top 10 places to visit in denver

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Colorado Chevron

Denver Chevron

16 Best Things to Do in Denver

By Megan Barber and Nicholas DeRenzo

If you’ve always thought of the Mile High City as simply a gateway to Colorado’s world-famous ski resorts , you’re still thinking of the old Denver. The capital has spent the past two decades coming into its own as one of America’s most progressive and creative cities, with a host of top-notch museums, wildlife-filled green spaces, and a slew of up-and-coming neighborhoods filled with food halls, street art, and buzzy design hotels. And you’ve probably heard a little something about the craft beer scene, which is now matched by equally exceptional distilleries and even urban wineries. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Denver.

Read our complete Denver travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Denver Union Station Arrow

Union Station, Denver's so-called “living room,” sits in the center of Lower Downtown. It's a busy transit center with an outdoor play fountain, patio-filled restaurants, and boutiques. But this is all new; for decades the historic Beaux Arts building—first constructed in 1881 before several fires required renovations in 1914—was a desolate and run-down train station. A $54 million restoration and a dedicated train to the airport changed all that, and the station’s Grand Hall has returned to its glory days. Tourists and locals alike come to gawk at the historic architecture, linger over drinks, or enjoy community events, including a weekend farmer’s market. Grab a farm-to-table dinner at Mercantile Dining & Provision, then finish the night slinging cocktails at the Terminal Bar.

Meow Wolf: Convergence Station Arrow

Meow Wolf installations are, by design, indescribable. Three hundred artists, including more than 110 from Colorado, collaborated on 79 projects, spread over four floors, to create a loud, neon-lit dreamscape that has something important to say if you scratch beneath the surface of the surreal, Instagram-friendly tableaus. Hidden catacomb passageways, trash-strewn cityscapes, alien bodegas and pizza parlors, and tons of Easter eggs about Denver culture and history allude to big-picture topics like accessibility and Indigenous rights. As the Denver Convergence Station iteration of Meow Wolf warns on its website, the exhibit features “dark spaces, low lighting, low overhangs, tight spaces, crawl spaces, narrow walkways, steep stairways, flashing/strobe lights, theatrical fog effects, music, some loud noises, and exposed materials.” In other words, be prepared for everything—especially if you’re claustrophobic or hate crowds.

Denver Art Museum Arrow

Serious art lovers, this one’s for you. The city’s biggest art museum is a bustling hub at the center of the Golden Triangle Creative District known for both its vast permanent collection and its blockbuster temporary exhibitions. But just because art aficionados can geek out on everything from the 1971 Gio Ponti building to colorful, large-format murals, that doesn’t mean the DAM is reserved for stuffy nerds in sweater vests. No, the best part of the DAM is that art experts and novices can both find things to love. An extensive collection of Native American Art is one of the best in the world; Claude Monet’s “Waterloo Bridge” stops people in their tracks; and kids will enjoy hunting down the family-friendly activity centers scattered throughout the building. Grab a map at the entrance and don’t forget to check out the first floor gift shop for a treasure trove of glimmering vases and artsy gifts.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre Arrow

There’s a reason Red Rocks is considered one of the most beautiful outdoor music venues in the country. Bright red sandstone rocks jut out from either side of the stage to create a natural amphitheater with truly remarkable acoustics, and concert-goers are treated to views of downtown Denver and the surrounding foothills. Even if you can’t see a concert, Red Rocks is worth visiting; fitness groups often run the stairs of the amphitheater on the weekend and the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail rewards hikers with brilliant rock formations and valley views.

Jessica Puckett

Devra Ferst

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Larimer Square Arrow

Picture the prettiest street in any city: wide sidewalks, red brick buildings, and restaurant patios full of well-dressed 30-somethings sipping wine. Boutique storefronts threaten your pocketbook, twinkle lights sparkle at night, and a pie shop hides a Prohibition-era “speakeasy” Green Russell , named for a Colorado gold miner. This is Larimer Square, the city’s first historic district. And even though you haven’t really been to the Mile High City unless you’ve Instagrammed the street’s signature twinkling lights—pro tip, they look especially amazing around the holidays—Larimer Square somehow manages to remain an authentic, non-touristy destination.

The Beer Spa Arrow

Colorado’s first beer-themed spa opened this February in a residential area near Denver's RiNo (River North Art District). Owners Damien Zouaoui and Jessica French were inspired to bring the beer spa concept back to the States after traveling through Eastern Europe, where many spots offer the chance to bathe in hot beer. In translating the idea for an American audience, they stripped out all the Mitteleuropa kitsch and modernized the concept, borrowing from Japanese and Korean spas. Rather than book a traditional spa treatment, you’re left to your own devices in the hushed but comfortable private therapy rooms. Begin the circuit in the infrared sauna, which can reach up to 170-degree Fahrenheit, and extend the relaxation with an optional session in a zero-gravity massage chair that scans your body, tilts you back, and then comes at you from all angles like some kind of super-relaxing robotic carwash. 

Clyfford Still Museum Arrow

If there’s one museum that surprises you in the Mile High City, our money’s on the Clyfford Still Museum. At first glance, your eyes might slide over the imposing, cantilevered concrete building located adjacent to the much larger Denver Art Museum in the Golden Triangle. But don’t miss this rarely crowded, under-the-radar gem. Inside, a 3,200-piece collection focuses on the life and work of Clyfford Still, a modern artist famous for his groundbreaking abstract paintings. Spacious exhibition halls guide you chronologically through Still’s body of work, beginning with small sketches and landscape paintings from the 1920s and culminating in colorful canvases from the 1950s that cover the whole wall. This is a museum that educates without pretension; conversational placards prompt visitors to look at specific lines or colors in each painting and well-placed benches are the perfect place to contemplate Still’s influential contribution to the modern art movement.

Denver Botanic Gardens Arrow

Set on 24 acres in the tree-lined Cheesman Park neighborhood, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis that's perfect for a one- or two-hour stroll. Gravel and stone paths meander through dozens of different types of gardens, from drought-tolerant xeriscaping to a traditional Japanese garden. Don’t miss the rotating exhibits that showcase internationally recognized artwork peeking out from behind the plants, a socially distanced alternative to the city's museums . Also, be on the lookout for a giant orange- and red-glass Chihuly sculpture and So Proud of My Children , a carved stone piece depicting maternal love by Zimbabwean artist Nicholas Kadzungura. Plant lovers won't ever want to leave.

Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art Arrow

Unlike other museums in Denver, the Kirkland is organized salon-style, displaying everything from Andy Warhol paintings to chairs designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The international decorative art collection spans every major design period since 1870, but the museum is at its best displaying the work of Colorado’s most distinguished painter: Vance Kirkland. The museum moved Kirkland’s original three-room studio eight blocks to its new location, and visitors can tour the space that the artist worked on his famous abstract and dot paintings. It’s now a stone’s throw from the Denver Art Museum , making it easy to visit both in a day.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Arrow

Colorado is chock full of national and state parks, but you don’t have to venture far from the Mile High City to immerse yourself in one of the state’s most wildlife-rich green spaces. Located about a 10-minute drive northeast of downtown, this 11-mile wildlife drive cuts through open prairie, past waterfowl-filled lakes, over creeks, and through fields of wildflowers. Think of it as one of those drive-through theme park safaris, but instead of elephants and giraffes, you might spot mule deer, coyotes, prairie dogs, or even the continent’s most-endangered mammal, black-footed ferrets, which were reintroduced in 2015.

Dairy Block Arrow

In the early 20th-century, the Windsor Farm Dairy Building, in what’s now called LoDo, used to churn out butter, cheese, and milk, but these days it offers the cream of a different crop as the city’s trendiest new “micro-hood.” Within the space of one compact square block in the shadow of Coors Field, the development includes a hotel, a coworking space, shops, restaurants, bars, and a food hall. Make time to explore the pedestrian-friendly Alley, which slices through the block like a narrow canyon and is lined with unique hangouts, like Blanchard Family Wines and Deviation Distilling, where the Mountain Herb Gin is made with wild-foraged juniper and spruce tips. Don’t miss BØH—the counter-service counterpart to Latin tasting-menu restaurant spot Brutø—for tacos, tortas, tostadas and excellent Mexican-inspired cocktails.

City Park Arrow

City Park, a sprawling 330-acre park east of Downtown Denver, is way more than green space—it’s also home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Manicured gardens and two scenic lakes show off views of the city skyline, and paths attract walkers, runners, and bikers. A Spanish-style pavilion in the center is often used as an event space, and its columns, arches, and waterfront location also make it a photogenic backdrop. For an epic sunset, park at the museum and walk west around the building toward Ferrill Lake. On the way, you’ll pass a kids' splash fountain and a playground; from there, you’ll see the sunset with the lake, city skyline, and Rocky Mountains all glowing in magic-hour light.

Downtown Brewery Trail Walk Arrow

There are plenty of organized brewery tours in Denver , but it's just as easy (and maybe more fun) to create your own thanks to this interactive beer ma p put out by the city. Downtown has a high concentration of quality tasting rooms, and we suggest starting at Wynkoop Brewing Company , Denver’s first craft brewery. Next, make your way to Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery for modern takes on traditional ales. Then it’s time for a heavy-hitter on the Denver beer scene: Great Divide Brewing Company . Finally, finish up at Woods Boss , a relative newcomer on the Denver scene that goes all in on Colorado kitsch.

Tattered Cover Book Store Arrow

Denver’s best independent bookstore has been a community gathering place since 1971. In an era when online sales threaten brick-and-mortar stores everywhere, the Tattered Cover has thrived. It now has multiple locations—including an outpost at LoDo’s gleaming new McGregor Square district, across the street from Coors Field—thanks to knowledgeable staff, comfy armchairs, and a lively event series that hosts well-known authors for seminars. There are all types of books here, but don’t miss the curated selection of staff picks, all marked with handwritten notes that detail why a reader might like the book. A whimsical children’s section and an array of calendars and paper supplies make buying housewarming gifts here a no-brainer.

Denver Zoo Arrow

The 80-acre Denver Zoo campus is a mostly outdoor journey on wide, well-spaced paths to see over 3,000 animals. Recent renovations make certain exhibits feel like you’ve taken a trip away from the city for the day . The Stingray Cove exhibit, opened in 2020, is an open-air interactive experience that lets you touch and feed cownose and southern stingrays as they swim around a 15,000-gallon tank. An extra $5 admission fee gets you into the exhibit with one piece of food to feed, and the space also showcases bamboo and bonnethead sharks. Another don’t-miss exhibit is Predator Ridge, a five-acre recreation of the African savanna that rotates African lions, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs through the enclosures.

The Source Market Hall Arrow

When it opened in an 1880s iron foundry on the edge of downtown in 2013, The Source food hall signaled a sea change for the former industrial zone that would blossom into the RiNo Arts District. Five years later, the historic brick complex welcomed an attached 100-room hotel, done up in polished concrete and Baltic birch, with an outpost of New Belgium Brewing dedicated to barrel-aged beers. Today, the twin “market halls”—one in the original building, one in the new tower—house various food stalls and design shops, plus a barbershop, a florist, and a vintage store. Standouts include Reunion Bread Co. , where baker Ismael De Sousa turns out incredible Venezuelan- and Portuguese-inspired pastries (try the golfeados, walnut-studded sticky buns topped, improbably, with cotija cheese), and Safta , an Israeli stunner from James Beard Award winner Alon Shaya.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Top 11 things to do in Denver from baseball to tubing South Platte River

Jul 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Vendors sell everything from gelato to bao buns at Denver Milk Market © Chip Kalback / Lonely Planet

A Rocky Mountain megastar, Denver is a thriving city that blends its rich Old West history with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe. Here you’ll find dynamic arts and cultural options woven with a booming food, craft beer and cannabis scene. And with endless sunny days, green spaces galore and a spectacular mountain backdrop, outdoor play is always part of the local ethos. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll find Denver is buzzing with activity.

Here are its top things to do.

1. Eat, drink and play in Union Station

Enjoy a drink or a fancy meal at Union Station , an iconic landmark and beautifully restored 19th century train station. Sure, it’s Denver’s main transportation hub – local buses, light rail and cross-country trains use it – but this Beaux Art beauty also is home to tony restaurants and cocktail bars, a place locals come for a night out on the town.

Local tip: If you need a sightseeing break, chill out in the Great Hall, a waiting area and chic lounge with leather couches, shuffleboard and wifi. It’s all free and open to the public – no need to buy anything.

2. Cheer on the Rockies

Join baseball fans at Coors Field in downtown Denver, one of the MLB’s most hitter-friendly ballparks (thank the thin air for all the homeruns). Eighty home games mean lots of opportunities and with tickets in the Rockpile (aka centerfield) starting at just US$1, it won’t break the bank. Come decked out in your purple, black and silver best to fit right in.

Detour: If you’re a die-hard baseball fan, cross the street to the National Ballpark Museum, which is jam-packed with memorabilia from the country’s 14 classic ballparks.

3. See masterpieces at the Denver Art Museum

The crown jewel of the Mile High City’s art scene, the Denver Art Museum houses an eclectic collection of some of the world’s greatest works of art, from Old Master painters to modern contemporary artists. It includes a stunningly rich collection of Native American art, integrating both historic and contemporary work, with signage that prioritizes Native perspectives. The complex itself is a work of art – the titanium-paneled Hamilton Building with its jutting angles connected by bridge to the newly-renovated Martin Building, a fortress-like structure covered in millions of glittering glass tiles.

Local tip: No need to hesitate about coming if you’re traveling with kids – there are loads of interactive art stations and activities throughout the museum plus two eateries for mid-visit treats. Admission is free for everyone 18 and under too.

4. Take in back alley street art

Nowhere has street art more transformed a neighborhood in Denver than the one-time-industrial-wasteland-turned-hipster-enclave of RiNo (aka River North Arts District). Unexpected and ever-changing, the streets and alleys are draped in hundreds of murals covering every sort of surface, from parking lot walls to transformer boxes. Walking through the neighborhood, the art stops you in your tracks, the images speaking to the city’s diversity, politics and day-to-day life.

Local tip: If you want a bit more structure to your mural walkabout, check out RiNo’s own mural map . For an even deeper dive into the art, take a guided tour with Denver Graffiti Tour , a two-hour stroll past notable works, including details on the artists and their historical context.

5. Go to a Red Rocks concert

There’s something almost primal about attending a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater : the sounds of instruments enveloping you, the sight of people dancing under an umbrella of stars and the iconic 300ft-high red sandstone monoliths standing guard on either side. Renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning beauty, Red Rock has been a rock 'n’ roll venue ever since 1964 when The Beatles played there. Today, Red Rocks is synonymous with big name bands of all genres – even symphony orchestras – and a place where memorable albums are often recorded. For many, it’s reason enough for a trip to Denver. Concerts are held all summer long.

Detour: If a Red Rocks concert isn’t in the cards, the venue and its surrounding 816 acres are free to visit during the day, including several hiking trails that wind through the red rock landscape. The amphitheater also hosts other events like early morning yoga and movie nights.

6. Have a flight at Great Divide

Colorado takes its beer seriously, raising craft brewing to a high art. And with over 150 breweries in Denver, you certainly won’t go thirsty in this town. For an OG experience, head to the downtown brewhouse of Great Divide Brewing Company , a small brick building housing one of the most decorated breweries in the country with a whopping 18 Great American Beer Festival medals and five World Beer Cup Medals to its name. Weekend evenings bring wall-to-wall crowds but stop by on a weeknight for a seat at the bar and a flight of Great Divide’s exquisitely bold and balanced brews. If you want to go all in, geek out on a behind the scenes tour to learn how their magic sauces are made. 

7. Take a selfie with the Blue Bear

Stop for photos with the playful and ever-curious symbol of the city, a 40ft-tall sculpture of a blue bear entitled I See What You Mean . Located in Downtown Denver, the bear stands upright peering into the Convention Center – the artist Lawrence Argent’s riff on a local newspaper’s photo of a bear looking into a home (a not unfamiliar occurrence in the state). The bear’s color represents the famous Colorado skies.

8. Spark your sense of wonder at Meow Wolf

Step into Denver’s most immersive art experience at Meow Wolf Denver , an extension of the renowned art collective started in New Mexico. Here, wander through a multi-story building that tells a story of the convergence of four worlds through 70+ fantastical art installations. Enter dark tunnels and tipping hallways, man towering spaceships and touch psychedelic coral reefs, and keep your eyes peeled for the live performers who somehow creep onto the scene. It’s wonderfully bizarre and totally unforgettable.

9. Catch a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Denver is home to the second largest theater complex in the country: the Denver Performing Arts Complex , a four-city-block-wide collection of stages connected by a sky-high glass canopy, with large-scale art pieces dotting its walkways and green spaces. Weekends bring thousands to the complex, a river of people flowing into its different venues to see everything from Broadway shows to experimental theater. Join the crowd! While big ticket shows sell out fast, there are enough venues to almost guarantee a seat most nights.

Detour: If homegrown theater is more your speed, head to nearby Curious Theater . Housed in a repurposed church, this award-winning theater company stages thought-provoking plays with a social justice bent. Stay afterwards for the talk-backs, when actors engage with the audience about everything from the plot to the set.

10. Float through Denver

Float down the South Platte River, taking in the downtown skyline as you dip your toes into the cool, gentle water. A historic waterway, gold was found along its shores way back in 1858, sparking the Colorado Gold Rush and the founding of Denver itself. Today, the South Platte winds its way through the center of the city, popular pedestrian walkways and small sandy beaches following its path. Ask about tube and kayak rentals at Confluence Kayaks near Confluence Park.

11. Meditate in the International Cannabis Church

You don’t have to be high to feel the full effect of the light show at the International Cannabis Church (in fact, onsite cannabis use is technically prohibited by the public). Every day of the year, the one-time Lutheran church turned multi-colored Elevationist sanctuary comes alive in a spectacular 3D video mapping show while a guided audio meditation leads visitors on a journey towards self-discovery. People leave feeling at peace, happy and well, high on life.

Local tip: Come early to take full advantage of the old school arcade, complete with Galaga and Ms. Pacman machines plus Mario Kart projected onto a 26-foot movie screen, all included in the price of admission.

This article was first published Jun 15, 2021 and updated Jul 23, 2023.

Explore related stories

Apr 9, 2022 • 4 min read

Discover six of the most exciting neighborhoods in the USA to add to your must-see list, packed with artistic and culinary action, though not large crowds.

Feb 5, 2021 • 3 min read

Nov 9, 2020 • 2 min read

Aug 14, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 11, 2020 • 20 min read

Jan 30, 2020 • 4 min read

Oct 31, 2019 • 8 min read

Oct 4, 2019 • 2 min read

Sep 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Jul 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 21 best things to do in Denver

Your complete guide to the best things to do in Denver this year, from fascinating museums to funky breweries and beyond

There’s a reason Denver is known as one of the most liveable cities in the US. Come here for a buzzing city vibe, but with the small added bonus of 300 sunny days every year. And that’s just the start of it. 

Here you’ll find trendy breweries, excellent galleries and more restaurants and food halls than you can squeeze into one trip. All that while being surrounded by a jaw-dropping 360° mountain view. From unforgettable hikes to all-night parties, here are the best things to do in Denver, any time of year. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best restaurants in Denver 🏨 The best hotels in Denver 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Denver

Scott Snowden is a freelance writer, previously Time Out’s associate editor. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Denver

1.  Denver Art Museum

Along with the architecture of internationally renowned visionaries Giò Ponti and Daniel Libeskind, the Denver Art Museum (DAM) is perhaps best known for its holdings in Native and Western American art. Though the DAM might lean heavily on its Rocky Mountain roots, its collections cover the entire spectrum. Seek out, for instance, Monet’s  Waterloo Bridge  and Sandy Skoglund’s startling large-scale installation  Fox Games , depicting a fantastical dining room.

2.  Denver Botanic Gardens

With dozens of horticulturally distinct collections set indoors and out on 20-plus acres, the Denver Botanic Gardens is an oasis in what is, after all, the high desert. Here you can peruse thousands of plant species from across the globe, from cacti to rainforest orchids. It’s also a cultural and educational center, regularly hosting art exhibits, plant shows, gardening classes, and more. As you explore, take a breather and check out glass wizard Dale Chihuly’s Colorado, which graces the pond in the Ellipse Garden.

3.  Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

The ever-so-dramatic sweep of its rugged sandstone formations has made Red Rocks a beloved venue for concerts of all stripes since its inauguration in 1941. In 1983, a little-known Irish band happened to film a performance at what you might call nature’s own music hall—and the rest, as U2 fans know, is rock history. Of course, it also serves as one of the world’s most breathtaking gyms, where runners get super-sweaty tackling the seemingly endless staircases, and hikers hit the trails through the surrounding 868-acre park. 

4.  SoBo

The Platt Park stretch of South Broadway (SoBo) has long been known as Antique Row for its wealth of dealers in everything from folk art to furniture. You can shop for vintage wares, weed, or both: SoBo is also called the Green Mile, reflecting the influx of marijuana dispensaries. The quirky shopping experience only gets funkier as you head north into the Baker District, where boutiques like  Decade , a source for up-and-coming designer labels, skew as hip as the nearby eateries.

5.  MCA Denver

Founded in 1996, the Museum of Contemporary Art  (MCA) moved into its permanent and larger home (27,000 square feet) in 2007. With works displayed across five galleries, a shop, a library, and a rooftop cafe, the space is as pretty as a picture (although we can't guarantee that all the pictures will be pretty). Comical, creepy, racy, relentless… Whatever else they may be, exhibitions at the MCA are always provocative. 

6.  Union Station

After a historic redevelopment, LoDo’s turn-of-the-century terminal is once again a destination for architecture buffs, scenesters, foodies, and rail riders. Absorb the Beaux Arts aura of the majestic, barrel-vaulted Great Hall while sipping local craft beers in the retro-toned  Terminal Bar  or cocktails on the mezzanine of the glamorous  Cooper Lounge . Score a seat at  Stoic & Genuine’s  chef’s counter to indulge in sharp twists on seafood classics, or treat yourself to a feast at  Mercantile Dining & Provision , where farmhouse substance meets cosmopolitan style. 

7.  The Source

This epicurean food hall has been a Denver landmark since it opened over 10 years ago. There’s a dream team of vendors, and the food and drink are top-notch. To cite highlights would be misleading; that said, an order of brisket nachos at  Smok  and a croissant churro with dulce de leche from  Reunion Bread Co . are among the absolute musts.

8.  Molly Brown House Museum

Saved from demolition in 1970, visitors to this Victorian manor will find the docents’ stories about the Titanic survivor’s years as an actress and a civil-rights activist no less compelling than the opulent period decor. Her famous unsinkability aside, Margaret Brown led a remarkable life for a woman of her time. The Molly Brown House offers self-guided tours and special events throughout the year; Gothic-horror story hours, holiday teas, garden parties, and other corny-but-entertaining programs pop up every season. 

9.  Hiking near Denver

As (more-or-less) casual day trips go, you can’t beat hitting the trails around Golden and Boulder. Whether you choose one of the easygoing loops on Lookout Mountain or rugged climbs in Eldorado Canyon State Park and around the striking sandstone formations known as the Flatirons, you'll be treated to stellar natural vistas. While you wander amid ponderosa pines and Indian paintbrush, keep your eyes peeled for mule deer and monarchs (never mind rattlesnakes and black bears). 

10.  Empower Field at Mile High

The stomping ground of the Denver Broncos Empower Field made history when it hosted Barack Obama’s acceptance speech during the Democratic National Convention in 2008. Tailgate on the south side, stomp your feet to create “mile-high thunder”; and join a chorus of 76,000 yelling “in-com-plete!” to show your support for the Broncos. On a guided tour, learn a bevy of stats while visiting the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum and getting a player’s-eye view of the end zone—something even non-fans get a charge out of.

11.  Clyfford Still Museum

This single-artist museum warrants intricate exploration, not only to view almost the entire oeuvre of the radical Abstract Expressionist Clyfford Still  but to admire the masterful architecture as well. Dedicate at least an hour to the tranquil surroundings and the large-scale canvases that defined Still’s contribution to modern art.

12.  Craft breweries

Roam the linked RiNo, Ballpark, and Five Points neighborhoods, and you’ll run the gamut of craft tipples, from suds to spirits. Boozin’ brilliant. Buzzing little breweries like Mockery and Ratio  encircle granddaddy  Great Divide —but as you hop from one to the next, sampling chocolate rye scotch ale and passionfruit-guava goes, you’ll also (quite possibly literally) stumble on  Stem Ciders ,  Infinite Monkey Theorem  Urban Winery, and  Mile High Spirits .

13.  The Beer Spa

Here you can soak away your worries and/or have them massaged out in zero-gravity chairs and then sample a wide variety of Colorado’s craft brews all in one place. Makes you wonder; if this was made a mandatory part of the working week, everyone would probably be much nicer to each other. Check out the website for a complete list of what is on offer. The Beer Spa caters to singles, couples, and groups, so you have no excuse.

14.  Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The route from Idaho Springs to the top of Colorado’s 14th-tallest peak traverses some 7,000ft along the continent’s highest paved roadway. Possibly nerve-wracking and definitely slow-going yet breathtaking in every sense of the word, Mount Evans Scenic Byway  takes you past alpine lakes and meadows, through bristlecone-pine stands and the habitats of elk and bighorn sheep; along the way, you can hike, fish, picnic and even snowshoe. The summit itself is accessible only in summer—and even then, the weather can turn nasty without warning.

15.  Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Adults aren’t just babysitters at Denver Museum of Nature & Science , a kid-friendly museum jam-packed with dinosaur skeletons, mummies, and IMAX 3D flicks. Naturally, kids go gaga, but plenty of the exhibits and planetarium appeal to all ages—think Dead Sea Scrolls, Russian folk carvings, or black holes. If you’re making a day of it, skip the onsite café in favor of a lakeside picnic in nearby City Park, also home to the  Denver Zoo .

16.  Denver Performing Arts Complex

Believe it or not, downtown Denver contains one of the largest multi-venue performance centers in the world. Ballets, symphonies, operas, and touring Broadway shows are all staged at the Arts Complex , but so are locally produced plays and the occasional rock concert. During the warmer months, all types of celebrations are held in the adjoining outdoor space, Sculpture Park, including the adorable Denver Public Schools  Shakespeare Festival .

17.  Coors Field

Sports fans and curious tourists will find plenty to do at the 76-acre Coors Field with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. Catching a baseball game isn’t the only thing you can do on the Rockies’ home turf; look for the row of purple seats marking the elevation that gives the Mile High City its name, then wash down some Rocky Mountain oysters (quickly, if you’ve never tried this infamous delicacy) with beer from the onsite brewery,  the SandLot .

18.  Kirkland Museum of Fine Art

The Kirkland is a mesmerizing shrine to the decorative arts of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Peep iconic modernist furnishings (Irving Harper’s marshmallow sofa and Pierre Paulin’s ribbon chair) and exquisite Art Nouveau and Art Deco housewares. Located in the studio of its late namesake, Vance Kirkland, the collection is displayed salon-style—which means that visitors are surrounded on all sides by irreplaceable objet d’art as they wander through the galleries. Children under 13 are not admitted.

19.  Larimer Square

Situated on Larimer Street between 14th and 15th, Larimer Square is the most bohemian block in town; this is the place to see and be seen. A gentle saunter down this pedestrianized street will allow you to catch up on your window shopping as you gaze through the glass of some swanky boutique stores, and afterward, you could dine at high-end restaurants like Osteria Marco or Rioja .

20.  Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox

Restaurateur Justin Cucci's atmospheric eatery in a former house of ill-repute dishes up globally influenced grub. Cucci has a knack for designing restaurants that owe some of their success to a quirky backstory; Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox is an eye-popping risqué tribute to its history, while what was once a mid-century garage now informs the vintage cool of  Root Down . Take it all in over a meal that showcases the Edible Beats restaurant group’s focus on earth- and lifestyle-conscious food and drinks. 

21.  Punch Bowl Social

There are several spots in town where you can indulge your taste for booze and your inner child at the same time. Best of all is Punch Bowl Social , which boasts bowling lanes, an old-school arcade, karaoke rooms, two bars, and a mod diner. Apart from the undoubtedly bohemian-inspired decor, the activities have a touch of nostalgia that is nothing short of gratifying.

More great things to do in Denver

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Denver, CO

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Carri Wilbanks lives near Denver and enjoys exploring the sights of the city.

Denver, the Mile High City, so named because it sits at 5,280 feet above sea level or one mile high, has been rocking since the late 1850s, when gold was discovered around Cherry Creek . Today, it is one of America's hottest cities to live and play in and a great place to visit in Colorado .

With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop and more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Denver is a visually appealing metropolis, filled with a variety of sights and attractions for everyone, from families to couples. Whether you are wandering the Denver Art Museum, doing some shopping and gallery-hopping in Cherry Creek North, or visiting animals at the Denver Zoo, day or night, there is no shortage of things to do.

The city is also home to several parks, including Civic Center Park in the heart of downtown, Washington Park, Cheesman Park, and City Park in surrounding neighborhoods. Just outside the city limits is Denver's most famous park: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, which is one of the top outdoor concert venues in the U.S.

Learn more about the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions in Denver.

See also: Where to Stay in Denver

1. Union Station

2. larimer square, 3. stroll and shop along 16th street mall, 4. take a tour or see a game at coors field, 5. denver museum of nature & science, 6. see a show at the denver center for the performing arts, 7. denver botanic gardens, 8. kirkland museum of fine & decorative art, 9. denver art museum, 10. denver zoo, 11. colorado state capitol, 12. enjoy live music at red rocks park & amphitheater, 13. denver public library, 14. united states mint, 15. civic center park, 16. cherry creek north, 17. clyfford still museum, where to stay in denver for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to denver, map of attractions & things to do in denver, co, denver, co - climate chart.

Anchoring downtown Denver , Union Station is a hub of activity for locals and travelers alike. This Beaux Arts train station is a historic landmark dating back to 1881.

Completely revitalized in 2014, today Union Station is a bustling attraction that doubles as a working train station. You can catch the A-line train to the airport, RTD transit around Denver, or embark on Amtrak rail trips across the country from here.

Union Station is also home to many shops, restaurants, and The Crawford Hotel, which often puts on special themed-stay events. It's fun to take a stroll through Union Station just to look at the impressive architecture.

Also, make sure to pay a visit to the branch of the Tattered Cover Book Store located here. It is one of the best independent bookstores in the U.S.

Address: 1701 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Colorado

A successful example of urban refurbishment in Denver is Larimer Square, with well-restored buildings of the Civil War period. In 1971, Larimer Square became Denver's first historic district. Today, it is a major entertainment district. The area is home to art galleries, shops, cheerful restaurants, and gas lamps.

It continues to evolve and is popular with both locals and tourists. During the day, most people come here to shop. In the evening, this is a great place for dining or seeing some live entertainment, such as comedians or bands. This area is also famous as the place where Buffalo Bill lived at one time.

Address: 1430 Larimer Street, Denver, Colorado

Running through the city center, the 16th Street Mall is a European-style pedestrian precinct, with shady trees, flowerbeds, and park benches. The only traffic here is a free shuttle bus.

The mall is lined with department stores, boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and the stalls of street traders. Near the south end of the street are numerous modern and Post-Modern skyscrapers.

The mall was designed by the late world-famous architect I.M. Pei, the same architect that designed the pyramid at the Louvre in Paris. At night, the mall is illuminated by over one million lights, making it an ideal place to stroll on a warm summer evening.

Originally opened in 1982, the 16 th Street Mall is currently undergoing an overhaul that will create wider pedestrian walkways, modernize existing infrastructure, and introduce new art, among other objectives.

The renovations of this 13-block mall between Market Street and Broadway will take place in phases and are expected to be finished by late 2024. The area remains open during renovations, however.

Coors Field is the home of the Colorado Rockies baseball club. The stadium, which opened in 1995, has a seating capacity of 50,200. From the seats along the 1st base line, it's possible to see the Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Tours of the facility are available year-round and are a good way to learn about the stadium and see a bit of the behind-the-scenes action. Tickets are limited to a certain number each day, so advance purchases are a good idea. Tours last just under 1.5 hours and are accessible to those with disabilities.

Address: 20th and Blake Streets, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science sits in City Park's southeast corner and is one of Denver's top cultural attractions. Among the most notable exhibits are the imposing dinosaur skeletons, remains of Ice Age animals, the collection of minerals presented by the Coors family, and one of the largest nuggets of gold found in Colorado.

The museum features changing exhibitions, so there is always something new to see. An IMAX theater and a Planetarium are also on-site. When you've finished wandering this museum, take time to check out City Park, which is popular with locals, and hosts a free summer jazz concert series.

The Space Odyssey exhibit has been renovated and revitalized and is now better than ever. You'll be able to step into the new Fantasy Spaceship and fulfill your dreams of blasting off into space.

Address: 2001 Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado

Read More: Denver with Kids: Top-Rated Things to Do

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts sits on the south side of Larimar Square and is a gigantic cultural center. The center consists of multiple venues, including the Boettcher Concert Hall, Auditorium Theater, and Ellie Caulkins Opera House. If you are looking for things to do in Denver at night, you can usually find something to entertain you here.

A night out at the Center for Performing Arts could mean watching a Broadway Show or enjoying a play or a variety of other performances. This venue hosts all kinds of major events. It is home to the Denver Center Theater Company, the Denver Center Attractions, and the Denver Center Theatre Academy. The center also functions as an educational facility, offering acting classes and programs, as well as professional development opportunities.

Address: Speer Boulevard and Arapahoe Street, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Botanic Gardens , first laid out in the late 1950s, is one of the largest botanical gardens in the United States , occupying 23 acres next to Cheesman Park.

The garden emphasizes native plants and sustainable, environmentally responsible practices. However, the various gardens display plants from all over the world. There are 43 individual gardens, some of which are laid out in natural landscapes, others of which are in more formal gardens.

Some of the highlights include the Japanese Garden; Marnie's Pavilion with orchids, ferns, and waterfalls; and the Boettcher Memorial Conservatory, with exotic tropical and subtropical species. The Denver Botanic Gardens also hosts special events throughout the year, including concerts that draw in nationally recognized talent.

Address: 1007 York Street, Denver, Colorado

The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art displays a major collection of decorative art from 1880 to 1980. Every major design period is represented, from Arts & Crafts to Pop Art. Regional modernist art, from 1875 to 1980, with a focus on Colorado, is also documented with hundreds of works.

The museum features a retrospective of Colorado's distinguished painter, Vance Kirkland (1904-1981). All three collections are housed in a 1911 Arts & Crafts building, the oldest commercial art building in Denver. Kirkland Museum is a member of Historic Artists' Homes and Studios, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Address: 1311 Pearl Street, Denver, Colorado

The massive, fortress-like Denver Art Museum has a vast collection, which includes American Indian, African, European, Asian, and Oceanic Art. Collections also include Spanish colonial and pre-Columbian works.

The remodeled Native American galleries are particularly impressive, covering a broad range of cultures and tribes from the United States and Canada. This extensive collection has gained a reputation throughout North America, with pieces that span 2,000 years of history.

This modern and contemporary art collection features both well-known names and emerging talent in a variety of media. Don't miss the separate gallery dedicated to photography. Also of note is the museum's African art collection.

The Denver Art Museum began in a building now known as the North Building, designed by Italian Architect Gio Ponti and opened in 1971. In 2006, the 146,000-square-foot Hamilton Building, an expansion designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, was opened to the public. The new building captured attention with its unique design, inspired by the peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

Address: 100 W 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, Colorado

The Denver Zoo is beautifully laid out, with enclosures adapted to different species, from the polar bears' den to monkey island. The zoo was begun in the late 1800s and has a rich history of conservation. Over the years, it has managed to remain one of Denver's most popular tourist attractions.

Exhibits that are sure to delight families with children of all ages include Stingray Cove, where you can pet a stingray as it swims by; the Toyota Elephant Passage, consisting of two miles of trails in a natural habitat featuring African animals; Harmony Hill Bear Habitat, home to the park's resident Grizzly Bear; and The EDGE, an enclosure that lets you get within six inches of two gorgeous Amur Tigers from Siberia.

Address: 2900 E 23rd Avenue, Denver, Colorado

On a low hill on the east side of Civic Center Park is the classical-style State Capitol, crowned by a gilded dome 250 feet high. From the viewing platform on the drum of the dome, there are magnificent views of the city's imposing skyline and the Front Range. The 13th step on the west side of the Capitol is exactly one mile above sea level, thus the name "mile high city."

Address: Broadway and East Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater is about 15 miles from the city center but is well worth the commute as this is the most revered attraction around Denver — and there is a shuttle to get you here should you not have a car.

Red Rocks is both a live music venue and a city park owned by Denver. The name comes from the striking red sandstone rock formations found along the trails that also form the walls of the outdoor amphitheater.

The venue attracts major live music talent weekly in season and is most famous for its acoustics. Music buffs will want to stop by the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, which tells the stories of Colorado's music greats.

Address: 18300 West Alameda Parkway, Morrison, Colorado

Famed architect Michael Graves designed the Denver Public Library , which opened in 1995. The library is noted for its western history and genealogical collections. Outside, the 30-foot-tall, red-orange steel sculpture is often used for reference as a landmark.

Address: 10 W. Fourteenth Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Immediately beyond the City and County Building is the U.S. Mint , one of the United States' six facilities. This is where the American currency is created and part of the country's gold reserves are stored.

Be sure to take a free guided tour of the facility to learn about the history and process of making money. Following your tour, visit the small gift shop on-site selling commemorative coins, souvenirs, games, and other items. Reservations for the tours are always required and can be scheduled online through the website.

Address: 320 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado

In the heart of Denver is the green and, in summer, agreeably shady Civic Center Park, laid out in Classical style with numerous monuments. Principal administrative buildings of the state of Colorado are scattered around the outskirts of the park. Along its north side is Colfax Ave, which is the longest street in America, running for 26 miles east to west through Denver.

Address: 101 14th Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Located just south and east of the Downtown, Cherry Creek North is Denver's best-known shopping district , especially if you're looking for luxury and boutique shops and art galleries. Covering some 16 blocks laid out in a square, the leafy and flower-strewn neighborhood is also home to numerous restaurants, offering cuisine from around the globe.

Cherry Creek hosts a number of different events throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival , held around July 4th, which attracts national and international artist vendors in mediums ranging from painting and jewelry to ceramics. The district runs along 2nd and 3rd Ave between Steele Street to the east and University Boulevard to the west.

Part of the first generation of Abstract Expressionist artists, Clyfford Still is considered one of the 20th century's most influential painters. The Clyfford Still Museum , which opened in late 2011, is home to an archive of more than 3,000 artworks by the late artist and showcases his life's work and legacy in exhibits in a minimalist-style building.

Address: 1250 Bannock Street, Denver, Colorado

The best place to stay in Denver is right downtown in the heart of the action. This is where the main attractions are located, as well as the Convention Center, restaurants, and entertainment. Below is a list of highly-rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels :

• The landmark Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has been one of Denver's top luxury hotels since it first opened in 1892. This opulent hotel, in the heart of downtown, is also known for its superb customer service.
• Opened one year earlier, in 1891, is another of Denver's top hotels, The Oxford Hotel , near Union Station.
• By contrast, if you are looking for a contemporary luxury hotel, the uniquely designed The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton , near the Denver Art Museum, is the place to stay.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Near the Convention Center and just a short walk from the 16th Street Mall is the conveniently located Hilton Garden Inn .
• Nearby, and also in a great location is Aloft , with a modern look and trendy feel.
• The Hyatt House is a newly opened, extended-stay hotel in the city center, with standard rooms and suites featuring fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families.

Budget Hotels :

• The Days Inn is on the periphery of the city center, either a long walk or short drive from the main downtown area.
• If you are willing to drive 30 minutes, the Comfort Inn is well outside the city center but offers quality rooms at budget prices.

Joining an organized tour is a great way to see all the highlights of Denver and its surrounding mountains without the hassle of finding your way around. Along the way, you'll learn fascinating stories about the city's history and the ecology of the surrounding areas. These tours include convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time and money. Below are some fun sightseeing tours and day trips that guarantee the lowest price:

Take a Day Trip:

• Soaring mountains surround Denver, and a convenient way to experience this alpine wilderness is on the Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder . Accompanied by the narration of an expert guide, this tour takes you in an air-conditioned coach across the Continental Divide, reaching altitudes of up to 12,000 feet. After exploring Estes Park and passing by the famous Stanley Hotel, you can look for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and black bears in Rocky Mountain National Park. The tour includes admission to the park, lunch, and hotel pickup.
• If you're short on time but still want to venture into the wilderness, consider the Foothills Explorer Tour From Denver . This four-hour adventure includes a visit to Red Rocks park, a natural amphitheater; a drive through the scenic Lariat Loop, where you can look for wildlife; and stops at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave and the historic town of Evergreen. Hotel pickup and entrance fees are also included.

Summit a 14neer :

• From Idaho Springs, the highest mountain road in the U.S. runs steeply up past the beautifully situated Echo Lake to the alpine pastures on Mount Evans (14,266 feet). From the summit, there are breathtaking panoramic views out over the mountains and valley below. A variety of wildlife also frequents the area. At these elevations, it is not uncommon to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and pika. The Mount Evans Highway (State Highway 5) is a seasonal road, which is closed during the winter months, usually reopening in late May. Opening dates may be weather dependent. Mount Evans gets particularly busy on summer weekends. Weekdays and early mornings are some of the less visited hours and maybe a better option for people looking to escape large crowds.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Mountains: Denver is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Less than two hours away are some of the best ski resorts in Colorado , including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. You can also find smaller and budget-friendly ski resorts near Denver . But you don't have to be a skier to enjoy the beautiful scenery. In summer, hiking , camping, biking, and sightseeing opportunities attract tourists from across North America.

Fun mountain towns you may want to include on your Colorado itinerary include nearby Boulder and Colorado Springs , and in the far southwest of the state, Durango and Telluride , where you'll also find excellent skiing and snowboarding, as well as hiking and biking in summer. Mountain bikers should look to Fruita and Grand Junction for some awesome rides. For more ideas, see our article on the top attractions and places to visit in Colorado .

More on Colorado

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• City Vacations

23 Best Things to Do in Denver, From Brewery Visits to Red Rocks Hiking

These are the top things to do in the Mile High City.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Denver has seen something of a resurgence in recent years, with people "discovering" the destination that seems to have it all — big-city amenities, premium hotels , and easy access to the mountains. In fact, in the last decade alone (2010 to 2020), the city's population grew about 20 percent, according to data from the Colorado census . The growth makes perfect sense when you consider all the city has to offer — from a tater tot fueled drag brunch to yoga at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Ready to see what all the fuss is about? Here are 23 of the best things to do in Denver, Colorado.

Drop by for drag brunch (and bottomless mimosas) at Hamburger Mary's.

The uber-campy Hamburger Mary's Denver serves up Tater Ta-Ta's (a.k.a. tater tots) alongside an unbeatable drag performance. Swing by on Saturday for the Drag Brunch , a sell-out show with bottomless mimosas and good eats.

See a show or do a downward dog at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

The naturally occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater nestled among red rock formations at the foot of the Rocky Mountains has long been a destination for big acts like The Beatles, Widespread Panic, and Halsey. But even if you don't make it for a show, you can enjoy the mix of nature and entertainment at the park's Yoga on the Rocks and Film on the Rocks events.

Make your way through Meow Wolf, a surreal art experience.

If you want to enter another world (without leaving the heart of Denver), head to Meow Wolf , an art experience with interactive exhibits, mind-bending art, and psychedelic encounters you can literally feel. The four-story exhibition includes more than 70 installations, portals, and rooms dreamed up by 300 creatives.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Visit the Denver Art Museum.

Housed in a wildly angular, eye-catching building, the Denver Art Museum houses more than 70,000 diverse works with a revolving door of exhibitions that have included the work of Claude Monet, Norman Rockwell, Frida Kahlo, and Diego Rivera.

Sip on tea at the iconic Brown Palace Hotel.

At The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa , a Denver mainstay since 1892, you can step back in time (and to another continent) by joining their daily afternoon tea. Choose your tea of choice, then sit back and nosh on handmade pastries and tea sandwiches while the sounds of the grand piano float through the stained-glass-ceilinged atrium.

Catch a game at the Mile High Stadium.

Whether or not you like football, it's hard to deny the novelty of watching a game at 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level. And if you're really not into the game, you can cruise around the Empower Field at Mile High until you find a vantage point where you can see the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east. Not bad for a football stadium.

Take on the thrill of Elitch Gardens.

If you find yourself in Denver during the summer months, make a trip to the Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park . Take on the Tower of Doom's 200-foot drop or stop by Twister II, a world-class wooden roller coaster, before rewarding yourself with a funnel cake.

Get lost in the bookshelves at Tattered Cover.

Barnes & Noble has its place, but there's something special about perusing the aisles at an independent bookstore. And while the Tattered Cover has become one of the largest independent booksellers in the U.S. since its humble start in 1971, it's a Denver institution and shouldn't be missed.

See a show at a Theater Company housed inside an old church.

The Curious Theatre Company , which is based out of an old church, has been pushing the theatrical envelope for decades. It remains the home of thought-provoking plays, many of which are written by local playwrights.

Spend the weekend bowling and brunching.

If you need to let off some work-week steam, head to Punch Bowl Social to throw some balls and eat some Sriracha peanut fries. If bowling isn't your game, try your hand at shuffleboard, life-size Jenga, pool, or some old-school arcade games.

Travel to another world at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Check out the big screen (the big, big screen) at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science , which is home to both an Imax and a planetarium. If none of the shows catch your eye, walk through the museum's Space Odyssey exhibition or brush up on your dino knowledge at the Prehistoric Journey exhibit.

Have a beer (or three) at Denver Beer Co.

With an outdoor, dog-friendly patio just begging for visitors and a good location in Denver's LoHi (Lower Highland) neighborhood, Denver Beer Co. is the place to be when the sun is out and the weather is warm.

Find a little bit of everything at Number Thirty Eight.

If you're with a group and not sure where to go, head to Number Thirty Eight , a sprawling food hall with 24 taprooms (serving beer, cider, wine, and hard alcohol), live music, games, and a giant outdoor patio.

Visit Nocturne for a high-end supper club experience with live jazz.

For a fancy night out, drop by Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club , Denver's must-visit spot for modern jazz, classic cocktails, and a three-course menu.

Soak up some humidity at Denver Botanic Gardens.

Denver isn't known for its humidity (the state is generally dry), but inside the Denver Botanic Gardens conservatory, you can soak up the moisture while checking out thousands of tropical plant species. The garden also has a collection of native, aquatic, and alpine plants, and on certain days, you can see it all while grooving to live music or checking out a visiting art installation.

Check out the Art Walk on Santa Fe Drive.

The first Friday of every month, Santa Fe Drive comes alive for the First Friday Art Walk . You can pop in and out of galleries and shops, pick up some grub from a food cart, and enjoy some five-star people-watching.

Visit the dramatic rock formations at Roxborough State Park.

Garden of the Gods in the neighboring city of Colorado Springs gets all the attention, but under an hour south of Denver is a park with red sandstone formations that are just as dramatic. Roxborough State Park is a 3,339-acre oasis with natural scenery that will make your jaw drop.

Rent a bike and cruise along the river.

The South Platte River passes right near downtown Denver and is paralleled by a paved bike path. Hop aboard one of the local scooter or bike-share providers (Lyft and Lime) and enjoy the view as you make your way to Blue Moon Brewing Company for a well-deserved beer.

Go vintage and thrift store shopping on Broadway.

Broadway is lined with the city's best vintage and thrift shops — especially between 1st and Bayaud avenues. All you have to do is park (or get off the bus) and make your way up and down Broadway, popping in and out of the street's cool stores, coffee shops, and bars. If you need a little pick-me-up, swing by Voodoo Doughnut .

Order a giant cinnamon roll at the Denver Biscuit Company.

It may be called Denver Biscuit Company , but it's all about the biscuit cinnamon roll (giant and amazing). If you're not into sweets, The Winona, a biscuit sandwich stuffed with fried chicken and doused with house-made cheddar pimento cheese, is hard to beat.

Visit the house of "Unsinkable Molly Brown."

Molly Brown, a philanthropist, activist, and socialite who survived the sinking of the Titanic, lived in Denver. And now, her home near downtown Denver has been converted into a museum. Inside the Molly Brown House Museum , you'll follow along with the ups and downs of Molly's life, including her fateful journey on the Titanic.

Eat your way through Union Station.

What was once a train station in the heart of Denver is now filled with some of the city's best restaurants and bars (in addition to still being a train hub ). You can spend an entire day hopping from eatery to eatery — breakfast at Snooze, lunch at Acme, drinks at Terminal Bar, and ice cream at Milkbox Ice Creamery — with some shopping and people-watching thrown in.

Catch a Rockies game at Coors Field.

It's hard to beat beer, brats, and baseball on a bluebird Colorado day. And the views from Coors Field , which is located right in downtown Denver, will keep even the most skeptical baseball onlookers happy.

Related Articles

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Summer Getaways

Enjoy concerts under the stars at Red Rocks, patio dining, endless outdoor fun and cultural festivals galore for a dream getaway.

Fall & Winter

Welcome to the world's largest après ski town. Have a blast in the city, gear up and acclimatize before you hit the Rocky Mountain ski slopes.

Year-Round Activities

Find out about the biggest events happening over the next month and other exciting things you won’t want to miss.

Attractions

Arts & culture, family friendly, sports & recreation, health & wellness, itineraries, day trips & around colorado, exciting things to do in denver.

Denver’s balmy weather provides endless things to do in the city and nearby mountains year-round. Don't miss these must-sees .

Relax in nature with 4,000 acres of public city parks , one of the largest urban park systems in the country. Or take a walk or bike ride on the region’s 850 miles of paved, off-street trails. Make Denver your basecamp for day trips to experience world-class hiking, mountain biking, camping and fly-fishing .

The city’s arts and culture scene is thriving with major museums, unique art districts and boutique galleries. Denver is also a mecca for street art .

There’s something for everyone in the city from  r omantic spots to  family-friendly fun . Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or longer vacation, find the perfect  Denver hotel.  

Get a Feel for Denver in 90 Seconds!

World-class attractions. Natural wonders. A thriving arts scene. Dozens of innovative and acclaimed restaurants. Nightlife options galore. The word is getting out - Denver's got it all.

And so much more...

When you wake up in Denver, adventure awaits. Explore the city's greatest spots. Get local Denver tips on attractions, activities, scenic sightseeing, biking and tours, golf and other destinations. Whether you're a local, here for the weekend or more than a week, discover the best things to do in Denver during your trip. 

Must See & Do

From Meow Wolf Denver to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, these are the the things you won't want to miss.

Basecamp Denver

Denver and the neighboring Rocky Mountains are overflowing with outdoor activities. Make Denver your basecamp for endless adventure.

Attraction Discounts

The Mile High City offers you two different passes to take advantage of the great attractions throughout the city.

Things to Do in Denver FAQs

What are some things to do in Denver, Colorado with kids?

The Mile High City has a wide array of kid-friendly activities. Check out:

• Confluence Park
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science
• Downtown Aquarium
• Colorado Rockies Baseball

See our full list of kid-friendly attractions in Denver.

What are the best outdoor activities in Denver?

Here are popular outdoor adventures in and around Denver.

• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Hiking Trails
• Biking Trails
• Family-Friendly Activities

Find more outdoor things to do in Denver.

What is there to do in Downtown Denver?

Here are fun things to do in Denver's vibrant, walkable downtown area.

• Denver Union Station
• Tattered Cover Book Store
• Larimer Square

Find our whole list of downtown attractions and events.

What are some things to do in Denver at night?

Check out these fun nightlife activities in Denver.

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre
• Music Venues
• Date Night Ideas
• Dance Clubs

Find our full list of Denver live music & nightlife activities.

Booking Widget Added to Footer Panel

Join Spotlight Sunday & get Colorado travel inspiration straight to your inbox!

Denver Bucket List: 61 Best Things to Do in Denver CO

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

If you find yourself in Denver, Colorado, you may be wondering what there is to do in this vibrant city. Luckily, we have compiled a list of the top things to do in Denver CO so that you can make the most of your visit.

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, Denver has something for everyone! It’s one of the reasons we love living in Denver so much; you can have both the city vibes and fancy bars but also escape into the great outdoors with just a short drive.

As Denver locals, we’ve spent so much time exploring all that this city has to offer. Living here for three years has allowed us to experience it during every time of year, too.

Below, find all of the best things to do in Denver CO.

🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver !

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Denver CO

Visit the denver art museum.

For those who love visiting museums, be sure to head to one of our local art museums, like the Denver Art Museum .

It is located in downtown Denver and houses many unique works of art. The museum is home to an extensive collection of Latin American art, as well as European, Asian, and contemporary art. The museum also features a variety of educational programs and events.

The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Tuesday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Admission to the museum is free for children under 18, and there are discounts available for seniors, students, and military personnel. There are also select free days throughout the year.

Dine at The Source

There are so many food halls in Denver, but one of the most underrated is The Source ! This is located in the northern part of the city and has tons of fun restaurants to dine at, and you’ll often find locals here.

One of the best places to eat at The Source is smōk . This BBQ restaurant has mouth-watering food that you’ll dream about after you eat it!

Join Spotlight Sunday & get weekly Colorado travel inspiration to your inbox!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

See a game with the Colorado Avalanche

Calling all sports fans! In the winter season, one of the best things to do is to see a Colorado Avalanche game. Tickets can get pretty expensive, but our pro tip is to check ticket apps (like Gametime) the day of; this is normally when you can grab tickets the cheapest.

The experience is unlike any other, and the fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL. Don’t forget to wear your maroon and navy to show your Avalanche pride!

Take a walk or bike ride through one of Denver’s many parks

There are many free things to do in Denver , and one of the best is to visit one of the parks in the city. Denver is home to many parks, and each one is worth visiting.

Biking in a park is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery. Denver has many beautiful parks, so it’s a great place to go for a bike ride .

There are also many trails that are perfect for walking. Visit these parks earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.

Wake up with coffee from Grounds for Dismissal

The absolute best spot for coffee in Denver is Grounds for Dismissal . This queer-run cafe features tons of amazing morning foods and drinks that will leave you wanting more!

The best thing on their menu is definitely their coffee flight. They change what is in the coffee flight each month, and it usually has to do with the season or an upcoming holiday. It’s perfect to split with a friend!

Browse the eclectic shops in historic Larimer Square

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, look no further than Larimer Square . This historic block is home to some of the best shopping, dining, and nightlife in the city.

Larimer Square is also one of the most popular spots for visitors to Denver. It’s Instagram-worthy and is often decorated! Located in the heart of downtown, it’s easy to get to, and there’s always something going on. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Denver downtown.

Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a unique gift, or just a place to people-watch, Larimer Square is the perfect place.

Explore Meow Wolf Convergence Station

Meow Wolf Convergence Station is one of the top things to do in Denver for anyone who loves art, music, and good vibes. It’s a newer addition to Denver, and when we visited it during opening week, we were absolutely in awe.

This community-based art gallery features work from local artists as well as hosts musical performances, workshops, and other events. It’s the perfect place to explore your creativity and connect with others in the city.

Plus, it’s immersive and brings the word “immersive” to a whole new level. Like, you actually walk through the exhibits, almost like you’re a part of it. It’s hard to explain… but you’ll love Meow Wolf Denver!

See the Colorado Rockies play at Coors Field

If you’re a baseball fan, catching a game at Coors Field is a must-do while in Denver. The stadium offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and the experience of watching a game here is like no other.

Plus, what better way to see the Coors Effect in action? Basically, this term came to be because, at the elevation of Coors Field (and Denver), the balls tend to fly here like no other. It’s worth witnessing in person!

Similar to seeing the Avalanche, wait for the price of tickets to drop right on game day on apps like Gametime. We’ve snagged tickets as low as $12 on there before!

We also think it’s way more beneficial to sit higher up. You get more of a breeze, and you’re less in the sun, which is great in the summer months.

Have a donut from Voodoo Donuts

If you’re looking for tasty things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with eating some delicious Voodoo Doughnuts . Though they hail from Portland, there’s a location in Denver that’s almost always busy over on Colfax.

These unique treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, and they’re definitely a memorable experience. Trust us; you’ll be talking about these donuts long after you’ve left Denver!

Plus, they come in a cute pink box. Try their Grape Ape or their Portland Cream; these are our two faves!

Sip on a craft beer at one of Denver’s many breweries

Obviously, no trip to Denver is complete without testing out the breweries here. It’s what we are pretty well known for, after all!

Not only will you get to sample some delicious local beer, but you’ll also learn about the brewing process and how different beers are made.

Plus, most breweries offer tours so you can see first-hand how your favorite brews are created. And, of course, there’s always the opportunity to buy some beer to take home with you!

So if you’re curious about craft beer or just want to try something new, be sure to check out a Denver brewery during your next visit.

For a planned tour of some of the local breweries, check out Denver Brewery Tours .

Attend a show at one of Denver’s many live music venues, such as Ogden Theatre or the Bluebird Theater

There are plenty of things to do in Denver CO, but one of the best things to do is see a concert. We go to a concert in Denver at least once a month because the music scene is very alive and well here!

Denver is home to some great venues that host a variety of music genres. So, whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or anything in between, there’s sure to be a concert for you.

Our personal favorite place to see a concert is at Ogden Theatre . It’s by downtown and has had great artists like Tones & I and Noah Kahan.

See the exhibits at the Molly Brown House Museum

Many people know Denver as a historic gold mining town, but it has so much more to offer visitors today. One of the top things to do in Denver CO is to visit the Molly Brown House .

This house was built in the 1800s and was home to one of the most famous residents of Denver, Margaret “Molly” Brown. Molly Brown was an American socialite, actress, and philanthropist who is best known for surviving the sinking of the Titanic.

Many people know her as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown!”

When you visit her house, you can take a tour and learn all about her fascinating life. You can also see how she lived during a time when most people in Denver were living in poverty.

The Molly Brown House is a great example of how far Denver has come since its early days as a mining town.

Stroll through 16th Street Mall

Even though it’s super touristy, we think it’s worth stopping at 16th Street Mall at least once, and it deserves a spot on this list. This street is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Plus, you can ride the 16th Street Mall Ride up and down the street for free. It’s a great way to get around the city on a budget.

During the holiday season, this street gets all jazzed up with fun lights, and you can even see the city’s electric tree.

Explore Denver Union Station

Located right in LoDo, it’s near impossible to miss a visit to Denver Union Station . It’s where the California-Zephyr Amtrack comes through and also is where most people will come into the city for the first time if they take the airport train.

The train station is truly beautiful both indoors and outdoors. It has a huge sign that welcomes you in, and the marble and gold accents inside feel so opulent.

Watch a Denver Broncos game

If you’re a football fan, there’s no better place to watch a game than at Mile High Stadium . The Denver Broncos fans are some of the most passionate in the league.

There’s nothing like experiencing a Broncos game firsthand, so if you’re in town, be sure to check out a game! Don’t forget to wear orange and blue.

Find a new book at the Tattered Cover Bookstore

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver CO, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Tattered Cover Bookstore . This local bookstore has been around since 1971 and is beloved by both locals and visitors alike!

What makes Tattered Cover so special?

For starters, it’s one of the largest bookstores in Denver, with a few locations in the area. It stocks both new and used books, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.

Plus, there’s always something going on at Tattered Cover, whether it’s a book signing or a reading group meeting. In other words, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon.

Visit the galleries in the Santa Fe Art District

The Santa Fe Art District is one of the more unique places to visit in Denver. The area is well known for its art galleries and museums.

One of the most fun times to explore the Santa Fe Art District is during the First Friday Art Walks . It happens all year long, and it’s a time when you can go and explore the galleries, mingle with others, and even enjoy some great food.

Sample some delicious Rocky Mountain oysters

Okay… hear us out. Rocky Mountain Oysters are something you should try as a first-time visitor to Denver.

These delicious morsels are actually fried bull testicles. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they are definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a unique culinary experience.

There are many places throughout the city to try them, but the most popular place is the Buckhorn Exchange Restaurant . This steakhouse has many other unique dishes on the menu, too!

See a performance at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre

This world-famous amphitheater is nestled by the beautiful Rocky Mountains and offers stunning views no matter where you sit! The acoustics are also incredible, making it a popular spot for both concerts and other live performances.

If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also take advantage of the hiking and biking trails in the area. Or, if you’re feeling sporty, you can even attend Yoga on the Rocks. No matter what you do, Red Rocks Park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Denver.

For a real treat, visit in the morning to catch the sunrise there. It’s the perfect way to start a day in Denver !

This is easily one of the best things to do in Denver in the summer.

Take a scenic drive or hike through the beautiful Rocky Mountains

Why not take the time to explore the rest of the area by Denver during your trip? Hop in a car and explore some of the Rocky Mountains.

The Rocky Mountains are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, millions of people flock to the mountains to enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, and the many activities that can be found there.

Some fun places in the area to explore include Golden, Boulder, Estes Park, Idaho Springs, and even Rocky Mountain National Park.

Visit the Colorado State Capitol Building

The Colorado State Capitol Building is one of the most iconic structures in Denver. It’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, thanks to its beautiful architecture and rich history.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Denver and the state of Colorado, a visit to the Capitol Building is a must. Guided tours are available, or you can explore the building on your own. Either way, you’re sure to be impressed by this beautiful and important landmark.

Don’t forget to snap a photo at the mile-high step in the front of the building!

Relax in Confluence Park

Confluence Park is one of the most underrated places to visit in Denver. This urban oasis offers stunning views of the cityscape and is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.

When we lived in Lodo, we visited this spot all the time. It’s nestled kind of behind a bridge near 16th Street Mall, and you’re more likely to find local residents there than tourists, which is what makes it so great.

This is the perfect place to jog, relax, or even have a picnic. It’s where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River.

Explore the memorabilia and exhibits at the National Ballpark Museum

Visiting the National Ballpark Museum is one of the unique things to do in Denver, Colorado. The museum is dedicated to the history of baseball and the role that ballparks have played in the game.

The museum features exhibits on the history of baseball, the construction of ballparks, and the evolution of the game.

The museum also has a collection of baseball memorabilia, including many artifacts from the first professional baseball stadium, Fenway Park.

The National Ballpark Museum is a must-visit for any baseball fan and is right by Coors Field.

Have fun at Elitch Gardens

For those visiting Denver with kids, you’ll want to head to Elitch Gardens . This amusement park has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides.

It’s located right by downtown (yes, you read that right), so it’s super easy to get to no matter where in the city you are staying.

There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, as well as live entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a romantic night out, Elitch Gardens is the perfect place for you.

Grab a bite to eat at the Dairy Block & Milk Market

The Denver Milk Market is in the heart of downtown Denver. The area is home to some of the best things to do in Denver today, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The Milk Market is home to many one-of-a-kind shops that you won’t find anywhere else in Denver. From fashion and beauty stores to home decor and gift shops, there’s something for everyone!

The Dairy Block is home to some of the best restaurants in Denver. From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll find something to suit your taste here. There’s especially good pizza at Bonnano Brothers Pizzeria, one of our fave pizza places.

Once you grab a bite to eat, sit and enjoy it in the beautiful alleyway here, look up, and you’ll see there are lights shaped like milk bottles!

See a Colorado Rapids Game

The Colorado Rapids are a professional soccer team here in Denver. They play their home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. The Rapids were founded in 1996, so the team is still fairly new!

Since their founding, the Rapids have won the MLS Cup once in 2010. The amount of support at these games is higher than we’ve witnessed at any other stadium here in Denver. Plus, none of the seats are bad!

Walk around the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mile High City. With many plants from all over the world, it’s one of the best botanic gardens to visit in Colorado.

Even if you’re not a plant lover, the gardens are still worth a visit for their beauty and serenity.

One of the best things to do at the Denver Botanic Gardens is to take a stroll through it all. We recommend grabbing a map and just exploring. There are lots of hidden spots throughout the garden that you’ll wander upon.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, the Denver Botanic Gardens also offers yoga classes, botanical art classes, and gardening workshops.

Boat in Washington Park

Washington Park is one of the most popular parks in Denver, Colorado, and for good reason.

The park is home to a beautiful lake where you can go boating, paddleboarding, or simply relax on the shore. There is a place right by the water where you can rent these by the hour. Try to go earlier in the day, because in the afternoon, it gets hot in the sun!

There are also plenty of walking and biking trails to explore, as well as a playground and picnic area. Washington Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with friends or family.

Have drinks at a rooftop bar

Rooftop bars offer stunning views of the cityscape, and they’re a great place to enjoy the warm weather. And what’s more, Denver has some of the best rooftop bars in the country, in our opinion!

Some great ones include Avanti , Tap Fourteen , and 54Thirty Rooftop . There are also quite a few downtown in Lodo heading towards RiNo.

Go shopping in Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek is one of the best places to shop in Denver. It is an upscale neighborhood with a variety of shops and boutiques.

You can find anything you need at Cherry Creek, from clothes to home decor.

There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. One of our personal favorite spots here is the Cherry Cricket !

Dine at Stanley Marketplace

Located right outside of Denver in Aurora, Stanley Marketplace is one of the most unique places to visit in the city. We go here so often!

The marketplace is filled with different vendors offering a wide variety of cuisines, so there’s something for everyone. A new churro place even opened in 2022, which is incredible and is called Churreria de Madrid .

You can also eat at Denver Biscuit Co here, which serves over-the-top biscuit sandwiches!

The marketplace is located in an old airplane hangar, so it has a really cool industrial vibe. In addition to the food vendors, there are also several shops selling things like clothes, jewelry, and home goods.

The marketplace regularly hosts events like live music, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs.

See a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the top places to visit in Denver. There is always something going on here, and it’s the place where you can often see theatrical performances in the city.

Throughout the past year, they’ve even had Dear Evan Hansen and Hamilton ! We saw Hamilton, and it was incredible. If you plan on seeing a show here though, book your tickets well in advance!

Attend BBQ Fest

If you love BBQ, then you’ll definitely want to attend the BBQ Fest in Denver ! This event is one of the best in the country and features some of the most popular BBQ vendors from around the nation.

You’ll be able to try out different styles of BBQ and find your new favorite! It usually happens over a weekend in the month of June.

Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most popular ways to see the beauty around Denver. The byway takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado and offers stunning views of Mount Evans and the surrounding area.

Just as a heads up, make sure you’re okay with heights before driving this! Be sure also to check the weather before you begin the drive.

Take a stroll through the picturesque LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood

Lodo, short for Lower Downtown, is one of Denver’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods.

Situated just south of RiNo, Lodo is home to a variety of businesses, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The area is home to Coors Field and Union Station, too! If you’re staying in a hotel, you’re most likely staying in LoDo.

Take the time to walk around this neighborhood and see what you stumble upon. You never know what you might find!

Have fun at the Children’s Museum of Denver

One of the best things to do in Denver with kids is to visit the Children’s Museum , especially if you are visiting with kids. The Children’s Museum is a great place for kids of all ages to learn about different subjects.

The museum has many interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, art, history, and more. The Children’s Museum is a great place to take the family for a day of fun and learning!

Stroll through City Park

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Denver’s City Park. This park is home to a number of attractions, including the Denver Zoo.

The park is absolutely massive , so take the time to park and just walk around it. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city because it’s a lot quieter. You could also consider biking here if you want to.

Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA Denver) is a world-class museum featuring the best in contemporary art. MCA Denver offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just getting started.

MCA Denver is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. They even had a Keith Haring exhibit in 2021.

It is located in the heart of downtown Denver, making it easy to get to and from. The museum also has a cafe and a shop, so you can refuel after exploring all the amazing art on display.

Throughout the year, there are also “penny days” where you can basically visit the museum for free. Visit their website to see when these occur!

Read at the Denver Public Library

The Denver Public Library is one of the must-visit spots if it happens to be raining during your trip to the city. It is a beautiful building with a lot of history and plenty of things to do inside.

Why not take the time to stroll through the library, see what it offers, and maybe even pick up a book or two to read? There are lots of spots throughout the library, too, where you can sit and read at your leisure!

Learn at the Denver Museum of Nature and History

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is one of the coolest places in the city, and it’s a great place to learn about the natural world. The museum has a ton of exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.

Families and solo travelers alike will love this museum. Plan on spending at least a few hours there to see everything!

Shop at a local farmer’s market

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Denver this weekend, one great option is to visit a farmer’s market. Shopping at a farmer’s market supports local farmers and helps to ensure that you’re getting fresh, high-quality produce.

Plus, it can be a lot of fun to browse the different stalls and see all the different kinds of fruits and vegetables that are available.

Farmer’s markets are typically held on weekends, so if you’re visiting Denver on a weekend, be sure to check out one of the city’s many farmer’s markets.

Some of the best include the Cherry Creek Farmer’s Market , the Boulder Farmer’s Market , and the Denver Union Station Farmer’s Market .

Have a bite to eat at the Denver Central Market

The Denver Central Market is a great place to eat, and it’s located right in the beautiful RiNo. The market offers a wide variety of food options, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.

Once you peruse the market and grab whatever food you’d like (we absolutely love and suggest Green Seed for smoothies), find a spot to eat by the street art outside the market.

Check out the sealife at the Denver Aquarium

If you find yourself in Denver, then you absolutely must visit the world-renowned Denver Aquarium . While many people visit here to try out the restaurant (which is consistently voted as one of the best places to eat in Denver), the aquarium itself is fun, too.

Head upstairs and walk from exhibit to exhibit. Take your time; there are lots of signs throughout the aquarium where you can learn more. Surprise, but there is a tiger there too!

You can also consider going on one of the Denver Aquarium free days.

Bike the Cherry Creek Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Denver. This popular trail follows Cherry Creek for over 40 miles, offering beautiful views of the creek and the city skyline.

The trail is well-maintained and perfect for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. There are also plenty of places to stop along the way to rest or grab a bite to eat.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or a visitor looking to get outside and experience all that Denver has to offer, the Cherry Creek Trail is definitely worth checking out.

Ride the Denver Trolley

The Denver Trolley is a unique and fun way to see the city. It’s a great way to get around, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Plus, it’s just really cool to ride on a trolley!

The Denver Trolley costs $7 for adults or $3 for children under 13 and over 4, as children under 4 are free. It stops at the Denver Children’s Museum and also the aquarium. Note that they only stop on the southbound part of the ride.

Golf at Urban Putt

Located in Lodo, Urban Putt is one of our favorite hidden gems . This indoor golf course has two different courses set up to replicate parts of Denver! Golf through Denver International Airport, downtown, and even Red Rocks.

Visit during the day to avoid the rush from happy hour. This is fun for both kids and adults, no matter how many times you go! (We’ve gone a handful of times and plan on going many more.)

See the exhibits at the Denver Firefighter Museum

The Denver Firefighter Museum is awesome, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of firefighting in Denver.

The museum is located in an old firehouse, and it has a few exhibits. You can learn about the equipment that firefighters use, see old photos of fires, and more. This spot is mentioned on almost every free tour of Denver!

Drive through and see the animals at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

If you want to see wildlife during your trip to Denver, you won’t want to miss Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge . This refuge is home to bison, prairie dogs, deer, and more.

There are plenty of things to do at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. You can go hiking or biking on the trails, take photos, or, our favorite, hop in your car and drive through to see what animals you’ll find.

Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for things to do in Denver, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. The drive takes around an hour.

Eat a burrito at D’Corozan

D’Corazan is one of the best places to get a burrito in Denver ! We ate here during our first-ever trip to Denver, and since moving here, it’s where we go all the time.

Their cheesy queso with green chile has a nice spice but is incredibly tasty. Their a la carte beef burritos are also so delicious. Order both at the same time and put some of the queso on the burrito for a real treat.

This restaurant is located downtown, so if you’re exploring 16th Street, this is a great place to go to escape the commercial restaurants and eat local.

Drive the Peak to Peak Highway

One of the best things to do in the Denver area is to drive the Peak to Peak Highway . The highway connects Estes Park to Black Hawk and Central City. The views from the road are simply breathtaking, making it one of the most popular scenic drives in Colorado.

In addition to the incredible views, driving the Peak to Peak Highway is also a great way to experience some of the state’s best foliage. In the fall , this highway is truly one of the most spectacular in the entire country.

Tour Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar

The Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar offers tours of their facilities, allowing visitors to see how they make their award-winning whiskey. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy spirits.

Explore more about their tour by clicking here . Many of their tours include up to four different tastings, so you can try it while also learning more! Talk about a good time.

Go ice skating downtown

In the winter, go ice skating in Denver!

Ice skating is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the city. Plus, it’s a perfect activity for both adults and children.

There are several ice skating rinks in Denver, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re new to ice skating, don’t worry; just stay to the side. It’s what we do!

So put on your warmest coat and gloves and head out to one of these top ice skating spots in Denver.

Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most amazing creatures at the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and for good reason. The zoo is an exciting place to explore for people of all ages.

In addition to its impressive animal collection, the Denver Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, events, and exhibits throughout the year.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts or you just want to see some of the animals, there’s something for everyone at the Denver Zoo.

Discover some amazing street art in Denver’s RiNo (River North) Arts District

Denver’s RiNo (River North Art District) is home to some of the best street art in the city. The area is also home to a number of breweries, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring!

There are a number of ways to explore street art in RiNo. You can take a walking tour, rent a bike, or even take a Segway tour. No matter how you choose to explore, you’re sure to see some incredible artwork.

Learn at the United States Mint

The United States Mint in Denver produces coins for circulation, as well as collector coins. It is also a great tourist destination, especially for those interested in American history or numismatics.

The Mint offers tours of its facility, which is the best way to learn. Tours are free and open to the public, making the Mint a great option for things to do in Denver CO that are both educational and enjoyable.

After taking a tour of the facility, visitors can browse the gift shop, which sells a variety of items related to coins and money. The Mint also has an exhibit gallery, which features rotating exhibitions on topics such as the history of American coinage or the Mint’s involvement in world events.

Whether you’re interested in American history, numismatics, or just want to see how coins are made, the United States Mint in Denver is a great option for things to do in the city.

Take a photo at the Big Blue Bear

The Big Blue Bear is one of the most iconic sculptures in Denver, and for good reason! This massive sculpture is impossible to miss, and it makes for a great photo op. Trust us; your Instagram followers will be jealous.

Find it right by the Denver Convention Center. It’s leaning up against the building!

Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Denver.

This museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of aviation travel. The museum has an impressive collection of aircraft artifacts, as well as interactive exhibits that will teach you about the science of flight.

The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation and space travel, and it’s also a lot of fun!

Explore the outdoors at Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Denver. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.

There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas. The park is open all year round, making it a great place to visit no matter what time of year it is.

If you live in Denver, be sure to grab a free state park pass from the library. Keep in mind there are often waitlists for these, but you can keep it for a week!

Attend the National Western Stock Show

The National Western Stock Show is the perfect event for any Western fan. This annual event features some of the best in rodeo, livestock, and more.

It normally takes place in January each year and is truly fun for the entire family. It’s been going on since the early 1900s and takes place over the course of about 16 days, so you can choose a date to attend that works best for you.

Go on a free walking tour

A Denver free walking tour is the perfect way to get an insider’s view of the city. You’ll learn about the history and culture of Denver, see the best sights in Denver, meet new people, and make new friends. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise!

We actually have gone on walking tours before when family and friends have visited us here. Visit here to see some great walking tours in Denver.

Don’t forget to bring some cash to tip your guide. While they are free, tipping is encouraged!

Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

Last but not least, consider taking a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park . Just a short drive from the city, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the state. It’s easily one of the best day trips from Denver .

There are several outdoor activities one must do near Denver, Colorado… but this is one you can’t miss out on.

Here, you’ll find towering mountains, stunning alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. There are plenty of things to do in the park, whether you want to go hiking, camping, or fishing.

And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife! With just a day, spend the morning hiking in the Bear Lake area (we recommend Emerald Lake trail, and if you have the time, also see Lake Haiyaha) and then spend the afternoon on Trail Ridge Road.

FAQs: What to do in Denver Colorado

What are the best attractions to visit in denver.

The city of Denver is home to many wonderful attractions. The top five include the Colorado State Capitol, the Denver Zoo, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Denver Union Station.

Are there any great outdoor recreational activities in Denver?

Denver has plenty of outdoor activities for visitors, including hiking and biking trails throughout the city, kayaking on one of the many lakes in the area, or skiing in the nearby Rockies.

Is there a safe place to stay when I’m visiting Denver?

Denver is a very safe city with many hotels and Airbnbs offering comfortable accommodations for travelers. It’s best to stay downtown in LoDo!

What type of food can I find when I’m in Denver?

There are so many great dining options in Denver! From classic American eateries to international restaurants, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your taste. Don’t forget about trendy cafes where you can grab coffee or a bite to eat!

Is there nightlife and entertainment in Denver?

There’s plenty to do when it comes to nightlife and entertainment in Denver – from dive bars to fine dining establishments, live music venues, and comedy clubs.

Final Thoughts: Denver Bucket List

This post was all about the best things to do in Denver CO! We hope you enjoy your time in the Mile High City.

Want to read more? Check out these next:

19 Best Things to Do in Denver at Night

• 10 Delectable Spots for Afternoon Tea in Denver
• 13 Tasty Spots for Brunch in Denver
• 7 Best Places to go Apple Picking Near Denver
• 49 Best Free Things to do in Denver (& the Surrounding Area!)
• How to Have the Perfect 1 Day in Denver
• 23 Romantic Date Night Ideas in Denver

Pin this post for later!

After moving to Denver in 2020, KP & Jessie absolutely fell in love with the beauty of the city (and the entire state of Colorado). Together, they're always seeing more of what Colorado has to offer. They love exploring, going on hikes, and trying tasty foods! When they're not traveling, they can be found watching the latest season of Love Island or hanging out with their cat.

Similar Posts

11 Best Things to Do in Denver in March

13 Top Things to Do in Denver in Summer

11 Fun Denver Karaoke Bars for an Unforgettable Night

How to Have the Best Bachelorette Party in Denver

13 Fun Things to Do Alone in Denver

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Denver (Colorado)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 16, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Denver is full of exciting points of interest, must-see tourist attractions and some of the best vacation spots .

With so many places to see, you’ll want to have a good plan for where to go while you’re in this bustling city.

Here are the 30 best and fun things to do in Denver, Colorado.

Table of Contents

1. Denver Botanic Gardens

Sherry Little Fawn S / Shutterstock

The Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the must see locations for anyone who’s looking for a peaceful, relaxing walk.

This gorgeous oasis spans 24 acres and is covered in stunning sights, including numerous sculptures, pools, and different garden types.

For the coolest sculptures, check out the huge, spiky red-and-yellow piece entitled “Colorado” made by glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, or the Deborah Butterfield piece depicting a horse stripped bare.

For the most fascinating gardens, xeriscaped drought-resistant lands, the Mordecai Children’s Garden, and a Japenese garden are all great options.

And don’t forget the beautiful Monet Pool packed with pretty lilies!

You can also stop by the gift shop for some quaint little trinkets.

Address:  1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, United States

2. Clyfford Still Museum

Clyfford Still Museum

The Clyfford Still Museum is situated right next to the arguably much more popular Denver Art Museum, but it is just as worthy of stopping by while you’re in this Colorado city.

It houses a whopping 3,200 pieces created by Clyfford Still, who is world-renowned as an abstract expressionist artist.

Originally opened in 2011, the Clyfford Still Museum celebrates some of Still’s most loved works, beginning from his early sketches from the 1920s to his more well-known canvas masterpieces made back in the 1950s.

Witness the bright bursts of colors, supplemented with a variety of informational placards that keep things concise yet interesting.

This Colorado museum also gives you great insight into the way that an art style can slowly but surely evolve and change over time.

Unlike many more crowded museums, this one is intimate and feels very much like a unique, personal experience that you can enjoy without the masses.

It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Denver!

Address:  1250 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

3. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Grossinger / Shutterstock

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a stunning spot for sightseeing that is located on Colorado Highway 5.

It’s a great way to take in some stunning views without exerting yourself in a hike if that’s not something you feel like doing.

The concept is simple: pay a simple car entrance fee and drive up from Echo Lake’s Highway 103 to the top of the Summit Lake road.

The road is only open at certain times of the year, but it’s one of the best places to visit in the area.

This is the tallest paved road that you’ll find not just in this city, but in all of America.

At the very peak of Mount Evans and its road, you’ll be a huge, impressive 14,264 feet over the level of the sea.

A number of useful stopping points allow you to step out and look out over the edge of the road to see views of the Rocky Mountains.

It’s certainly among the top things to do in Denver!

4. Denver Art Museum

robert cicchetti / Shutterstock

The Denver Art Museum is among the top 10 art-related locations in Colorado.

It is the biggest of its kind within the city.

Located in the famed Golden Triangle Creative District, it hosts over 70,000 different gorgeous works of art in two lovely buildings, from all manner of artists, from all walks of life.

The museum showcases a good mix of permanent fixtures as well as sophisticated and fantastic temporary exhibitions that change with the seasons.

The building itself is made with eye-catching architecture that provides a wow factor from the get-go, and there’s something within for everyone, from art aficionados to those who just popped in.

There isn’t any specific exhibit that truly stands out, as so many of them are incredible and worth viewing.

You’ll see countless different pieces that will make you gasp in delight!

Whether or not you’re an art fan, this museum easily makes the list for what to do in Denver.

Address:  100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States

5. Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Federico Curcio / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some music and entertainment tonight, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is among the greatest that you’ll find in Colorado.

It is famous for being exceedingly beautiful thanks to its natural amphitheater design, which benefits from the gorgeous red sandstone rocks that encircle it.

If you’re in Denver anytime from spring to fall, you’ll be able to witness some pretty interesting shows, from musical performances to film screenings.

Better yet, pretty much all seats in the entire amphitheater are good ones, and shows go on through all sorts of weather.

But even if you’re not big on live shows, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is still one of the things to see that you won’t want to miss, even if it’s purely for its aesthetic quality!

Address:  18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States

Going on a road trip around Colorado? Check out our list of things to do in Colorado !

6. Coors Field

Kit Leong / Shutterstock

Baseball fans unite!

Coors Field is one of the most fun locations in Denver to take a trip to if you’re looking for a ballpark that’s suitable for the whole family.

Named after the beer that this city is so well-known for, this field is the home turf of the Colorado Rockies, a Major League Baseball team much-loved by many.

Coors Field is a stadium that covers 76 acres and more than enough space to seat 50,000 spectators.

If you’re lucky enough to sit in the right-field or first-base areas, you’ll have a gorgeous view ahead of you to accompany the game: the Rocky Mountains loom overhead.

But what about off-season?

Well, there are still plenty of activities to do that will keep all ages entertained.

Ground tours can be still be embarked on off-season, giving you a great glimpse into the world of baseball.

An interactive area allows you to take your chance at video batting cages and speed pitches.

Whether you’re here to see a game, sample some tasty snacks, or just explore, visiting Coors Field is one of the most awesome things to do in downtown Denver!

Address:  2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205, United States

7. Empower Field at Mile High

APN Photography / Shutterstock

The Empower Field is located within the well-known Mile High Stadium of Denver.

It’s the site of many amazing events in Super Bowl history, including the multiple wins and record-setting efforts of the local Broncos.

Football fans in this Colorado City are sure to love catching a game over the weekend – or on a weekday, too! – in this 76,000-seater stadium.

But this field isn’t just pure sports.

Believe it or not, public art displays can be found around the field for you to scrutinize.

Still, no one can deny that catching a home game on the Empower Field is among the top things to do in Denver.

You can also go on a tour of the stadium, including walking through the locker rooms, broadcast areas, entrance tunnel, and more.

Address:  1701 Bryant St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

8. Forney Museum of Transportation

Neal Wellons / flickr

The Forney Museum of Transportation is one of the more quirky Denver attractions in Colorado.

Originally, the museum’s extensive collection began with the private collection of Forney Industries founder J.D. Forney.

His wife and children presented him with a special antique car in 1961, and that kickstarted his love of collecting unusual, special, one-of-a-kind, and sometimes downright weird automobiles!

If it had wheels, he would consider it!

Now, the collection comprises of 600 different pieces, and it continues to expand in the spirit of Forney’s efforts.

The car of Amelia Earhart, a “Big Boy” locomotive, and even a banged-about Herbie the Love Bug are all noteworthy entries to this museum.

Hilariously, to add a little more life to their displays, mannequins with silly eyes are posed around and in these vehicles.

It’s a very strange museum indeed, but if you’re looking for what to do, it’s one that shouldn’t be missed!

Address:  4303 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216, United States

9. Larimer Square

littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock

Known as one of the most beautiful places in the US , Larimer Square is full of sights, sounds, and stores that make it an absolute must-visit in downtown Denver.

It is from here that all of Denver slowly grew into the wonderful Colorado city that we know it as now.

Teeming with history, it slipped into a deteriorated state a good while ago and was slowly refurbished and brought back to life.

The square isn’t exactly the “plaza” type of square.

Instead, it is a street spanning just a block that contains a wide range of interesting shop lots, including clubs, boutiques, bars, restaurants, and more.

Delicious food and a delightful atmosphere await you!

Address: 1430 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, USA

10. Adams Mystery Playhouse

Adams Mystery Playhouse

The Adams Mystery Playhouse is the only establishment of its kind in all of Colorado.

So, what is it exactly?

It is a mystery dinner theatre, which essentially provides a delicious buffet meal for you to enjoy while actors bestow their hilarious and delightful comedy on you.

And it’s all family-friendly, so it’s among the greatest things to do in Denver this weekend with kids!

Then, surprise! Something happens!

A murder mystery takes place right after dinner is done!

Help look for clues, have a few snacks, and watch more performances – then enjoy the culmination of the mysterious case.

The winning team that solves the case gets some great souvenirs.

If you’re looking for some fun while you’re in town, this is a fantastic option.

Address:  2406 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80211, United States

Exploring other areas of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Colorado Springs  & some of the things to do in Estes Park ?

11. Denver Zoo

Mia2you / Shutterstock

The Denver Zoo first opened in the 1890s, and since then, it has only gotten better.

Designed after a nature preserve in Kenya, it’s among the most fun tourist attractions in Colorado that will make you feel like you’re far away in the wilderness!

More than 4,000 animals call the Denver Zoo their home.

It takes up a whopping 8 acres and spans across City Park, with a wide range of different types of areas that showcase some awesome animals.

You can view mammals, reptiles, aquatic creatures, invertebrates, birds, and more!

The Denver Zoo also offers plenty of activities.

If you get there during the standard feeding times, you’ll get to listen to some fascinating lectures from staff members.

Special events involve giant Lego replicas of the animals that litter the compound, photo safaris, animatronic dinosaurs, and more!

Address:  2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205, United States

12. Tattered Cover Book Store

Epiglottis / Shutterstock

If you’re a book-lover figuring out what to do while you’re in Denver, the Tattered Cover Book Store is arguably among the most loved.

It is one of the most impressive independent bookstores in Denver today.

Since it opened in 1971, the bookstore has grown outside of Colorado to earn four locations, and for good reason!

This homey bookstore is full of things to see, with great books, warm coffee, and cozy little armchairs to sit in.

Staff is very knowledgeable, and sometimes authors drop by to host seminars.

Gorgeous stationery is also available for sale, alongside a huge variety of books that spawn across all the genres you can think of.

Whether you’re here to just browse, to pick up some books or gifts, or to rest in an armchair while reading for a few hours, this bookstore feels like a sophisticated library that anyone would love to spend an afternoon in.

Address:  2526 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States

13. Craft Beer Tour

Master1305 / Shutterstock

Denver is pretty well-known for its beer.

That’s why you can’t miss out on a Craft Beer Tour if you’re in this Colorado city this week.

Head to downtown Denver to be taken through a two- or three-hour tour that teaches you just how all that renowned craft beer is made.

Many different types of these tours are held, but the most popular one brings you through four stops.

You’ll learn how brewing happens, take a trip to one of the initial brewpubs that started the Denver craft beer craze, get to drink in a special governer-founded brewery, and finally wind up in one of the state’s greatest bars.

Throughout this tour, which is one of the most fun things to do in Denver, you’ll find out about which beers have the most incredible tastes, receive a tasting glass as a souvenir, and learn historical facts and bits of trivia.

So if you want to sate your craving for good alcohol without going out tonight, this is a great way to do it!

14. Cheesman Park

jennifer_crowder_artist / Shutterstock

Cheesman Park is located in the central area of Denver, and it’s known for being pretty haunted.

In fact, it’s one of the most haunted spots not just in Colorado, but in all of the United States.

Spanning 80 acres, the park features landscaped grounds and looks perfectly serene, but don’t let that fool you when you visit today, tomorrow, or whenever!

Originally, this area of land was part of 320 acres used by the Colorado city as a cemetery.

Back then, it was known as Mount Prospect.

One end was reserved for the rich to be buried while the other was used for criminals and beggars, and people on either end of the spectrum were buried in between.

The cemetery eventually began deteriorating, and the city eventually got control over it and disposed of 5,000 bodies that had been unclaimed, often by cutting them up into tiny pieces.

No wonder this place has its scary reputation now!

It may not be the most conventional of Denver attractions, but it’s certainly worth a visit if you’re there to view the macabre and odd!

Address: 8th Ave & Franklin St, Denver, CO 80206, USA

15. American Museum of Western Art

Miguel Rodríguez / flickr

If you love history but don’t want to deal with overcrowded museums, the American Museum of Western Art is one of the best places to visit – so much so that you should drop in if you’re near Denver.

The building itself began its life in 1880, where it was used as a school for women known as the Brinker Collegiate Institute.

After that closed down, it was, surprisingly, turned into a brothel, which could be entered via a secret tunnel underground.

Eventually, William Foxley purchased the building, and he used a huge amount of money to turn it into the museum we know now.

The museum’s primary goal is promoting Western life, spanning from the early 1800s all the way to modern living.

A wide range of different collections provides insights into more than just Colorado, especially through the Anschutz Collection.

Tours are also available, through which you can get in-depth examinations of over 200 pieces.

Address:  1727 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80202, United States

Exploring other parts of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Breckenridge  & some of the things to do in Boulder ?

16. Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey

Infinite_Eye / Shutterstock

In need of a fun night in Denver, but you want to make it as unique an experience as possible?

You could visit a bar, but you could also be classy and get yourself a tour of the coolest places to visit in Denver – Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey.

If you would rather get your drinks sorted during the day, this operational distillery has you covered as well.

While the in-house bar itself has a rustic feel with its Western decor, the rest of the distillery (and the tasting room) retains that industrial feel with steel beams and corrugated metal.

No matter where you’re drinking your whiskey, however, one thing’s for certain – it’s some of the yummiest liquor in the city.

Don’t be surprised if you bump into people camping overnight for bottles of the distillery’s limited edition Snowflake!

Address:  200 S Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80223, United States

Planning another vacation? Don’t forget to check out some of the most beautiful places to visit in California !

17. Union Station

Jon Osumi / Shutterstock

There’s a lot of history to be found in Denver, thanks to it being the center of Colorado’s Gold Rush heyday.

Now, the century-old Union Station not only serves as a standing legacy to the city’s colorful past, but it also serves downtown Denver as a functioning public transit station!

In addition to that, Union Station is also a one-stop hub for entertainment and eateries.

If you have the time for it, one of the best things to do in Denver is to try having a night out at the station.

Head down over to the Union Stations Orient Express-style Cooper Lounge if you’re in the mood for snazzy cocktails, or catch happy hour at the Terminal Bar!

If you aren’t hungry yet, the renovated landmark has plenty of shops and boutiques you can look in.

Maybe you’ll find something in this entertainment center that’ll catch your eye!

Address:  Denver, CO 80202, United States

18. City Park

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

While hunting for tourist attractions around Denver, you may have heard of the City Park – and for good reason.

Located in the approximate LoDo side of Denver, this park sprawls across an incredible 330 acres and houses the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in proximity to each other.

While Colorado as a whole is no slacker in the scenic views department, you’d be hard-pressed to find backdrops that this park can provide.

Whether you just want to marvel at the sight of the city’s skyline against the Rockies or enjoy the romantic silhouette the Spanish-style pavilion provides, there are some breathtaking views this park is ready to offer!

And when you’re done with being outdoors all day, you can just duck into the Museum for an air-conditioned learning experience.

It’s a win-win situation no matter which way you slice it!

Address: Colorado Blvd. and York St., Denver, CO 80205, USA

19. Denver Mint

Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock

Should you still be wondering about other Denver attractions you can visit, then why not consider this chance to see a working coin mint in action?

A relic of Colorado’s mining heyday, the Denver branch of the national Mint was originally meant to take advantage of the Gold Rush and produce coinage for the U.S. Mint.

While it’s still an active mint pumping out 50 million coins daily, the facility also doubles as a museum.

Located near the Denver Art Museum, you can pop on by to learn about coin design, manufacturing, and Colorado’s rich mining legacy in great detail.

While the tours are free, they are often in high demand and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

So make sure to show up there first thing in the morning and give yourself at least 30 minutes to clear security!

Address:  320 W Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204, United States

20. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

f11photo / Shutterstock

For a day full of fun, why not check out the Denver Museum of Nature & Science ?

This impressive facility is home to tons of scientific exhibits that are sure to delight anyone who has a love for the natural sciences.

It’s easy to find this museum too – there’s plenty of buses that have this museum as a dropping off point.

If you were already visiting the Denver Zoo earlier that day, this fantastic museum is just to the south!

And here’s a fun little thing – one of the top things to do in Denver is to find mythological creatures that really should not be in a museum about the physical world.

A tradition that was started by painter Kent Pendleton in the 1970s, the museum is now full of hidden gnomes and elves just waiting to be spotted by an eagle-eyed visitor!

Address:  2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205, United States

Looking for more thrills? Why not check out some of the things to do in Fort Collins  & some of the fun things to do in Durango, CO ?

21. Washington Park

Faina Gurevich / Shutterstock

Known for its beautiful landscape and forests, Colorado remains one of the most worthy sightseeing destinations in the nation.

Denver itself is home to Washington Park – one of the city’s most treasured outdoor regions.

Why not take a break from the humdrum of city life and treat yourself to its soul-soothing aesthetics?

If you need some points of interest to keep you oriented in this park, why not try hopping on a paddleboat or a rented bike to explore Smith Lake with?

Just make your way down to the historical boathouse next to it to get started.

The park’s second lake, Grasmere Lake, has a sprawling playground should you decide to bring your families along.

For green-thumbed enthusiasts, Washington Park is also home to the Mount Vernon Garden – a green haven that welcomes any tired citizens with loving arms.

Here you can wander along meandering paths as you take in the richness of the plant life, and when you’re tired, simply relax on one of the garden’s many benches.

Address: S. Downing St. & E. Louisiana Ave, Denver, CO 80209, USA

22. The Room of Lost Things

The Room Of Lost Things

With such a unique name, you would hope that The Room Of Lost Things would live up to the expectations it has set for itself.

And thankfully, it does.

Located in the Sante Fe Arts Districts, this shop is themed on the macabre and the strange.

If oddities are your thing, then you need to put visiting this shop on your list of things to do in Denver today.

Check out the mummified Prairie dogs lining the shelves, or buy a fossil to bring home as a souvenir.

If you’re struggling to identify what it is that’s caught your attention, the employees and artists within are more than happy to help you out.

Address:  987 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, United States

23. Molly Brown House Museum

Kirstie Warner / flickr

The name “ Molly Brown House Museum ” may not seem fantastical enough to make it to your list of “What To See in Denver”, but to bypass this simple museum would be a mistake.

Margaret Brown was an activist and a philanthropist who boarded the ill-fated Titanic.

And contrary to most expectations, Brown actually survived the sinking of the ship to tell the tale, earning her the nickname of “Unsinkable Molly Brown.”

But there’s more to her tale than just surviving the Titanic – and this museum is here to show you just what you’ve been missing.

Built in the late 1800s, the museum itself is a historical building called the House of Lions – named so for its decorative lion statues.

Why not pop on over to explore what life was like in Victorian Colorado, or check out a guided tour of Molly Brown’s life – and her efforts in the suffrage movements of the time!

Address:  1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203, United States

24. Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art

Jose A Feliciano / Shutterstock

Art aficionados ahoy – Denver is host to one of Colorado’s many art museums, making it a must see destination if you want to complete that national art tour.

If you’re just an average person who appreciates art, then please understand museum-trawling can be one of the best things to do in Denver.

Why not give it a shot?

Located in Denver, the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art is still relatively unknown, despite its recently elevated profile.

Which is a shame, since it stands out from other museums nearby by its salon-style organization of its collection.

And what a collection it is!

If you’re not interested in international art collection (that contains pieces from all the major design periods since 1870), then perhaps this will whet your artistic appetite.

You can take a look at Vance Kirkland’s original three-room studio, and see where the state’s most distinguished painter worked!

Address:  1201 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

25. Denver Center for the Performing Arts

photo.ua / Shutterstock

Are you in Denver for a fun weekend trip?

Then why not reserve a night on your schedule to do cool things – like visiting all eight theaters handled by the nation’s largest nonprofit theater organization?

Whether you’re interested in musicals, cabaret, or innovative plays, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts probably has a program for you.

If you would rather have an intimate experience with the stage and its performers, look towards the cabaret-style Garner Galleria Theatre with its 200 seats.

Or would you perhaps rather some flashy, Broadway-style musical?

If so, look no further than Buell Theater.

With room to seat 2,800 people, the largest theater in the DCPA’s arsenal is host to bigger productions you can use to wow your friends into being Broadway fans!

No matter your preferences or age, there’s always something for you to enjoy at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts!

Address:  1101 13th St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

26. Children’s Museum of Denver

Children’s Museum of Denver

Museums are one of the coolest tourist attractions for a reason, but they’re not normally attractive to small children.

Where’s the fun in just staring at exhibits?

You need to have activities of some kind to keep them entertained.

So if you have little ones in town on your visit to Colorado, why not drop by Children’s Museum of Denver instead?

Full of interactive activities that are sure to delight the little minds and hands, this museum’s features will surely be the highlight of the trip for your children.

If the climbing walls, electricity demos, hands-on engineering stations, and the interactive art studio won’t capture their fancy, then check out their website.

Perhaps one of their other periodic workshops might be of further interest to them!

Address:  2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211, United States

27. Colorado State Capitol

While Denver is well-known as the mile-high city, reality falls a little short of that claim.

If you really want to stand a mile above sea level, you’ll have to make your way to the Colorado State Capitol .

And if you’re already somewhere near Denver, why not put in a little more leg work to nab that fun claim?

Not only is it the heart of the state’s government, one of the Colorado State Capitol’s steps should put you exactly one mile above sea level – though the step differs depending on who you ask.

This gorgeous building has not one, but three different granite steps that have been officially identified as the exact elevation that lives up to Denver’s mile-high claim.

That aside, the Capitol is one of the best places to visit if you’re interested in Denver’s history.

You can book a free tour of the historical building’s interior, or admire the architecture of granite and gold – a beautiful handover of the state’s 1890s Gold Rush era.

Address:  200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, United States

28. Denver Public Library

Jim Lambert / Shutterstock

If you are a self-professed bookworm of any kind, then a visit to the Denver Public Library is a must do.

Just head on over to downtown Denver, and you’ll find the city’s central library!

Or you could, alternatively, visit any of its 23 branches depending on what’s near you.

Established in 2003, this library is one you can lose yourself in.

Not only you can learn about Colorado in there, you can also dive into its archive of over 2 million items.

There’s just something in there for everyone.

Books? Of course.

Movies and DVDs? Tons galore.

Reference materials for the desperate student? They’ve got your back.

Historical photographs for the visiting researcher? All at your fingertips!

But what about your children?

Not to fret, there’s a kiddies area filled with all sorts of activities and materials for your little ones to discover and enjoy too.

And thanks to the library’s full-service lending department, you can take your time to learn about just anything you want!

Address (Central Branch):  10 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States

29. Denver Firefighters Museum

Craig Talbert / flickr

To make the most of your trip to Colorado, why not check out downtown Denver?

There are all sorts of things to see and do here – and if you happen to wander into Tremont Place, you might find Denver’s history just waiting to be explored.

Nestled within the building of the city’s very first proper firehouse is Denver Firefighters Museum – a museum dedicated to the Denver Fire Department, first established in the 1880s.

But why so much hubbub over some firefighters?

If you don’t find 150 years of firefighting techniques and equipment a fascinating subject in and of itself, then maybe learning about how the state’s infamous wildfires are dealt with may interest you.

Thanks to the region’s dry climate, the Department is no stranger to dealing with conflagrations.

Did they have those in the past? How did they deal with it then?

It’s time to find out!

Address:  1326 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80204, United States

30. Colorado Symphony

Kent Kanouse / flickr

If you’re bumbling around Denver at night with a partner in tow, why not skip the bars and get yourself some culture at the Boettcher Concert Hall?

Built in Denver in 1978, the first (and only) 360-degree concert hall in the country is a sight to behold in and of itself.

With the hall’s unique arrangement for its 2,700 seats, you will never be more than 85 feet away from the stage – no matter where you’re located in its five seating areas!

If this fascinating architecture isn’t enough to put this on your Denver must-visit list, then what about listening to some professional symphony orchestra?

With Andrew Litton as its music director, the Colorado Symphony presents all sorts of year-round performances and events.

For those of you who would rather get your hands dirty, the Symphony also hosts all sorts of community outreach programs too.

Why not listen to the orchestra, and then learn about their equipment afterwards?

Address:  1000 14th St #15, Denver, CO 80202, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Denver

There are countless Denver attractions that make great places to go while you’re here for your holiday.

So what are you waiting for?

Plan a trip and hopefully, this list of the top fun things to do in Denver will help you find lots of cool things and stuff to do as you enjoy the best of Denver!

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Denver

Hiking Near Denver

National Parks to Visit From Denver

The Best Food in Denver

Denver's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in Denver

Top Denver Breweries

The Best Time to Visit Denver

Weather & Climate

Denver International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

Day Trips From Denver

Top Things to Do

15 Top Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

With so much to do in Denver, it's hard to choose where to start in this well-known Colorado city. Some of the top must-see tourist attractions include the indoor grace of the Denver Art Museum and watching a concert or hiking while soaking up the outdoor beauty of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. There is something for everyone—including kids —in the usually sunny Mile High City that's home to one of the country's most popular skate parks. Downtown Denver is very pedestrian-friendly: Within a mile radius, tourists can enjoy art and history museums, a theme and water park, and numerous restaurants.

See Concerts and Hike at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

More than 250 million years in the making and located at 6,450 feet above sea level, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre features natural acoustics that lend themselves to unique outdoor concerts. Red Rocks—just 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Denver in Morrison—also has various hiking and biking trails with spectacular views.

Stop at the Trading Post shop onsite for some souvenirs and head to the Ship Rock Grille in the Red Rocks Visitor Center to enjoy amazing vistas while you dine.

Eat and Shop at Union Station

The iconic 1881 building—referred to locally as Denver’s living room—reopened in 2014 with a full slate of restaurants and shops, in addition to serving as a transit hub downtown. Stay overnight at the Crawford Hotel located above Union Station and explore town on one of their electric bikes, or just enjoy a drink at the Terminal Bar while people watching.

During the summer, the fountains outside the station provide a respite from the heat for children of all ages, and visitors can catch free cooking demonstrations on Saturdays at the Farmer's Market outside of Union Station.

Get Close to Animals at the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo opened its doors in 1896 with the donation of an orphaned black bear named Billy Bryan. Covering 80 acres in the historic City Park neighborhood, the popular attraction receives more than 2 million visitors each year. The zoo houses almost 3,700 animals from across the world, including a range from African lions to Asian elephants and Malayan Tapirs.

Various programs educate visitors about the zoo's creatures, including Up-Close Animal Encounters, which provides guided tours and an intimate look at animals and zookeepers.

Explore Denver Art Museum

Jennifer Broome / TripSavvy 

The Denver Art Museum is known for its African, Asian, Latin American, American Indian, and Western American art, among other collections such as design, photography, and architecture. The museum also has exhibitions such as "The Light Show," which explores light in the natural and spiritual world through a reflective narrative. "Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection" features approximately 60 paintings of Britain’s cultural history, dating from the 1400s through the late 1800s.

Get Inspired at Denver Botanic Gardens

Jennifer Broome / TripSavvy

Colorado's dry climate challenges gardeners across the state, but the Denver Botanic Gardens always provide inspiration. The gardens contain 24 acres, including numerous arid gardens that require little water. International gardens include plants from South Africa, the Tropics, Japan, China, and other parts of the world. Popular flowers such as roses, daylilies, and irises live in the ornamental gardens. There are also shady and water gardens to enjoy, while a children's garden with six ecosystems is sure to delight the little ones.

Various guided tours are available.

Have Fun at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science , founded in 1900 by local naturalist Edwin Carter, offers educational fun for all ages. The collection is home to more than 1 million objects from around the world, like natural history and anthropological materials, archival resources, and more.

The family will also love the Phipps IMAX Theater for checking out movies, and the Gates Planetarium has fun shows like "One World, One Sky," featuring Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo exploring the night sky with a friend from China.

Stroll Around 16th Street Mall

Take a stroll through Denver's 16th Street Mall, a mile-long outdoor shopping and dining center in the Mile High City. Dozens of restaurants and boutiques join chain stores such as the Banana Republic and Sephora for a one-stop attraction. Lucky Strike bowling alley, Regal UA Denver Pavilions 4DX & RPX movie theater, and Coyote Ugly bar also provide nighttime entertainment. Stop by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for some Colorado-made treats.

Visit the State Capitol Building

Designed in the 19th century by architect Elijah E. Myers, the Colorado State Capitol Building echoes the classical lines of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The inside features Colorado Rose Onyx (a rare rose marble) and beautiful stained glass windows. The Denver building is exactly one mile high at 5,280 feet (1,609 meters), leading to the city's nickname of the "Mile High City."

The capitol houses the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the governor, lieutenant governor, and treasurer. Check out the building on your own, or reserve a free weekday tour that takes less than an hour.

Take the Kids to Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Elitch Gardens, located downtown, truly has something for everyone in the family, from thrilling rollercoasters like the Mind Eraser—entailing dives and double spins going faster than 50 miles per hour—to fun ferris wheels and balloon races. The water park has big slides and mellower rides for little ones.

You'll also find several spots for shopping, dining, and games, plus summer movies and concerts.

Smell the Flowers at Washington Park

Washington Park, one of Denver's finest parks, covers 155 acres and features one of the most popular running and biking trails in Denver, drawing fitness enthusiasts and dog walkers from across the city. Two scenic lakes and the city's largest flower garden add to "Wash Park's" bucolic charm.

While you're there, check out the nearby charming South Pearl Street and its restaurants—ranging from sushi to Cajun to pizza—plus shops, galleries, and wine and cocktail bars.

Hike up High at Echo Lake

If you are looking for a nice mountain hike, try Echo Lake, just 33 miles (53 kilometers) west of Denver. The lake—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—is located at the base of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in the U.S., which reaches 14,260 feet (4,346 meters) above sea level. Visitors will have great views of snowy peaks, along with opportunities for fishing and having a picnic or cookout.

The 1926 Echo Lake Lodge houses a restaurant with buffalo chili and beloved pie and a gift shop that sells handmade Native American jewelry, glassware, collectibles, and other items.

Go on a Craft Beer Tour

Courtesy of Viator

Craft beer is big in Colorado, and the curious (age 21 and up) will enjoy a guided walking tour of 2-3 hours dedicated to the alcoholic beverage. The tour takes place in the Historical Lower Downtown (LoDo) District and includes more than 10 beer samples and fun city history and trivia. Attendees will learn about the brewing process, stop by a popular brewpub that turned into a nationwide franchise, relax in the city's top craft beer bar, and visit a brewery founded by the governor.

Venture to Boulder

espiegle / Getty Images

If you have a few days (or more) to spare, it's just about 40 minutes by car to reach Boulder, a small but lively city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains that is home to the University of Colorado, the state's biggest university. Boulder is a fun and scenic getaway: Explore the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall downtown, where you'll find restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries, and street musicians.

You can eat global cuisine at the gorgeous Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse , a popular attraction that was constructed in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, and sent to its sister city of Boulder, where the pieces were reassembled.

Get Your Thrills at a Skate Park

 TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

Denver is proud to have one of the most popular skate parks in the country, the Denver Skatepark in LoDo, which is open daily and has free admission. The large area has 60,000 square feet of concrete with bowls for boarders, bikers, and bladers of all skill levels.

You will need to bring your own gear, as there are no rentals onsite; helmets are required.

See a Baseball Game at Coors Field

Coors Field baseball stadium opened in 1995 in the lower downtown/Ballpark Neighborhood. Serving as home base for the Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball team, the stadium holds more than 50,000 fans. Those in the first-base and right-field areas will catch great views of the Rocky Mountains.

Stop at the Wazee Market behind section 137 on the main concourse if hunger strikes; enjoy pizza and other ballpark traditional foods in a courtyard area.

Top 10 Free Denver Activities

An LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Denver, Colorado

Top 10 Outdoor Summer Activities in Denver

The 6 Most Romantic Places in the Southwest

Your Trip to Denver: The Complete Guide

12 Top Things to Do Along the Light Rail Route in Denver

How to Travel from Los Angeles to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Top 10 Neighborhoods to Explore in Denver

How to Travel From Chicago to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Denver

The Top 15 Things to Do in Colorado

The 10 Best Day Trips from Denver

The 12 Best Free Things to Do in Colorado

A Travel Guide for How to Visit Denver on a Budget

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Colorado (CO) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Denver

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Denver

Whatever you’re looking for when visiting a city, guaranteed, you’ll find it in Downtown Denver. This bustling urban nucleus covers several districts including the city’s historic center Lower Downtown, or LoDo as its called in Denver.

Downtown Denver has its fair share of skyscrapers, but they’re spread along wide avenues and interspersed with open squares, parks, pedestrianized zones and a fantastic network of cycle paths which give the area an open, spacious ambiance more in keeping with a rural town.

In DT Denver you’ll discover historic buildings next to nightclubs, museums side by side with shopping malls, and sports fields surrounded by bars, beer gardens, and taverns. It’s an eclectic mix but one which works and makes Downtown Denver an unforgettable place to visit. Check out some, if not all, of these fifteen best things to do in Downtown Denver while you’re there. You’ll love them.

1. 16th Street

Shop, eat out or have a quiet wander around in Downtown Denver, with no bothersome traffic noise to deal with, at the mile and a quarter long, pedestrianized 16th Street mall. This outdoor shopping complex is a broad promenade lined with trees and potted shrubs which gives it a Mediterranean feel by day. At night, it’s illuminated by thousands of lights strung across the street on strings.

If retail therapy is in order, there are three hundred or more outlets to go around. If not, drop into one of the numerous cafes or bars with pavement terraces and sip a drink while people watching.

If you’re not into walking, there’s a free shuttle bus which will ferry you up and down the mall, but you’ll miss out on seeing the amazing street performers doing their thing in the mall’s squares, the fountains and the cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Suggested Tour : Denver Customized Tour

2. Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

Downtown Denver is the only downtown in any US city to have a theme park and not only does the Elitch Gardens have thrill rides, it has water slides too.

Brave the Brain Drain, a seven-story high loop ride, get suspended upside down on the Mind Eraser or experience being flung through the air at eighty miles an hour on the Slingshot. Make a splash and slide down the Cannonball Falls on a rubber ring in the water park section or free fall down the Mega Wedgie from over sixty feet up into the pool below.

If you’re in Downtown Denver for Halloween, don’t miss the park’s Fright Fest – it’s a scream.

Book online : Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park Ticket

3. Colorado Convention Center

You may not be attending a convention while you’re in Downtown Denver, but you’ll still want to stop by the Colorado Convention Center on 14th Street. This all-purpose venue houses a theater as well as hosting large exhibitions, shows, and concerts for up to twenty thousand people.

While there may be plenty of famous faces appearing at the Colorado Convention Center, what really draws the crowds is the Big Blue Bear. The colossal statue stands forty foot high and peeks through the windows of the center. The unusual artwork is a Denver icon and makes a worthy Instagram snap.

4. Denver Microbrew Tour

California got grapes, raisins, and wine, Denver got beer by the bucketful. The city has a multitude of micro-breweries as well as ones who mass produce. Take a tour around Downtown and discover what makes Denver stand out when it comes to brewing the golden draft.

Stop off at various brewery premises in LoDo and the Ballpark districts in Downtown Denver. See demonstrations on the processes they use to brew craft beer as well as hearing some quirky anecdotes about beer and the city’s history.

This tour is for over twenty-ones. Take ID with you, and you get to sample some too.

Related Tour : 3-Hour Brewery Walking Tour

5. Denver Pedicab

A fun and unusual way to see DT Denver is by Pedicab. These electric tricycles are chauffeured by trained guides who narrate interesting facts as they drive you around Downtown.

They’ll take you past all the major Downtown sights while you sit back and relax. Take in Larimer Square, the Pepsi Center and the US Mint to name but a few and all from your canopied seat in the back of the Pedicab.

The tours take around one and a half hours and include regular stops for visits and photos.

6. Larimer Square

Larimer Square is not just a historic square in Downtown Denver; it’s the original center from where the city sprang to life. After some years in a state of deterioration, the area has been regenerated into one of the best and busiest social spots Downtown and in Denver itself.

When you get to Larimer Square, don’t expect a plaza. The Square is a block long straight street lined with restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and clubs. Don’t expect all American dining either. The Square’s eateries have a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere and serve everything from French fayre to Italian and Continental social food.

For the night birds, there are great wine bars, party venues, and a stand-up comedy club. What brings it all together and makes Larimer Square special is the amazing atmosphere. It’s a DT Denver must.

7. Denver Art Museum

A contemporary work of art in itself, the Denver Art Museum on 14th Avenue Parkway is a stunning building of geometric design holding over seventy thousand individual artworks.

The DAM’s collections cover multiple genres and encompass Asian, European and African as well as their renowned exhibition of American Indian art. The gallery hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as artists at work, lectures, and various other workshops.

8. Skyline Beer Garden

The Skyline Beer Garden is a massive open-air social area on Arapahoe Street in Downtown Denver. The forty-thousand square feet of garden has a mini-golf course, ping-pong tables, live music and serves a dozen different Colorado produced craft beers.

The Skyline Beer Garden has very tasty street-food style menu too offering tacos with toppings, apple enchiladas and ice cream by the pint.

Early afternoons from 4 pm to 6 pm there are Meet The Maker tastings and giveaways. The Skyline is DT Denver’s permanent beer festival.

9. Money Museum

If you can never see enough of it, then pop into the Money Museum on 16th Street in Downtown Denver. There are literally stacks of dollars, one on top of the other to a total of thirty million. That’s a lot of dollars.

The museum has interactive exhibitions on the history of American currency and videos on finance topics plus computers to design your own money. Pick up a bag of free money on the way out as a souvenir – shredded of course.

All visitors to the museum who are over the age of eighteen are required to present some form of identification before entering.

10. Union Station

There are a lot more reasons to go to Union Station other than catching a train. The century-old renovated landmark building is crammed with eateries, shops, and bars.

Yes, you can still catch a train from Union Station as well as an Amtrak coach, the 16th Street Shuttle and Downtown’s free RTD Metroride.

If having a night out at a station has never been on your agenda, it’s time it was. Check out Union Stations Orient Express-style Cooper Lounge for snazzy cocktails and some fancy food or the Terminal Bar for happy hour.

Tour that starts at Union Station: History and Architecture Walking Tours

11. Coors Field

Catch a major league baseball game at the Coors Field on Blake Street in DT Denver. The field is home base for the Colorado Rockies team who regularly fill the stadium to its fifty-thousand spectator capacity.

The Coors Field is about more than baseball. The stadium has gift shops, boutiques specializing in merchandise for the Rockies, burger restaurants, craft beer bars, and an on-site microbrewery. Plus a fine dining establishment spread over six tiers.

The stadium also hosts numerous public events and major music concerts throughout the year.

12. Civic Center Park

Get a breath of fresh air with a stroll through Downtown Denver’s Civic Center Park on 14th Avenue. The broad pathways running through the lawned areas are lined with over twenty-five thousand square feet of flower gardens, fountains, and statues.

The park is a popular place for events and festivals as well as political demonstration. There’s a Greek amphitheater which hosts various live performance, and it’s a great place to sit on the grass and have a picnic too.

Don’t miss the twelve bronze animal heads, mounted on poles, representing the signs of the Chinese zodiac – they’re unusual.

13. Molly Brown House Museum

Few people survived the sinking of the Titanic, but Molly Brown did. Molly Brown was already a prominent figure of her era before she took the fateful journey on the doomed cruise liner. An activist and philanthropist, she was way ahead of her Victorian times.

The museum, which is known as the House of Lions because of the lion statues which decorate it, was built in the late nineteenth century and is a historic building in its own right.

Inside there are approximately ten thousand exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia relating to her life and the life of the middle-class society in Victorian Colorado. From personal jewelry to clothes to furniture, the museum is a fascinating and educational insight into bygone days.

Book online : Molly Brown House Museum Admission Ticket

14. Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox

For atmosphere and eccentricity, head to Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox for a night out. This buzzing venue on 20th Street in DT Denver is a bar and restaurant housed in what was once a brothel.

Recently renovated, the old building has been given a new lease of life and has the latest sound and lighting systems, a stage for live bands and a first class food menu.

Peruse erotic art while munching a burger and listening to a great band in what is probably the world’s only Gastrobrothel – it could only happen in Downtown Denver.

15. Denver Firefighters Museum

In the Denver Firefighters Museum in Tremont Place in Downtown Denver, you’ll find some exciting exhibits which will really ring your bell.

The long history of the DFD or Denver Firefighting Department started way back in the 1880’s, and the museum houses exhibits from when the firefighters went out to battle blazes in horse-drawn carriages.

Jump on a wagon, don a helmet and find out more about the brave guys who have been extinguishing city fires for almost one hundred and fifty years. Downtown Denver loves them and so will you.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Denver:

• 16th Street
• Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
• Colorado Convention Center
• Denver Microbrew Tour
• Denver Pedicab
• Larimer Square
• Denver Art Museum
• Skyline Beer Garden
• Money Museum
• Union Station
• Coors Field
• Civic Center Park
• Molly Brown House Museum
• Ophelia's Electric Soapbox
• Denver Firefighters Museum

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

• Trip Planner

10 Terrific Day Trips from Denver

August 2, 2023 By //  by  Patrick McGuire

There’s no doubt about it – with an almost 20% increase in growth since 2010, Denver is much more crowded than it used to be. Fortunately for residents, the capitol city also happens to be in close proximity to some of the best destinations for natural scenery and culture in the United States.

If you’re daydreaming about your next quick excursion out of the Mile High City , we’ve rounded up ten fantastic day trip options, which average about an hour and a half drive or less out of town. We cover both the mountains and the plains for your next short road trip. The specific activities below are just a tiny fraction of the attractions found in the ten regions.

Here are the best one day trips near Denver, CO , in no particular order:

1. Rocky Mountain National Park/Estes Park

Folks from around the world travel far and wide to experience the natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park , but Denverites merely need to hop in the car and drive an hour and a half north to get there. Rocky Mountain National Park boasts 415 square miles of pristine mountainous terrain to explore, which is packed with 300 miles of hiking trails, a perfect antidote to Denver’s growing traffic woes.

The park is home to Longs Peak, a mountain celebrated for its imposing beauty and challenging climbing routes. In addition to Longs, there are an astounding 100 plus other peaks in the park that are 11,000 feet or more.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers conventional and wilderness camping, fishing, a plethora of wildlife to appreciate, and the Trail Ridge Road , which gives visitors astounding Rocky Mountain views from a 12,000 ft. perspective. However, we should note that weather conditions this high tend to get extreme, so the Trail Ridge Road and some of the park’s other offerings aren’t accessible during Colorado’s colder months.

If Rocky Mountain National Park isn’t enough to sell you on this day trip, the charming mountain town of Estes Park just down the road should do the trick. With plenty of whitewater rafting, golfing, and climbing options to explore and delectable restaurants to dine in, Estes Park is the quintessential Colorado mountain town .

Try Bird and Jim , an intrepid Colorado-centric establishment offering up sustainable local options. The town isn’t big, but it’s home to multiple breweries, two wineries, and a distillery to relax in after a day of exploring.

2. Pikes Peak Region

An hour and a half drive south from Denver offers some stunning natural wonders and a slowed down pace compared to life in Colorado’s largest city. Cave of the Winds is a mountain park home to a massive network of caves to explore through guided tours. Some tours are lit by handheld lanterns and others that require visitors to crawl and squeeze their way through narrow openings.

Nearby Pikes Peak is a famous mountain destination suited for ambitious climbing fanatics and road-tripping families alike. Described as an “ultra-prominent peak” for its impressive topographic prominence, this 14,115-foot beast offers challenging climbing routes and a mountainous highway letting the non-athletic among us ascend the peak’s summit.

Sitting just between the city of Colorado Springs and the front range is the stunning Garden of The Gods Visitor and Nature Center. From climbing, biking, and jeeping adventures to trails ideal for meditation and relaxation, the otherworldly red rock backdrop of Garden of The Gods is a perfect setting for whatever outdoor plans you have.

Consistently ranking as one of America’s best zoos, the nearby Cheyenne Mountain Zoo lets visitors feed giraffes and ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride Tram. It leads up to the top its namesake mountain to get spectacular views of the zoo and surrounding Pikes Peak region.

3. Central City/Black Hawk

Many Denver residents fly to Las Vegas to get their gambling fix when there’s great, legal options under an hour’s drive to the west. Situated in Gilpin County, Central City and Blackhawk region might not be very large, but it’s home to some of the state’s most interesting history stories.

For example, there was a time when Central City had more money and culture than Denver, and was so influential in the region that it almost became the capital when Colorado officially achieved statehood in 1876. Today, Blackhawk and Central City are ideal for a quick trip to gamble, explore gorgeous mountain environments, and dine in establishments that embrace the look, feel, and fare of the old mountain west. Central City and Black Hawk are similar places, but feature important unique characteristics aimed at serving different crowds.

With streets lined with authentic salons, hotels, and casinos, Central City is the quieter city of the two, and is geared more towards history lovers and families. After visiting the town’s notable attractions like the Central City Opera House , consider a five minute drive to an old ghost town, Nevadaville .

Black Hawk is fun, rowdy, and marketed towards adults looking to win big in a gorgeous mountain setting. If you’re looking for a way to round out your day trip with a little nature, drive 40 minutes west and you’ll reach St Mary’s Glacier, which offers great hiking year round. Remember to bring an extra $5 for parking if you choose to venture to this gorgeous spot.

4. Boulder/Nederland

Boulder and Nederland are two very different Colorado day trip destinations with a lot to offer Denver residents. Boulder is a near perfect blend of city and nature. Flanked by mountains and approachable hiking trails and bike paths, the city has become a bona fide internationally recognized culinary destination in recent years, as evidenced by restaurants like Frasca Food and Wine, which picked up a James Beard Award earlier this year.

A day trip can be topped off with an evening show at one of the city’s incredible music venues including the Fox Theater, Boulder Theater, or the beloved Chautauqua Auditorium.

Tucked up away in the mountains, the town of Nederland is Boulder’s unpretentious and eccentric little sister. This small community is an excellent home base for mountain adventures like fishing, rock climbing, and backpacking. With an elevation of 8,228 feet, Nederland is close to Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area , so this day trip is for you if you’re looking for a charming mountain town surrounded by gorgeous Colorado nature.

The actual town of Nederland itself shouldn’t be missed, which is home to the phenomenal New Moon Bakery , several fine breweries, and a stellar wood-fired pizza joint .

5. Fort Collins

Home to Colorado State University, Fort Collins consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the country, and has proven itself to be much more than a college town . It’s also a fine day trip option just a little over an hour’s drive north from Denver on I-25.

If you dig beer, you’ll adore Fort Collins, which is home to an astounding amount of internationally celebrated breweries like New Belgium and Odell . Even Budweiser has a brewery tour here. Lesser known but still outstanding microbreweries like Funkwerks and Crooked Stave are can’t miss. If you’re after some tasty, farm-to-table food, check out the Fortified Farm Dinner Series , which serves up fresh food from local farmers. The city also hosts loads of nightly and seasonal music performances at venues like the Aggie Theater and Hodi’s Half Note.

Like Boulder, Fort Collins is also surrounded by a great deal of natural beauty, making it a prime spot to embrace the outdoors from. Horsetooth Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing and offers boat and kayak rentals at its marina. The nearby Cache la Poudre River Canyon is perfect for whitewater rafting excursions , hikes, a scenic drive , or even picturesque picnicking if that’s what you’re after. It’s such a beautiful, unique place that it’s one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state.

6. Deckers/Pine

The Deckers and Pine area is an outstanding option if you’re looking for a minimal drive with plentiful outdoor recreational activities to enjoy. For families with young kids, Pine Valley Ranch Park offers a small pond with manageable fishing conditions, hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, and loads of mountainous space to roam in.

Located just south of the town of Pine , the North Fork South Platte River offers prime Rainbow and Brown Trout fishing for serious anglers, while the sharp, jutting rocks in the Cathedral Spires offers a rewarding climb you’ll have to work for to see. For provisions, check out Zoka’s , a fine restaurant and bar located in the town of Pine. This highly reviewed spot offers craft beer and home-grown produce.

A little further to the south, you’ll find Deckers , a spot famous for its incredible fishing. Legendary trout are said to roam the waters of the South Platte River and Cheesman Lake, the former flows past town, while the latter is only 15 minutes outside of it.

The Deckers area also offers incredible mountain biking, hiking, and bird-watching options on its various trails. When you’ve tuckered yourself out for the day, treat yourself to a nice beer, milkshake, or cafe at Decker’s Corner . The Devil’s Head Lookout is a bit out of the way if you’re heading back to Denver, but its manageable hiking conditions and stellar front range views will end your day trip in spectacular fashion.

7. Summit County

Let’s get this out of the way. It’s not a secret that Summit County is home to some of the nation’s best skiing, which is hosted by resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone. Depending on traffic, you can generally get to these resorts in under two hours from Denver. But if you’re only visiting Summit County for its incredible skiing, you’re missing out.

Let’s start with the mountain towns in this county. Places like Breckenridge and Frisco are fun, walkable destinations that provide plenty of opportunities to take in culture and friendly alpine town charm. Declared a historic landmark in 2017 , the Gold Pan Saloon was established in 1879 and is still slinging tasty libations to patrons from its home in Breckenridge. It has the honor of having the longest continuous liquor license of any establishment west of the Mississippi River. Breck is also home to multiple nationally recognized art galleries.

While Summit County’s towns are great, we can’t talk about this day trip without mentioning its phenomenal outdoor offerings. From affordable boat, canoe and kayak rentals on Dillon Reservoir to mountain hikes ideal for viewing fall foliage and summer wildflowers, Summit County provides more neat natural recreational opportunities than you can shake a stick at. If you’re looking for a manageable but gorgeous hike in Summit County, try the Mohawk Lakes trail, a 6.6-mile hike located south of Breckenridge.

8. Evergreen/Mount Evans

Our next day trip is under an hour’s drive from Denver and offers something great for solo travelers, groups of friends, and families alike. The town of Evergreen is a 40-minute drive from Denver and is a great option for busy Denverties wanting to experience a fun mountain atmosphere without taking a long drive. Evergreen has a lot to offer, including live music, a surprising amount of spas, paved and natural biking and hiking trails, and a big, gorgeous lake that hosts an incredible ice skating rink over the winter months. Solid conventional and ice fishing conditions are typically reported at Lake Evergreen.

The top of Mount Evans is a little over an hour and a half drive from Denver, and only about 30 minutes to the start of this scenic byway west of Evergreen, so it’s well worth the trip. It boasts the highest paved road in North America, which ascends almost 4,000 feet to the peak’s 14,264-foot summit. If climbing is your preferred method of scaling this beast, you’ll have plenty of Class 2 and 3 routes to choose from, which range up to 17 miles in length.

On your way to or from Mount Evans, make sure to check out Echo Lake , which offers solid fishing, camping, and hiking trails. Back on 1-70, you’ll find the little town of Idaho Springs , a spot you’ve probably driven past but might never have checked out. If you’re tuckered out after a long day of exploring, you can’t go wrong with a pizza from Beau Jo’s or a soak in the mineral water pool at the Indian Hot Springs .

This day trip is a bit obvious for most Denver residents, but it’s still worth mentioning because of how terrific it is. At a mere 30 minutes away from the Mile High City, Golden is the perfect gateway to Colorado mountain recreation. For decades, residents have taken inflatable tubes down the manageable rapids of Clear Creek , and you can rent them in town at Adventure West Tube Rental if you don’t want to bother with bringing your own.

There are loads of hikes located just minutes away from Golden’s town center, including the scenic and easy-going Chimney Gulch Trail and the more challenging Mt Galbraith Loop Trail. As you’d expect, Golden boasts plenty of fine bars and restaurants to check out after a day of floating on Clear Creek or hiking in the area.

Since Golden is so close to the capital, you might as well take the extra short drive up to Lookout Mountain for its excellent hiking opportunities and sublime views of Denver, the eastern plains, and beyond. Lookout Mountain is also home to the historical Buffalo Bill Museum and gravesite.

And, last but not least, a day trip out to the Golden area isn’t complete without a tour of the Coors Brewery . Even if Coors isn’t your thing, this fun, information-packed tour is probably worth your time, and might give you an entirely new appreciation of one of Colorado’s most beloved beverages. Although it gets really busy on summer weekends, so reconsider a brewery tour during peak times.

10. Eastern Plains

Most people living in Denver think of day trip options and focus their thoughts to the mountain west, but there are actually some great opportunities for adventure and relaxation out to the east in Colorado’s plains region. Drive 45 minutes to the northeast of Denver on 1-76, and you’ll stumble upon 789 acres devoted to helping rescued animals live and roam freely.

Located just outside of Keenesburg, the Wild Animal Sanctuary saves lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other animals from egregious captive situations. Much more than a zoo, the sanctuary gives visitors unique views of its saved animal population from a 1.5-mile long elevated walkway and the satisfaction of knowing their ticket fees are going towards a worthy cause. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is phenomenal for families searching for an unconventional way to enjoy and support animals in need.

If you’re looking to catch some scenic eastern plains action on your trip, consider checking out the Colorado Wildlife Banner Lakes just to the north of the sanctuary. It’s a serene wetland area that’s been preserved to protect Colorado waterfowl, and is a fine spot for a quick walk or a picnic.

Just outside the town of Calhan on the plains northeast of Colorado Springs is home to one of Colorado’s best kept natural secrets. Paint Mines Interpretive Park showcases 750 acres of astounding natural and human historical sites. The park is brimming with otherworldly rock formations featuring stunning natural colors, shapes and evidence of human activity dating back 9,000 years. Ancient Native Americans are said to have mined materials from the area for pottery and ceremonial painting purposes.

Paint Mines offers phenomenal hiking and sightseeing to visitors seven days a week for absolutely free. Sadly, current reviews of the sight complain the park’s natural wonders are being destroyed by visitors who climb the formations, so do your part to preserve the park by staying on the designated trails and following the rules. On your way back to Denver, consider stopping at the Pop A Top Saloon in the nearby town of Peyton. Pop A Top is known for its strong drinks, surprisingly tasty bar food, and welcoming atmosphere.

Thanks for checking out our top picks for single day trips from Denver, Colorado! Be sure to drive safe and follow these tips for a successful road trip .

About Patrick McGuire

Patrick McGuire is a freelance writer and musician living in the mountain west.

Join our Colorado travel community

Get In Touch

• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer—Terms of Service

Things To Do

• Travel Blog
• Colorado Activities
• Colorado Events
• Colorado Towns
• Colorado Hotels
• Colorado Restaurants
• Colorado Transportation
• Made in Colorado

Fall Activities

• Federal Lands
• Ghost Towns
• Hot Springs
• Ski Resorts
• State Parks
• Train Rides

Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

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

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in florida.

Gwen Pratesi May 31, 2024

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Timothy J. Forster and Amanda Norcross May 30, 2024

Road Trip Essentials

Alissa Grisler and Amanda Norcross May 29, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Santa Barbara

John Rodwan and Suzanne Mason May 29, 2024

The Best Underseat Luggage

Rachael Hood May 28, 2024

Top Pride Parades and Celebrations

Suzanne Mason May 28, 2024

The Best Miami Boat Tours

Gwen Pratesi May 28, 2024

The Best Travel Purses

Rachael Hood May 24, 2024

The Best Beach Games

Gwen Pratesi May 24, 2024

The Best Branson Shows

Carrie A. Back May 23, 2024

• Latest News
• Colorado History
• Environment
• Social Justice
• Transportation
• Latest Food & Drink
• Openings & Closings
• Restaurant Guide
• Top 100 Bars
• Top 100 Restaurants
• Latest Arts & Culture
• Visual Arts
• Concert Calendar
• Concert Reviews
• Just Announced
• Local Music
• Touring Artists
• Latest Cannabis
• Ask a Stoner
• Dispensary Guide
• Colorado Cannabis Laws
• Psychedelics
• Strain Reviews
• Find Weed - Presented by Weedmaps
• Westword Burger Week
• Westword Feast
• Westword Out to Brunch
• Westword Pizza Week
• Westword Tacolandia
• Arts & Entertainment
• Cannabis & More
• Food & Drink
• Music & Venues
• Shopping & Services
• Readers' Choice
• Newsletters
• Advertise with Us
• Flipbook Archive
• Promotions & Free Stuff
• Support Westword
• Where To Find Westword In Print
• Sign Up/Sign In

Denver Rises on U.S. News Best Places to Live List but Rates Just Fourth in Colorado

We have a favor to ask

We're in the midst of our spring campaign, and we have until June 7 to raise $12,000. This money directly supports the journalism Westword produces and helps keep our work freely accessible for all, because not everyone can afford to pay for news. If you value our work, please make a contribution today to help us reach our goal.

Contribute Now

Colorado cities rise and fall

1. Naples, FL 2. Boise, ID 3. Colorado Springs, CO 4. Greenville, SC 5. Charlotte, NC 6. Raleigh, NC 7. Huntsville, AL 8. Virginia Beach, VA 9. Austin, TX 10. Boulder, CO

Here's how the Colorado cities rate

Newsletter Sign Up

Enter your name, zip code, and email, sign up for our newsletters.

Opinion & Commentary

Reader: why are people on a denver page complaining about denver.

By Westword Readers

Shilo Sanders NIL Earnings at Question in Bankruptcy Case Related to High School Assault

By Catie Cheshire

Immigration

Mayor johnston, lauren boebert trade jabs over denver "playbook" for migrants.

By Chris Perez

Meet Colorado's Twelve Billionaires

By Michael Roberts

• View This Week's Print Issue
• Arts & Culture
• Things To Do
• Advertise With Us
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Westword Careers
• Shop Cover Art
• Voice Media Group
• Dallas Observer
• New Times Broward-Palm Beach
• Miami New Times
• Phoenix New Times
• V Audience Labs
• V Digital Services

10 Best Things To Do In Colorado

W ith its breathtaking mountains, stunning national parks, scenic drives, historic sites, and toasty hot springs, Colorado offers visitors a bevy of things to do all year round. I’ve been fortunate to live in this beautiful state for 29 years. While I can’t say I’ve traversed every nook and cranny, I’ve certainly road-tripped to the most beloved attractions that continually wow visitors. Here’s my take on the 10 best things to do in Colorado.

1. Maroon Bells

Among the most photographed mountains in North America are the Maroon Bells . Located just a 10-mile drive from downtown Aspen, these 14,000-foot peaks — so named for their color and shape — loom over a pristine lake. Viewing these magnificent mountains is a must-do when visiting Aspen . If you’re game for a high-altitude hike, traipse around base trails. The scene is especially alluring in the fall when area aspen trees turn gold. 

Pro Tip: Between mid-May and the end of October, you’ll need to make a parking reservation to drive your own car to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Or you can book a shuttle ride.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes park and grand lake.

Having visited 35 of 63 national parks in the United States, Rocky Mountain National Park is easily among my top five. It showcases Colorado’s quintessential jagged mountain peaks and evergreen wilderness, but it also offers glacial lakes for fishing, horseback riding trails, and opportunities for viewing wildlife, including elk, marmots, bighorn sheep, and moose. 

Be sure to drive Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States at 12,183 feet in elevation. Snowdrifts close it in the winter, but it’s typically open between the end of May through October. Pull off at the Alpine Visitor Center for vast views from what feels like the top of the world. 

Pro Tip: The mountain town of Estes Park is the popular gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and can get quite congested in the summer and fall. To avoid crowds, enter from the western side of the park near Grand Lake . 

3. Pikes Peak

Colorado springs.

In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates ascended Pikes Peak by prairie wagon and mule. She gazed out into the vast wilderness, inspiring her to write “America the Beautiful.” Today, traveling to the top of this 14,115-foot mountain in Colorado Springs isn’t quite so primitive. Instead, you can drive a 19-mile winding paved road to the summit. If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, hop aboard the historic Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway . Train conductors deliver entertaining and educational commentary along the way.

Pro Tip: The temperature can vary by 30–40 degrees Fahrenheit from the base to the summit. Be sure to wear layers. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help avoid altitude sickness as you ascend the mountain.

4. The Springs Resort

Pagosa springs.

A visit to Colorado is not complete without a soak in its world-renowned hot springs. A stint in mineral waters not only soothes sore muscles after a day of adventuring outdoors, it’s said to enhance sleep and reduce inflammation. The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs is a great way to get introduced to hot springs, as you can choose from among 25 different riverside pools of varying temperatures. Feeling bold? Take a dip in the chilly San Juan River then warm up in the toasty Lobster Pot!

Pro Tip: If your trip to Colorado doesn’t take you to Pagosa Springs, there are plenty of other hot springs to choose from. Check out the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop website for ideas. 

5. Denver Museum Of Nature And Science

I’ve been taking my children to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science since they were toddlers, and now my biology-loving 23-year-old daughter often visits on her own when she’s in the state capital. Dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies, planetarium shows, spaceships, and a new Infinity Theater showing big-screen 3D films are among the permanent attractions that wow all ages.

Pro Tip: Check out the website to learn about any temporary exhibits before you visit. Sometimes, special traveling exhibits require additional admission .

6. Vail Scenic Gondola

You don’t have to be a skier or snowboarder to ascend to the top of Vail Mountain and enjoy the jaw-dropping vistas of the Gore Range. In the winter months, you can purchase tickets solely to ride the enclosed Eagle Bahn Gondola or Gondola One to the top and then back down again. 

However, my favorite time of year to visit mountain towns is the summer, when blue skies and moderate, dry temperatures prevail. Ride the Vail Summer Scenic Gondola to the top and then hike through aspen trees, across green meadows, and amid wildflowers. 

Pro Tip: Multiple statewide ski resorts transform into summer playgrounds in the warm-weather months with not only gondola rides but alpine slides and ziplines. Other options are Snowmass , Breckenridge , and Steamboat Springs for fun, high-altitude adventures.

7. Million Dollar Highway

Silverton and ouray.

One of the most spectacular drives in Colorado — perhaps in the United States — is a 25-mile stretch of Highway 550 between the towns of Silverton and Ouray . The “ Million Dollar Highway ” is not for the faint of heart. In sections, steep drop-offs and twisty switchbacks can freak out inexperienced mountain-pass drivers (and passengers). Just take it slow and stop at the pull-outs to fully enjoy the panoramic vistas that unfold around every corner. 

Pro Tip: Ouray is one of my favorite Colorado small towns and worth an overnight. While the Ouray Hot Springs Pool is especially fun for kids with its climbing wall, inflatable obstacle course, and water slides, also consider a Wiesbaden Hot Springs day pass (or sleep at the lodge) to steam in the vapor caves.

8. Mesa Verde National Park

Montezuma county.

Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to walk through cliff dwellings that the Ancestral Puebloans built more than 700 years ago. Entering the stone and earth dwellings built under rock overhangs does involve climbing ladders. If your mobility allows, the ranger-led tours of the cliff homes provide excellent insight into how this ancient culture once lived on the mesa. 

The park also has self-guided itineraries that allow you to view and learn about ceremonial and living structures, plus myriad hiking trails . 

Pro Tip: Ticketed time slots for tours of the cliff dwellings are available online 14 days in advance from mid-May to October. Be sure to book your reservation to avoid disappointment.

9. Colorado National Monument

Colorado may be known for its towering, jagged mountain peaks that remain snow-covered much of the year. But the far-western part of the state is composed of desert-like cliffs, mesas, and towers. A great place to take in this sandstone and red-rock landscape is Colorado National Monument in Fruita, about 25 miles from the Utah border. 

For the most impressive views, take the 23-mile Red Rock Rim Drive all the way through the park. Like the state’s other iconic drives, it does take a winding route with some sheer drop-offs — a warning if you’re not a fan of heights. 

Pro Tip: Fruita is about 25 miles from Palisade in Colorado’s wine country — worth the trip if you like to sip and savor surrounded by scenic mesas. Rent an e-bike to cycle along the Fruit & Wine Byway , not only to check out vineyards and tasting rooms but to visit fruit orchards and lavender farms.

10. Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine

Cripple creek.

The Colorado Gold Rush in 1859 and Colorado Silver Boom in 1879 lured thousands of fortune-seekers to Colorado — the large majority of them men. The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine was one of the few strikes claimed by a woman.

Today, visitors can learn all about this Cripple Creek gold discovery on an hour-long tour that includes descending 1,000 feet underground on a mine shaft. Also see gold veins in their natural state and ride an underground tram locomotive. Wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and strollers aren’t allowed.

Pro Tip: Cripple Creek legalized gambling in 1991 to encourage tourism in the area. If you’re a fan of the slots or blackjack tables, you can walk between nine different casinos in the historic downtown.

For more Colorado travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• 9 Amazing Outdoor Activities To Experience In Boulder, Colorado
• Colorado’s New Mountaintop Coaster Not For The Faint Of Heart
• 16 Fantastic Things To Do In Snowmass, Colorado, This Summer
• 13 Best Things To See And Do In Glenwood Springs, Colorado

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

This sunny German city should top your summer travel list

In the verdant forests of Baden-Württemberg, the carefree city of Karlsruhe brims with eye-catching architecture, cruisy cycleways, countless green spaces, trendy cafes, bars and beer gardens. This summer, soak up the sun in one of Germany’s warmest cities.

Founded in 1715, Karlsruhe in southwest Germany is somewhat young by European standards. On the upper plain of the Rhine River, this neo-classical city is set amid the Vosges Mountains, the Palatinate Forest and the Black Forest in the state of Baden-Württemberg. Karlsruhe is a centre for technology, science and media, and the seat of German law — the German Federal Court of Justice. Arts and outdoor living dominate daily life in the city, while the natural playground of Baden-Württemberg is just a stone’s throw away, where epic hiking, cycling and outdoor adventuring awaits. Here's how to explore the city at its best this summer.

One of Germany’s most sun-soaked cities, Karlsruhe enjoys average temperatures of 20C in the summer and around 140 days of sunshine each year. With its pleasant weather and wealth of green spaces, the city lends itself perfectly to exploration on foot. Start in the city's cultural and geographic heart at Karlsruhe Palace with a stroll around the ‘princely pleasure gardens’. For the more inquisitive, the history of Germany is told at the Badisches Landesmuseum (State Museum of Baden) located inside the palace, or for the best view of Karlsruhe’s neo-classical design, climb the palace’s central tower.

From the city's palatial centrepiece, 32 streets and avenues spread out precisely in the shape of a fan, giving Karlsruhe its nickname, fächerstadt or ‘fan city’. The beautiful layout impressed former US president Thomas Jefferson so much that he used it as inspiration for the design of the city of Washington, DC. Pick the central avenue of Karlsruhe's 'fan' and wander south through the beautifully landscaped Schlossplatz, where locals gather on balmy evenings to raise an Aperol spritz. From mid-August until mid-September, Schlossplatz plays host to the spectacular Schlosslichtspiele Light Festival that turns the palace and square into a vast canvas for art and expression. At Platz der Grundrechte (the Square of Fundamental Rights) don’t mistake the myriad signs for German over-efficiency — they’re actually an art installation of musings on the notion of right and wrong.

Continue to Marktplatz, the central square, where colourful buildings vie for attention alongside the baroque-era Church of the Holy Ghost, the city hall and the Karlsruhe Pyramid, which was built over the tomb of the city’s founder, Karl Wilhelm III. Flowers spill from market stalls, their fragrance filling the square and lingering over the terraces of nearby cafes and restaurants.

Pull up a chair at a konditorei (pastry shop) to people-watch and refuel with a huge slice of   Schwarzwälder kirschtorte , more commonly known as Black Forest gateau — the cherry liqueur-soaked dessert famed around the world. When the sun starts to set, head for the festoon lights twinkling over the terrace of Wilma Wunder and order a colourful unicorn cocktail decorated with rainbow sprinkles. Then take things upscale around the corner at Eigenart , where waiters pair the best German wines with Mediterranean-influenced dishes.

Make the most of the warm evenings at Parkdeckzehn P10 , a sand-floored beach bar built on the top floor of a car park. Strewn with deck chairs and strandkorb , classic German wicker beach seats, it pulses under party lights and lounge music — an Ibizan beach amid the rolling greens of Baden-Württemberg. Nearby, hidden in a vaulted cellar on Hirschstrasse, The Door will take you into the early hours with its creative menu of bird-themed cocktails and highballs.

As the sun rises, it’s in the green spaces that Karlsruhe really shines. Take a morning walk in the historical Karlsruhe Botanical Gardens , awash with exotic plants and a showcase for stately architecture, designed in the style of Georgian-era English gardens. The neo-classical Staatliche Kunsthalle   (State Art Gallery) houses seven centuries of masterpieces from Dürer to Delacroix, but is most impressive when viewed from the outside in its garden setting. Just north, the forests of the Waldstadt stretch to the horizon.

For a different perspective, visit in July when Das Fest (The Festival) rolls into Günther-Klotz-Anlage Park, bringing with it a quarter of a million revellers for four days of fun. One of the state’s biggest open-air events, its line-up spans genres to attract the widest range of people, young and old, with music, performance, arts and even the German Skateboard Championships. If that isn’t enough, the organisers hold Das Fest Am See a week before, a sort of pre-festival festival on the shore of the park’s picturesque lake.

But perhaps the most fitting way to explore Karlsruhe is on two wheels — it was here, after all, that Baron Karl von Drais invented what would become the bicycle. The extensive network of cycleways that weave around the city reflect Karlsruhe’s love for cycling. Rent a bike or e-bike from one of the numerous KVV points and dip in and out of the widely signposted NaturRADtour at will. Or pedal past the city limits and follow a long-distance cycle route further into beautiful Baden-Württemberg, such as the Rhine Valley Way or the Black Forest Way .

Related Topics

• TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE
• SHORT TRIPS
• CITY BIKING

You May Also Like

A guide to Berlin, Germany's most creative city

How to spend a long weekend in Zagreb, Croatia

How to plan a weekend in southern Kosovo, where Europe's newest adventure scene is blossoming

An insider's guide to Denver, Colorado's wildly creative capital

10 best things to do in Switzerland

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Four Colorado cities make annual list of best places to live in the U.S.

BOULDER, Colo. — The annual list of "best places to live in the United States" from U.S. News is out.

Four cities in Colorado made the list: Colorado Springs (3), Boulder (10), Fort Collins (39) and Denver (40).

Boulder held the top spot two years ago before dropping, likely because U.S. News gave more weight to affordability.

The city is trying to address this. Back in August, it launched the Middle Income Down Payment Assistance Program.

The hope, leaders said, is to help qualifying participants with the down payment on a home. In return, the home will become "permanently affordable" through a deed restriction, according to the city.

The City of Boulder would provide a loan of up to $200,000 or 30% of the home's sale price, whichever is less. The 0% loan must be repaid in 15 years or whenever the home is refinanced or sold.

Nine months after its launch, no one has signed up, Lyndsy Morse-Casillas with Boulder's Planning and Development Services said.

The city hasn't done any outreach to learn why that is though, Morse-Casillas said, and don't want to speculate.

Since the source of the funding is coming from the city's House to Homeownership Down Payment Assistance Program, which is existing funding, no money will need to be reallocated, Boulder leaders said.

While quality of life is better in Boulder, Colorado Springs ranked higher overall when it comes to value. For instance, the national average to buy a home is about $282,000. In Boulder, the cost of a home is about three times that amount, but in the springs a home costs on average $395,000.

The Morning Headlines, sign up for a mix of what you need to know to start the day in Colorado, picked for you.

Now signed up to receive the the morning headlines..

Watch full episodes: Real Talk with Denver7, CPR News

Watch CBS News

Covering Colorado First

CBS News Live

Cbs news colorado: local news, weather & more.

• Feb 19, 2020
• CBS News Colorado

Former Colorado data company executive convicted of mail and wire fraud

The two defendants worked for Epsilon Data Management, a company that boasts a customer base of 250 million American customers -- about 75% of the entire country.

Charges against Fremont County couple dismissed because of DA's comments

A Colorado couple charged in the death of a 10-month-old have had the charges against them dismissed because of comments Fremont County District Attorney Linda Stanley made to a news station in Colorado Springs.

Glass and auto companies experience influx in demand following hailstorm

Across the Denver metro area, residents and businesses were dealing with the aftermath of Thursday night's widespread and damaging hailstorm. One auto glass company is booked for repairs through Monday.

Fatal hailstorm in Greeley results in disaster declaration

The City of Greeley has declared a disaster following the significant hail storm that devastated the eastern side of the northern Colorado city. The city reports nearly $1.5 million in damage has already been reported by residents in the days since the storm.

Popular Trail Ridge Road open for season, but beware of icy roads

NPS is warning drivers about icy roads, hopeful visitors should be aware of Rocky Mountain National Park's timed entry system.

Woman dies after falling into Boulder Creek during e-bike accident

A 65-year-od woman is dead after she likely had an accident on her e-bike and then fell into Boulder Creek on Friday.

Some lanes of E470 closed after crash at 88th Avenue northeast of Denver

Some lanes of E470 were closed after a crash near 88th Avenue on Friday.

Crews investigate plane making emergency landing in field near Airport Road

Colorado Springs Fire is investigating a scene after a small plane makes an emergency landing in a field north of Airport Road and Powers Boulevard.

Experts warn of roofing scammers taking advantage of Coloradans after storms

Colorado is second in the nation for hail insurance claims. However, when looking for repairs on your home and roof, it is essential to be extra careful, as scammers can be right around the corner looking to make false promises for a quick buck.

Current Conditions

More Weather

TV Schedule

View All Programs

Our Newsletter

First alert weather.

A big warming trend is expected across Colorado

Watch First Alert Meteorologist Joe Ruch's full forecast.

Plan to attack soccer events during Paris Olympics foiled

An 18-year-old from Chechnya was arrested on suspicion of being behind a plan to attack soccer events in the southeastern city of Saint-Etienne.

John Weber named Colorado State University Athletic Director

Colorado State University has named John Weber as the new athletic director.

Brother of Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon dies in Oregon crash

Drew Gordon, the older brother of Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon, reportedly died following a car crash in Oregon, NBA Insider Shams Charania is reporting. Drew was 33 years old.

Game time announced for Rocky Mountain Showdown

The game time has been announced for the Rocky Mountain Showdown between the Colorado Buffaloes and the Colorado State Rams in Fort Collins.

Riley Odoms, Steve Foley elected to Denver Broncos Ring of Fame

Former safety Steve Foley (1976-1986) and tight end Riley Odoms (1972-1983) have been elected to the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame.

Latest Videos

Charges against Fremont County couple dismissed because of district attorney's comments

65-year-old woman dies after falling into Boulder Creek during e-bike accident

A 65-year-old woman is dead after she likely had an accident on her e-bike and then fell into Boulder Creek in Boulder Canyon on Friday, Boulder County Sheriff's Office confirmed in a press release.

Greeley issues local disaster declaration after nearly $1.5M in damages from flooding

Just days after a damaging hailstorm and flooding hit Greeley, the city's mayor signed a local disaster declaration. The declaration is in response to the extensive flooding and large amounts of hail that led to damage across downtown and east Greeley.

Glass company CEO reacts to big hailstorm that left his phone ringing next morning

CBS News Colorado Reporter Gabriela Vidal spoke to a glass company CEO who reacted to the big hailstorm that left his phone ringing the next morning after hundreds and thousands woke up to broken windshields and glass fixtures.

Latest Political Updates

Marian Robinson, mother of Michelle Obama, dies at 86

Marian Robinson, the mother of former first lady Michelle Obama, has died at the age of 86, her family announced Friday.

Watch CBS Colorado's 4th Congressional District GOP debate

The primary election candidates mostly saw eye-to-eye on former President Donald Trump, immigration, climate change and federal spending, but broke from one another on foreign policy.

Trump campaign says it raised $52.8 million after guilty verdict

Former President Donald Trump's campaign and the GOP raised $52.8 million in the hours after Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts in his "hush money" trial.

Biden says Israel has extended new cease-fire proposal

President Biden said Israel's proposal consists of three phrases. Hamas has not yet responded.

Biden addresses Trump verdict for first time

President Biden said the "American principle that no one is above the law was reaffirmed" after Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.

Tell us what YOU think about CBS Colorado!

Your investigators.

The Colorado communities testing for toxic "forever chemicals" in water

About 300 water districts still haven't started testing for PFAS, although the state says they have until 2026 to start testing, and 2029 to begin implementing solutions, many other utilities have already started working to get into compliance for the sake of public health.

Ban on gas grills rolling through Colorado mountain HOAs

More and more homeowners associations in Colorado's mountain communities are rewriting their policies to ban the use of gas grills by residents as more insurance companies say they won't insure HOAs that allow them.

Lawsuit claiming wrongful imprisonment of elephants heading to supreme court

The lawsuit, which claims five elephants at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs are being held against their will, and are subsequently suffering undue stress and brain damage, seeks for the elephants to be placed at a wildlife sanctuary, where they can have more room to roam comfortably.

New laws protecting public health may lead to higher water bills

New federal laws requiring low levels of PFAS – also called "forever chemicals" – in public drinking water are creating major financial burdens for many water districts nationwide, which experts say will ultimately lead to higher water bills for customers in many areas.

South Adco Fire changing policy after CBS News Colorado investigation

South Adams County Fire Chief Ken Koger says his department is revamping some of its expense and travel policies after a CBS News Colorado investigation reported the department spent thousands of taxpayer dollars to feed and facilitate spouses of department administrators and board members traveling to in-state and out-of-state conferences in recent years.

Health News

About 1 in 3 Americans have lost someone to a drug overdose, new study finds

Almost one in five survey responders had lost a family member or close friend to a drug overdose, researchers found.

U.S. to make millions of bird flu vaccine doses this summer

The U.S. has ordered 4.8 million doses of vaccine to target bird flu in case the outbreak spreads in people.

Mediterranean diet associated with 23% reduction in mortality, study finds

The Mediterranean diet has long been regarded as a heart-healthy option, but a new study has found the diet may help reduce risk of death.

Bird flu reported in another Michigan farmworker

A second case of H5 influenza, also known as bird flu or avian influenza, was detected in another Michigan farmworker, marking the second human case in Michigan, and the third in the country.

Safety-net health clinics cut services and staff amid Medicaid unwinding

The health centers' lifeblood is revenue received from Medicaid, the state-federal subsidized health coverage for people with low incomes or disabilities.

McMeen in the Middle

As end of school year approaches, McMeen Elementary celebrates its rich diversity

The DPS school draws students from around the globe, and this year saw a surge in the enrollment of students new to the country.

McMeen Elementary welcomes children who recently arrived in the country with fashion show

Generous Coloradans have donated shirts, sweaters, jackets and shoes to schools such as McMeen, which then donated them to migrant children who recently arrived in the U.S.

McMeen students benefit from DPS Bare Necessities clothing drive, Xcel donation

The Denver Public Schools Family & Community Engagement team wants to make it easy for businesses and organizations to help.

Subaru volunteers donate charging stations to McMeen Elementary students

Volunteers with Subaru donated 24 charging stations so students will have a place to charge their tablets and other electronic devices.

Migrant family on verge of eviction, but has potential lifeline in sight

Just four months into the year, more than 7,400 people have applied for Denver's rental assistance program, TRUA.

Latest Galleries

Hail looks like snow in Denver metro area

A late-night storm hit the Denver metro area on Thursday and left behind piles of hail that looked like snow.

Flooding in northeastern Colorado

See photos from the 2024 May flooding in northeastern Colorado. The storms hit on May 28 and the flooding was causing issues on May 29.

National/Trending

Business news.

Google admits its AI Overviews can generate "some odd, inaccurate" results

Google said it's rolling back its AI-generated search results feature after two weeks. Here's why.

Tesla recalls more than 125,000 vehicles due to seat belt problem

Seat belt reminders on four Tesla models may not work properly, requiring the electric automaker to issue software update.

Feds accuse Hyundai and two suppliers of using child labor

Government is suing South Korean auto giant after finding that a child worked an assembly line operating sheet metal machines.

Chipotle insists its portions have not shrunk, after TikTokers claim they did

Here's what the company had to say about its portion sizes and portioning instructions to store workers.

Medline recalls 1.5 million bed rails linked to deaths of 2 women

The adult bed rails pose "a serious entrapment hazard and risk of death by asphyxiation," consumer safety agency warns.

Making Ends Meet

Residents line up for "Dress for Success" event

From blazers to shoes, women of all shapes and sizes enjoyed a free shopping spree. Some were even able to get a makeover.

Denver celebrates the opening of 49 new affordable condos in Five Points

This week Denver city officials celebrated the opening of 49 new affordable condos in the Five Points neighborhood.

Colorado group giving women $10,000 to buy their first home

"Happiness, peace, and dreams aren't for other communities. These goals are accessible to us as well," one grant recipient said. "I was so proud, because I realized in that moment I was breaking a cycle."

Professor explains impacts on investments, portfolios during Iran-Israel conflict

Investors are now closely watching what is happening in the Iran-Israel conflict in the Middle East because of its impact on their investments.

Looking to eat healthy on a budget? Here's advice from a Colorado expert

Eating a healthy, balanced diet when money is tight can be tough. And it's no secret that food costs have skyrocketed within the past year. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food costs in 2023 rose 5.8%.

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

Come face-to-face with marine life at the 10 best aquariums

Best Aquarium (2024) May 22, 2024

Aquariums reveal the hidden wonders of the world's oceans, lakes, and waterways in fun, exploratory settings. The best aquariums also play a vital role in animal conservation by participating in rescue efforts and marine advocacy. 

These 10 aquariums, selected by a panel of experts and voted as the best by readers, represent the best in the country for their high-quality exhibits and visitor interactions.

No. 10: Georgia Aquarium - Atlanta, Georgia

The crown jewel at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the Ocean Voyager exhibit, where guests can watch manta rays and giant schooling fish swim past a 23-foot-tall viewing window. Other guest favorites include a stellar penguin exhibit, as well as many marine mammals — beluga whales, bottlenose dolphins, sea otters, and California sea lions. They're also the only aquarium in the United States to house whale sharks.

No. 9: Mystic Aquarium - Mystic, Connecticut

The most popular residents at the Mystic Aquarium are New England's only beluga whales; guests can observe these gentle giants from above and below the surface. Animal interaction is the name of the game at the Discover Long Island Sound experience, while Sharks! features one of the ocean's most misunderstood animals. African penguins, bearded dragons, seals, sea lions, and several species of frogs also call the aquarium home.

No. 8: The Florida Aquarium - Tampa, Florida

Florida Aquarium displays some 8,000 plants and animals from a range of fresh and saltwater environments, including alligators, sharks, seahorses, river otters, and free-flying birds. The Wetlands trail highlights regional life in a recreated mangrove forest, while the Journey to Madagascar takes visitors across the globe to observe a host of interesting animals — ring-tailed lemurs, hissing cockroaches, and frogs. At Stingray Beach, visitors are invited to touch stingrays and view sharks.

No. 7: Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii - Wailuku, Hawaii

Explore the special connection between Hawaiian culture and the sea at Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii. Exhibits include artifacts, traditional tools, and artwork dedicated to past and present life in Hawaii. The aquarium also offers thrilling experiences and attractions like a cage-free shark dive in a 750,000-gallon tank, snorkeling tours, a turtle lagoon, and a 3D humpback whale experience. 

No. 6: Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

More than 350 species are represented among Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies' 10,000-plus aquatic residents. Shark Lagoon, with its moving walkways through underwater tunnels, is the aquarium's biggest and most popular attraction, but kids love the interactive penguin encounter, where they can come nose-to-beak with endangered African penguins.

No. 5: Texas State Aquarium - Corpus Christi, Texas

The Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, the largest aquarium in Texas, offers a journey through land and sea including encounters with the fascinating wildlife of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. Notable exhibits include a spacious jungle featuring flamingos, flying birds, and tortoises, and a deep-sea habitat, where visitors can get up-close and personal with sharks prowling among a sunken shipwreck. Additional exhibits give guests a captivating look at sea turtles, dolphins, otters, and other amazing animals, while stingray touch pools and a 4D theater provide even more interactive educational experiences.

No. 4: Adventure Aquarium - Camden, New Jersey

Many surprises await visitors at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey. Among the aquarium's 15,000-plus aquatic critters in 2 million gallons of water are hippos, the world’s smallest species of penguin, and the world’s largest species of hammerhead shark. Guests can reach out and touch sharks, stingrays, sea stars, and horseshoe crabs. Live presentations and keeper interactions with penguins and hippos enhance the visitor experience.

No. 3: Tennessee Aquarium - Chattanooga, Tennessee

Visitors to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga trace the journey of water from the mountains to the sea within the aquarium’s two buildings. Guests enjoy meeting a broad array of wildlife, becoming immersed in ecosystems along the way. Alligators, otters, colorful freshwater fishes, and turtles by the ton can be found in the River Journey building, while visitors come face-to-face with penguins, sharks, jellyfish, flashlight fish, and lemurs, within the Ocean Journey building.

No. 2: Audubon Aquarium - New Orleans, Louisiana

In downtown New Orleans on the riverfront, the Audubon Aquarium is home to thousands of animals, many endangered, ranging from penguins and stingrays to seahorses and jellyfish. It features the Amazon rainforest’s underwater habitats, a 4,200 square-foot Great Maya Reef exhibit, and the 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico tank. Another notable exhibit is an enlarged 13,000-gallon shark and ray touch pool with a 60-foot LED screen that highlights the diversity of the world’s oceans. 

No. 1: Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium - Springfield, Missouri

Founded by Johnny Morris, CEO of Bass Pro Shops, his Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium celebrates hunting, fishing, and stewardship of the land and water through over 1.5 miles of immersive galleries featuring 4D dioramas and a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium. Some 35,000 animals representing over 800 species are on display, including zebra sharks, sea turtles, and freshwater sport fish. Unique to the aquarium is its collection of historic boats used by Ernest Hemingway and Zane Grey.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Kristen Lummis

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in...   Read More

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Best Lake for Swimming

Best Lake for Water Sports

Best River for Tubing

Best Dog Park

Browse the best.

Best Aquarium (2023)

Best Zoo (2023)

Best Safari Park (2023)

Best Zoo Exhibit (2023)

Best Botanical Garden (2023)

Back to readers' choice.