the beaten path: Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 387 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Expert hiking guide, water refill, transportation, snowshoes/yaktracks if needed, packed lunch | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day guided hiking tour is perfect for travelers who would rather explore RMNP on foot. The tour picks up in downtown Denver, Boulder, or Estes Park, then heads to RMNP for a four-hour guided hike .

The hike will be at an intermediate difficulty level and a moderate pace to accommodate all guests, so expect to be challenged but also have plenty of time to appreciate the scenery. Snowshoes are included in winter and spring .

This tour provides a packed lunch during the hike, and they’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions.

For a customized experience: Private Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 60 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Hotel pickup, National Park fees, bottled water, snacks, driver/guide | ⛰️ Book now

This private, fully customizable tour is perfect if your group wants to go beyond the usual tour stops in RMNP.

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Denver or Boulder and will choose stops and hiking trails based on your group’s needs and interests.

You’ll have the option to make additional stops at nearby Estes Park, the Stanley Hotel, or the hidden-gem town of Lyons.

This is an active sightseeing tour rather than a strenuous hiking tour, but they aim to give guests plenty of time to stretch their legs and explore RMNP’s rugged outdoors.

If your group wants to spend more time walking, they can help you choose some light hiking trails.

For the best value: Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 230 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 10 hours | ✅ Includes: National Park fees, local driver/guide, commentary, picnic lunch in the park, snacks/water bottle refills | ⛰️ Book now

Of all the Rocky Mountain tours from Denver, this one arguably provides the most bang for your buck. At 10 hours, it’s slightly longer than most full-day options, and it includes snacks, water, and lunch.

This tour hosts up to 12 guests and picks up at Union Station in downtown Denver.

Once you reach RMNP, you’ll witness the destructive power of nature at the Alluvial Fan, which was created by a dam breach 40 years ago. Now, the area is a field of boulders—some as big as cars—with water cascading between them.

After more photo ops and a picnic lunch at Horseshoe Park, you’ll be given ample time to explore Estes Park’s boutique shops and galleries or take a stroll along the Big Thompson River.

For snow lovers: Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver Winter and Spring

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 209 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: National Park fees, water refills, transportation | ⛰️ Book now

This Rocky Mountain tour from Denver is perfect if you visit in winter or spring, when you’ll get to see RMNP turn into a wonderland of snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls.

After picking up guests at Union Station, this full-day tour passes through downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado on the way to RMNP.

In the park, you’ll stop at Sprague Lake for an easy half-hour hike, with snow treads provided if the trail is slippery. Other photo ops include Many Parks Curve overlook, the Alluvial Fan, and Horseshoe Park—where you may spot some moose or bighorn sheep.

Afterward, you’ll spend an hour and a half exploring Estes Park at your own pace.

For the whole family: Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 1945 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Landing and facility fees, professional guide and driver, bottled water | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day option by Aspire Tours picks up in downtown Denver or Boulder. In a small group with up to 13 guests, you’ll take in RMNP’s dramatic scenery while driving along Trail Ridge Road and stopping at various points of interest. Lunch is provided.

Stops include Lily Lake, where you’ll get breathtaking views of Longs Peak and a chance to stretch your legs on an easy 15-minute trail. After exploring RMNP, you’ll have a long stop in Estes Park to grab a snack or souvenirs.

If you’re short on time: Small-Group Tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 93 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Bottled water, park admission, guide | ⛰️ Book now

This half-day Rocky Mountain tour from Denver picks up and drops off at downtown Union Station.

Your guide will drive you through RMNP, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way so you can take in all the lakes, meadows, and tundras RMNP has to offer.

You’ll also get a chance to explore Estes Park and its haunted Stanley Hotel—maybe you’ll spot some ghosts.

For outdoor adventurers: Private Hiking Tour to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 12 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, entrance fees, snacks, water, expert hiking guide, snowshoes/yaktracks if needed | ⛰️ Book now

Travelers looking for adventure will love this day trip from Denver to the Rocky Mountains. This private tour prides itself on providing a customized, bespoke hiking experience.

Your expert hiking guide will pick you up at your hotel in Denver or Boulder and guide you on a full-day trek through Rocky Mountain National Park, tailored to your skill and fitness level. Depending on the season, you might even get to do some snowshoeing.

This is a great option if you want to get your boots dirty, avoid the crowds, and explore RMNP in true Colorado fashion. Water and snacks are provided.

For wildlife watching: Private Birding Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 18 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Coffee/tea, bottled water, transportation, snacks, lunch | ⛰️ Book now

This is the best Rocky Mountain National Park tour for birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, and anyone who wants to learn more about the park’s ecology.

A naturalist guide will help you spot alpine animals like elk, moose, snowshoe hares, Clark’s nutcrackers, and pine grosbeaks.

This full-day tour includes pickup from your hotel, coffee, tea, snacks, and lunch, and a stop at a local brewery on the way back to unwind with a pint.

This is also a private tour, meaning you and your group will be the only guests, which allows the guide to answer all your questions and personalize your experience.

Final Thoughts: Denver RMNP Tours

If you don’t want to test your driving skills on Colorado’s winding mountain roads, Rocky Mountain tours from Denver are a great way to explore RMNP in a day.

There are options for all budgets and tastes, covering everything from must-see stops to off-the-beaten-path hiking trails.

Hopefully, these tips helped you choose the best tour for your Colorado trip.

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Rachel Craft started traveling after being cooped up for a year during the pandemic, and now she’s hooked. She loves hiking, biking, snorkeling, and discovering vegan eats in the places she visits. When she’s not busy exploring, she writes fantasy and sci-fi stories for children and teens. You can learn more about her writing at www.racheldelaneycraft.com.

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The Best Rocky Mountain National Park Tours from Denver

Lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks abound in the Rocky Mountain National Park near Denver, making tours from the city to the wilderness a great way to escape for a few hours.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

The Rocky Mountains are a vast range of peaks running from northern Canada all the way down through the United States to New Mexico. The highest peaks of this 3,000-mile (4,830km) morass are mostly confined towards the southern end in the state of Colorado. Rocky Mountain National Park protects one of the most picturesque tranches of the Coloradoan Rockies, and its proximity to Denver makes it a popular day trip destination. Here are some excellent guided tours from the Mile-High City to the even-loftier climes of Rocky Mountain NP.

Small-group Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

See the best of the Rocky Mountain National Park, from wildlife to vistas on this eight-hour guided tour from Denver. Depending on the time of year, your group (maximum 14 people) will follow a different itinerary. In summer you’ll tackle the Trail Ridge Road, a winding stretch of road above the tree line with expansive views that really give a sense of the magnitude of the mountains. In winter you’ll explore Bear Lake. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as elk, moose and eagles. From $123 per person.

Book at Viator.com

(Photo: Viator.com)

Denver to Rocky Mountain NP Tour

Pass the famous Flatirons Rock Formations as you head north from Denver and into the heart of the Rockies. These are the first major landforms that will give you a sense of the major upheaval of land that has gone into making the remarkable mountain range. Once you reach Estes Park, the real fun of Rocky Mountain National Park begins. Discover and photograph glacial lakes, Alpine valleys and mountain views. There’ll be chance to take walks and in summer, the tour heads up as high as 13,000 feet (3,960m) along the Trail Ridge. From $139 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Hiking Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’d prefer to get out into nature, away from the roads and the droves of tourists that stick close by them, then look no further than this fantastic hiking tour. Although this is no advanced hiker’s jaunt: the walk is a mere four miles past lakes, and through forests and meadows. The altitude may make it feel like you’ve hiked further though. During the winter, when snow is on the ground, snowshoes are provided for a unique way to interact with the landscape. And during this time, wildlife is often easier to spot too. From $149 per person.

Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Tour from Denver

Another popular and well-established day trip from Denver passes through Boulder on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park. The itinerary is neatly balanced to include examples of the park’s finest features, including: Many Parks Curve Overlook, a wide-ranging viewpoint; the beautiful cascade of Alluvial Fan waterfall; and Sprague Lake, formed by glacial activity and reflecting the surrounding peaks. You might be lucky enough to see mule deer, elk and other wildlife along the way. This tour only runs in the winter. From $129 per person.

Private Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver

The best way to explore Rocky Mountain National Park though is by private tour. Curate the itinerary, with help from your knowledgeable guide, to the preferences of your group. If you enjoy the freedom of hiking, you can focus on hitting as many of the trails and loops as possible. Otherwise, head out to spots that aren’t frequented by the other tour groups for a little solitude with the natural surroundings. This tour is available for groups of up to five people. From $599 per group.

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19 Absolute Best Denver Tours for 2024 [from a Local]

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

Denver is one of the biggest and fastest-growing cities in the state. It’s no wonder that adventure tours in the Mile High City are becoming more popular.

The city offers a number of popular attractions, epic adventures, and sophisticated museums for everyone.

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it the perfect hub for private groups on the weekend or day trip.

Here are the best tours in Denver with something for everyone from escapes to nature to brewery tours and historic sights.

What are the absolute best Denver tours?

✔️  Rocky Mountain National Park Tour:  Best for epic scenery

✔️ Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour: Best for outdoor lovers

✔️  Downtown Denver Food Tour:  Best for foodie couples

Each of these Denver tours (and many more!) are listed below with more in-depth information.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

As a couple who lives near Denver, we love all of the fantastic things that the city has to offer no matter what time of year.

Keep reading to learn more about the best tours in Denver for couples, families, or small groups.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

You can’t plan a trip to the Mile High City without going on this Rocky Mountain National Park Tour . And this one really delivers!

No matter what time of year, this tour is the perfect way to see all the state has to offer. 

Over the course of 8 hours you will see beautiful peaks, alpine lakes, and epic scenery that make up the Colorado Rockies.

Rocky Mountain National Park is like no other park you’ve been to, covering more than 415 square miles of rugged wilderness.

During the tour, you’ll pass by the iconic Stanley Hotel in downtown Estes Park . 

Be on the lookout for wildlife and bring your camera as the tour will stop at some best spots for wildlife and bird watching. 

In the summertime you’ll be able to drive along Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest continuous paved road in the United States.

And the trek from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park is not to be missed either. 

You’ll catch glimpses of the gorgeous landscape as you drive west out of the city. And keep your eyes open for herds of elk as you enter Estes Park.

Lunch and snacks are provided throughout the day , but we recommend bringing extra water and wearing comfortable walking shoes.

This guided tour is perfect for a small group or family adventure and has been certified as an epic-guided adventure.

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (2,000+ reviews)

2. Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour

This 8-hour day trip is one of the best Denver tours on the list as you will stop at several must-see destinations.

Pikes Peak inspired the lyrics for “America the Beautiful”, and Garden of the Gods features staggering rock formations and natural wildlife. 

This Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour starts in Denver at 9:45 am and heads south towards Colorado Springs. 

Once you arrive at Garden of the Gods your professional tour guide will stop at Balanced Rock.

After about an hour at the park it’s onto Pikes Peak which stands at 14,115 feet in elevation. 

You’ll be at this destination for about 3 hours to enjoy photo opps, snacks, and panoramic views. 

Park entry fees, transportation, a picnic lunch, and water refills are included with this tour. 

On the way back to Denver you’ll pass through the town of Manitou Springs which has eight natural spring water fountains in the area. 

The small downtown area features shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and architecture from the late 1800s.

Book a Tour of Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods 🤩 5/5 stars (850+ reviews)

3. Downtown Denver Food Tour

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

After exploring and taking a city tour you‘re probably really hungry and thirsty! Check out this 3-hour tour for Downtown Food Tasting . 

Visit 5 top local restaurants and foodie favorites as you take a guided tour through the neighborhoods of North Denver. 

Learn about local dishes and the chefs who create these delicious treats. And in between tastings you can learn some engaging history about Denver.

Sign up for this small group tour tasting and find out why Denver is ranked the 4th Hottest Food City in America!

You’ll taste authentic Neapolitan pizza, award-winning Colorado green chile, and southwest fusion cuisine on the famous Dairy Block.

As you walk with your tour guide, listen in as they share different stories about the history and architecture of the city.

This Downtown Tasting Tour includes a visit to historic sites like Union Station and Denver’s oldest hotel.

The package includes the walking tour and food samples. Any extra food or drink is an additional cost.

Book a Downtown Denver Food Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (950+ reviews)

4. Indoor Skydiving Experience

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 75 minutes | ▶️ BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling Denver tours, look no further than this indoor skydiving experience . 

Located just a short drive from the Mile High City, iFLY Denver offers an exhilarating indoor skydiving experience that is sure to get your heart pumping. 

Whether you’re a seasoned skydiver or a first-time flyer, this indoor skydiving tour has everything. Plus, you can relax knowing this is a safe but unforgettable adventure. 

You’ll start with a brief training session with a certified instructor who will teach you everything you need to know about the basics of indoor skydiving.

Then, you’ll gear up in a jumpsuit, helmet, and goggles, and head into the vertical wind tunnel for your flight. Once inside the wind tunnel, you’ll feel the rush of air as you float weightlessly in the open space. 

With the help of your instructor, you’ll be able to control your body position and movements to simulate the feeling of actual skydiving. 

It’s an incredible sensation that will leave you feeling empowered and exhilarated. 

Overall, indoor skydiving is an experience you won’t forget. It’s a unique and thrilling activity that will make a day out in Denver even more memorable.

Book an Indoor Skydiving Experience in Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (25+ reviews)

5. Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure

Soar through the lush Rocky Mountain landscape on this epic Zipline Adventure tour . Enjoy a day outdoors on some of the longest ziplines in Colorado!

Customize your trip with the help of a local guide and choose from different tour times and zipline tracks. 

No experience is necessary and you will be provided safety training from an expert guide.

Included with your tour is a certified guide, safety equipment, snacks, plus photos or videos of your adventure.

This tour is great for all experience levels, even beginners and kids as young as 5 years old. 

Book a Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (500+ reviews)

6. Colorado Gold Rush & Mine Tour

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

If you love geology and have just one day to explore the Rocky Mountains near Denver, check out this Colorado Gold Rush & Mine Tour .

This combo tour takes you through the exciting history of the gold rush era, then to a historic Colorado mining town for some real gold panning.

Along the way you’ll pass by the Rocky Mountains to take in the scenery and Clear Creek Canyon for some of the best views in Colorado.

This tour includes:

• Denver Union Station
• Central City
• Phoenix gold mining tour
• Walking tour of Idaho Springs
• Free transportation
• All admission
• Water refills
• Expert tour director

The unique tour starts in downtown Denver and is a full-day adventure for approximately 5 hours.

Book a Colorado Gold Rush Mining Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (25+ reviews)

7. Red Rocks Amphitheater Tour

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

Another iconic Colorado destination can be seen via this Denver Foothills & Red Rocks Amphitheater Tour . 

Get ready for a 7 hour all-inclusive tour that starts in downtown Denver.

Meet up with your local guide and ride comfortably for a short distance to Red Rocks Park near Morrison, Colorado. 

Due to the natural shape of the rock formations, this amphitheater is one of the most unique outdoor music venues in America. 

This location has hosted many famous musicians and artists that come to the Denver area. Many famous bands from U2 and Incubus to the Dave Matthews Band have played here. 

Continuing on the tour you’ll travel along Lariat Loop to Evergreen heading towards Mount Evans. Looking out the window you’ll be able to see panoramic views along the scenic bypass.

A picnic lunch and water refills are included with the tour, along with breath-taking views of the landscape. 

During the afternoon the tour stops at Echo Lake and drives along the summit of Mt Evans, the highest paved road in North America.

At different parts of the tour you will be able to get out and hike a bit, or do some shopping. 

So, it’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and not bring children who are under 8 years old.

This Red Rocks Amphitheater Tour is popular for a reason, and will give you the best views of Red Rocks, Mount Evans, and Echo Lake.

Book a Denver & Foothills Small-Group Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (200+ reviews)

8. Wine Tasting & Dessert Walking Tour  

😃 RATING: 4.5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ▶️ BOOK NOW

Did you know that Colorado has some of the best wineries in the country? Enjoy a night out in Denver’s wine scene with this exclusive wine tasting & dessert tour .

Wine lovers can taste their way through Denver on this walking adventure that includes 4 wine tastings paired with desserts, a small charcuterie board, and select cheeses. 

In just 1 hour you’ll be able to sample many different wines and pairings. It’s a great date night experience for the loved one in your life! 

Your tour begins at the Blanchard Family Wines on Denver’s famous Dairy Block. 

Plus, this tour comes with a gourmet lunch served alongside a flight of wine and a chocolate pairing.

Along the walk you will also visit one of Denver’s trendiest neighborhoods, the historic RiNo Arts District. 

Custom lunch options are available for any dietary need and visitors must be at least 21 years or older.

If you’re looking for a unique way to taste some Colorado wine and walk around this city, we recommend booking this tour.

Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie & Dessert 😃 4.5/5 stars

9. “Best of” Denver City Tour 

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

With this custom-guided tour of Denver you will be able to learn about the city’s best kept secrets and local tips. 

Thanks to the help of a local guide you will learn more about the neighborhood where you’re staging, find the best places to eat, where to buy groceries and hidden gems nearby.

By the end of the tour you’ll be more comfortable navigating the area and find out the easiest ways to get around Denver.

All of this tour’s details can be customized just for you! You and your group can pick the time, location, length of the tour, and meeting place.

It’s like having a friend meet up with you to explore the city! 

You’ll learn what it’s like to visit Denver, find out about local events, discover the culture and more.

Book a “Best of” Denver Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (100+ reviews)

10. Craft Beer Tour in Downtown Denver

Colorado has been a hub for craft beer in America for many decades. On this Craft Beer Tour in Downtown Denver , a beer aficionado will give you a rundown on the history of beer in Denver.

As you make your way through a 4-stop pub crawl you can enjoy 10+ samples along the way.

Plus, walking from pub to pub is a great way to explore one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods all while learning about beer and the beer making process. 

You won’t be disappointed by the offerings of beer at each of these Colorado breweries and the unique varieties at each place. 

There is going to be nothing that Ales you on this adventure thru Denver’s Lower Downtown District (LoDo).

As you are Porter(ed) thru doors of brew houses and pubs with Stout looking bartenders serving up some delicious brew. 

And you might find yourself feeling Lager than life by the end of this tour. Ok that’s enough beer related humor.

Book a Craft Beer Tour in LoDo Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (450+ reviews)

11. Denver Laser Light Guided Experience 

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ▶️ BOOK NOW

Electrify your senses with a unique Guided Meditation and Laser Light Experience .

This fully-immersive guided tour is hosted by the International Church of Cannabis in Denver and promises an experience like no other. 

You can expect audio visual art installations created by world famous artists along with a laser light show and music. 

The planetary-style light show will electric your senses and is considered a family-friendly event.

This Beyond Light Experience starts 20 minutes past the hour every hour during operating hours.

This tour is not what you’d expect from a city like Denver, and yet it’s not surprising at all.

By the end of the event you will feel relaxed yet stimulated like never before.

Book the BEYOND Light Show in Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (800+ reviews)

12. Twilight Ghost Tour

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

It doesn’t have to be Halloween for you to enjoy a night out touring Denver’s historic neighborhoods. 

On this Twilight Ghost Tour , learn about Colorado Capital’s unique and scary history as you explore some of the most haunted places in Denver. 

Let a local guide walk you through the dark streets telling tales and pointing out some famously haunted mansions.

Spend two hours stopping by 9 different historic locations. Plus, you’ll find some excellent photo opportunities along the way. 

Listen in to spooky stories, discover paranormal activity, and learn about Colorado’s rich history.

Learn more about the Twilight Ghost Tour in Denver that happens all year long. 

Book a Twilight Ghost Tour in Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (800+ reviews)

13. Denver Highlights & Secret Spots Bus Tour

🤩 NEW TOUR | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

A unique way to see the Mile High City is on a bus tour of the city highlights and hidden gems.

Join a local guide in a comfortable 14-person shuttle as you discover some of Denver’s secret spots and top sights.

The bus tour starts at the iconic Union Station and then it’s onto some of the best highlights of the city. The main stops include Larimer Square, the Denver Art Museum, and the famous Mile High Steps.

Along the way you’ll cross over 16th Street Mall which is a completely outdoor mall with tons of shops and restaurants.

Best of all, the tour makes 1-2 photo stops so you can snap a picture to capture this fun memory. And there is plenty of time for questions, listening to stories, and hear top sight-seeing recommendations.

This 90-minute bus tour of Denver includes all taxes, fees, and is wheelchair accessible.

Book a Denver Highlights Bus Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (new tour!)

14. Capitol Hill Walking Tour

A tour of Denver isn’t complete without getting a glimpse into the city’s chilling past.

Join a professional guide as you explore Capitol Hill , Denver’s most haunted neighborhood.

Start your tour outside the historic Molly Brown House Museum and learn about the life of one of the most famous survivors of the Titanic.

Continue walking through the charming mansions near Capitol Hill and listen to the stories of the families who lived here in the late 19th century. 

Midway through the tour you can enjoy a short break and try coffee from one of Capitol Hill’s trendiest coffee shops.

Try a Capitol Hill Walking Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (30+ reviews)

15. Denver History & Highlights Walking Tours

Of all the Denver tours on our list, this History and Highlights Walking Tour is one of the shortest and cheapest tours. 

But that doesn’t make it any less desirable. With this package you’ll be treated to five main stops including the Colorado State Capitol, The Brown Palace, and Union Station.

You’ll also spend about 90 minutes exploring Lower Downtown (LoDo) which features some of Denver’s most famous architecture.

You will learn about how Denver started off as a small group of people living in tents to become the bustling city it is today.

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa is a late 19th century hotel where you’ll be able to stop and marvel at the stunning architecture and history.  

On this tour, you’ll learn about the individuals who occupied these homes and their stories while living in Denver. 

Finally, you’ll spend some time in Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest neighborhood, which comes with a lot of history and a storied past. 

These days it’s a popular spot for some of the best shops and restaurants, but it wasn’t always this way.

Downtown Denver History & Highlights Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (200+ reviews)

16. Guided Segway Denver Tour

😃 RATING: 4/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

If walking around Denver isn’t your thing, check out this fun Segway Tour of the city.

Enjoy a morning or afternoon out seeing some of the top attractions in Denver on this small-group Segway tour.

A local expert will meet up with you to guide you along your tour after a quick training session of how to use a Segway.

Some of the most popular and scenic stops include:

• Lower Downtown (LoDo)
• Cherry Creek Trail
• The Denver Art Museum
• Colorado State Capitol

This group is capped at 6 people and lasts about 2 hours so it’s the perfect outing for friends or a small family.

Check out more details about this family-friendly Denver tour on a Segway.

Book a 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour 😃 4/5 stars (90+ reviews)

17. Scenic Mount Evans Tour from Denver

🤩 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | ▶️ BOOK NOW

Want to see stunning peaks of one of Colorado’s highest fourteeners? Then you’ll love this full-day Blue Sky Scenic Mount Evans Tour .

Enjoy 7 hours of stunning peaks, historic mining towns, and spectacular views along the Continental Divide.

Included with your all-day tour is a yummy lunch with dietary choices available, water, parking fees, and passes.

Plus, you’ll get exclusive access to a local guide who has heard and seen it all.

You’ll pass through the Rocky Mountains and continue on through some Colorado ghost towns and historic gold-mining towns.

But the real gem of this tour is the Mount Evans Scenic Byway which is a beautiful drive with amazing views of the mountains.

And keep your eye out for some quintessential Colorado wildlife including bison and bighorn sheep.

Book a Blue Sky Scenic Mount Evans Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (100+ reviews)

18. Lower Downtown Scavenger Hunt 

Grab your smartphone and discover what Lower Downtown (LoDo) in Denver has to offer thanks to this Scavenger Hunt Adventure Tour . 

This historic neighborhood in Denver has a rich history and includes sights like the Coors Field and Union Station.

This interactive tour comes with clues that will have you and your group solving puzzles and completing challenges.

The adventure starts at a historic building and takes you on a well-designed course through the area. You’ll stop off at:

• Coors Field
• Union Station
• Confluence Park
• Commons Park

Plus, you’ll learn about the culture of Denver and the local art scene. 

Your smartphone is your “guide” and will walk you through the Scavenger Hunt Adventure at your own pace.

By following the easy step-by-step instructions, you and your group can set the schedule and determine the pace.

Book a Denver Scavenger Hunt Adventure 🤩 5/5 stars

19. Continental Divide & Breckenridge Tour

If you want to get out of Denver for the day and see some natural glory near the state capitol, look no further than this Continental Divide & Breckenridge Tour .

The first leg of your journey on this multi-person tour is a visit to the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater. Explore the award winning Red Rocks, with expansive views of Denver in the background, and admire the unique venue.

Next, you will take a drive over Loveland Pass and through the Continental Divide. Loveland Pass is the highest mountain pass in the entire state and caps out just shy of 12,000 feet above sea level. 

This obviously comes with some pretty stellar and one-of-a-kind views of Colorado and plenty of stops to grab some photos!

From Denver, over Loveland Pass, through the Continental Divide the next destination on the tour is the small ski town of Breckenridge .

After arriving, stretch your legs and explore this quintessential mountain town with its many free activities. 

After an excursion to Breckenridge, the trek back will take you home to Denver via a different route. From this Denver-bound direction, you will stop at Lake Dillon for the last bit of outdoor Colorado beauty.

Visit the Continental Divide & Breckenridge 🤩 5/5 stars (200+ reviews)

Is Denver a walkable city?

Yes, thanks to a walkable downtown area and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the capital of Colorado is a very walkable city.

According to Walk Score , in 2021 the city has an overall walkability score of 61 and a bike score of 72. For comparison, New York is considered the most walkable city in the United States with a score of 88.

Some of the most walkable neighborhoods in Denver include:

• Capitol Hill
• Cherry Creek
• Downtown / Union Station
• Five Points

Since Denver is so walkable, you don’t really need a car in Denver as a tourist. There are tons of transportation options in Denver, so if you can’t walk somewhere you can always get around via bus, railway, or bike.

Is Denver good for tourists?

Tourism and Colorado go hand in hand, and it’s no different with the Mile High City.

In 2021, Denver welcomed more than 31 million visitors to the state, making it one of the most popular cities for tourists in the country.

This boom in tourism in Denver means that the average household was able to save over $1,500 in state and local taxes. Not to mention other noteworthy savings throughout the county.

Because of this, it’s safe to say that tourism in Denver is both a good activity and a welcomed one for the city.

How many days are enough to visit Denver?

As a local couple who lives in Colorado, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Denver to get the most of your experience.

Denver has a thriving art scene, plenty of delicious restaurants , museums, and historic buildings to see. And that’s just in the downtown area.

But staying for at least 3 days will allow you to see many of the most popular sights. Plus, you’ll have a day to escape the city and see some of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains nearby.

What is the best month to visit Denver?

The best time of the year to visit the city of Denver is during what’s called “shoulder seasons”.

This time is from April to May, right before the busy summer season, and September to November, right before the busy ski season starts.

This is also the time(s) of year when you’ll have the best weather without too many tourists and traffic. Prices during shoulders seasons are also more affordable than during peak tourist times.

No matter which of these Denver tour you choose, you really can’t go wrong! There is something for everyone and all ages. 

As a Colorado sightseer you’ll uncover local history, learn about notable individuals, and see some of the most breathtaking views in the state.

Professional Writer & Travel Blogger

Carrie Smith Nicholson is one of the co-founders of Hashtag Colorado Life. After living in Texas for her whole life she moved to Colorado 7 years ago. As a travel blogger and entrepreneur for the past 11 years, her writing has been featured on NBC News, HuffPost Live, Glamour Magazine, Inc Magazine and many other media outlets. When she's not writing about new travel locations, she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and trying new foods. You can follow her outdoor adventures on Instagram, @hashtagcoloradolife.

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• TO DO DENVER
• DAILY TOURS

PRIVATE TOURS

Sightseeing tours from denver co.

We provide daily and private group tours from Denver and our goal is to have all of our customer experience Colorado to its fullest.

EXPERIENCE COLORADO

With denver tours.

As most visitors and locals are aware, there are many glorious and beautiful sites to behold in the area. Denver Sightseeing and Hiking Tours are a great way to be sure you don't miss a thing, not to mention, the driving is on us. We offer several tours in Denver CO so that you can choose the excursion that is best suited for you, your family or an entire group.

MAP OF OUR TOURS

From denver to your dream, mount blue sky & red rocks tour, rocky mountain national park tour, pikes peak & garden of the gods tour, denver foothills tour, private boulder trip, why choose us, you name it, we take you up there, rocky mountain national park.

Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely one of the tours in Denver that you won’t want to miss. This spectacular park spans 415 square miles and has roads that reach over 12,000 feet high. The views of the peaks and lakes are stunning and provide for many photo opportunities. It is a landscape photographers dream come true. For the avid hikers, there are more than 300 miles of trails to explore, not to mention the wildlife, flowers and foliage to be seen.

• Taking in the beautiful scenery while traveling through the towns of Boulder, Lyons and Estes Park before entering the national park.
• The continental divide is one of Colorado’s landmarks. At this point the water ways to the west flow to the Pacific Ocean and to the east, they flow to the Gulf of Mexico.
• Wildlife viewing could include elk, black bear, moose, deer and so much more.

Mount Blue Sky

One of the day trips from Denver is a scenic tour of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans). While traveling North America's highest paved road to the top of Mt Blue Sky, you will enjoy the scenic views that span for miles. Mt Blue Sky is one of Colorado's 54 peaks that rise over 14,000 feet. As the tour moves along, you will experience an increase of 9,000 feet in elevation and travel through five climate zones from Denver to Mt Blue Sky. The scenic byway leading to the peak is open between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Some of the highlights of this tour are:

• Echo Lake Park is a great stop to have some lunch. The serene lake is great for fishing and the snowcapped mountain views are glorious.
• Several lookout points along the trek up to Mount Blue Sky provide plenty of photo opportunities and views of the Rocky Mountains.
• Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you travel through the mountains.

Pikes Peak, also known as America's Mountain, is one of the most frequented mountains on the North American continent. The altitude reaches 14,115 feet, making it one of Colorado's 54 peaks above 14,000 feet. The highway leading to the summit takes you through alpine forests, the peaks of mountains in the clouds and mountain reservoirs. Some of the sites along the way include:

• The Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop to stop and pick up the souvenirs to take home to friends and family.
• There are three different lakes with picnic areas and hiking trails along the way.
• Scenic overlooks are a plenty.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods, which is located in Colorado Springs, is a National Natural Landmark. The park includes a Visitor and Nature Center, Geo-Trekker theater and a museum with interactive exhibits. You can enjoy lunch in the cafe or from an outdoor terrace that overlooks the gardens and Pikes Peak. This is one of the most photographed views in Colorado. There is so much to do at the Garden of the Gods, including hiking trails, rock climbing, educational programs, guided walking tours and exhibits.

Red Rocks and Foothills

One of the tours in Denver, includes exploring the foothills of Denver. This tour is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Some of the things you can expect to see on the tour include:

• The historic Lariat Loop will take you on a drive up Bear Creek Canyon to get a breathtaking view of the Rockies.
• Red Rocks Amphitheater is an outdoor music venue with great views and surrounded by red rocks.
• Lookout Mountain will provide you with views of the continental divide along with endless views of the plains.

Mining Towns

This is one of the great Denver tours that will give you a taste of the old Wild West. Immerse yourself in what it was like to live in the mountains of Denver during the Gold Rush and learn about the mining life. Some of the things you can experience along this tour include:

• Travel through the old mining towns of Idaho Springs and Central City where you can see the old mining facilities and view the Wild West buildings.
• Grand views of the mountains as we travel up Bear Creek Canyon and Squaw Pass
• A stop at the Red Rock Amphitheater provides views of the Rockies, as well as the red rock and sandstone formations that surround this music venue.

COLORADO DESTINATIONS BY EXPLORER TOURS

It’s time to leave all your tasks behind and take the greatest adventure to the depths of flora and fauna of the US lands – it’s time to go on a trip to see Colorado! Denver tours are a perfect combination of all the kids of activities you can imagine: from foothills tours around the city to trilling hiking tours to the heart of American wild nature. Make your vacation unforgettable with new people, breathtaking landmarks and extraordinary activities, which will bring you the whole range of emotions.

THE REASONS TO GO OUTSIDE OF CITY LIMITS

You will miss such a great experience, if you prefer to keep roaming around Denver instead of going for wildlife adventures. Bus excursions are the best way to explore the area and constant flow of historical facts about the sights is everything you need to know about the place you’re visiting. We suggest you going out of town and feel the atmosphere of untouched nature of Colorado, see the most picturesque landscapes and receive memorable experience you wouldn’t get anywhere else. All you need is to choose your destination and duration of your journey. Explorer Tours offers daily (group) tours and private tours or trips, where you can form your small team of friends, family or colleagues. The first option is favorable for those, who travel alone or with a partner, it is financially make sense to reserve a seat or two on a small group tour instead of paying for the whole car in private tour. The second option is convenient for secluded pastime or teambuilding.

THE BEST TOURS WE PROVIDE

There are many options to consider while panning your vacation, but if you need help to make a decision, check out our best-selling weekend trips from Denver. The gem of our program is Rocky Mountain National Park tour, the most popular and demanded rout to the exceptionally beautiful and diverse nature of the state. Tourists adore the ride up the Trial Ridge Road – a sensational highway to the sky with a few spectacular views over the valleys and forests. You will also drive by the city of Boulder, tucked into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, popular with its local breweries and the main campus of the University of Colorado. Finish your day with Estes Park visiting, which is well-known for unique wilderness. It’s also a good idea to get on Mount Blue Sky & Red Rocks tour and have an opportunity to see the Rocky Mountains range from its highest summit and the only naturally formed acoustically impeccable Amphitheatre. 6 million people per year visit Pikes Peak region to get inspired by the magnificent scenes of its surroundings. You can become one of them by booking our Pikes Peak& Garden of Gods tour – feel like you’re on top of the world, becoming a part of something truly wild.

STILL DOUBTING ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY?

List of attractions and activities in Denver and near it seems to be endless, so you need to choose a company you would trust with your journey: your safety, peace and time. Explorer Tours Company is focused on the quality, comfortable transportation and uniqueness of tours, so our clients won’t get exhausted, starving or bored. We think outside the box to set up new touristic routs and keep our clients safe at the same time. About Us: • we make excursions and tours affordable for everyone • we hire only professional guides for the trips; • we provide modern safe vehicles; • convenient online reservation for all trips from Denver; • 24-hour free cancellation Book your eventful journey right now, pack up your bags and start an unforgettable chapter of your life!

Guess what? we have a quiz for you!

Finish the quiz to get a 5% discount promo code.

• A Black Hawk
• B Central City
• C Idaho springs

This one's wrong, but you're dang close. In fact, it is within walking distance of the correct answer. Originally called Mountain City, Black Hawk was the local gold-milling center for nearby miners. Booms and busts defined much of its history, but Black Hawk is a lovely gaming destination today.

Eureka! You struck trivia gold on this one. Keep it up!

While this locale was once a Colorado boomtown, it's harder to strike it rich there today. Still, you can visit for memorable experiences. Available activities include hiking on nearby Mount Blue Sky, gold-panning and soothing your body in the town's warm mineral springs. Those supplied the town's name, after all.

• A Wild Bill Hickok
• B Billy the Kid
• C Buffalo Bill

Shoot! You missed this one. Wild Bill's birth name was James Butler Hickok. Wild Bill had many pursuits. He scouted, gambled, acted, served for the Union during the Civil War and he into a gunfight or two. Hickok was a Bill with many facets.

This beloved era included plenty of Bills and Williams, but America's most-infamous Billy was actually born Henry McCarty, and he went by many monikers, William H. Bonney among them. The Kid lived fast and died young, but you might catch a feel for his spirit when you visit Colorado.

Very nice! You got this one right, you straight shooter!

• A Marijuana, duh!
• B Elevation
• C Miles to drive

If you chose this answer, we suggest you clear your head with a natural high. You can find plenty near Denver. Colorado's peaks exceed 14,000 feet, and you can enjoy them during every season. In addition to skiing and snowboarding here, you can bike, hike and enjoy arts festivals, too.

This answer's correct. Keep it up for a truly high score!

In fact, Colorado has about 185,000 miles of road within its borders, but they do not provide our largest city with its famous nickname. Denver sits at the base of the Rockies and atop the Great Plains. When you're here, you're one mile above sea level.

• A Mount Elbert
• B Pikes Peak
• C Mount Blue Sky

Well done! Your Colorado knowledge extends to impressive heights.

While Pikes Peak is impressive, and some folks even race automobiles up its demanding incline, its summit falls just short of the highest peak in the state. If you placed a football field that includes the end zones atop this 14,115-foot beast, you would achieve Colorado's tallest point.

This answer's wrong, but you may have been fooled by the mountain's similar name to the actual highest peak. The pinnacle of the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness, this peak rises to 14,271 feet. Whoa! If you hike here, bring plenty of water and snack mix that doesn't taste like a tree.

Are you a history professor? Either way, you got this one right!

Oops! Other territories may have gained statehood during that year, but we're only interested in Colorado, friend. If you've never been here before, we suggest you correct that unfortunate fact soon. Colorado features a wide array of ways to recharge your personal state.

Well, it seems you picked the wrong answer. Don't get down on yourself. You weren't born a Colorado expert, after all. If you spend a little time here, you can change that fact, and you'll surely soon agree with us that Colorado is America's true gem.

• A Butch Cassidy
• B Doc Holiday
• C Wild Bill Hickok

It looks like you missed this one! Though Butch Cassidy also reportedly died due to a gunshot, he was not present at the card game where this infamous hand was dealt. Notably, Cassidy's ties to Colorado include a stretch in Telluride. Of course, he wasn't there to ski.

You guessed wrong, but Doc certainly had a Colorado connection. Most notably, he is buried in Glenwood Springs, where he died at the ripe age of 36. What were Holiday's reported last words? He said, "This is funny," as he gazed upon his bootless feet.

You're right! Did you bet it all on that one? Excellent!

• A The show about cowboys
• B The Wild West show
• C The show about how to ride horses

Darn it! This answer is incorrect. Still, shows like this existed in the 19th century's last decade. You might have caught one in your city. If you did, you're obviously quite old now. Congratulations! Okay! That's enough silliness.

This question kicked like a fierce bronco, but you wrangled it!

Whoa! That's just wrong! You could see horse shows in the 19th century, but we wouldn't want to learn how to ride a horse from one. Today, you can come to Colorado to learn how to ride horses. Heck! You can also visit if you already know how.

This one's tricky! Please put down the ax. Stanley Kubrick's 1980 adaptation of Stephen King's classic novel was, in fact, shot elsewhere, but the story doesn't end there. In the 1990s, at King's insistence, a television miniseries entitled The Shining was shot at the hotel that inspired his original work.

You got it right! Now, try not to lose your head.

Twist and shout! You're correct. Feel free to share the news here, there and everywhere.

Well, heck! Wrong answer! Ireland's world-renowned U2 famously played Red Rocks early in their career, so you may have thought we were trying to whiz one past you. The Beatles played the amphitheater, too. Interestingly, Red Rocks was the sole date that did not sell out on their 1964 tour.

True! Throughout the year, Colorado is a wonderful place to actively enjoy pleasant days.

Yikes! You chose the wrong answer, but this one was practically a trick question. Denver averages 56 inches of snow annually, and Colorado's ski resorts enjoy significantly more. That precipitation requires clouds, right? Well, it comes in big, fluffy heaps, and our blue-sky days collectively total 10 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long are your tours? Depending on the tour you choose it can be either 4 or 8 hour tour.
• Where your tours depart from? Group Tours depart from Flagpole outside of Union Station at 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202 and for Private Tours we offer complimentary pickups.
• What ages can participate in your tours? Group Tours: Ages 8+; Private Tours: All Ages and car seats will be provided at no additional cost.
• How many participants I can expect in a group tour? The groups can be anywhere from 3 to 14 people.
• What cars do you use for your tours near denver? We use Sprinter and Transit vans for large groups and Extended SUVs for smaller groups.
• What is cancelation policy for your tours? 24-hour free cancellation.

OUR CLIENTS SAY

Colorado Tours

Choose from one of our many authentic colorado tours..

With so much to do in the Rocky Mountains and Denver, we’ve captured the best of the best in our Colorado tours for you to explore and enjoy.

Pro Tip: Book early! Our tours sell out fast!

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Can’t find the tour you’re looking for? We offer private tours with custom itineraries, as well as large group tours to make your next business meeting or family reunion memorable. You can also find more information about all of our tours on our FAQs page.

(720) 551-5959

SIGHTSEEING, TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

Explore colorado.

From Denver, CO

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SIGHTSEEING TOURS OF BEAUTIFUL COLORADO

Let us welcome you to the mile-high city and discover the beauty Colorado has to offer. Our sightseeing tours will take you on an adventurous mountain discovery as we explore some of the highlights of the Rocky Mountains in style. We offer daily group and private tours to Colorado’s best attractions. With ilimo, you can visit the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, travel 14,115 feet into the sky to the summit of Pikes Peak, spend the day at the magical Garden of the Gods, or join us on a tour to the only naturally-formed, acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. Whether you are in Denver for a first-time visit or here for a short stay, our day trips from Denver offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We are Local

We know Colorado, we are Colorado.

We are affordable

We offer the best prices, we do not charge credit card or reservation fees.

We are flexible

Reserve now, pay later and cancel 24 hours before your departure day for free.

We have the best reviews 

We are 5 Star rated, it is not a coincidence.

COLORADO DESTINATIONS FROM DENVER, CO

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater

Available year round

The only naturally formed  acoustically  perfect amphitheater in the world.

America's Mountain, the most visited mountain in  North America.

Rocky Mountain National Park

358 square miles of pristine nature.  One of the largest and highest national parks in the country.

14,259 ft of beauty, the highest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Mount Evans

 Available from 05/27 - 09/30

The highest paved road in North America. Located only 60 miles from Denver.

Garden of the Gods Park

Ranked the best park in the nation - Tripadvisor 2014

PRIVATE TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

An unparalleled experience in planning transportation logistics for sightseeing tours and a variety of occasions. Contact us for more information about our private tours and transportation rates.

 Private Tours 

Looking for a more customized itinerary? With our experienced tour guides, ilimo will plan an unforgettable getaway to any destination of your choice, or you can pick from our preplanned packages. Experience sightseeing in Colorado with an itinerary customized for your private tour.

  Private Transportation  

Whether it be luxury transportation from the airport, shuttle system to major conventions, a limousine for a memorable night in town or a private sightseeing tour of beautiful Colorado, enhance your travel experiences and explore the area with our local tour and transportation services from Denver, CO.

  Transportation To Colorado's Ski Resorts

Our team is dedicated to providing our customers with excellent customer service and safe transportation to your ski resort. From our tour guides to private chauffeurs, the ilimo staff takes pride in an excellent safety record and superior services. Conveniently book transportation with ilimo online.

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The Colorado Rockies

About this tour.

Experience the majesty of the Colorado Rockies, three national parks and two historic trains that celebrate the can-do spirit of the Old West. Marvel at the steep, dramatic majesty of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Journey aboard the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railroad, for an 8.9-mile trip to the top of Pike’s Peak. Climb aboard an 1881 steam train for a journey through the San Juan Mountains. Drive through the ancient culture of the Ancestral Puebloans at Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO). Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table dinner on a 450-acre, family-owned ranch. From towering peaks to deep canyons and Old West towns to dynamic cities, a region of contrasting beauty and charm awaits.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Colorado National Monument
• Grand Junction

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Explore the massive and rugged Rocky Mountain National Park.

Travel to a vertical wilderness at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Ride a historic, narrow-gauge train from Silverton to Durango.

Cultural Experiences:

Spend two nights in Durango, a fun-filled cowboy town where you can relive the excitement of the Old West.

Journey aboard the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the top of Pike’s Peak.

Culinary Inclusions:

Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table dinner on a 450-acre, family-owned ranch.

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Museum of the Mountain West
• Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
• Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO)
• Pikes Peak Cog Railway
• Garden of the Gods

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

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• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel

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Pre Night: Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel From $150 per night

Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel

Doubletree hotel grand junction, durango strater hotel, embassy suites colorado springs, need more information.

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DON’T SEE THE COLORADO TOURS YOU WANT?

Jed was very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and history of each town we visited and the trails we hiked. Jed was also very accommodatiive to everyone's needs.

wrote a review

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

This was an excellent way to see Garden of the Gods and pike's peak. Our guide Mike was very knowledgeable about the area and was wonderful to talk to. I would highly recommend this outing!! See you on my next trip.

October 1, 2022

Pikes Peak Cog Railway & Garden of the Gods Tour

Excellent …service here we back next time for sure, I recommend thiscome here……we love this place.

November 16, 2022

The hike was great we didn’t have a lot of time so taking this hike with a guide was perfect. Ty was so nice and knowledgeable, we learnt so much and he made it fun for the kids too. Highly recommend!

My experience was incredibly remarkable. I have never seen a view like this before! Definitely worth going to and recommending.

July 1, 2022

This tour was well worth it. Our guide, Paul, was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable about the sites on this tour. I would recommend this tour to anyone. My family and I really enjoyed our day.

Private Pikes Peak & Garden of Gods Tour

The tour was amazing. It was everything that I thought it would be and more. Our guide Jed was knowledgeable and fun! The sites were breathtaking. The stops were long enough to see the sites but not so long as to get boring. As far as I'm concerned, this is the only way to get to the top of a "fourteener".

July 1, 2020

When in Denver, the problems withCovid 19 were enormous. With Two -rescheduled tours cancelled, we found Aspire for a private tour. Absolutely wonderful and well worth the premium for a private tour.Our tour director, Jed, was one of the most knowledgeable people (not guides, but people) I had ever met.

July 9, 2020

Our group of 6 had a great time on a beautiful day. Jed was an excellent tour guide and knowledgeable about more than just the sites. He knew geology, history, local plants, and weather patterns.

February 20, 2022

This was a very entertaining/informative tour. Our guide for the day, Paul, was very informative about so much along the way. He also had great a way of starting and keeping conversations going. The time flew by. Personally, I think he had a way of working some magic too.

July 4, 2022

Phil from Philly was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable of the area and fun! Beers options were excellent for IPAs and sours. Had a great group of people to tour with. Would recommend this to beer lovers.

May 11, 2022

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USA Tours & Trips from Denver

Find your perfect adventure! We have 20 tours of USA that start in Denver, USA. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 5 and 16 days.

20 USA tour packages from Denver with 1,769 reviews

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America's Garden of Eden: Nature Hikes in the Rocky Mountains

Chinese Wall Loop

National Parks of Colorado

Great trip, great seeing 4 national parks and 2 national monuments, nice hotels, good meals.

Painted Canyons of the West featuring Utah’s Five National Parks (Denver, CO to Las Vegas, NV) (2024)

• Kayak & Canoe

Colorado Sampler Multi-Sport

Western Rails & Canyons with Rocky Mountaineer

• In-depth Cultural

Parks & Canyons Spectacular with Denver

Good trip although a bit rushed, good guide, good driver

Flat Tops Explorer

• Intl. Flights Included

Rocky Mountains & Southwest Highlights

• Flights included

America's National Parks with Denver

Good hotels. Would have liked more time in Yellowstone as there was a lot we didn't get to see.

• Coach / Bus

Historic Trains of the Old West

Fantastic! Great! Unique!

Parks, Peaks & Prairies

U.S. National Parks - The Rockies to San Francisco

• Train & Rail

Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

• Christmas & New Year

USA – Colorado Highlights Aspen with Fall Foliage

What people love about usa tours from denver.

Great trip, great seeing 4 national parks and 2 national monuments, good guide (Dave Showalter), nice hotels, good meals (except hotel free breakfasts).

The tour was made professionell. Good work from our tourguide Jim Grenfell and from our driver Steve. I liked to see more about the first nation of Amerika.

Excellent driver and director. Would have liked more time in Yellowstone as there was a lot we didn’t get to see eg Grand Prismatic Spring which was disappointing. Good hotels

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The 25 top things to do in colorado, according to a local.

Expect plenty of epic adventures and spectacular scenery in Colorado.

Top Things to Do in Colorado

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Adventurous travelers will find a home in Colorado. Snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons create a rugged yet stunning landscape well worth exploring. Meanwhile, cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs provide a taste of culture – and plenty of relaxing activities for those not up for hiking or skiing. Read on for the top things to do in the Centennial State.

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park's flat lake trails – such as Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake trail and the Lake Irene trail – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 4.1-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 744 feet of elevation gain. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.

Don't miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, and it's known as the highest continuous paved road in the country. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, according to visitors, but that doesn't mean it's not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.

Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that backpacking requires a wilderness permit. If you're planning to visit multiple national parks in a year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass .

Insider tip: The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.

The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants, historical sites and top-notch views. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you're visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The many unique tour offerings , including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around.

When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find breweries and bars. Some top-rated breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado's capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives .

In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week's most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.

Insider tip: In terms of food and drink, you can't go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you're a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase – or Retrograde, where you enter the space-themed bar through a freezer in the Frozen Matter ice cream shop.

Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

While you won't find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn't mean you can't try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won't work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you'll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also a top Colorado camping location .

Insider tip: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.

Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel

An inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining," The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America . The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie.

Despite these sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It touts renovated premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There's plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding , attending the fall Elk Fest and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.

Insider tip: Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517

Garden of the Gods

There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods , located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs , one of which is hiking. Some highly recommended hiking routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.

Jeep tours are another way to explore Garden of the Gods. Visitors can take a 90-minute narrated Jeep tour to Balanced Rock and hear about the history of the park; embark on a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie's Queens Canyon and enjoy a scenic overlook; or ride to waterfalls, tunnels and other picturesque areas on a two-hour excursion. Or, step back in time with a trolley tour, offered hourly.

Insider tip: After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.

Summit Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, a 14er located approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including "America the Beautiful." You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).

Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery before boarding the train down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.

The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail, which is about a 25-mile round trip. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at 14.5 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Plus, you can reward yourself with a Pikes Peak doughnut or other treat at the Summit Visitor Center, which sits at 14,115 feet in elevation.

Insider tip: Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you're hiking, make sure you're descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning.

Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 25 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction , as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You'll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.

Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don't forget to grab a drink at one of the city's many breweries in between meals. If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado .

If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you're not in the mood to climb or hike.

Insider tip: A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, touring the Celestial Seasonings tea factory is a blast and includes free tea sampling.

Mesa Verde National Park

It's not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until finally abandoning them in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes.

During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – the largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which boasts sweeping views of the park. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.4-mile loop) is also popular, as you can admire the petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.

Ski in Aspen

Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country's largest ski resorts , one of Colorado's top ski destinations and one of Aspen's most popular attractions . The resort offers more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and nearly 50 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons.

Even if you're not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You'll find skiers flocking to the town's lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.

Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue's acoustics, saying it's one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when your favorite artists are performing.

Even if you can't make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide trails (3 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents drive-in movie events and morning yoga sessions.

Insider tip: You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465

Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs

The small town of Glenwood Springs is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town's fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn't require reservations.

Another option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 17 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance. The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is another thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it's one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.

Go whitewater rafting

The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.

Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip to Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. The Pine Creek route, which originates near the Granite Gorge, is another strenuous option for advanced rafters. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip.

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A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won't see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride . The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The free gondola is also a great activity, as it'll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.

While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

There are many theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it's certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that's known as the "Switzerland of America" thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.

The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you're scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.

Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This top Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. On the sandy shores of the lake, you'll find plenty of kids playing, adults sunbathing, and maybe even a moose or two testing the waters.

Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level. The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing and ice hockey.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn't have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you're driving, you can see it all in a day – though there's a good chance it'll take a long drive to get there, as it's located about 260 miles from Denver.

When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.

Insider tip: Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don't offer much in the way of shade. Also, make sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.

The train from Durango to Silverton takes less than four hours; passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the train ride back. You'll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling.

Breckenridge

If you're looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don't plan on hitting the slopes.

Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails – such as the highly rated McCullough Gulch Trail, the Hoosier Pass Loop and the Sawmill Reservoir trail.

Insider tip: A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can't be beat. Give the lamb a try; it's spectacular!

Visit Colorado's wine country

Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries . However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state's "wine country" is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.

You'll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. According to recent visitors, some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado's wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction , most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.

Insider tip: A stay at Palisade's Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado . Make sure to take advantage of the property's daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca.

While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.

Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you're looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you'd rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park , located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don't worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,100 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you're still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.

There's an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds.

Address: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212

Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs

This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and four terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features several designated pools as well as two waterslides open seasonally. If you're not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities , including cross-country skiing , horseback riding, snowmobiling , ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

If you're planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs , recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern appliances and gorgeous views.

Go leaf peeping

The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots ). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there's an early freeze.

Insider tip: If you're heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular "Crack Fries."

Drive the highest road in North America

The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You'll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.

Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you're an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it's one of the more popular 14ers to climb.

Experience small-town life in Salida

Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. As you walk down F Street, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. The downtown area is the state's largest historic district. At the end of the street, you'll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:

• Take the family dog-sledding
• Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
• Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
• Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
• Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
• Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
• Explore more than 70 installations at Meow Wolf

It's no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:

• Rock climb in Eldorado State Park (and receive a stamp in your Colorado Parks Passport )
• Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
• Visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
• Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
• See the stunning Maroon Bells
• Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
• Hike around Dinosaur National Monument

And plenty of other activities await if you're not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:

• Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
• Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
• Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
• Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
• Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence Ghost Town near Aspen

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson has lived in Colorado for most of her life, including four years in Boulder while she attended the University of Colorado Boulder . She spends her free time hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing and paddleboarding around the state, and has experienced much on this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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28 Fun Things to do in Denver, Colorado

D enver is one of the coolest cities in the US. It’s a mile high city, has a huge outdoor culture, a fanatical sports following, a growing craft brew scene and emerging foodie scene.

There are many, many things to do in Denver, Colorado. It’s one if the fast growing areas for millennial migration in the US so the city is quite hip, edgy, and happening.

It’s walkable, has some of the friendliest and happiest people in America, and is surrounded by the mesmerizing Rocky Mountains and Colorado River – my favourite place to explore in the US.

We visited Denver and the Rocky Mountain National Park on our road trip in 2016.

We loved it then, but noticed huge improvements on our return trip, and love it even more now. It totally suits our lifestyle vibe.

If you’re not sure what to do in Denver, then keep reading to discover some of the best attractions and places to visit…

1. Check Out 16th Street Mall

2. dine at stout street social, 3. admire union station, 4. drink coffee at pigtrain coffee, 5. attend the chalk art festival, 6. hire a bike and tour denver, 7. wander around civic center park, 9. explore linger.

• 10. Drink Ales at Amato's Ale House

11. Check Out The Music Scene

12. take a day trip to the colorado rockies, 13. attend the great american beer festival, 14. have brunch at snooze, 15. explore the capitol hill area, 16. dine at mercantile, 17. go shopping in larimer square, 18. check out the red rocks amphitheater, 19. go hiking in mount evans, 20. relax in confluence park, 21. take the kids to the water parks and theme parks, 22. spend a day at the museums, 23. drive the mount evans scenic byway, 24. catch a show at the denver performing arts complex, 25. relax in the denver botanic gardens, 26. see the animals at denver zoo, 27. take a day trip to boulder, 28. watch a sporting event, final thoughts on things to do in denver, colorado, where to stay in denver, pin this for later, things to do in denver, colorado.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, relaxing bars and restaurants, or something fun and unusual, you’ll find all this and more with the follow attractions in Denver.

We stayed around the 16th Street Mall area, which is the touristy area of the city. I liked that the mile-long pedestrian street was walkable, but also has the free tram going up and down if you want to jump on that.

There are plenty of restaurants on 16th street and the streets running off it.

Next time we visit, we plan to stay in a vacation rental in one of the trendy neighborhoods we heard so much about like RiNo (River North), Highlands, and Five Points.

We LOVED this restaurant on 14th street across the road from the Convention Centre, mostly for the delicious roasted brussel sprouts and the gluten free beer.

The receptionist at our hotel recommended this as the place to go and the sprouts as the dish of the century.

You rarely hear that about brussel sprouts so curiously, we ordered and were blown away by the flavour. They’re roasted in mint, cilantro, truffle-chile glaze with a bit of snap, crackle, pop.

I’ll let you know the recipe once I can replicate it at home.

The salmon quinoa salad was also the bomb. We visited twice and ordered the same thing both times!

So we fell in love with Union Station. It was our first experience of Denver stepping off from the train from Denver Airport.

It’s the nicest train station I’ve been too, which is one reason we’ve out it on our things to d in Denver list.

Tastefully refurbished, clean and modern with soaring 65-foot ceilings and enormous arched windows filling the room with sunlight. There are many great restaurants, cafes, comfy waiting couches, and even a bar with foosball table.

We just love how quiet and well behaved everyone is having drinks, quiet conversations and playing games.

Reflecting back on Central Station in Sydney makes me shudder – ugly, drab with too many drunken yobbos.

We returned there many times for something to eat and to hang out. It has such a pleasant vibe.

Our first coffee in Denver was of decent size. Now that’s a large.

One morning, Craig and I were in fits of giggles at the gigantic coffee cups people were walking around fueling up with. America’s small is equivalent to an Australian large (and much cheaper!)

I can’t say the coffee is as good as Australia, but it was way better than I remembered and most places had almond milk!

Read More: 19 Essential things to know before visiting the USA

Durin the summer in Denver, there are always festivals and events happening. While we were there, the Chalk Art Festival was on.

Artists come out and create their designs on the roads around Larimer Square. There was music and food and drinks and once again everyone is civilized and the vibe upbeat and happy.

It was fun checking out all the incredible artwork.

Denver is a flat city so perfect for bike riding. The city makes it easy for you with their share bike program, Denver Bcycle .

here are multiple bike stations set up throughout the city. You can grab a B map or download the app, pop in your credit card and rent a bike to explore.

Very important to note – for $9 a day you get unlimited bike rides within the 24 hours, but there is a catch.

You can only take the bike for 30 minute periods. So plan carefully.

All you do is return the bike to a bike stand and then take a different one out. That way you can still keep riding but you won’t get charged overtime rates.

We hired a bike from the bottom of the pedestrian bridge at 16th street on the way to Highlands and cycled to the confluence of the Platte and Cherry Creek River, where the settlers first started Denver.

They would follow the Cherry Creek from Kansas and until they arrived at the Confluence to look for gold – and so Denver began. 

After checking out that slice of history, and the children swimming in the small rapids, we took the Cherry Creek bike trail .. all the way to Cherry Creek mall. it was an easy and fun bike ride.

We then rode home, go changed, and took more bikes out to ride down 14th street – always great fun with all the traffic, back to Highlands for drinks at Linger.

We couldn’t not pay a visit to the Colorado State Capitol and stand on the mile high steps for the obligatory photos.

It’s exactly a mile high. Across the road is Civic Center Park, which is green space bordered by the State Capitol, City and County building and the Denver Art Museum. It’s the space for frequent city events. 

We received notice too late one day that there were food trucks happening on a Wednesday lunch time.

Civic Center Eats offers food and music from Tues- Thursday from 11am-2pm during the summer. Bummed we missed it!

But, we did learn of The People’s Fair happening on the weekend that we ducked down to have a look at. Music was playing, food was cooking, and plenty of arts and craft stalls, and local craft beer.

I bought a crystal and checked out a photographer who’s photos were amazing.

8. Explore The Highlands Neighborhood

The Highlands neighbourhood is sought after as a place to live by the millennials. If you’re looking for hip restaurants, bars and boutique stores, this is the place. It’s only a short walk over the bridge to downtown.

We had a brief hour or two there. We’re keen to check it out more when we return.

When multiple people tell you Linger is the best place to eat and drink in Denver you go. Second to that was Root Down which is owned by the same people. We didn’t get a chance to visit there – next time.

Linger has a rooftop bar which is the place to go, especially for happy hour Mon-Fri 4pm-6:30pm – $5 cocktails, $4 beers and $5 appetizers.

The tacos and sweet potato waffle fries were the bomb! Make sure you have your ID – I was carded and almost not served because I did not have my ID.

I had to let the manager know what my birthdate was to prove I was in fact 40. I am flattered, but really, I’d love for common sense and good judgment to return to society.

Just below Linger is Little Man Ice Cream – a gigantic milk bottle, you can’t miss that has ice cream people line up for hours for.

Our friend, Don gave us the inside tip for this one. I’m not an ice cream lover so I headed up to the bar instead.

10. Drink Ales at Amato’s Ale House

After happy hour at Linger, we popped down the road to Amato’s Ale House for dinner. No gluten free beer for me to sample, but a delicious bison burger and happy hour red wine made me happy!

Some other tips for restaurants for the Highlands area Don gave us:

• Lola (Mexican and fish – not your standard taco or burrito. Higher end, very good)
• Central Bistro  Always a good meal. Modern, but not trendy. If the weather’s okay, sitting on their patio is nice with a good view of the city
• Avanti  Very moderate prices. It’s a food hall concept with individual restaurants and a main dining area along with a couple of bars – killer deck views of downtown

Denver has an excellent music scene. While it might not be as famous as Austin, Nashville, or New Orleans, there is a growing folk/Americana movement with groups like Paper Bird and singer/songwriters such as Danielle Ate The Sandwich and Patrick Dethlefs .

Additionally, the indie scene is healthy with bands like Tennis and Hindershot gaining traction.

Denver has also been a launch pad for larger, mainstream acts as well. Groups such as The Fray, One Republic, The Lumineers, and The Flobots have all found international fame after recognizing popularity locally in Denver.

Visitors can check out the music scene first hand by stopping by one of the many independent music venues throughout the city. 

The Hi Dive , The Walnut Room, Larimer Lounge , and The Marquis Theater are all great places to check out the local music scene.

Alternatively, visitors can turn their radio dial to 1340 am for Open Air Colorado , a Colorado Public Radio station that plays local, independent music.

Rocky Mountain National Park is the most accessible national park from Denver and it couldn’t be more different from the city experience.

Visitors are treated to majestic mountain views, fresh Rockies air, unique wildlife encounters, and amazing hiking opportunities amongst the alpine wilderness.

Icy glaciers, glassy lakes, and the iconic Longs Peak all compete for attention along the continental divide in one of the crown jewels of America’s National Park system.

Don’t forget to check out Colorado Springs too , especially if you’re visiting in the winter.

Check out this day trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver.

Denver is a beer town. Part of this reputation comes from the host role the city plays to the Great American Beer Festival each year.

The festival is the brewing industry’s top competition and public tasting session and there is no other place in the world where you can find more beers on tap.

Every October, More than 450 breweries come together to pour more than 2200 different beers to thirsty festival goers.

Visitors can find EVERY type of beer at the festival and many types they never even knew existed.

Snooze is the place for brunch. Someone from our community recommended we go there and we chose it as our last place to eat in Denver before we jumped on the train to fly home.

I had the Snooze Spuds Deluxe – A heaping portion of hash browns, covered with melted cheddar & jack cheese, scallions, avocado and mushrooms, which was delicious and Craig the Spring Greens quinoa salad.

Capitol Hill is a vibrant and funky neighborhood southeast of downtown that is also one of Denver’s most diverse.

Around the gold-domed state capitol building, stately 19th century mansions mingle with mid-century apartment buildings and punk-rock clubs line the same streets as high-end restaurants.

The neighborhood is flanked by two of Denver’s best parks, the Greek Revival styled Civic Center Park and the spooky Cheesman Park – which still contains many bodies buried underneath from its past life as a cemetery.

We stopped here for lunch one day when nowhere else really grabbed us. “Let’s go back to Union St Station.”

The Mercantile was another recommendation from Facebook. Delicious! We had the soup and  salad – fresh, wholesome, and a decent price.

You can even stay at the luxurious Crawford Hotel within the station.

Our friend Don told us a lot about the history of Denver, one fact being that is the hotel is named after his friend, preservationist Dana Crawford, who was instrumental in the revitalization of much of Lower Downtown.

She’s the reason Denver is such a beautiful looking town with preserved brick warehouse style buildings.

The location of Union St Station is premium being right near the trendy Highlands and the Rockies stadium! We attended a game in 2006 and loved it.

It’s such a beautiful stadium with those views of the Rockies – plenty of craft beer and game fever in the pubs that surround it too.

Fairy lights strung between the trees overhead and diners spilling over onto the street pavers, Larimer Square is a pretty place to be and although we didn’t get there at night, I think it would be a perfect spot to hang out. (This is an area Dana Crawford revitalised!)

We had a coffee at Market St on Larimer, which was a good spot to hang out if you want to do some work online.

Coffees weren’t amazing but they were big.

Larimer Square is a unique Victorian era street that offers boutique shopping and dining in Lodo.

Just a few blocks away sits Rockmount Ranchwear , providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Rockmount introduced the first Western style snap button shirts and is still the premier supplier of the iconic clothing to clients in Hollywood and all around the world.

Just down the street from Rockmount Ranchwear is The Tattered Cover Bookstore . Located in an old warehouse, the independent bookstore is one of the largest of its kind.

It’s an incredibly atmospheric store with ancient hardwood floors, exposed bricks, and plenty of comfy chairs and hidden corners to settle into with a good book.

The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a world famous concert venue located in the hills above Denver. Towering red rock formations create a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics.

Some enterprising individuals added seating and a stage to turn it into one the most unique concert venues in the world.

The stage has seen countless legendary performers including The Beatles, U2, and Jimi Hendrix. Though a concert is the best way to experience the venue, it is open to the public for free when there aren’t any concerts.

Mount Evans in Colorado is home to 53 14,000 foot (4260 meter) mountains and is often referred to as the ‘Roof of America’.

Though you can summit every one of Colorado’s ‘14ers’ via hiking and climbing, Mount Evans offers the unique distinction of offering a road to the top.

Visitors can hop in their car and summit one of the tallest mountains in North America with their automobile.

Along the way there are numerous scenic overlooks and plenty of wildlife including the famous Mountain Goats who are always willing to pose for a picture.

Confluence Park is located right downtown Denver, confluence park offers a scene of nature in the middle of the city.

Located at the confluence of the Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, Confluence Park offers a kayaking course, city and mountain views, running and cycling trails, and the flagship REI store, a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Denver is home to some of the most thrilling water parks and theme parks in the United States.

For thrill-seekers, head to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, which boasts over 50 rides and attractions, or Water World, which features more than 40 water-based rides and activities.

For a more laid-back experience, head to Lakeside Amusement Park, which has been entertaining families for over a century, or Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, which combines aquatic exhibits with amusement park rides.

Get your entry ticket to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park here.

Denver has many world-class museums to explore. If you’re looking for things to do in Denver on a rainy day, then this is the number one activity.

Head over to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which has exhibits dating back to prehistory, including dinosaur bones that go back to millions of years.

It also has some real centuries old Egyptian mummies and a world wildlife exhibit. You could easily spend a full day here and not see it all.

If you have children, take them to the Children’s Museum of Denver , which combines play and education in an exciting way.

If you want to learn about aviation history, head to the Wings Over Rockies Air and Space Museum which is famous for its realistic flight simulators.

For something more unique, head to the Molly Brown House Museum , the home of an HMS Titanic Survivor.

At the top of Lookout Mountain, you’ll find the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, who is one of the most famous cowboys in the USA.

Get your entry ticket to the Molly Brown Hosue Museum here.

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the USA, which offers stunning mountain views for 28 miles.

The byway stretches from Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans, which stands at 14,264 feet above sea level, making it the highest paved road in the USA.

You will encounter a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to barren alpine tundra, as well as hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that require caution and careful driving.

The journey is worth it, though, as the panoramic views from the summit are truly awe-inspiring.

Driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is an unforgettable experience for any traveler visiting Colorado.

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is a massive complex that houses multiple theaters and venues, including the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Boettcher Concert Hall, and the Buell Theatre.

Here you can watch a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to symphonies to ballets.

Beyond the world-class performances, the complex itself is a stunning architectural marvel, with sleek modern design and impressive acoustics.

This 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city boasts over 50 gardens and collections, including a Japanese Garden, a Water Garden, an Alpine Rock Garden, and a Rose Garden.

You can enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens, stroll along meandering paths, and take in the sights and scents of the plants and flowers.

The gardens also offer numerous educational programs and events, making it a great spot for families and groups.

Get your entry ticket to the Denver Botanical Gardens here.

The Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, penguins, and elephants, as well as rare and endangered species like black rhinos and clouded leopards.

You can attend animal feeding demonstrations, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals in interactive exhibits.

Beyond the animals, the zoo offers beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and a train ride that winds through the park.

Just 30 minutes away, Boulder is a beautiful city nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

You can spend a day hiking in the mountains, exploring the charming downtown area full of unique shops and restaurants, or take a tour of the famous Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory.

Boulder has a laid-back vibe and endless opportunities for adventure, making it the ideal day trip from Denver.

Denver is a great city for sports fans, with a variety of professional teams to watch throughout the year.

Catch a Broncos football game at the iconic Empower Field at Mile High, or cheer on the Rockies baseball team at Coors Field.

If basketball is more your style, head to the Ball Arena, formerly the Pepsi Center and check out the Denver Nuggets in action.

For hockey fans, the Colorado Avalanche play at the same venue.

No matter what sport you’re into, there’s always something happening in Denver!

Get a ticket to see the Rockies at Coors Field here.

Denver was up there on the list when we were looking for destinations to live in the USA. I was concerned about the chilly winters, but locals have shared with us that Denver doesn’t get too brutal.

It experiences winter for sure, but the days are warm and sunny. When the snow falls it melts away quite quickly, but there’s plenty of snow dumping for you a further 5,000 feet high and close by.

The weather we had during our week stay in Denver during the beginning of summer were quite perfect.

We visited to attend a three-day conference in Snowmass and decided to stay a few extra days in Denver.

We just can’t travel all that way to America for just a few days, the jet lag is killer enough.

But we’re glad we were able to get out and explore some of these top Denver attractions.

I hope this guide helped you plan your visit to Denver and gave you some inspiration for what to see and do there.

For some other things to do in Denver, check out this post on a weekend trip to Denver.

The Brown Palace – An elegant and historic hotel in the heart of downtown. It has played host to presidents, royalty, and pop icons. For those such as myself who can’t afford the elegant prices that come with it, a visit to the afternoon tea ceremony in the lobby is a suitable alternative.

The Curtis – A much more affordable hotel that offers a unique and whimsical alternative to the high class of The Brown Palace. Each floor has a unique pop culture theme ( think one hit wonders, sci-fi, etc. ) that is carried through to all of the rooms.

The Crawford Hotel – A lovely four-star hotel with a perfect location in the heart of Denver’s CBD district. It’s sheek and modern, and primarily caters to couples over large groups. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re planning a romantic weekend in Denver.

We have also stayed at and loved the  Aloft Hotel  on 15th Street, the  Hilton Homewood suites  on 15th Street, which were great affordable Denver accommodation options.

We loved our more lux stay at the Ritz Carlton  on Curtis Street. The rooms were spacious with separate living areas, service was exceptional, locatuion great, and we loved the premier lounge with free happy hour every day!

For more places to stay in Denver choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses with our partner Booking.com . You get free cancelation on most rooms, and in most cases you only pay when you stay.

Popular Denver Tours

What are your tips for our next visit to Denver? Let us know in the comments.

The Colorado Sun

Telling stories that matter in a dynamic, evolving state.

8 quirky places to visit in Colorado this summer for newbies and natives alike

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Story first appeared in:

Let’s start with an understatement: There’s a lot to do in Colorado. We’ve got four national parks, nine national monuments, 26 scenic byways, 28 historical landmarks and some nationally renowned cultural destinations, like Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. 

And Coloradans take advantage of this abundance. A 2022 report by Longwoods International , the most recent annual data available, shows that the largest percentage of overnight travelers in Colorado came from — wait for it — other parts of Colorado. Same with the percentage of day trippers (defined as traveling to a destination 50 miles or farther from home) in Colorado, with close to 50% coming from elsewhere in the state.

And visiting all of these destinations is big business . According to a report by Dean Runyon Associates , tourism generated a record $27.7 billion in traveler spending in 2022, generating $1.7 billion in local and state tax revenue. 

These are not “COVID numbers,” said Hayes Norris, spokesperson for the Colorado Tourism Office. Meaning the effects of COVID — a drastic decline in revenue and then a sharp recovery as destinations opened back up — aren’t felt very strongly in the data. Though we’re technically still in recovery, Norris added, the numbers reflect an industry that has regained balance. 

Part of that delicate balance is making sure that as destinations become more popular they aren’t overrun, or “loved to death,” as some mountain towns can attest. Luckily for Coloradans, there are still plenty of places that don’t require timed entry slots, but are just as culturally intriguing, geologically spectacular or historically significant as some better-known counterparts. 

Below we’ve picked out eight sites to introduce you to the state you already know and love. 

TANK Sonic Arts

A rusting steel water tank on the hillside above Rangely, the oil town on the western edge of Colorado, shouldn’t strike anyone as peculiar. Until you listen closely. 

The water tank was moved to Rangely in the 1960s by a utility company that needed it for fire suppression, but as the story goes, the shale beneath it couldn’t support the water meant to fill it. So it was sold off and conveniently abandoned, becoming a space where local musicians and curious townspeople wandered into to toss rocks, clang on the walls and shuffle their feet. 

☀️ MORE COLORADO SUNDAY

A workers’ co-op rises from the remains of a colorado mushroom farm, a broken bridge leaves an isolated colorado community scrambling to save summer, a small durango college is trying to reckon with its dark legacy — and help students do the same.

The tank’s parabolic floor and 65-foot concave roof, wrapped in a cylinder of steel, creates a reverberation that lasts up to 40 seconds, Alex Ross would report in The New Yorker many decades later.

In 1976, composer and sound artist Bruce Odland was touring Colorado, creating a sonic collage of the places he visited. While recording ambient sounds outside of Rangely on his last stop, a pick-up truck with two oil workers pulled up beside him. “Get in” they deadpanned, and the traveling sound artist hesitantly complied. They took him to the water tank and demonstrated its sonic significance. 

The tank became and remained an unofficial stop for sound artists and musicians for decades. It wasn’t until 2012, when the threat of demolition loomed over the tank, that Odland and others formed Friends of the TANK and began renovating it to host concerts and sound camps. 

With a few coats of paint, a wider door to fit large instruments and a new city designation as a public assembly hall (not to mention over $100,000 in donations and lots of elbow grease by artists and locals), the tank became the TANK Center for Sonic Arts. Its title, beautifully and purposely ambiguous, reflects the open-ended manner in which people visiting the tank use its acoustics. 

Visitors can hum, bang and strum around the TANK on Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., but to really experience its sonic potential, check out their website for upcoming concerts, sound installations and the annual Summer Solstice Festival . 

More information at tanksounds.org .

While you’re there …

A 20-minute drive north from the TANK travelers will find the Colorado entrance of Dinosaur National Monument , full of deep river canyons, preserved petroglyphs and, of course, plenty of dinosaur fossils. 

Last Chance Module Array

Last chance.

The name alone is enough reason to stop in Last Chance, but a second, easy-to-miss reason sits 2 miles due south of the town’s main — and only — intersection. There you’ll find Last Chance Module Array , the third installment of Studio M12’s “Prairie Module” series, quietly awaiting your arrival. 

Like the Eastern Plains that surround it, the artwork is simple in structure but complex in its beauty. It’s a region that critic Madelyn Boyson, in her review of the artwork , describes as a place where “the sky is too close and everything else is unreachable.” 

Six wooden frames are spaced steps apart from one another, creating an exploded cube, meant to evoke the image of a barn raising. The structure is made of cedar finished in the Japanese tradition of “yakisugi,” a process of charring, cleaning, then painting the wood with natural oils. The process works double duty, giving the wood a polished finish and fortifying it against the elements, which can be exceedingly harsh in this part of the state . 

Pairing the beautiful with the practical is routine in the Eastern Plains. Here, the wide grasslands give way to crop fields, and both lifestyles and landscapes are dictated by the seasons. Reminiscent of this marriage is the Module’s alignment with the sun — its main structures perfectly frame sunrise and sunset during the summer and winter solstices. 

More information at m12studio.org .

Fifty miles east in Joes is another arts oasis called Prairie Sea Projects , a site of creative residencies and community gatherings inspired by the Eastern Plains. 

Mishawaka Song Confessional

The funny thing about secrets is, the longer you hold them in, the more they become a story worth telling. Maybe you have a secret like this. An anecdote you’ve thought about so long it takes on a narrative arc. Maybe it has an overtone of humor, or guilt or gravity. If this triggers something in you, you might want to make a stop at the Mishawaka Song Confessional. 

The Song Confessional is a vintage phone booth on the Mishawaka Amphitheater grounds. It was set up by Zac Catanzaro and Walker Lukens, Texas-based musicians who co-host a podcast by the same name. 

Anyone can anonymously record a confession into an iPad app set up in the booth. The recording is sent to the Song Confessional studio, based in Austin, Texas, where they match musicians with a few compelling confessions. The musicians pick one and schedule a day in the studio to record the confessional song. Finally, the confession, the song and a little bit of behind-the-scenes commentary are broadcast on KUTX and the Song Confessional podcast.

The project was partially born from an experience that Lukens, a songwriter himself , had while touring. A woman approached him to tell him how much his latest album helped her sift through the grief of her mother’s recent passing. The album, Catanzaro recalled in an interview with The Colorado Sun, wasn’t made around any themes or overtones of grief. But that’s the magic in music: People will hear what they need to hear. 

So they reverse engineered the feeling. “What if we did make a song that was entirely about you?” Catanzaro asked. 

The hosts field a few hundred confessions every year, Catanzaro said, ranging from silly and embarrassing to deeply traumatic. The podcast also ranges from lighthearted and gossipy to thoughtful and reflective, often over the course of a single episode. 

Let someone else think about your secrets, for once. 

More information at themishawaka.com .

Catch a concert at the gorgeous, riverfront Mishawaka Amphitheater or grab a bite to eat at their restaurant. “The Mish” has poor cell reception so plan to ditch your phone and immerse yourself in the music. 

Dinosaur Print Tracks

A 27-acre mining claim on the mountainside above Ouray is chock full of memories for the Charles kids, whose family has owned the land for three generations. But it wasn’t until 2021 that the family realized the land also contains moments etched in ancient history: A looping line of 134 dinosaur tracks, believed to be the longest continuous track on Earth. 

The Charles kids used to hike up to the mining claims every summer with their father, Jack, to make improvements to their hard-rock mine — including building a bunk bed shack to sleep in that they nicknamed the “Tiltin’ Hilton,” according to the Ouray County Plaindealer . The family used the dinosaur tracks as natural dog bowls, since their pups would drink water collected in the tracks during the hikes.

In 2021, a group of scientists and students from Fort Lewis College in Durango, tipped off by a Ouray geologist, asked the family for permission to study the tracks. Once their origin and significance were determined, the Charles sisters initiated talks with the Forest Service to research and protect the site.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Forest Service purchased the parcels from the Charles family for $135,000. The Forest Service intends to install interpretive signs along the tracks, which can be accessed via the Silvershield Trail . The agency will assess whether more infrastructure is needed based on the site’s popularity, though the fact that seeing the tracks requires a 1,600-foot ascent over 2 miles may keep the public at bay.

More information at fs.usda.gov .

U.S. 550 — nicknamed the “Million Dollar Highway” for either the cost to build it or the views it offers, depending on whom you ask — departs from Ouray, sweeps through the San Juan Mountains, through historic mining towns (some active, some ghost) and ends, 70 miles away, in the fun southwestern town of Durango.

Wheeler Geologic Area

While other natural landmarks around the state grapple with how to control increasingly large crowds , Wheeler Geologic Area in the La Garita Wilderness , east of Creede, is moving in the opposite direction. Colorado’s first national monument and, at one time, the second most popular attraction after Pikes Peak, had its National Monument status stripped in 1950 thanks in part to low visitation. And it hasn’t climbed out of that hole since. 

Part of the reason is its rugged approach. Depending on where you launch, the hike to the unusual hoodoo formations — made out of the ash of an ancient volcanic eruption, and sculpted by over 25 million years of erosion — can range between 7 and 14 miles one-way. There is one rugged road, Forest Road 600 from Hanson’s Mill, that is only recommended for high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles, side-by-sides or mountain bikes. 

But for those willing and able to put in the work, the payoff is in the quiet trails, dark nights and a geologic spectacle that rivals the state’s fourteeners. 

Nestled into the junction town of Del Norte is the General Specific Store , one of the most carefully and stylishly curated antique shops in the state. Right next door you’ll find Trade and Post , a funky beer store, wine club and record shop in one.

El Santuario de los Pobladores

Over a decade ago the will of a recently deceased woman left Our Lady of Guadalupe , Colorado’s oldest church, with a lump sum of money. The generous gift came with a stipulation: The church couldn’t blow it all on maintenance. It had to be used for something more generative. 

The church board got together and decided to create a prayer sanctuary that reflected their Catholic teachings. They commissioned Ronald Rael , an award-winning architect with deep family roots in the San Luis Valley , to design the structure. 

Rael envisioned a circular, handbuilt adobe labyrinth, divided into quadrants to reference the Catholic Church’s four sets of mysteries, known as the Mysteries of the Rosary . The structure took over a decade to build and was entirely resourced through donations and volunteer work — resulting in a 6-foot-high, 140-foot-diameter circular labyrinth known as El Santuario de los Pobladores.

To visit the labyrinth, visitors must call the church ahead of time and make sure someone is on site. The phone number is listed on their website . 

More information at ologo.com .

Peek into the oldest church in Colorado before heading to Rael’s other San Luis Valley creation, “ Skylos ,” 50 miles north at the renovated Frontier Drive-Inn . 

Pawnee National Grasslands

Weld county.

There was a period between the 1880s and 1930s when the Pawnee National Grasslands had pretty much anything but grass. After the forced removal of the Lipan Apache, Arapaho and Cheyenne people native to that area , and following the passage of the Homestead Act of 1862, thousands of farmers and cattle drivers moved to the area, laying down crops and kicking up dust. 

This story first appeared in Colorado Sunday , a premium magazine newsletter for members.

Experience the best in Colorado news at a slower pace, with thoughtful articles, unique adventures and a reading list that’s a perfect fit for a Sunday morning.

The Dust Bowl in the 1930s caused many to abandon the area, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Services began replanting native grasses and trees in an effort to restore the area’s soils, before transferring the land to the U.S. Forest Service in 1954.

These days, the Pawnee National Grasslands are made up of 193,000 acres of shortgrasses, situated in a 30-by-60 mile rectangle between Colorado 14 and the Wyoming border. A second swath of land is located to the west of Crow Creek. 

The grasslands are the antithesis of Colorado’s more iconic natural attraction: the Rocky Mountains (though you can see them from the grasslands on a clear day). Where the Rockies are full of sharp ridgelines stabbing the sky, the Pawnee grasslands roll on seemingly forever, in faded yellows, browns and greens that lay close to the earth. And where you’ll find big crowds and reservation requirements at some of Colorado’s more popular parks, the Pawnee grassland’s dirt roads provide miles of solitude, with dispersed camping for those who don’t mind windy nights. 

If you like vintage iconography or beer — or better yet, both — head into Sterling for a drink at Parts and Labor , a brewery and taproom located in a renovated Cadillac repair shop.

Pueblo Levee Mural Project

The murals started illegally and at night. In 1978, a group of local Pueblo artists known as the TEE HEEs lowered themselves onto the 65-foot tall, 45-degree Pueblo levee to paint a massive blue fish. The illicit art act inspired others to dangle themselves over the Arkansas River, lashed to paint buckets and lamps. A bathtub was painted, containing the thrashing blue fish. Then a squad of rubber ducks showed up on the scene.

The following year local artist Dave Roberts started organizing a May paint-a-thon, providing paint and encouraging others to contribute to the otherwise blank or graffiti-covered concrete slab (it also became legal to paint the levee with a permit). 

In 1995, the murals covered close to 3 miles and the levee was declared the “World’s Longest Painting” by Guinness World Records. It has since undergone a reconstruction, wiping out some of the original murals, and lost its world record title to a painting in South Korea. But artists from all around Colorado, especially southern Colorado and the San Luis Valley, are working hard to help the levee reclaim its title. 

There are still miles of murals, with more being added during the warmer months, that can be viewed from across the river on the Pueblo River Trail. 

More information at pueblolevee.org .

Pueblo is full of artistic anomalies, including Neon Alley , a collection of vintage neon signs on display 24/7 in the historic downtown area.

Type of Story: News

Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.

Parker Yamasaki Arts & Culture Reporter

Parker Yamasaki covers arts and culture at The Colorado Sun as a Poynter-Koch Media and Journalism Fellow and former Dow Jones News Fund intern. She has freelanced for the Chicago Reader, Newcity Chicago, and DARIA, among other publications,... More by Parker Yamasaki

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The Pioneer Collection

4713 Ambrose Place

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3 bd • 2 ba • 1,366 ft²

4713 Ambrose Place, Brighton, CO

The only ranch-style design in the collection, this plan provides an open layout that highlights a contemporary kitchen overlooking the nook and Great Room. The luxurious owner’s suite with a spa-inspired bathroom is privately situated at the back of the home, while two more bedrooms can be found off the foyer.

Prices, dimensions and features may vary and are subject to change. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.

Plan: Snowmass

Community: Brighton Crossings

Earliest move-in date: 09/09/2024

Homesite 0322

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Pioneer is a modern collection of ranch and two-story homes for sale at the Brighton Crossings masterplan. Located in the city of Brighton, near well-regarded schools, entertainment opportunities and exceptional recreation, this community is ideal for a variety of lifestyles. Residents will enjoy proximity to plenty of entertainment options at nearby Brighton Oasis Aquatic Park, Berry Patch Farms and the Armory Performing Arts Center. Barr Lake State Park is ideal for outdoor recreation, and Brighton Rec Center features sport and fitness programs and a relaxing swimming pool. Downtown Brighton is a short drive away, offering upscale shopping and dining options.

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