An adventure-loving base camp at the edge of the Rocky Mountains, Denver adds a dose of urban cool to Colorado’s outdoorsy spirit. Whether browsing downtown art museums, hopping between Larimer Square’s craft breweries, or dancing along to the music at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, things to do in Denver highlight the city’s creative energy. And with more than 80 miles (129 kilometers) of trails within city limits, you can play outside without leaving city limits.
Life happens outdoors in the summer when the warm months of June–August draw crowds for open-air concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, neighborhood farmers markets, and the weekly food truck event, Civic Center EATS. September and October’s cooler weather is ideal for hiking and biking the trail networks within City Park and Confluence Park. If you’re using the city as a base camp for skiing and snowboarding, nearby resorts like Winter Park generally open in November or December.
It’s easy to get around the city without a car, starting with the airport rail between the Denver International Airport and downtown’s Union Station, a 23-mile (37-kilometer) ride that takes around 40 minutes. From there, the city’s light rail network, RTD, takes riders to destinations including Coors Field, Empower Field at Mile High, and the University of Denver. Renting a bike is another great option—there are miles of dedicated bike trails throughout the city.
Catching an outdoor concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is one of iconic things to do in Denver, but it can take some advance planning. Temperatures drop quickly after dark at this altitude, so bring layers (and maybe even a raincoat). If you’re driving, keep in mind that the lower parking lots are a 30-minute walk from the venue. Taxis and ride-hailing services tend to be scarce when shows end; some concertgoers opt to pre-book a shuttle bus from downtown Denver.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone MDT (UTC -7) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 31 | Tours 324 | Reviews 22,228 |
Parts of the Mile-High City, situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, are at exactly 5,280 feet (1,609 meters). Its population has exploded in recent years. It is known for outdoor adventures, a strong craft beer scene, and vibrant arts and culture sectors.
...MoreStart in LoDo (Lower Downtown), the city’s oldest neighborhood where you’ll find Union Station, Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and Larimer Square—the city's oldest block known for chef-driven restaurants and nightlife. Catch a show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, wander 16th Street Mall, and expand your mind at Meow Wolf.
...MoreBook accommodations in LoDo (Lower Downtown) if possible. You’ll be near Union Station, countless restaurants and bars, and Larimer Square and McGregor Square. RiNo, or River North (aka Five Points), boasts nightlife, vibrant street art, and Denver Central Market. Chill LoHi (Lower Highlands) offers views of Denver’s skyline.
...MoreHead to the roof of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, aka the Anschutz Family Sky Terrace. From here, you’ll catch views of the downtown skyline, the capitol dome, and—on clear days— Mt. Evans and Longs Peak in the distance.
...MoreMake the drive up Mount Evans on the highest paved road on the continent—14,260 feet (4,346 meters). At the top, see Colorado's Front Range. For a different kind of Rocky Mountain view, catch a show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, one of the most famous outdoor US venues.
...MoreMany locals hit the slopes—Colorado has 28 ski resorts. But there are other things to do in Denver like grabbing tea at historic Brown Palace or touring the Coors Brewery. Scope out Denver Art Museum or Denver Union Station, dip into Indian Hot Springs, or ice-skate at Skyline Park. The city’s bars, restaurants, and music venues attract crowds year-round.
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